Reliable and affordable, auto insurance helps protect you, your passengers, and your finances from life’s unexpected events. Through our partnership with InsuraMatch, a licensed, independent agency you can trust—we’ll work to find the coverage that best fits your needs and budget.
Auto Insurance Basics
What is Auto Insurance?
Auto insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company that provides financial protection if your vehicle is damaged, stolen, or if you’re held responsible for causing injury or property damage while driving. It’s not just a smart investment—it’s legally required in most states.
Each year, nearly 10 million car accidents occur in the U.S., many involving unexpected hazards like falling trees, poor road conditions, or reckless drivers. Even the safest drivers face risks they can’t control, making reliable auto insurance essential.
A standard auto insurance policy includes several types of coverage, some of which are optional depending on your state. While not all coverages are mandatory, having comprehensive protection can provide added peace of mind in a wide range of situations. A licensed insurance agent can help you determine which coverages are right for your specific needs and budget.
Types of Coverage
- Liability Coverage – Covers damage or injuries you’re legally responsible for.
- Bodily Injury Liability – Pays for injuries, including fatal ones, that you cause to others.
- Property Damage Liability – Pays for damage your vehicle causes to someone else’s property.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – Covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
- Collision Coverage – Pays for damage to your vehicle from collisions with other cars or objects.
- Comprehensive Coverage – Covers non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – Protects you if you’re in an accident with someone who has little or no insurance.
How Much Coverage Do You Need?
Each state sets a minimum coverage requirement, but these minimums are often too low to provide sufficient protection in the event of a serious accident. Think of state requirements as a baseline, not a benchmark.
Your liability and medical coverage should be high enough to protect your assets. If you’re found liable for damages that exceed your coverage limits, your personal assets could be at risk.
Things To Consider:
- The value of your car
- Your financial assets
- Your risk tolerance
Balancing Cost and Coverage
Cost is a key factor for most drivers, but focusing only on the lowest price can leave you under insured. Fortunately, many insurers offer discounts that can help lower your premium.
You can also manage your premium by choosing an appropriate deductible—the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. A higher deductible generally means a lower premium, but it also means you’ll pay more upfront in the event of a claim.
Discounts:
- Safe driver discounts
- Bundling discounts (e.g., combining auto and home insurance)
- Loyalty programs
- Good student or low-mileage discounts
Learn More About Auto Insurance from InsuraMatch
InsuraMatch makes shopping for auto insurance quotes simple and personal. InsuraMatch works with leading car insurance carriers in your state to help you compare coverage and rates to choose a policy at a price that fits your lifestyle and budget.
- With one click or call, we’ll quote and shop auto insurance carriers for you
- We’ll provide you with personalized carrier and product recommendations based on your insurance needs and preferences
- You’ll get better coverage quotes in less than 10 minutes
