Take Cover No need to panic--we've got tips to help you cut your car insurance costs.

Is your company's vehicle insurance too high? The InsuranceInformation Institute reports rates are declining in some states,but medical costs are rising. Meanwhile, a recent National HighwayTransportation Safety Administration survey reveals many driversaren't aware that their coverage is insufficient until after anaccident. Here's how you can reduce insurance costs:

• Check your state's department of insurance for minimuminsurance requirements. Check out www.ican2000.com/state.html for basic rate comparisonsurveys.

• With your employees' written permission, ask yourlocal Department of Motor Vehicles for driving records if youinsure drivers. Poor driving records mean higher insurancecosts.

• Stress that if employees break the law--by speeding, forexample-their actions can raise rates or cause lawsuits, puttingyour business in jeopardy.

• Comparison shop on websites such as www.carsdirect.comand www.kbb.com.Use their on-screen calculators for free quotes. Be aware, however,that most sites work with specific insurance companies. If you usean insurance broker, ask if he's an agent for an insurancecompany. Not all brokers will direct you to the best deals unlessthey represent them.

• Check for discounts on safety equipment such as extraairbags, backup warning systems and theft alarms.

• If your salespeople use their own cars on business andyou reimburse them for mileage, encourage them to add rentalinsurance to their personal policies--and reimburse them for theaverage annual premium of $25 as well. This preventive measure isless expensive than paying $300 to $500 a week for a replacementrental.

• Pick the highest deductibles you can afford to keep therates low. Buy as much liability as possible to protect your assetsif you are sued. On older cars, consider lowering or droppingcollision coverage.

• For more advice, check out www.iii.org, www.insurance.com and www.wiserdrivers.com.

Editor and consultant Jill Amadio has been reporting on theautomotive industry for 26 years.