When you're shopping for auto insurance, you might notice some major discrepancies from one company to the next. In some cases, one insurer may charge hundreds of dollars less to cover the same car, depending on which factors they decide are more important, and how much weight they're given.

For instance, auto insurance rates are heavily influenced by:

• Your Driving History: Every insurer uses your driving history to determine their risk of paying out a claim for you. Previous insurance claims can be a red flag that results in higher premiums, as well as accidents and excessive traffic tickets. While there's not much you can do about tickets already on your license, although some insurers offer discounts for drivers who take road safety or defensive driving courses.
• Your Vehicle: Insurance companies collect massive amounts of data about the merits of various vehicles and the potential cost of a claim. Vehicles with higher crash test ratings will usually result in lower rates, while those with a tendency to attract thieves and vandals will typically cost more. Investigating auto insurance rates before buying a vehicle will give you a better idea of the real cost of ownership.
• Your Neighborhood: Many factors that go into calculating your auto insurance rates, unfortunately, have little to do with you. For instance, insurers will typically use information about the frequency of drivers filing claims in your area to assess their risk. If you live in an urban area with more accidents and higher crime rates, you'll probably pay more than drivers in the suburbs.

Since 1928, drivers throughout the Foley, AL, area have turned to Ebert Agency for affordable auto insurance policies tailored to their needs. These independent agents work for you, not the insurance providers, so you can be sure they'll help you find the best policy for you. Visit their Facebook page to learn more about the insurance industry, and call (251) 943-2281 or visit their website for fast insurance quotes today.