Its not always possible to save on auto insurance though some companies like to say that you can save 15% or more, if you will just give them a call. Still significant discounts from what you are currently paying are often, if not always, available.

The only way you can find out if you’re paying too much is by getting price quotes from several companies. There are lots of ways to save. But be aware that insurers calculate rates differently so you need to not only look around but also be sure to compare apples with apples.

Here are four ways to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth when you shop for car insurance:

1. Existing Relationships – don’t forget to check with your current insurance carriers particularly companies that provide you with insurance other than auto insurance. The relationships you have with your current insurance companies can easily lead to preferred auto insurance rates if you are already an established client with non-auto policies like homeowners or life insurance.

2. Associations – Some organizations and groups offer opportunities for special auto insurance rates. For example, the Automobile Association of America is an association that saves its members millions every year on auto insurance. You might also check other associations that you belong to including professional organizations, alumni groups, companies and clubs. Often these organizations offer special discounts with certain insurance companies, obtained through group rates.

3. Good Behavior Discounts – Good behavior covers a wide array of issues that insurance companies have found correlate to lower policy risks. Each company has different criteria for awarding good behavior discounts. For example, some companies give lower rates to students for good grades or for taking drivers education courses. Or adults might get a discount for an accident free driving record or for taking a defensive driving course.

4. Small Insurance Companies – sometimes small insurance companies offer lower rates to certain groups of people or to people living in a certain areas. This is because they may be trying to grow their customer base in a certain area or in a certain class of drivers. Be sure to include one or two smaller companies in your price comparison project.

Comparing your current insurance rates with what other companies have to offer often pays big dividends. It may even be a good idea to do a price comparison every year or two since companies, markets, and economic conditions change rapidly from year to year.

The auto insurance industry is very competitive and if you look hard enough you can usually find some company willing to undercut its competitors rates in order to get your business.