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No two car insurance companies are the same. If you buy the first auto policy you come across, you might not get the best price or the right coverage for your needs. It's a bit like buying a pair of jeans without trying them on or checking the price tag.
The best way to get car insurance quotes is to collect customized rate quotes from a handful of insurers, evaluate coverage options and customer satisfaction ratings for each company, and then choose the policy offering the best value for your needs. It's essential to take the time to prepare for and understand the comparison process.
Key takeaways
- You can get car insurance quotes directly from the insurer's website, work with an insurance agent or broker, or use a car insurance quote comparison site.
- The cheapest insurer might not get you the best coverage or customer experience, so compare your options apples to apples and check each company's third-party ratings.
- Before you get a car insurance quote, make sure to first collect the following information: the vehicle identification number (VIN) for each vehicle as well as the driver's license number, Social Security number, and driving record for each driver.
- Have a copy of your current car insurance policy on hand if you're switching companies.
5 steps for getting car insurance
There are a few ways to compare car insurance quotes, depending on your preferences. Follow the general process below to help you find the best car insurance rates.
1. Gather some important information
Whether you use an online quote tool or work with an insurance agent, you'll need to provide a few details to get a quote, including information about:
- Your vehicle: You'll need the make, model, year, and mileage of all vehicles you want the policy to cover. You'll also need the VIN, which you can find inside the car's driver's side door, or on your title document. If your car has any safety or security features, like anti-lock brakes or anti-theft devices, take note — they might earn you a lower premium.
- Your mileage and usage: Estimate your annual mileage and determine your primary use for the vehicle. For example, if you occasionally use your car for business errands, tell the insurer so it can tailor your policy. If you drive for a rideshare company, you may need supplemental coverage.
- The drivers: Collect info about each person you want to list on the policy, including everyone living in your household who has access to the keys. You'll need each driver's date of birth, gender, marital status, driver's license number, Social Security number, and driving history (including car accidents and tickets).
- Your household: You'll need to provide your home address and the location where you'll keep the car, such as in a locked garage or on the street. If you own your home, tell your insurance professional, as you may qualify for a homeowner discount.
- Your current insurance coverage: If you're switching car insurance companies, have your previous insurance policy on hand, since your new insurer will likely ask about it.
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2. Figure out your car insurance coverage needs
At a minimum, you'll need to meet your state's car insurance requirements to drive legally. Most states require bodily injury and property damage liability coverage. Some states also require other coverages, such as personal injury protection (PIP) and uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance. Plus, your car lender or lessor might require more extensive coverage.
Each state sets minimum limits for liability coverage, but you should buy enough liability coverage to cover your assets. If you cause an accident and don't have sufficient liability limits to cover the other driver's medical bills or vehicle repairs, you could face a lawsuit. Buying higher coverage limits can help you avoid losing your savings to legal costs.
You should consider the following types of car insurance, even if they're not required:
| Coverage type | What it covers | Why you might want it |
| Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage | Your medical bills, repairs, and lost wages after another driver with insufficient coverage causes an accident (or after a hit and run or pedestrian accident) | A 2023 Insurance Research Council study found that an estimated 14% of motorists didn't have car insurance, so it's wise to protect yourself. |
| Collision and comprehensive coverage | Repairing or replacing your vehicle after you cause a car accident or after your car is stolen or damaged by weather, falling objects, etc. | Most people choose this coverage to protect their investment. It's also typically required for financed or leased vehicles. |
| Medical payments or PIP | This covers medical costs for you and your passengers after you cause an accident. PIP additionally covers lost wages and other expenses. | This coverage helps with costs your health insurance doesn't cover. |
| Roadside assistance | Flat tire replacement, tows, jumpstarts, lockouts, and other roadside services | This coverage gets you back on the road quickly. |
| GAP insurance | The difference between your vehicle's current value and the amount you owe on your loan | If you financed a new car, especially if you made a low down payment, consider buying this coverage. You can drop it once you've paid off the car. |
| Rideshare coverage | Protects you while you drive for Uber, Lyft, Grubhub, or other rideshare services | If you drive for a rideshare company, you should add this endorsement to avoid potential coverage gaps. |
Additionally, think about how much of a car insurance deductible you can afford for your coverage, since you'll need to pay that amount before your insurer reimburses you for claims. For example, an insurance company might offer deductibles from $250 to $2,000.
3. Decide on the right methods for getting quotes
There are a few ways to collect car insurance quotes, so choose the option you prefer. Before providing your personal and financial information, always make sure the insurance professional you're speaking to is licensed, or the website you're using is reputable and secure.
Work directly with an insurance agent or broker
If you want to talk to someone about your car insurance options and get help finding the best deal, you can work with an insurance professional by phone, in person, or online.
An insurance agent represents one or more insurance companies and receives income from those companies, so their services are free to you. An insurance broker works on a commission that comes out of your premiums, but they must represent your best interests.
Get online quotes from individual insurers
The best car insurance companies offer online quote tools that you can use to estimate your premium. Once you've gathered the information listed above, you can head directly to the insurer's website, fill in the requested information, and get an online quote.
Use quote aggregation tools
A car insurance comparison site can help you collect quotes from multiple insurers in one place, which can save you time and help you more easily compare coverage options side by side. However, depending on where you live and which site you use, these sites might share your personal information with insurers, which could result in unwanted calls or emails.
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4. Compare the quotes and insurers
Keep in mind that quotes are just estimates, and not final prices, and the lowest quote may not be your best option. To get the best value for your needs, follow these tips:
- Compare coverage apples to apples: When comparing car insurance quotes, make sure the coverage types, limits, and deductibles are the same for each estimate. Also, consider whether the policy includes no-cost coverages or perks — for example, some insurers offer roadside assistance or accident forgiveness at no additional premium.
- Consider additional discounts: Many insurers offer car insurance discounts that your initial quote might not reflect. For example, you might save by bundling your home and auto coverage, insuring multiple vehicles, or taking a defensive driving course. Some companies also offer telematics programs that monitor your driving behavior, so driving safely could save you money on car insurance.
- Research each company's reputation: To choose a reputable company, check third-party ratings and customer reviews. For example, look for companies with high A.M. Best ratings, excellent Trustpilot ratings, and high rankings in the J.D. Power studies. You should also check the insurer's National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) complaint index — an index lower than 1.00 typically indicates strong customer satisfaction.
5. Move forward with getting coverage
Once you've chosen a car insurance company and selected your coverages, pay your first premium online or through your agent or broker and note the effective date. Many insurance companies offer same-day coverage that becomes active once your first payment is processed.
You can typically switch companies at any time if you're not happy with the coverage or customer service. It's a good idea to shop around again before your policy renewal, as price estimates can change over time. For example, an accident could fall off your record, or you could qualify for a lower premium based on your age.
FAQs
What is the best way to get car insurance quotes?
You can get car insurance quotes directly from the insurance company, compare options side by side using a quote aggregate site, or work with an insurance agent or broker. Choose the option you're most comfortable with.
Is it better to get a car insurance quote online or in person?
It depends on your preference. Most car insurance companies offer online quotes, but you may also prefer to talk with an agent or broker in person or on the phone. In either case, the quote is only an estimate of your final car insurance cost.
Who normally has the cheapest car insurance?
Auto insurance companies determine premiums based on individual factors like your age, driving record, and location. Each insurer calculates premiums differently — for example, some may offer lower premiums for older drivers, or increase car insurance rates more than the industry average after an accident. The best way to find the cheapest car insurance for your needs is to compare quotes.
Bottom line
Before you set off on a joyride, make sure you have adequate auto insurance coverage. You can potentially reduce your costs by comparing quotes from a few different insurance companies. Whether you work with an insurance professional, collect individual quotes from several insurers, or use a comparison site, always compare the coverage options apples to apples and check that the company you choose is reputable.
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