Almost everyone has to carry car insurance. As a result, you’ve got to factor it into your household expenses. However, if you aren’t careful, you might find yourself paying a high (and increasing) cost for coverage. Don’t let this happen to you. With a careful review of your policy, as well as conscientious driving practices, you can keep costs manageable.

1. Drive Safely. Always.

One way insurers determine your insurance prices is by reviewing your driving record. If they see you have a lot of license suspensions, wrecks or driving charges, they might view your as hard to insure. Your riskiness places more of a cost burden on the company. As a result, they will likely charge you more for your coverage.

The safest drivers usually qualify for the lowest rates. Therefore, commit to safe driving practices. Put down you phone, don’t speed and review the rules of the road. If you ever feel you need a tune-up, consider taking a defensive driving course. Many insurers offer discounts to drivers who can prove they’ve passed these courses.

2. Ask About Discounts and Policy Savings

Speaking of discounts, you can lock in policy savings in a variety of ways. Some insurers offer discounts for students, retirees or loyalty club members. Others offer discounts for good credit, auto-payments or auto renewals. The next time you renew your policy, ask your agent about the discounts available.

3. Work Out a Payment Plan

Insurers offer a variety of ways to pay for your coverage. Some clients pay monthly. Others pay quarterly, semi-annually or even in lump sums. If you have the money to pay the full premium, it might be a good idea to pay all at once. If you find it better to pay by the month, this method might help you always know how much you can expect to spend per month. Ask your agent the benefits and risks of each approach.

4. Adjust Your Coverage, But Do So With Caution

You have the opportunity to change your coverage as needed. Doing so might make your policy more budget friendly.

For example, your car’s value might depreciate over time. As a result, you might be able to reduce your collision or comprehensive coverage. Or, you might decide to increase your policy’s deductible. This will increase how much money you have to pay for damage before the policy pays. Your insurer might reduce your premium costs because you now represent a lower cost risk to them.

However, only make changes to your coverage after thorough scrutiny. You don’t want to reduce your coverage to the point that you will face financial trouble when accidents happen. Therefore, talk to your agent about smart ways to make policy changes.