Since 1987 insurance rates have increased an average of 44% nationwide and over 75% in Colorado. The premium you pay depends on dozens of variables including: your driving record, the type of vehicle you drive, marital status and credit history, etc. Parents with a teenage driver also pay more.

What can we do to save money?

1. Consider your level of coverage carefully - if you have few assets to protect, you might be able to get by on a lower level of bodily-injury liability for example.

2. Ask you agent for available driver discounts - for instance, combine auto with homeowners or life insurance (with one company).

3. Change cars - expensive high performance cars are costly to insure, Fords and Chevys are cheaper than BMW's.

4. Equip your car with safety gear - ABS and car alarms can save up to 10%.

5. Keep your driving record clean - no claims or tickets for 36 months will save you money. Drivers over 50 can also claim a discount.

6. Keep annual miles traveled below $7,500 - ride the bus or car pool.

7. Tell your teen driver to crack the books - insurers will discount for a good academic record in addition to the reduction given to those who pass driver's ed. If you own more than one vehicle, add the teenager to your policy as the occasional driver of your least expensive car - and make sure he or she drives only that car.

8. Finally, don't withhold information from your insurer and don't file for claims you can easily absorb yourself - it will only raise your premiums.

Shop around for the best deal - the Colorado Division of Insurance is a great reference source - call them at 894-7499.