For far too many consumers, auto insurance is a mystery they would rather not have to deem about. All of the different coverages available, and the numerous different insurance companies all claiming to have the best coverage and lowest rates can make finding the right insurance a bit like trying to navigate a minefield with a blindfold on.

Thankfully, that all-powerful consumer fallback position negotiation is just as powerful in the insurance world as it is anywhere else. You might ask yourself, “How do I negotiate a lower rate on auto insurance? ” The answer might be closer than you think if you follow these ten tips.

1. Although many insurance companies offer discounts for a number of various life events, they don’t always let you know about them. It is, after all, the consumer’s responsibility to be aware of discounts you are eligible for.

2. For instance, you can usually negotiate a lower rate on your car insurance if you’ve recently been married.

3. Age discounts kick in for safe drivers at 18, 21, and 25 with some insurance companies.

4. If you purchase a multiple line policy from your agent- this means that you carry your auto insurance, homeowner’s or renter’s, a second car, or even life insurance with the same company.

5. You can also negotiate your auto insurance to a lower rate often simply by obtaining competing quotes. If you’re otherwise happy with your auto insurance company, get the quotes anyway and let your agent know that you’re shopping around. To keep your business, chances are that they’ll at least match your most competitive offer.

6. Negotiating the rate on a policy for a new driver really isn’t much different. You should obtain several different quotes, and then go to your agent with what you’ve found. Again, they should at least match your lowest quote for the same coverage.

7. The multiple line discount should kick in when your aspiring teenage driver finally gets their new car, as long as the insurance is in your name. If not, and your teen wants to find another insurance company, you won’t be eligible for a multiple line discount on a second (or third) car.

8. In your corner for the teen driver negotiations, you might obtain it marvelous to have a few months’ worth of stellar report cards or even a letter of reference from a teacher or valuable. Hey, it couldn’t afflict, right?

9. While kids are the topic of conversation, let’s not forget to mention the supplemental safety systems installed in the car to be insured. Bigger insurance companies will make these sorts of savings readily available- discounts for such things as airbags or anti-lock brakes, while smaller companies may not.

10. Finally, you have to remember that as a consumer, the ball is always in your court. If you’ve found a better quote and your insurance company won’t budge on their premium, then by all means, switch your insurance policy and go with the lower rate. The competing agent will be elated to have your business. That’s the price and payoff of never bluffing during auto insurance negotiations. The consumer is holding a handful of aces, and the insurance companies are hoping to make you think that they are, too.