How much is car insurance?

The cost of insurance depends on a number of factors, including how good your driving record is, how old you are, your gender, and where you live; plus your occupation, marital status, and credit score. The most recent data available estimates the average annual premium to be $1,056. But the premium you pay will be influenced by the factors above plus how much coverage you need.

How do I find the best car insurance?

To find the best car insurance, it's crucial to compare quotes from multiple companies and to check out their ratings, reviews, and complaints. Research insurers at ratings agencies like J.D. Power and use the NAIC's Consumer Insurance Search tool. Importantly, you should have coverage that addresses your needs with an insurer that's easy to work with all at a cost you can afford.

How do I get car insurance?

You can get car insurance through an agent or a broker , or directly with the company. But in all cases, you'll need a few items to get an accurate quote, including your vehicle's information, your personal information and driver's license, and the declaration page from your current insurance company. You should also know how much and what types of coverage you need and your desired deductible.

How do I switch my car insurance company?

Switching your car insurance company is usually a matter of contacting your current insurer for the proper way to cancel and securing new coverage. But watch out for early cancellation penalties and have your new coverage in place first. Also, be aware of any coverages or discounts you're giving up in the process.

How do I lower my car insurance rate?

In addition to getting quotes from other insurers, check for available car insurance discounts like bundling multiple policies and good driver incentives. Also, consider increasing your deductible, paying your premium in full, and letting your insurer know if you're driving less. For lower rates long-term, practice safe driving habits and improve your credit score.

What is a deductible in car insurance?

A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket for covered claims. For example, say you have a $250 deductible for windshield-related claims and your windshield needs to be replaced to the tune of $400. You would be required to pay $250 toward the repair and your insurance company would cover the rest. If, on the other hand, your deductible is $500, you'd be responsible for the entire cost.

Car Insurance Reviews

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is car insurance?

The cost of insurance depends on a number of factors, including how good your driving record is, how old you are, your gender, and where you live; plus your occupation, marital status, and credit score. The most recent data available estimates the average annual premium to be $1,056. But the premium you pay will be influenced by the factors above plus how much coverage you need.

Learn More: How Much Is Car Insurance?
How do I find the best car insurance?

To find the best car insurance, it's crucial to compare quotes from multiple companies and to check out their ratings, reviews, and complaints. Research insurers at ratings agencies like J.D. Power and use the NAIC's Consumer Insurance Search tool. Importantly, you should have coverage that addresses your needs with an insurer that's easy to work with all at a cost you can afford.

Learn More: How to Compare Auto Insurance To Find Your Best Policy
How do I get car insurance?

You can get car insurance through an agent or a broker, or directly with the company. But in all cases, you'll need a few items to get an accurate quote, including your vehicle's information, your personal information and driver's license, and the declaration page from your current insurance company. You should also know how much and what types of coverage you need and your desired deductible.

Learn More: What Documents Do You Need to Get Car Insurance?
How do I switch my car insurance company?

Switching your car insurance company is usually a matter of contacting your current insurer for the proper way to cancel and securing new coverage. But watch out for early cancellation penalties and have your new coverage in place first. Also, be aware of any coverages or discounts you're giving up in the process.

Learn More: What to Know About Changing Car Insurance
How do I lower my car insurance rate?

In addition to getting quotes from other insurers, check for available car insurance discounts like bundling multiple policies and good driver incentives. Also, consider increasing your deductible, paying your premium in full, and letting your insurer know if you're driving less. For lower rates long-term, practice safe driving habits and improve your credit score.

Learn More: How To Lower Your Auto Insurance Premium Any Time of Year
What is a deductible in car insurance?

A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket for covered claims. For example, say you have a $250 deductible for windshield-related claims and your windshield needs to be replaced to the tune of $400. You would be required to pay $250 toward the repair and your insurance company would cover the rest. If, on the other hand, your deductible is $500, you'd be responsible for the entire cost.

Learn More: What Is an Insurance Deductible?

Key Terms

SR22 INSURANCE

An SR22 is a form issued by an insurance company that informs a state that you have the minimum insurance required in that state after getting your driving privileges back. It is not insurance or coverage, but a way your state ensures your car insurance is active.

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MULTI-CAR POLICY

A multi-car insurance policy is a policy with more than one vehicle at the same address. This may also be called a multiple vehicle policy or a “schedule of vehicles” policy. Typically, these policies are available for passenger vehicles only.

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NAMED INSURED

Named insured drivers on a car insurance policy typically are the individuals who own or lease the vehicle being insured. They also have control over the policy and are the only ones authorized to make changes.

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LIABILITY COVERAGE

Liability auto insurance is the portion of an automobile insurance policy that pays when you are found at fault in an auto accident.

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COLLISION COVERAGE

Collision insurance coverage pays to repair damages or refunds you for the actual cash value of your vehicle if it is totaled when you collide with something while driving.

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GRACE PERIOD

An insurance grace period is the length of time you have after your due date to pay your premium before your insurance company cancels your coverage.

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BODILY INJURY COVERAGE

Auto insurance bodily injury coverage, also known as bodily injury liability coverage, pays the medical care costs, lost wages, and even the funeral costs for anyone harmed by an at-fault driver.

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“DEC” PAGE

An insurance declaration page sums up what is in an insurance policy. It comes at the start of your paperwork and outlines items like your deductible, coverage, and discounts.

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UNINSURED MOTORIST COVERAGE

Uninsured motorist coverage pays your medical bills (and those of any passengers) after an accident in which the at-fault driver either has no coverage or insufficient coverage, or in the case of a hit-and-run accident.

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COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE

Comprehensive auto insurance pays to repair your vehicle if it sustains non-collision damage caused by falling objects, fire, vandalism, weather events, or a collision with a wild animal. It also helps pay for auto theft.

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