Be Wise! Compare Car Insurance 

Are you in the market for car insurance? Navigating the myriad of options can be overwhelming and confusing. Whether you are a seasoned insurance shopper or a first-time buyer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about shopping for car insurance. 

It’s more important than ever to shop around for car insurance, as rates and down payments to start your policy continue to rise. 

From our data, the average initial quote for someone looking for basic, "liability only" coverage increased by 46% from $746 in January to $1087 in August 2023. 

Why Compare Car Insurance Quotes?

One of the most important reasons to compare car insurance quotes is to save money. Insurance rates can vary significantly from one provider to another, so by obtaining quotes from multiple insurers, you can identify the most affordable option for your unique needs. Additionally, comparing quotes allows you to assess the coverage options and benefits offered by different insurers, ensuring that you choose a policy that provides adequate protection.

‍

Why Car Insurance Matters

Car insurance is not just a legal requirement in most states, it's also essential for protecting yourself, your loved ones, and your assets. Accidents can happen at any time, and having the right insurance coverage can provide financial protection and peace of mind. Whether it's covering medical expenses, repairing your vehicle, or compensating others for damages, car insurance plays a crucial role in safeguarding your financial well-being.

‍

Where to Get Free Car Insurance Quotes

Obtaining car insurance quotes is a simple and free process that can be done online or by contacting insurance agents directly. 

Online:

Individual insurance company, eg: Progressive, Nationwide, Geico

Many insurance companies offer free online quote tools on their websites. However, you will only be able to see that particular company, meaning to compare quotes, you will have to enter your information many times.

Websites that provide quotes from multiple companies can help you save time by allowing you to compare rates in one place. 

Mobile App:

You can check out our app on the AppStore or Google Play (coming soon!). We've worked hard to make the process as pain free as possible, and you get the same benefits as if you applied on the website.

By Phone or In-Person: 

Another option is to speak with a local insurance agent who can provide you with personalized quotes based on your specific needs. There are agents who work for a single insurance company, while independent agents work with multiple insurers, allowing you to compare quotes from different providers.

Some agents or brokers may prioritize selling policies that earn them bonuses, rather than offering the best policy for you. That's why it's crucial to work with an insurance comparison website or an agent who is transparent about the available policies.

Many insurance companies, agents, or brokers charge fees for their services. These fees can significantly impact the total amount you pay for your policy. It's important to understand and compare the fees charged by different insurance providers to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. 

Does Shopping for Car Insurance Hurt Your Credit Score?

‍

Shopping for car insurance typically involves getting quotes from multiple insurance companies to compare prices and coverage options. When you request quotes, insurance companies may perform what's called a "soft inquiry" or "soft pull" on your credit report. Soft inquiries do not affect your credit score and are not visible to other lenders. These inquiries are used to provide you with accurate quotes and assess your risk level as a potential customer.

‍

Soft inquiries for insurance quotes do not have a negative impact on your credit score. They are different from "hard inquiries," which occur when you apply for credit, such as a loan or credit card. Hard inquiries can affect your credit score, albeit usually by a small amount.

‍

To read more about credit scores, check out our in depth blog here.

‍

Get Better Value Car Insurance Quotes

‍

Saving money on car insurance is possible by employing various strategies. Here are some tips to help you get cheaper car insurance quotes:

‍

Compare Auto Insurance Rates

Comparing auto insurance rates is crucial to finding the best deal. Insurance companies use different criteria to calculate rates, so obtaining quotes from multiple insurers ensures that you have a comprehensive overview of the market. By comparing rates, you can identify the insurer that offers the most affordable coverage for your specific circumstances.

Take Advantage of Car Insurance Discounts

Car insurance companies offer various discounts that can significantly reduce your premiums. Some common discounts include:

• Multi-Policy Discount: Bundling multiple policies, such as auto and home insurance, with the same insurer can lead to substantial savings.
• Multi-Vehicle Discount: Insuring multiple vehicles with the same insurer often results in discounted rates.
• Good Driver Discount: Maintaining a clean driving record with no accidents or traffic violations can make you eligible for lower premiums.
• Good Student Discount: Students with good grades may qualify for discounts on their car insurance.
• Safety Features Discount: Installing safety features in your vehicle, such as anti-theft devices or driver-assistance technology, can lead to lower insurance rates.

By taking advantage of these discounts, you can significantly reduce your car insurance premiums.

‍

Change Your Deductible

Adjusting your deductible amount can impact your car insurance rates. A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. By increasing your deductible, you assume more risk, which can result in lower premiums. However, it's essential to ensure that you can comfortably afford the deductible amount in the event of an accident or claim.

‍

Information Needed to Get Car Insurance Quotes

‍

To obtain accurate car insurance quotes, you will need to provide certain information to insurers. Here is the information typically required:

• One of these: State Driver's License, Foreign Drivers License, State ID, Matrícula Consular: You will need to provide your driver's license information, including your license number and expiration date. If there are other drivers in your household, their license information may also be required.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): The VIN is a unique identifier for your vehicle and can usually be found on the driver's side dashboard or on a sticker in the driver's side door or door jamb. If you haven't purchased the vehicle yet, you can often obtain a quote using the vehicle's make and model.
• Mileage: The odometer reading of your vehicle will be needed to determine the mileage and usage patterns.
• Coverage Preferences: You should have an idea of the coverage types and limits you want for your car insurance policy. If you are unsure, an insurance agent can guide you in choosing the appropriate coverage options based on your needs.

Additionally, insurance companies may collect additional information, such as your driving history, past insurance claims, and credit score (in most states).

‍

Compare Car Insurance Rates

‍

Comparing car insurance rates is essential to finding the best coverage at the most affordable price. Here is an overview of car insurance rates based on different factors:

• Compare Car Insurance Rates by Company

Car insurance rates can vary significantly among different insurance companies. It is important to compare rates from multiple providers to ensure you are getting the best deal. 

Car insurance rates can vary drastically by state due to factors such as local laws, accident rates, and population density. Premiums increased by a massive 88% in Florida from 2022 - 2023, due to hurricane-related damage to vehicles, but rates fell by -24% in Georgia.¹  

• Compare Car Insurance Rates by Vehicle

The type of vehicle you drive can also impact your car insurance rates. Insurance companies consider factors such as the vehicle's value, safety features, and likelihood of theft. 

• Compare Auto Insurance Rates by Age and Gender

Age and gender can also influence car insurance rates. Younger and inexperienced drivers tend to pay more for insurance, while older drivers with a clean driving record may enjoy lower rates. Here is a comparison of average car insurance rates by age:

It is important to note that these rates are averages and can vary based on individual circumstances.

‍

How to Compare Car Insurance Quotes‍

When comparing car insurance quotes, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Coverage Options: Review the coverage options offered by each insurer to ensure they meet your specific needs. Consider factors such as liability coverage, collision and comprehensive coverage, and additional coverage options like roadside assistance or rental car reimbursement.
• Discounts: Check for available discounts that can help lower your premiums. Common discounts include multi-policy discounts, good driver discounts, and student discounts. Make sure to take advantage of all applicable discounts to maximize your savings.
• Customer Service: Research the customer service reputation of each insurance company. Look for reviews and ratings to assess their responsiveness and ability to handle claims efficiently. A company with good customer service can provide you with peace of mind during the claims process.
• Compare Rates: Obtain quotes from multiple insurers for the same coverage amounts to accurately compare rates. Use online quote comparison tools or work with insurance agents to ensure you have a comprehensive overview of the market.

By considering these factors and comparing quotes, you can make an informed decision and choose the car insurance policy that best fits your needs and budget.