If your quotes for auto insurance are higher than you thought they’d be, there are several factors that could be affecting them. Certain details of your life, driving history, and your car can make an insurance agency charge more for your insurance. Below are the three biggest factors that impact the quotes your insurance agent gives you.

What Factors Affect Your Auto Insurance Prices?

1. The Vehicle Type

The type of vehicle that you’re insuring will affect the auto insurance quotes you receive. Newer vehicles will be more costly to repair and are valued at a higher price than older models, so your insurance will be higher, as it will cost the agency more to repair or replace it. The same is applicable for luxury and sports models, too, as well as high-end classic cars.  Contrary to popular belief, the color of your car does not have much, if any, impact on your insurance costs.

2. The Age of the Driver(s)

How old you and the other drivers you’re insuring will have a significant impact on your car insurance premiums. Adults above the age of 25 are assumed to be more reasonable, calm, and experienced enough to be capable drivers. If you fall in that age range, your rates will be lower. However, if you have other insured family members that fall below that age range — such as a teenager who just got their license — your rates will be higher. As you can likely guess, teenagers’ inexperience, tendency for risky behaviors, and potential for distracted driving make them greater liabilities and more likely to get into accidents. This means the agency has a higher chance of paying for a claim, so your insurance agent will give you a higher quote for the coverage.

3. The Driving Records of Drivers

Past driving history can also cause you to pay more each month. Prior traffic violations and tickets will increase the costs for insurance as long as they’re on the individual’s MVR (motor vehicle record). Previous car accidents also increase your insurance rates. More than one documented incident is seen by the insurance company as a sign of habitually reckless driving, which means you’re a higher risk for the insurance company to insure. 

For accurate auto insurance quotes on the policies you need, contact the experts at Alleghany Insurance Services in Elkins, WV. From commercial to life, home, and car insurance, they offer a plethora of policies to meet your needs. Every insurance agent they employ specializes in a specific area of coverage, and they pride themselves on their reputation as an insurance agency that creates tailored policies for clients. Rely on their century’s worth of experience to deliver fitting policies. Browse some of their coverage options online, then call (304) 636-1680 to schedule an appointment with an agent.