Frequently Asked Questions

The basic coverage types include liability (required in most states), collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and personal injury protection (PIP). The specific requirements vary by state. We recommend consulting with our experts to determine the right coverage mix for your situation.

Collision coverage pays for damage to your car from crashes with other vehicles or objects. Comprehensive coverage protects against damage from theft, vandalism, weather, fire, and other non-collision events. Both are optional unless required by your lender.

Insurance premiums are based on multiple factors including your age, driving record, credit score, location, vehicle type and value, coverage limits, deductibles, and annual mileage. Insurance companies use these factors to assess risk and determine your premium.

You can lower premiums by: maintaining a clean driving record, increasing deductibles, bundling policies, taking advantage of discounts, driving less, choosing a safer vehicle, improving your credit score, and shopping around for better rates annually.

Premium increases can result from claims, traffic violations, changes in credit score, moving to a higher-risk area, adding drivers or vehicles, or general rate increases in your area. Contact your insurer or our team to understand the specific reasons for any increase.

First, ensure everyone's safety and call 911 if needed. Then: exchange information with other drivers, take photos of the scene and damage, get witness contact information, file a police report if required, and contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the claim.

The claims process timeline varies depending on the complexity of the claim. Simple claims may be resolved in a few days, while more complex cases involving injuries or disputes can take weeks or months. Your insurance company should provide regular updates throughout the process.

Filing a claim may affect your premium, especially if you're at fault. However, many insurers offer accident forgiveness for your first at-fault accident, and not-at-fault claims typically don't impact your rates. The impact varies by insurer and your claims history.

You should review your policy annually, when it's up for renewal, or whenever you experience major life changes such as moving, buying a new car, getting married, or adding a teen driver. Regular reviews ensure you have adequate coverage at competitive rates.

Yes, you can typically cancel your auto insurance policy at any time. However, you should have new coverage in place before canceling to avoid gaps in protection. Some insurers may charge cancellation fees, and you may be entitled to a refund for unused premium.

Driving without insurance (where required by law) can result in fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and personal liability for damages in an accident. Most states require minimum liability coverage, and penalties for driving uninsured can be severe.

Rental car coverage is optional but can be valuable if your car is being repaired after a covered loss. Consider your alternatives (such as a second vehicle, public transportation, or credit card coverage) and the cost of the coverage when deciding if it's right for you.