3 minute readAuto
Bundle with home or renters, raise physical-damage deductibles, remove collision from a low-value vehicle, ask about telematics, confirm mileage is accurate, and claim every discount. Shopping the independent market once a year keeps a carrier's rate increases honest.
What you need to know
Mileage and use codes matter
Commute distance and annual mileage drive rating. A remote-work change can lower premium if it is reported.
Telematics can help — or not
Safe-driving programs can produce real discounts, but hard braking and late-night driving can offset them.
Keep liability high while you trim
Reduce deductibles and optional physical damage before you ever touch liability limits.
Common mistakes
- Carrying California's minimum limits, which a single injury accident can exhaust.
- Declining or under-buying uninsured motorist coverage.
- Leaving a household driver off the policy.
- Filing small physical-damage claims near the deductible.
- Never updating mileage, garaging address or commute after a change.
When to talk to an agent
Talk to an agent before adding a teen driver, after buying a vehicle, after an accident or ticket, or any time you are not sure whether your liability limits would survive a serious at-fault crash.
Frequently asked
This article is general information, not a policy or a promise of coverage. What your policy pays depends on its specific terms, limits and exclusions. Ask us to review your actual policy before making a decision.