Lowering Your Monthly 4×4 Insurance Rates

4×4 vehicles are notorious for having higher insurance premiums than other vehicles. Although it may come as a surprise at first, 4×4 are considered by many insurance companies as a higher risk vehicle. To counter these hazards insurance companies charge higher premiums. There are several things you can do to avoid these higher rates and obtain a more manageable monthly insurance premium. While using these techniques, it is still very important that you shop around for the best quotes you can find.

If you have a garage or underground parking then you will be able to help lower your premium. This is because a vehicle that?s parked indoors is less likely to get singled out for theft or vandalism. The insurance company will be able to reduce your rates if you?re able to reduce the risk of something happening to your vehicle.

Extra driving experience on 4×4 vehicles is also a plus for insurance agents. You might have to borrow a vehicle from a friend or family member to gain this experience, but it can shave a few dollars from your monthly payments. With a little experience under your belt you will be more comfortable with the handling a 4×4 before you sit behind the wheel of your own. Obviously, a few years of experience driving one is better than a few weeks.

If you are a new driver then you should expect to have higher than normal rates as you are a higher risk as you have less time and experience on the road. However if you do have a history you will want it to be as clean as possible. The less tickets and incidences that you have on your record the better driver the insurance company will figure you to be. Insurance agents may look to see if you have gotten any claims bonuses. These are awarded to you after having insurance for a certain period of time without having any claims. A claims bonus will discount your insurance rates, and can be helpful in negotiating lower 4×4 insurance rates. In some cases it may be better not to file a small claim that you can pay for yourself, therefore avoiding the higher costs of insurance rates and deductibles.

Security measures are very important on 4×4 vehicles. Obviously hiding your truck or SUV in a garage helps lessen the chance of theft, but premium safety features are extra assurances agents like to see. The security of your vehicle is divided by categories. You will want to find a 4×4 rated with 1 or 2 security systems. As technology increases you may want to try upgrading your vehicle to accommodate new features.

If you are in the military or National Guard be sure to mention it to your agent. Insurance companies offer special rates for these individuals without much hassle. If you are not in the military try to take advantage of the other discounts available to get lower rates. Search around online and compare quotes to find the company with the lowest prices before visiting their company for an in depth policy.

Susan Reynolds is the webmaster for a leading South African Insurance Provider who specialises in Car Insurance Policies.