Personal Auto

Understanding Your Car Insurance Coverage

• Liability insurance — required in nearly every state; pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others
• Comprehensive coverage — theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, hail, flood and hitting an animal
• Collision coverage — repairs to your own car after an accident, regardless of who is at fault
• Uninsured / underinsured motorist — protection when the other driver lacks enough insurance
• Medical payments or PIP — medical expenses for you and your passengers
• Optional extras such as rental reimbursement and roadside assistance, where available

Full Coverage vs. Liability Only

"Full coverage" usually means a policy that includes liability, comprehensive and collision. If your vehicle is financed or leased, the lender will almost always require it. For older vehicles with lower value, liability-only coverage may be a cost-effective choice. We help you compare both options side by side.

Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers and SR-22 Filings

Speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, a DUI or a lapse in coverage can make insurance harder to find and more expensive. Some states require an SR-22 certificate to prove you carry minimum insurance. We look for carriers that accept drivers with imperfect records and can provide SR-22 filings where required.

How to Lower Your Car Insurance Rate

• Compare quotes from multiple carriers at least once a year
• Insure multiple vehicles together
• Choose a deductible that fits your budget
• Maintain continuous insurance with no gaps
• Keep a clean driving record
• Ask about available discounts such as good student or safe driver

What Affects Car Insurance Prices?

Car insurance rates are based on factors such as your ZIP code, age, driving record, the vehicle you drive, annual mileage, prior insurance and the coverage limits you choose. Rates for the exact same driver can vary widely between companies, which is why shopping with an independent agency can save money.