Chicago Insurance Forum

Lots of discounts are available on car insurance, but you have to ask for them.

You can't change many of your risk factors. But you can save money by taking advantage of car insurance discounts that insurers offer for behavior that lowers your risk - from driving less than the average number of miles per year to taking a defensive driving class. Certain people - senior citizens, for instance - also are eligible for lower rates. You'll also save if you have certain safety or protective equipment installed in your car, like anti-lock brakes or a security system. Make sure you ask about these car insurance discounts. Your agent may not tell you about them.

As with any product, it's cheaper for insurance companies to sell more to one customer, so insurers often cut premiums up to 15 percent if you link car and homeowners' policies.

Frequent claims are red flags for insurers; some won't renew policyholders with more than two claims in three years. Carry more of the car insurance risk yourself by paying for repairs costing under $1,000 yourself.

The average driver files a collision claim once every three years, and a comprehensive claim once every 10 years. Increasing a collision deductible on your car insurance policy from $200 to $500 can save up to 30 percent annually. Given the likelihood of filing a claim, you might come out ahead with the higher deductible.