Yeah, totally get where you're coming from on the mileage tracking apps. I've been tempted a few times because the savings seem appealing, but something always holds me back. Like you said, insurers can be sneaky about penalizing stuff you'd never even think twice about. I mean, who knew driving home after a late shift could cost you extra? Feels unfair to folks who don't have typical 9-to-5 schedules.
I do think dash cams are pretty solid though—had a buddy who got rear-ended at a stoplight and the other driver tried to claim he backed into them (seriously?). His dash cam footage cleared things up real quick. But yeah, handing over all your driving data feels like giving insurers way too much ammo to nitpick your habits. Maybe someday they'll iron out those kinks, but until then I'm sticking with more traditional ways of cutting costs—like bundling policies or shopping around every renewal.
I've thought about dash cams too, especially after hearing stories like your friend's—people can get pretty creative when shifting blame, huh? A couple other things I've noticed that sometimes help in Alaska specifically:
- Checking if your insurer gives discounts for winter tires or cold-weather safety gear (some actually do).
- Taking a defensive driving course—even if you're not required to, insurers sometimes knock off a few bucks.
- Weirdly enough, parking your car in a garage overnight can lower premiums slightly.
Nothing groundbreaking, but every little bit helps...
Hadn't thought about the garage thing actually lowering premiums... makes sense though, less chance of moose or ice damage overnight. Reminds me of when I parked outside one winter and woke up to find a moose casually licking road salt off my windshield—insurance doesn't cover moose drool, does it?
"insurance doesn't cover moose drool, does it?"
Haha, you'd be surprised what people try to claim. Moose drool might be pushing it, but I've seen stranger things approved (and denied). Honestly though, the garage discount makes sense—less exposure to wildlife and weather damage. But here's a thought: does anyone know if installing wildlife deterrents (like those ultrasonic devices) actually helps lower premiums? I'm skeptical they'd even work, but maybe insurers see it differently...
"does anyone know if installing wildlife deterrents (like those ultrasonic devices) actually helps lower premiums?"
Doubtful insurers would bite on that one... I mean, I've had ultrasonic deer repellents in my yard for years, and the moose still stroll through like they own the place. But here's a thought—what about dashcams? I've heard some insurers give discounts if you have one installed, maybe because it makes claims easier to prove? Curious if anyone here in AK has snagged a discount that way, or if it's just another urban legend...
