Best Car Insurance for Firefighters

What's the best car insurance for firefighters?

As a firefighter, you know all about minimizing risk and preventing disasters. But after saving lives and putting out blazes, shopping for auto insurance can be a pretty dull — and potentially expensive — affair. That’s where we come in. Let’s explore the best car insurance options for firefighters, and how to save money on this very important, required expense.

Firefighters who have had experience as active duty military members can qualify for the cheapest six-month insurance premiums through USAA (which also topped The Zebra Customer Satisfaction Survey). The second-cheapest premium can be found at GEICO if you do not qualify for USAA coverage.

Another way to save is what is called paid in full discount. Basically, if you pay all of your premium upfront, your insurance company will reduce the price of said premium. They offer this discount for a few reasons: first, they get all of their money in one payment and most companies really enjoy that large initial cash flow. Second is the lack of processing fees because you already paid your full premium upfront.

Bundle your policies

If you have additional policies, make sure you have them insured through the same company (e.g. bundling with home insurance or bundling with renters insurance). This way, you can receive a multi-policy discount. Because you’re combining your policies and giving your insurance company new sources of revenue, they will reward you with some savings! This is a very common discount that is offered by most insurers.

This policy can apply to multiple forms of insurance, not just home/auto. So, if you have a life insurance or umbrella policy, you would receive a discount as well.

Drive safely

As a first responder, you understand the dangers of not driving safely. Insurance companies see the dangers of driving irresponsibly similarly — as they will be on the hook for damages — and thus charge accordingly for them. Speeding, driving under the influence, and getting in an at-fault accident will cause your premium to rise exponentially. Plus, depending on the violation and the state, you could be charged for over three years! This means that if you are in an at-fault accident, you can be charged an extra $767 per year in excess premium, which amounts to over $2,300 over the three-year surchargeable period.

Get the right coverage

Unlike a house, your car depreciates in value over time. So if you bought a brand new vehicle 15 years ago, chances are you don't need the same insurance coverage you once had. The only coverages you are required by law to have — unless your vehicle is leased or financed — are your state liability limits. Comprehensive and collision are designed to physically protect your own car. Consider if the value of your vehicle (which can be easily determined through Kelley Bluebook or NADA guide) is worth what you pay for these additional coverages. Here are our quick tips for determining the coverage you need:

• Determine the value of your vehicle by using Kelley Blue Book and NADA guide.
• Contrast the difference in premium with full coverage versus only having liability coverage. If that difference is enough to replace the value of your car (determined in step one), you probably don't need full coverage.
• If the premium difference is not enough, consider raising your deductibles; by raising your deductibles, you can lower your premium. If, however, you do raise your deductible, you increase your financial responsibility for any at-fault accidents.