According to the Department of Transportation, Americans drove 263 billion miles in March this year, 42 billion more than in March 2020. The increase suggests a near-return to pre-coronavirus levels of automobile commuters, and the roads look to be becoming increasingly hazardous.
Despite the fact that there were fewer drivers on the road in 2020, there were more motor vehicle fatalities than there had been in over 15 years. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of deaths will increase by 7.2 percent from 2019 to 2020. Speeding, driving while drunk, and not wearing a seat belt were three key explanations behind the surge, according to the department. Getting into a car accident in which you are at blame will directly affect your insurance rates, raising them. If you have a clean driving record, on the other hand, you should be able to acquire a lower rate. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to save hundreds of dollars per year by comparing multiple insurance quotes.
According to the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), “Across the country, it is being reported that drivers are receiving speeding tickets in greater numbers than before the pandemic,”.
Tragic accidents increased by 11% on rural roads and 15% on metropolitan interstates from 2019 to 2020. According to the APCIA analysis, such crashes increased by 11 percent at night, 9 percent on weekends, and 11 percent when speed was a factor.
“These habits are making the roadways more dangerous and as a result, these habits are contributing to more accidents,” the reporter stated.
“With increasing inflation in general, and the cost of repairing cars and medical costs soaring, insurance costs are steadily increasing. As insurance costs go up so does the cost of insuring a vehicle. Insurers remain steadfast in their efforts to encourage drivers to slow down, buckle up and minimize distractions while they’re on the road.” the reporter added.
Three methods for lowering vehicle insurance costs
Make sure your credit score is good: Having a good credit history lowers your insurance rates, whereas having bad credit raises them. As you work toward great credit, making more than the minimum payments or keeping your credit card usage below 30% will help you enhance your credit score.
Comparison shop: Due to a variety of characteristics, such as driving history, age, and credit score, drivers’ profiles are continually changing. Companies may give discounts for various reasons, so the insurance that was best for drivers when they originally acquired it may not be the best option now. Drivers can compare multiple firms after filling out only one form on an internet marketplace.
Seek out offers: Many firms provide various types of discounts, such as savings for being a good student, a good driver, or even taking a defensive driving course. Check with your insurance company to see if you qualify for any savings.
As driving becomes riskier as a result of the pandemic, it’s critical to wear seat belts and drive slowly to lower fatality rates and avoid distractions. You can keep your insurance prices down by choosing the finest carrier for your specific driving scenario. To speak with a car insurance professional and get all of your questions answered, contact Credible.
