Answers to what drivers ask most

Several elements influence your rate, including your driving record, age, vehicle make and model, annual mileage, and where you park overnight. Credit history and coverage selections also play a role. We help you understand which factors you can adjust to potentially lower your premium while maintaining adequate protection.

Yes, policies can typically be modified mid-term. Whether you need to add a vehicle, change coverage limits, or update your address, our support team can guide you through the process. Some changes may affect your premium, and we'll explain any cost differences before confirming adjustments.

Contact your insurance carrier directly using the claims number provided with your policy documents. Gather information at the scene including photos, the other driver's details, and a police report if applicable. Our team can also assist in directing you to the right contacts and explaining what to expect during the claims process.

Many of the carriers we work with offer discounts for clean driving records, completed defensive driving courses, and multi-policy bundling. During the quote process, we identify applicable discounts and apply them automatically so you see the most competitive rates available to you.

Liability coverage pays for damages and injuries you cause to others while driving. Full coverage typically includes liability plus collision and comprehensive protection, which covers your own vehicle in accidents, theft, vandalism, and weather events. We help you determine which level fits your vehicle's value and your financial situation.

Yes, we use industry-standard encryption to protect your personal and payment information throughout the quote process. Your data is shared only with the insurance carriers you select, and we never sell your information to third parties for marketing purposes.

Allowing coverage to lapse can result in higher rates when you reapply, as insurers view gaps in coverage as increased risk. You may also face legal penalties depending on your state's requirements. If you're having trouble making payments, contact your carrier to discuss options before canceling your policy.

Absolutely. Most carriers offer multi-vehicle discounts when you insure more than one car on the same policy. This can result in significant savings compared to insuring each vehicle separately. Our quote tool allows you to add multiple vehicles and compare bundled pricing from different insurers.

Coverage can typically begin the same day you complete your purchase, often within hours. You'll receive your policy documents and proof of insurance electronically, which you can present to your state's DMV or use if pulled over. Some carriers may require additional review for certain applicants, which could extend the start date slightly.

First, ensure everyone's safety and call emergency services if needed. Then document the scene with photos, exchange information with other drivers, and gather witness contact details. File a police report when necessary. Contact your insurance carrier as soon as possible to begin the claims process, even if you don't plan to file a claim immediately.

Yes, you can switch carriers at any time. Most policies allow you to cancel with proper notice, and you'll typically receive a refund for unused premium. However, check your current policy for any cancellation fees and make sure your new coverage starts before canceling the old policy to avoid gaps in protection.

If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, your personal auto insurance typically extends to rental vehicles in the United States. However, coverage may vary by carrier and policy. Some policies also offer rental reimbursement coverage that pays for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim.

Most auto insurance policies follow the vehicle, not the driver. This means your coverage typically extends to other licensed drivers you give permission to use your car. However, regular drivers in your household should be listed on your policy, and unauthorized use may not be covered.

Uninsured motorist coverage protects you in this situation by covering your medical expenses and vehicle damage when the at-fault driver has no insurance. This coverage is mandatory in some states and highly recommended in all others, as it ensures you're protected even when other drivers aren't properly insured.

Yes, teen drivers living in your household must be added to your policy once they receive their license. While this typically increases your premium due to their inexperience, many carriers offer discounts for good students, completion of driver education courses, and safe driving habits tracked through telematics programs.

A deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in for a claim. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and $3,000 in damages, you pay $500 and your insurer covers the remaining $2,500. Higher deductibles typically result in lower premiums, while lower deductibles mean less out-of-pocket cost when filing a claim.

Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from weather-related damage including hail, floods, falling trees, and storm debris. This coverage is separate from collision insurance and typically has its own deductible. If you live in an area prone to severe weather, comprehensive coverage is highly recommended.

If repair costs exceed your vehicle's actual cash value, the insurer will declare it a total loss and pay you the vehicle's value minus your deductible. Gap insurance can cover the difference if you owe more on your car loan than the vehicle's worth. The settlement process typically takes a few weeks once all documentation is submitted.

Yes, you can insure older vehicles, though you may want to reconsider comprehensive and collision coverage if your car's value is low. For older cars, liability-only coverage is often more cost-effective since the payout for physical damage may not justify the premium cost after accounting for your deductible.

Traffic violations like speeding tickets, DUIs, and at-fault accidents typically increase your insurance rates as they indicate higher risk. The impact varies by violation severity and your carrier's rating system. Minor violations may affect rates for three years, while major violations can impact premiums for five years or longer.

Leasing companies typically require comprehensive and collision coverage with specific liability limits, often higher than state minimums. Gap insurance is also commonly required to cover the difference between the vehicle's value and your remaining lease obligation if the car is totaled. Check your lease agreement for exact coverage requirements.

Yes, where you park your vehicle overnight impacts your rate. Cars parked in secure garages typically receive lower premiums than those parked on the street, as garaging reduces theft and weather damage risk. Your ZIP code also affects rates based on local accident frequency, theft rates, and repair costs in your area.

In most states, insurers use credit-based insurance scores as one factor in determining premiums. Studies show correlation between credit history and claim likelihood. Maintaining good credit can help secure lower rates, though some states prohibit or limit the use of credit in insurance pricing. Your driving record and claims history remain the most significant rating factors.