5 Ways to Save on Auto Insurance

These tips could help you keep money in your pocket.

The costs of owning and maintaining a car can add up quickly. And keeping your car adequately insured is just as important as changing your oil. But how do you do it all without driving yourself to the poorhouse?

To start with, take a closer look at your insurance policy and available options. You may be surprised at how much you can save. Here are just three of the ways Nationwide can start saving you money now:

1. Choose higher deductibles. Simply put, the higher your deductible, the lower the cost of your premium. If you're an experienced driver with a good record, raising your deductible is one of the easiest ways to keep a little more money in your pocket each month. Remember, though, that a higher deductible means paying more out of pocket if you make a claim. Be sure to choose a deductible that balances your savings objectives with your ability to pay the out-of-pocket expense. You might even set aside the deductible in a savings account so it will be accessible when you need it.
    
2. Take advantage of Accident-Free discounts. You can save up to 10 percent for every driver in your home who has five years of driving experience and has not had an at-fault accident or major violation.
    
3. Get a Good Student discount. You can get up to a 15 percent discount on your auto insurance when your teen earns a B average or above on his or her report card.

In addition, taking these two steps may help you protect your finances in the event you have an accident:

1. Get Vanishing Deductible^®. Offered by Nationwide, the Vanishing Deductible rewards you for good driving by dropping your deductible $100 for each year of safe driving. Pair it with a higher deductible and safe driving habits and you'll see both monthly and annual savings.
    
2. Add Accident Forgiveness to your policy. With Nationwide's Accident Forgiveness benefit, your rates will not go up due to your first at-fault automobile accident. This means significant savings for safe drivers with otherwise good driving histories. Accident Forgiveness can even be extended to teen drivers on the same insurance policy.

Finally, never forget the importance of keeping your car in good working order. Following recommended maintenance guidelines may help you avoid towing fees and costly repairs when you can least afford them.