From the Desk of…

Homeowners who guard against theft, accidents and other losses can often get lower insurance rates. Here are some things you can do to help qualify for lower premiums:

1. Secure your home with dead bolts and window locks. 
2. Install a security system with outside signal and connection to local police. Hire a company to monitor it. 
3. Install and maintain smoke detectors. 
4. Install a sprinkler system for fire. 
5. Install a fire alarm that automatically alerts the local fire department. 
6. Stop smoking. 
7. Keep walks and entrance ways clear of water and debris. photo

Here are some recommendations to help try and lower your auto insurance costs.

1. Ask for higher deductibles -- Deductibles represent the amount of money you pay before you make a claim. By requesting higher deductibles on collision and comprehensive coverage, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, Farmers has one of the broadest ranges of deductibles for consumers who want even more choices and savings.
2. Consider buying all your insurance from one company – Keeping your insurance at one company may make you eligible for multiple policy discounts. So if you have your car and home insurance with one company, you will get a discount.
3. Ask about automatic seat belt or air bag discounts -- You may be able to take advantage of discounts on some coverage if you have automatic seat belts and/or air bags.
4. Take advantage of low mileage discounts -- Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive fewer than a predetermined number of miles a year.
5. Ask if discounts are available for cars with anti-lock brakes -- Anti-lock brakes improve steering control and stability when a car is brought to a stop, thus reducing accidents.
6. Drop collision and/or comprehensive coverages on older cars -- It may not be cost effective to have collision or comprehensive coverage on cars worth less than $1,000 because any claim you make would not substantially exceed annual cost and deductible amounts. Auto dealers and banks can tell you the worth of cars.
7. Buy a "low profile" car -- Before you buy a new or used car, check into insurance costs. Cars that are expensive to repair, or that are a favorite target for thieves, have much higher insurance costs.

Ask the company you are considering buying insurance from if they offer discounts for: no accidents in three years, drivers over 50 years of age, driver training courses and good grades for students.

In addition to inquiring about discounts, you can also take advantage of the Farmers Friendly Review to review your home and auto insurance coverages and the rest of your insurance needs to make sure you are getting all the discounts possible.  Call me today to set up an appointment to review your coverage needs.

Purchasing auto insurance in the McKinney area shouldn't be a difficult decision. As your personal Farmers agent I will help you understand the ins-and-outs of auto insurance so you can choose the right type of coverage for your needs. Remember, there is more to insurance than just price.

Plus, no one has more discounts than Farmers. Our multi-line discount is just one way to save on the cost of auto insurance by having your auto, homeowners and life insurance with Farmers. Ask me about other discounts you may qualify for.

As a customer of Farmers you'll not only receive the personal care and service of your agent, but also our award-winning HelpPoint® claims service. Call (800) HelpPoint - (800) 435-7764 - 24 hours a day, seven days a week to report a claim.