Have you recently decided to move to Oregon? Some of the benefits you can look forward to include access to nature and the outdoors, the amazing summer weather, the extensive wine farms to visit, and, of course, the easy-going vibes of the locals. Your move may also see you looking to upgrade your work or family vehicle.
In this instance, you may already be looking at two of the more popular cars driven in the state. The Toyota RAV4 and the Subaru Outback are among the top choices. This has a lot to do with the state’s varied terrain and sometimes unpredictable weather, where all-wheel drives may be the norm. This post takes a closer look at the factors that may influence your new auto insurance premium.
Driving Record
No matter what vehicle you’re looking to upgrade to, your previous driving behavior has a significant influence on how your new premium will be calculated. This means it’s essential to maintain a clean record that is free of DUI convictions, tickets, and at-fault traffic incidents. It’s important to highlight that the Oregon DMV keeps track of driving records for five to seven years. A potential insurer will access these records to determine your risk.
Your Preferred Location
It comes as no surprise that some Oregon neighborhoods, such as Eugene, Salem, and Portland, have considerably higher insurance rates than some of the more rural areas. For the most part, this has to do with the densely populated areas being more susceptible to traffic congestion, accidents, and increased crime rates.
Choice of Vehicle
In some states, the car you drive may not affect your insurance premium. However, this isn’t the case in Oregon. Vehicles with enhanced safety features may qualify for discounts or special packages. This is because some of the terrain in the rural areas can be challenging for the wrong vehicle type. Always assess your exact needs for the neighborhood you’re going to be driving in.
Age of the Insured
Younger drivers in Oregon, particularly those under 25, can expect to pay considerably higher premiums. This is due to their limited driving experience. In some instances, your premium can also be influenced by your gender, especially if the insurer considers average accident statistics.
Keep in mind that elderly drivers may also be subject to higher premiums if the insurer considers potential elevated accident risk. It’s a good idea to speak to your insurer about packages suited to your age and experience. Review the steps to take to maintain a clear driving record, as these can eventually lead to lower premiums.
Your Average Driving Time
In many instances, your preferred insurer will also assess how much you drive as one of the key factors to determine your premium. Drivers who work remotely from areas such as Bend or commute twice daily from Portland will see huge differences in their annual mileage.
Many Oregon auto insurance options offer discount packages to low-mileage drivers. This means you should always look for ways to reduce your car usage so that you can enjoy the benefits of a lower premium. Options such as carpooling or occasionally using public transport are just two effective ways to achieve this.
People on Your Policy
The number and age of people you add to your insurance policy will also affect the eventual premium. This is especially the case if you’re adding your teenage children or anyone with a poor driving record. Experienced drivers with good driving records will significantly reduce your overall premium. Always review the way a potential addition will influence your premium and record with the insurer before making the change.
Choose a comprehensive but Simple Insurance Option
Since Oregon auto insurance is mandatory, it’s essential to choose the best option from the outset. Oregon car owners can expect to pay between $1,022 and $1,062 per year. Opting for quality insurance, such as the option from Lemonade, will see you paying a different premium each month.
This is because the premium is a calculation of the number of miles you drive multiplied by your per-mile price plus your monthly base price, which doesn’t change. You can keep your insurance premium low by focusing on the following:
- Unlock bundle discounts
- Always adhere to safe driving habits
- Opt for the low-mileage savings where you pay for the miles you actually drive
Final Thoughts
No matter what your reason is for moving to Oregon, it’s essential to have the right vehicle for your needs. If you’re going to take advantage of the great outdoors, it’s always crucial to have the right vehicle to match your needs. Be sure to invest in an insurance policy to match. This will assure you that you’re covered, no matter what you encounter in your new neighborhood.
