When it comes to determining your rate for your car insurance, some of the factors are under your control, and others are not. Regardless, it is important to understand the factors that are both under your control and those that are not.

Gender

Your gender impacts your insurance rate. As a general rule of thumb, men have more serious accidents, and thus often face higher premiums when all other information is the same in comparison to a female. The fact that men have historically gotten into more serious accidents generally makes premiums for men more expensive than premiums for women. This is a factor that is out of your control but is important for you to be aware of.

Age

What age you are is going to impact your insurance rates as well. Until you reach the age of 25, you are going to be seen as a young and inexperienced driver, who statically, is the group most likely to get into an accident. Due to the overall statistics associated with young drivers, the insurance rates are generally higher. As you get older, past your 70s, you may see your car insurance rates increase again, but the increase is not as drastic as it is for young drivers. It is important to be aware that your age in life will impact your insurance rates.

Geographical Area

Where you live impacts your insurance rates. Insurance companies keep track of the rate of accidents for different zip codes, and some areas just see more accidents than other areas. The overall rate of accidents in your area will impact your insurance rate, as the overall rate reflects your overall chance of getting involved in an accident in your area, regardless of if you are the at-fault driver or not. Moving to an area with a lower rate of traffic accidents can decrease your premium.

Driving Record

Your best chance of decreasing your insurance rates rests with your driving record. Not having any violations or accidents on your record will go a long way towards securing you an affordable insurance premium.

Insurance Coverage History

Your history of carrying insurance coverage while you own a vehicle can impact your future insurance rates. If you ever have a lapse of coverage, regardless of it is for a day or a couple of months, you are going to face higher insurance rates. Insurance companies keep track of who has had insurance policies canceled due to non-payment; if an insurance company isn't sure if you will pay them, you can face increased insurance rates.

These are just a few of the factors that can impact your car insurance rate. Other factors, such as your occupation, type of vehicle, age of vehicle, and how many miles you put on your vehicle, can also impact your insurance rate. If you have questions about how different factors impact your insurance rates, you can always ask your insurance provider for clarification and more information. Go to websites to see what car insurance is available.