Florida Auto Insurance Rating Factors To Review
If you are a resident of Florida, chances are you carry Florida Auto Insurance to
satisfy the financial responsibility laws that are mandated by the state. While you are paying insurance premiums on a monthly or annual basis to in order to drive legally in the state, you may not understand why your premiums are higher than those of your friends are and family. Many drivers assume that their auto insurance premiums are strictly based on their driving record and the age of their vehicle. While these are factors that are considered during the underwriting of an auto insurance policy, there are a number of other factors that play a role in the premiums you pay. It is important to understand how your policy is rated to ensure you are being charged accurately. Review the rating factors below to understand how they affect your auto insurance rates.Garaging Territory
They are where your vehicle is primarily parked or stored is the area in which your policy will be rated. While some drivers may not understand why their zip code is more expensive than a neighboring zip code located only 5 miles away, territories are based strictly on statistics. If there are a higher rate of comprehensive claims in a specific area, rates will be affected. It is important to review your auto insurance policy if your vehicle is parked at a different location than you live. If you are being rated at the wrong zip code, chances are your premiums are not accurate.
Vehicle Usage
Vehicle usage is also extremely important when calculating premiums for Florida Auto Insurance. There are three different types of vehicle usage in terms of insurance purposes: pleasure, commute and business. Pleasure ratings mean that the insured does not drive the vehicle to work or school. Pleasure usage is the most affordable rating because the chances of having an accident when driving for pleasure are reduced. Commute usage will be rated higher because drivers are driving during high traffic times and are under more stress. Business use is generally a rating for real estate agents and individuals who go to multiple locations during the course of work.
Mileage
The number of miles you drive on an annual basis is yet another rating factor that must be reviewed. If you change jobs or move, it is important to review how miles, you are being rated as driving annually. While the average mileage today is 12,000, those who fall in low rating bands like 3000 to 5000 per year will have discounted premiums. This rating factor is one of the most inaccurate areas found in policies that have not been reviewed.
Sit down when you receive your auto insurance renewal and browse how you are being rated. If you are garaging territory, vehicle use, or mileage is inaccurate have it updated immediately. By adjusting your rating, you could lower your premiums and increase your coverage at the same time.
by: Todd Meyers