Incentives for Owning a Hybrid Car
People who have decided to buy a hybrid or other alternative fuel vehicle these days recognize that it is our responsibility to keep the planet livable. By driving a fuel efficient, low emissions vehicle, they can count themselves as part of the solution to global warming, the reliance on Mideast oil, and the rise of terrorism. The hybrid car is still a novelty though, and buyers can expect to pay upwards of $5000-$7000 more for their vehicles than those who buy traditional combustion engine vehicles. The US government has taken a little of the hybrid sting out by offering tax incentives. For example, a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid 2WD will net you a $3,000 tax credit.

Auto Insurance Discounts for Hybrid Owners
Most insurers agree that owners of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles are a low risk for filing auto insurance claims. They are considered more mature, environmentally responsible, and mileage-conscious. Some auto insurance companies are marketing to hybrid owners by offering discounts while most insurers do not. They assert that people who buy hybrids are in a low risk group and will already pay less for insurance on that basis alone.

Auto Insurers Offering a Discount on Hybrid Insurance
The following automobile insurers offer a discount for driving a hybrid vehicle:

• Travelers Insurance
  You can qualify for a 10% discount on your hybrid auto insurance through Travelers Insurance in 43 states.
• Farmers Insurance Group
  Owners of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles can get up to a 10% discount on all their insurance coverage from Farmers Insurance Group.
• GEICO
  Policyholders who insure their hybrids with GEICO Insurance will receive a 5% auto insurance discount.

Other Factors in the Mix
In addition to the risk that a hybrid driver will ever file a claim, the other factor that insurers must consider is the cost of repairing or replacing the automobile after it has been in an accident. Another concern some insurers cite is the liability the large battery might pose in the event of an accident. When all is taken into account, low risk driver, hybrid discount, and repair and liability costs, you can still pay as much or more than you would to insure a traditional gas-powered car. Hybrid owners should still explore all auto insurance options, including ones that do not offer discounts for driving a hybrid. One study showed that, in 2007 there was a 77% increase in hybrid owners comparing auto insurance quotes online.

Conclusion
You can't go wrong by heeding the advice frequently offered to anyone shopping for auto insurance: compare auto insurance quotes online to save the most time and money.