Considering the fact that there are motor vehicles crashes almost every five seconds, fatal injuries occurring every twelve minutes and people injured in accidents every eleven seconds, it is of utmost importance that you do have auto insurance coverage. Although national campaigns aimed at reducing impaired driving and use of safety belts, and campaigns for "no driving under the influence" have helped reduce fatalities it does not change the fact that accidents still happen and you need auto insurance coverage.

The vehicle that you drive can play a major role in an accident. Following simple safety measures while driving like wearing a seat belt at all times, being cautious and careful of your surroundings, obeying speed limits and having auto insurance. With auto insurance, you can protect your family, other drivers, your passengers, and yourself from having any additional financial burden.

These tips will help you get the most out of your insurance and save you some money.

1. Know that most coverages that are helpful and worth it are the cheapest. For a minimal increase in price, you can get optional coverages like roadside assistance, gap coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, rental reimbursement, comprehensive coverage (which incidentally gives you a lot of benefits) etc.

2. Auto Insurance companies use different criteria to evaluate an application for auto insurance. The companies have guidelines regarding the groups of drivers accepted and what fees will be charged to "greater risk" groups.

3. Underwriting is automatically done by software and applicants are usually placed in groups that are based on the amount of money and claims the companies have to pay. The companies look at vehicle records to see if the driver has made earlier insurance claims or if he had accidents and tickets in the past before they decide to give you're the insurance. In addition, they also check the applicant's credit history to determine the group to which the applicant belongs.

4. The auto insurance business is very competitive and it helps to shop around for the company that provides not only a great price but also excellent service. However, prices from a company for the same type of policy are usually set by law and cannot be actually changed by agents so trying to negotiate for a better price or going to different agents wont help.

5. Do not let your insurance policy lapse because you will end up paying more in the end. Insurance companies usually feel that drivers that do not have insurance are irresponsible and risky. Make sure you buy car insurance much before the current insurance policy is cancelled if you are planning to switch companies.

6. If you raise your "deductibles", car insurance companies will automatically know that your claims will not cost them as much as you will be agreeing to pay for a big portion of damages yourself. Therefore, they will agree to offer you lower premiums. The only thing is that you should be able to pay the deductibles.

7. Most companies do offer discounts for car safety features, electronic payments, safe driving records, anti-robbery devices etc. So get rewarded for having a car that's safe and for being a "safe driver".