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Eleven Money-Saving Auto Insurance Tips for Senior Drivers
Like all drivers, senior citizens (or as I like to call them “seasoned
citizens”) want to get the best rates on their auto insurance policies.
What they may not be aware of is that older drivers may present a higher
risk than other drivers, usually leading to higher auto insurance rates.
Following a few simple tips and taking these measures will ensure that
you are getting the lowest rates possible on your auto insurance policy.
1. Avoid more Accidents, Pay Close Attention at Intersections. Auto
accidents involving seniors often occur at intersections. Make sure to
look ahead if you plan to quickly change lanes after an intersection. Pay
attention to protected left turn lanes with their own arrows, and always
keep your tires pointed straight ahead when stopped, so that a rear-end
accident doesn’t push you into oncoming traffic.
2. Follow the flow of traffic, Drive at the at or near the speed limit.
Driving too slowly can be just as dangerous as speeding, especially when
entering or exiting interstates or freeways. It can also trigger
dangerous “road rage” in less patient drivers. You don’t have to be Mario
Andretti, but keeping to the right and following the flow of traffic is
the safest bet.
3. Many violations include failure to yield right-of-way, improper
turning or incorrect lane changes, so keep current on the traffic laws
relating to new traffic designs.
4. Sit high enough in your seat so that you can see at least 10 feet in
front of your car, advises the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration. If your car seat does not adjust to allow this, add a
cushion. This will make it easier to see pedestrians and bike riders, and
reduce problems from oncoming headlight glare at night.
5. Do not wear sunglasses or tinted glasses when driving at night. For
many older drivers, night vision is reduced, so safety dictates not
driving at twilight or after dark.
6. Make sure you learn how to operate a New Car. Things like Anti-lock
brakes, for example operate differently in slippery situations. If you
have never driven a car with anti-lock brakes, sure to get training on
proper use.
7. Senior drivers can refresh their skills and knowledge — and get a
discount on auto insurance in many states — by taking a refresher
driving course, such as the eight-hour “55 Alive” course offered by AARP.
More than two-thirds of states mandate auto insurance policy discounts
for such courses, and many insurance companies offer the discounts
voluntarily.
8. Look for cars with rear-view mirrors that automatically dim and filter
out headlight glare.
9. Air bag technology has become more advanced, with sensors that deploy
air bags based on the weight of the occupant, reducing air-bag-related
injuries. Some new cars also have side air bags in the seats or door
frame that offer better protection.
10. Consider fit and comfort in your new car. Seat belts that comfortably
fit over your shoulder and low on your lap will keep you safer. Automatic
transmission, power steering and power brakes require less physical
effort.
11. Last but definitely not least, Check to see which companies offer
specific ‘Senior Discounts’ While shopping around for the best auto
insurance rates is important, which insurance company you choose might
depend on how they treat senior drivers. You’ll get their best rates if
you’re healthy and drive a safe, modern vehicle.
Reprints of this article are allowed (and encouraged) for your site or
newsletter with proper credit to the author and a simple link to
hometownquotes .
About The Author
Matt McWilliams is one of the co-founders of HometownQuotes , an online
insurance quotes web site. He is originally from Pinebluff, NC and
attended Middle Tennessee State University in 2002. He is considered an
expert in the field of online insurance shopping and finding new ways to
help consumers save money on their insurance. For more information visit
hometownquotes .
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