Whether you root for the Yankees, Red Sox or Mets, switching baseball teams is unfathomable. After all, it's important to maintain steady habits, as long as they're healthy ones. Paying the same Connecticut auto insurance rates with the same company will prove you are loyal, but failing to shop for insurance could damage your wallet. Nutmeggers paid an average of $964 for auto insurance in 2007, nearly $200 more than the U.S. average, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I). Residents of states with higher wages and price levels tend to pay higher auto insurance premiums, and Connecticut is continually at the top of the charts in terms of average income. Between 2006 and 2008 the mean household income was $68,411, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and there were 107,991 households making $200,000 or more during that same timeframe. Whether you're financially well-off or just making ends meet, it's good to save money when given the opportunity. Here are some things to think about the next time you're shopping for lower Connecticut auto insurance rates.

All Hail for Safety
Most auto insurance companies offer discounts to those who have vehicles with integrated safety and anti-theft features. Safety characteristics such as anti-lock brakes, front and side airbag systems, and automatic seatbelts, and theft deterrents such as warning, immobilizing, and tracking devices will garner savings on Connecticut auto insurance rates. More car manufacturers are integrating these types of components in new cars, but if your vehicle lacks these features it could be worth your while to have them installed. Safeguarding your vehicle now could pay for itself in no time with lower auto insurance premiums and more peace of mind regarding your family's security.

Adolescent Behavior
Adding a teenage driver to your policy will result in higher Connecticut auto insurance rates. Your teen has a clean driving record, so why does it cost so much to insure him? It's because studies reveal that that's likely to change. Statistics show that teen drivers have more car accidents and occurrences of driver error than any other age group, and their inexperience behind the wheel doesn't go unnoticed. "Even the best teenage drivers don't have the judgment that comes with experience. It affects their recognition of response to hazardous situations and results in dangerous practices such as speeding and tailgating," said Michael Barry, vice president of media relations for the I.I.I. in a 2010 press release. Discounts are available to teen drivers at some Connecticut auto insurance companies. For example, safe driver programs teach teenagers behind-the-wheel responsibilities and brief them on the consequences that follow if they don't meet up to potential. Your teen's grades could garner some savings on your Connecticut auto insurance rates as well. Remember: you'll pay less on your premium if you avoid purchasing a high performance vehicle, truck or SUV for your teenager. The more safety features his vehicle has will garner more savings.

Breaking Bad Habits
Finding superior auto insurance coverage that won't break the bank is easier than you might think. LocalInsurance is a free service that extracts quotes from insurance companies in your area. Simply fill out a short form and LocalInsurance staff will locate several companies that want to compete for your business.

To find more information on the auto insurance requirements in Connecticut, visit these useful links from the Connecticut Insurance Department: