Dοеѕ vehicle size impact auto insurance rates? Of course it does and for several reasons.

Not High Performance - Fewer Violations

With fuel economy being a huge concern in this day of ever rising gas prices, smaller and more fuel-efficient vehicles are very popular. Typically, these vehicles that highlight economy are “family cars” with smaller engines. These models are not deemed high-performance, don’t move as quickly as their flashy, sporty counterparts and are much less likely to be involved in moving violations. Thus, they tend to provide the benefit of lower insurance rates.  Just how fuel efficient can a smaller car be?  According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you could save as much as $1,400 in fuel costs each year by choosing the most efficient vehicle that meets your needs.

More Emphasis on Safety Features

Many of the best of the cars marketed for “family use” emphasize safety features in addition to smaller engines and smaller frames. New models will likely have standard shoulder-and-lap belts in all outboard seating positions, child safety seat top-tether and lower LATCH attachments in the rear seats, front air bags for driver and passenger as well as side air bags. Consumer Reports indicates that contemporary safety-oriented designs and equipment may offer the smaller auto an advantage in avoiding an accident. Because of this emphasis on safety, often consumers could see lower auto insurance rates. 
 

Auto Theft Less Common

Another advantage for owners of smaller cars: auto theft is less common. Although the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that the 1994 Honda Accord, 1995 Honda Civic and 1991 Toyota Camry are the top three most-stolen cars in recent years, the bulk of vehicles reporting the most thefts are the larger and more expensive SUVs and pickup trucks. These three smaller models aside, smaller “family” cars are usually less desirable targets for thieves. This could translate into further insurance savings for their owners. 
 
It is obvious that size does matter when it comes to automobile efficiency and economy. We can make the case that smaller "family cars" are more economical to fuel and maintain, safer to operate, easier on the environment, often less likely to be stolen, and could offer a considerable break in insurance costs. 
 
Perhaps you are shopping for a new car, or maybe you are just curious about how your vehicle compares when it comes to insurance rates, a brief meeting with your local insurance agent will give you the facts that you need.
 
Here at Patterson Insurance Management Inc, we have the expertise to help you to find the best insurance coverage at the best rate for your particular budget and needs. Why not contact us today?

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