2007年12月7日星期五

Tips to lower auto insurance rates for senior drivers

Experience is the best teacher; it gives the test first before the value. And the people who have these great experiences are the seniors out there. Living in this not-so-easy world for several years allows them to gain knowledge and wisdom that give them aura of a person of substance.

On the other hand, these seniors are still individual who dont have all the answers to the questions or all the knowledge about everything. They are still learning. They still need some guidance in some ways or another like to save money in their insurance. So if you are one of the senior drivers, following the few simple tips here can ensure that you are getting the lowest rates possible on your insurance policy.

Pay close attention at intersections because more often than not, auto accidents involving senior drivers occur at the intersection. If you plan to quickly change lanes after an intersection, make sure to look ahead. Pay attention to protected left turn lanes with their own arrows. A rear-end will not push you into oncoming traffic if you keep your tires pointed straight ahead when stooped.

Drive at or near the speed limit. When entering or exiting interstates or freeways, driving too slowly can be just as dangerous as speeding. Just follow the flow of traffic and it will keep you away from danger.

Failure to yield right-of-way, improper turning or incorrect lane changes is the violation often committed by the senior drivers. Keep current on the traffic laws to new traffic designs.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises you to sit high enough in your seat. It will enable you to see at least 10 feet in front of your car; therefore it will be easier to see pedestrians and bike riders, and reduce problems from incoming headlights glare during night time. Add a cushion if your car seat cannot be adjusted.

Next is when driving at night. Do not wear sunglasses or any tinted glasses. Night vision is being reduced when you are getting old, thus, it will be safe for you not to drive at twilight or after dark. Also, look for cars with rear-view mirrors that automatically dim and filter out headlights glare.

Take a refresher-driving course, such as the eight-hour 55 Alive course offered by AARP so that you, as a senior driver, can refresh you skills and knowledge about driving and also learn the new traffic laws and design. More than two0thirds of states mandate auto insurance policy discounts for such courses, and the best thing is that, many insurance companies offer the discount voluntarily.

Learn to operate a New Car. Thing like anti-lock brakes, operate differently in slippery situations. If you have never driven a car with anti-lock breaks, make sure to get training on proper use.

More advance air bag technology has sensors that deploy air bags based on the weight of the occupant, reducing air bag related injuries. Some new cars also have side air bags in the seat or doorframe that offer better protection.

Considering fit and comfort in your new car will keep you safe like seatbelts that comfortably fit over you shoulder and low on your lap. Automatic transmission, power steering and power brakes require less physical effort.

Check which companies offer specific Senior Discounts. Shop around for the best auto insurance rates and choose which insurance company has the best treatment to senior drivers. If youre healthy and drive a safe modern vehicle, you can get their best rates.

More often than not, seniors get special treatments and benefits than others. As the maxim goes, seniority rules.