Want to save money? Here are nine suggestions to help you save on your auto insurance policies

1. Comparison shop.
Use consumer information provided by your state's insurance department. These guides tell you what coverage's you need and show you sample rates, usually from the biggest companies. You can find your state's web site by visiting the National Association of Insurance Commissioners web site. Then, get shopping. Get quotes from at least three insurers

2. Consider higher deductibles.
When you file a claim, a deductible is the amount of money you pay before your insurance company pays for the rest of the damage. Higher deductibles mean lower premiums. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 on collision coverage could reduce your premium by as much as 30 percent — potentially saving you hundreds of dollars. Choose the highest deductible you can afford, then set aside that amount in a savings account so you'll have the funds available if needed.

3. Drop collision and/or comprehensive coverage's on older cars.
If you own a car that's worth less than $2,000, you'll probably pay more for the coverage than you would ever collect on a claim. Although insurance companies use their own criteria to determine fair market value for vehicles, you can find out how much your car is generally worth by using the Kelley Blue Book.

4. Buy a "low-profile" car.
Cars that are expensive to repair or that have a high theft rate generally have higher insurance costs. The Highway Loss Data Institute publishes a report listing average collision and theft losses for 297 car and truck models. For example, the Institute's most recent report shows theft losses for the 4-door Accura Integra (1999-2001 models) were a whopping 562% above the average for similar-sized cars, while collision losses were among the highest for the Mitsubishi Mirage, at 50% above average.

5. Take advantage of low-mileage discounts.
Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who put fewer than a predetermined number of miles on their vehicles each year. To take advantage of these offers, you'll have to provide accurate mileage information each year. You might also receive a discount if you can show that you use public transportation to commute to work.

6. Check your credit history and correct inaccuracies.
Many insurance companies use insurance credit scores in figuring rates. Your score is based on information contained in your credit report. If your credit reports contain errors or inaccurate information, you may end up paying more for insurance than you need to.

7. Ask about discounts for antilock brakes, air bags and other safety features.
Some states, including Florida and New York, require insurers to give discounts for cars equipped with antilock brakes. Some insurance companies give the discount no matter where you live. Most policies also give discounts for air bags. Your insurance agent should let you know about these discounts when you purchase your coverage.

8. Check on group insurance and corporate discounts.
Members of the American Automobile Association (AAA) collectively save more than $27 million annually on their auto insurance just by providing their membership information when they purchase a policy. You may also be able to get a discount through trade or professional associations that you belong to, or through your employer's corporate benefits program.

9. Ask about other discounts.
Some companies offer discounts for insuring more than one car, also insuring your home with them (known as a multiline discount), having no accidents in three years, being a driver over age 50, taking driver training courses, and having antitheft devices. Plus, remember good-student discounts when you are insuring a student who drives.