Everybody wants to have the best car insurance rates, and senior citizens are not an exception. However, if you are a senior driver you might face such problem as higher car insurance rates. This may happen because insurance companies tend to view senior drivers as a higher risk than other drivers. However, by taking some measures you will be able to get lower rates. Take a look at the following 12 tips and start saving money now.

1. Pay Close Attention at Intersections. Thus, you will be able to avoid more accidents. Statistics show that car accidents involving seniors often take place at intersections. So, it is recommended that you always

• make sure to look ahead if you are going to quickly switch lanes after an intersection,
• pay attention to protected left turn lanes with their own arrows,
• keep your tires pointed straight ahead when stopped, so that a rear-end collision doesn't push you into oncoming traffic.

2. Follow the traffic flow and drive at or near the speed limit. Do not drive very slowly as it is as dangerous as driving too quickly, especially when entering interstates or freeways. It can also trigger dangerous "road rage" in less patient drivers. Though, you won't be compared with Mario Andretti, you will be out of danger if you keep the right and follow the traffic flow.

3. Keep current on the traffic laws concerning new traffic designs. Many infringements include failure to yield right-of-way, incorrect lane changes or improper turning. So, try to be in the know.

Try to sit high enough in your seat. If your car seat isn't designed to afford this, use a cushion to sit on. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises that you should see at least 10 feet in front of your car, which will make it easier to see pedestrians and bike riders. It will also help to avoid problems connected with oncoming headlight glare at night.

4. Do not wear sunglasses or tinted glasses when driving at twilight or after dark. Night vision is reduced for many drivers. That's why it is extremely important to avoid driving at night.

5. Make sure you know how to drive a new car. There might be some devices in your new car, the technical characteristics of which are quite unknown for you. For example, anti-lock brakes operate differently in slippery situations. Therefore, it is extremely important to get training on proper use of the new details.

6. Take a refresher driving course to get discounts. More than two-thirds of states mandate car insurance policy discounts for such courses as, for instance, the eight-hour "55 Alive" course offered by AARP. By taking a refresher driving course senior drivers can refresh their skills and knowledge and get a discount on car insurance in many states. Many insurance companies even offer the discounts of their own free will.

7. Try to find cars with rear-view mirrors that carmatically dim and filter out headlight glare.

8. Use air bags to be better protected. Nowadays air bag technology has become state-of-the-art one. Sensors deploy air bags according to the weight of the occupant, which greatly lessen possible air-bag injuries. Some new cars are also equipped with side air bags in the seats or door frame which help to achieve maximum protection.

9. Take into consideration such factors as fit and comfort in your new car. Seat belts must comfortably fit over your shoulder and low on your lap for better protection. Take the advantage of such devises as automatic transmission, power steering and power brakes which require less physical effort.

10. Shop around to see which insurance companies offer specific 'Senior Discounts.' While comparing various options for the best car insurance rates it is important that you take into consideration how different insurance companies treat senior drivers.

11. Take care of your health and your vehicle condition. You'll be offered the best rates if you're healthy and drive a safe, modern vehicle.

Save extra money on your car insurance!