Do you know how your insurance stacks up against other policies in your state? You may not know it, but Wisconsin car insurance rates can vary tremendously from company to company and even between zip codes. A quick search for Wisconsin car insurance quotes could return surprising results – virtually the same policy from multiple insurers offered at dramatically different rates. Continue reading to learn more information about how geography plays a role in your Wisconsin auto insurance coverage.
Location, Location, Location – Why it Matters
Everyone wants the utmost in quality car insurance coverage, but no one wants to pay more than necessary to acquire it. Responsible drivers know that cutting corners on coverage is never the solution to finding a better rate; rather, there are many factors that can contribute to how much an insurance company charges for a policy. While details like age and driving record are important, there is another issue that can weigh heavily on the cost of coverage: location.
Location matters, and not just in real estate. In fact, where you live can make a tremendous difference in the price you pay for quality car insurance. According to Kiplinger, we here in Wisconsin are fortunate enough to have lower than usual car insurance rates, with the average policy carrying a premium that is between 10 and 21 percent lower than the national average. However, where you live within The Copper State can further influence the amount you pay.
Data from the Insurance Information Institute reveals that the average insurance rate in Wisconsin is approximately $811 per year. However, this number includes rates from both rural and heavily populated areas, as well as areas with low and high crime rates. A quick comparison between zip codes in the state shows a very different story.
Steps to a Lower Wisconsin Auto Insurance Quote
Unless you are contemplating a move, changing zip codes is probably not an option. However, there are things you can do to improve your chances of finding competitive Wisconsin car insurance quotes when searching for coverage regardless of where you live in the state. Consider, for example, that nearly all Wisconsin car insurance companies consider the same basic variables when formulating their quotes. Examples include:
- Vehicle type
- Vehicle age
- Vehicle repair costs
- Vehicle safety ratings
- Driver age and gender
- Driver credit score
- Personal driving record
- Personal claims record
It pays to consider insurance costs when choosing a vehicle or making important life decisions. For example, purchasing a safe and inexpensive sedan is likely to cost less to insurance than a high-end SUV known for its high rollover rate. It can help to take steps to raise your credit score and avoid making small claims, as doing so can influence your car insurance rates for years to come.
In addition, consider that despite the somewhat universal standards held by the insurance industry, each individual insurance company applies its own weight and bias when determining its rates. Whereas some companies may be willing to accept more risk for a person with a spotted driving history, others may give slack for below average credit scores.
That is why it is important to shop for multiple rates when looking for Wisconsin auto insurance quotes. An independent agent can help ensure you do not pay more than necessary for the coverage you need. Here at Pagel & Associates Insurance in Green Bay, we can help you compare coverage from several of the state’s leading insurance companies. For more information or to request your Wisconsin car insurance quotes, contact our office today.
