Can What Time You Drive Affect Your Car Insurance Rates?
You probably already know that a wide variety of factors impact your car insurance premium, from your age to your driving history. But does what time you drive affect car insurance rates?
Your overall risk level as a driver impacts your monthly coverage costs, and being on the road during certain times of day (or year) can involve a higher risk of getting into an accident. While being behind the wheel during high-risk periods won’t always mean a rate increase, it’s important to understand how your commuting habits could impact your rates.
Car Insurance Premiums & Drive Time: When Timing Matters
When you first sign up for your car insurance policy, you’ll probably have to share some information about your habits. Your insurer might not directly ask about what times of day you’re on the road. However, they may ask about details like how many miles you drive per year and the length of your commute.
More and more car insurance companies are now using telematics programs, which actively gather data about your driving habits to calculate your risk level. This includes details like how hard you brake and how often you drive over the posted speed limit, alongside the timing of your drives. As a result, you could see higher premiums if you frequently drive during high-risk time periods.
Rush Hour Revelations: The Impact of Drive Times on Premiums
Does commuting affect car insurance rates? The answer is yes. Not only can rush hour driving cost you your patience, but it may also cost you money through higher car insurance premiums.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, having more drivers on the road often results in more crashes. This is especially true when combined with other factors like bad weather and distracted driving. If you frequently drive during rush hour, you’re simply increasing your chances of getting into a collision, making you more likely to file an insurance claim.
Holiday Cruising: Does More Traffic Affect Premiums?
The holidays are another time period with notoriously bad traffic. Many people travel to spend time with their families, clogging up the roads. Plus, drivers may be taking longer trips, causing a spike in drowsy driving. If people travel to new cities or states, they could also be unfamiliar with local speed limits, roads, and traffic patterns. Combined with the extra danger of winter weather, all these factors can increase your risk level during the holidays.
It’s important to note that simply visiting family once a year probably won’t cause your premiums to spike. However, patterns of extended travel could increase your average yearly mileage. If you’re not driving as safely, you could rack up tickets or get into accidents, which will ultimately raise your rates. Following some basic holiday driving safety tips can set you up for success and keep your costs low.
Life in the Fast Lane: How Personal Changes Shift Car Insurance Costs
Making a few basic changes in your driving patterns can help you lower your costs. Most importantly, start by following all traffic laws. Avoid bad habits like driving in the carpool lane without a passenger or speeding. Even if you’re following all traffic rules, other drivers can be a hazard, so stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
Trying to decrease your time on the road can also help. If possible, consider shifting your commute so you aren’t behind the wheel during peak hours. Carpooling is a great way to decrease your mileage and reduce your risk of getting into an accident, regardless of when or where you drive.
Navigating Policy Terrain: Factors Beyond the Odometer
When and how much you drive is just one element that can impact your premium. Your insurer will also consider factors like:
- Zip code
- Age
- Gender
- Credit score
- Accident and ticket history
While traveling during non-peak times and decreasing your mileage can help, it’s best to take a well-rounded approach. You may not have control over your age and location, but you can drive safely to keep your monthly costs low.
No Matter When You Drive, Freeway Has You Covered
Does what time you drive affect car insurance rates? Because your auto premiums are linked to your risk level, your driving schedule could indirectly impact your rates. Driving safely during the holidays and avoiding rush hour are great ways to decrease risk. Paying attention to your driving schedule, in addition to other risk factors, is key when trying to save on your coverage.
Whether you’re driving in rush hour or the middle of the night, you should always be protected. Make sure to get the best rate on your auto insurance by getting a free auto insurance quote today. Call Freeway at (800) 777-5620, sign up for an online quote, or visit us in person at a local Freeway Insurance office to get the right coverage for your driving habits.
