How Do Your Driving Habits Influence Your Auto Insurance Costs?

Here’s how your driving behaviors will affect your car insurance rates.

When you apply for auto insurance in Carrollton, Texas, the insurance company will consider several different factors when determining your premiums.  One thing that they will zero in on is your driving habits.  But which behaviors are they looking at specifically and how do these habits influence your rates?  Here’s what you need to know.

  • How Often and Far You Drive

Two of the things that auto insurers will consider is how often you use your car and how far you tend to drive on average.  In general, the more often and the further you drive, the more expensive your auto insurance will be.  This is because the more you use your car, the higher your risk of getting into an auto accident.  On the plus side, if you don’t drive regularly, then your insurance rates will be on the lower side.

  • Instances of Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is a broad category that encompasses many bad driving behaviors.  For instance, if you have a documented history of speeding, DUIs, distracted driving (for instance, driving while using your cell phone), or other traffic violations, then you are considered a high-risk driver.  This risk will translate into higher insurance costs because insurers deem you more likely to get into an accident or receive another moving violation.

  • At-Fault Accidents

Your insurer will also look into your driving record to see if you have a history of auto accidents.  If the accidents you have been involved in were minor and you were not at fault, then this likely won’t affect your insurance rates.  However, if you were involved in a major accident that resulted in serious property damage, injury, or even death, then this will indicate that you are a high-risk driver.  This, in turn, will raise your auto insurance rates.

These are some of the driving habits that will affect your car insurance costs.  Do you have further questions regarding your auto insurance in Carrollton, Texas?  If so, then contact us at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency.  Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Nationwide, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.