As budgets tighten, smart customers are cutting expenses with low cost car insurance. Here are some clever ways to save.

•    Keep it in the family. – If your family has multiple drivers, ask about family rates. Taking out more than one policy ought to garner you a discount.

•    Stay true to one company. – Many car insurance companies also offer home insurance, boat insurance, and other products. Find out if you can get cheaper car insurance by shopping exclusively with one insurance company.

•    Take a class. Driver’s education classes aren’t just for teens and hazardous drivers. By taking a defensive driving course, you can show auto insurance companies that you’re serious about safety and get rewarded with a safe driver discount.

•    Boost your grades. Students can lower their insurance rates by earning high GPAs. What’s the logic? Insurance companies find that students who pay attention in class also pay attention to the road.

•    Upgrade your vehicle. By adding protective features such as anti-lock brakes, anti-theft devices, and airbags, you could save a significant amount on car insurance.

For more ways to get low cost car insurance, check out the Federal Consumer Information Center’s Consumer Action Handbook.