It has gotten so bad that some drivers are contemplating driving without auto insurance – but don't you be one of them. Automobile insurance is mandatory if your drive a car in the state of Nevada and the penalties for driving without insurance are extremely severe – and could result in your driving privileges being suspended entirely for a good long time.

The answer is to find ways of driving down the cost of your car insurance premiums and allow you to find affordable car insurance here in Nevada.

Start by maintaining a good driving record. Do not drive when drunk or impaired in any other way. The potential penalties are simply too severe. In addition to any legal problems you may face, your auto insurance rates are likely to soar if you are convicted of any moving violation, especially drunken or impaired driving.

If you smoke, consider quitting. It may be difficult to quit, but the money you save – including the savings on your car insurance premiums – can make all the discomfort worthwhile.

If you are in school stay there and study hard. If you are a student and you can maintain a “B” average most car insurance companies here in Nevada offer what is called a Good Student Discount.

If your parents are willing, have your car added to their policy rather than taking out a policy of your own. Most companies charge student driver's less if their policy is attached to their parent's policy.

If you are over 50 take a safe driver refresher course. Such courses are even offered online and the successful completion of one of these courses can save you up to 10% on your car insurance premiums.

If you are buying a car don't get that sports car or SUV or muscle car, not unless you are prepared to pay a much higher insurance premium. However, do by a car with air bags and other safety features, as these tend to lower your auto insurance rates.

If you have two or more cars make sure they are both insured by the same company. Most Nevada car insurance companies offer a multi-car discount – also, if you have a homeowner's insurance policy or a health insurance policy or long term care policy or any other insurance policy, consider having it carried by the same company that insures your car. Most companies off a rather hefty multi-policy discount.

Be willing to pay the highest deductible you can afford. No one likes paying for any portion of an accident out of their own pocket, but the larger your deductible the lower your monthly car insurance premiums are going to be.

Lastly, go online and spend whatever time you need comparing prices and policies among a variety of companies, since prices can vary widely even for the same basic coverage. It takes effort and commitment, but if you are willing to do your homework and spend the time necessary to compare policies and prices, it really is possible to find affordable car insurance in Nevada.

Good luck!