See If You Qualify for Lower Rates
Whether you’re a new or seasoned driver, you may wonder how auto insurance companies determine your rates. At Smartly, we believe that the more informed you are, the better decisions you can make. And we’re here to help you make smarter choices when comparing and choosing a car insurance provider.
Careful. The cheapest car insurance doesn’t always mean you got the best deal on car insurance. Instead, what you want to find is low-rate insurance that offers top coverage.
When shopping for low-price car insurance, the more you know, the better you can compare rates for a smarter decision. Use online auto insurance comparison tools to check which provider and coverage option best fits your budget.
Our rating of the best car insurance companies is a great place to start.
If you’re still wondering who has the cheapest car insurance, here are minimum coverage providers that may offer you low-rate auto insurance:
| Provider | Monthly Estimate | Annual Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | $57 | $681 |
| State Farm | $67 | $798 |
| Nationwide | $56 | $671 |
| Progressive | $79 | $950 |
| USAA | $47 | $563 |
Similarly, if you are looking for low-price car insurance, the following providers offer full coverage:
| Provider | Monthly Estimate | Annual Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | $96 | $1,158 |
| State Farm | $111 | $1,333 |
| Nationwide | $105 | $1,258 |
| Progressive | $123 | $1,471 |
| USAA | $82 | $986 |
| Travelers | $120 | $1,437 |
| Allstate | $139 | $1,671 |
| Farmers | $149 | $1,789 |
One of the most important factors that influence your car insurance rate is the state where you get coverage since auto insurance premiums are regulated on the state level. Your state may consider the following when setting the rates:
Traffic density
Weather conditions and the likelihood of natural disasters
Cost of living
Percent of uninsured drivers
Road conditions
Percent of at-fault claims
As such, states prone to flooding, fires, or hurricanes will likely have higher monthly premiums. In states that are not prone to harsh weather conditions, you may be able to shop car insurance providers for low-cost vehicle insurance. However, in states with a higher likelihood of poor weather conditions, you may have fewer options from car insurance comparison sites.
If you’re looking for low-rate auto insurance in your state, consider the average premiums listed below:
| State | Annual Estimate for Minimum Liability | Annual Estimate for Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $402 | $1,536 |
| Alaska | $354 | $1,445 |
| Arizona | $469 | $1,466 |
| Arkansas | $372 | $1,739 |
| California | $509 | $2,017 |
| Colorado | $370 | $1,709 |
| Connecticut | $568 | $1,427 |
| Delaware | $673 | $1,678 |
| District of Columbia | $486 | $1,444 |
| Florida | $792 | $2,562 |
| Georgia | $506 | $1,653 |
| Hawaii | $339 | $1,267 |
| Idaho | $227 | $943 |
| Illinois | $403 | $1,390 |
| Indiana | $324 | $1,127 |
| Iowa | $213 | $1,152 |
| Kansas | $372 | $1,562 |
| Kentucky | $710 | $1,741 |
| Louisiana | $655 | $2,542 |
| Maine | $221 | $852 |
| Maryland | $652 | $1,671 |
| Massachusetts | $440 | $1,594 |
| Michigan | $798 | $2,109 |
| Minnesota | $477 | $1,552 |
| Mississippi | $694 | $1,465 |
| Missouri | $445 | $1,751 |
| Montana | $263 | $1,473 |
| Nebraska | $292 | $1,505 |
| Nevada | $730 | $1,923 |
| New Hampshire | $268 | $1,049 |
| New Jersey | $710 | $1,767 |
| New Mexico | $311 | $1,335 |
| New York | $1,053 | $2,246 |
| North Carolina | $376 | $1,188 |
| North Dakota | $268 | $1,235 |
| Ohio | $301 | $1,018 |
| Oklahoma | $369 | $1,686 |
| Oregon | $564 | $1,262 |
| Pennsylvania | $390 | $1,712 |
| Rhode Island | $565 | $1,673 |
| South Carolina | $380 | $1,391 |
| South Dakota | $223 | $1,506 |
| Tennessee | $345 | $1,310 |
| Texas | $450 | $1,635 |
| Utah | $508 | $1,319 |
| Vermont | $221 | $930 |
| Virginia | $445 | $1,289 |
| Washington | $377 | $1,248 |
| West Virginia | $360 | $1,375 |
| Wisconsin | $328 | $1,157 |
| Wyoming | $225 | $1,250 |
Another leading factor that influences your car insurance rate is your age. Unfortunately, many companies will hike up rates for new and young drivers, as well as older motorists. This is because these three categories of drivers are considered riskier by insurance agencies. As such, their rates will typically be higher for drivers between 18 and 25, whereas prices will spike for motorists above 70.
Assuming you don’t have any major negative marks on your driving record, your rate should drop beginning in your mid-20s. Moreover, as you maintain a good driving record, your rates should continue to decrease into your 50s.
If you’re searching for the cheapest car insurance in your age bracket, shop car insurance the smarter way. Consider the following affordable options for your age group:
| Age | Annual Full Coverage Estimate |
|---|---|
| 18 | $5,139 |
| 21 | $2,896 |
| 25 | $2,098 |
| 30 | $1,871 |
| 35 | $1,818 |
| 40 | $1,771 |
| 50 | $1,657 |
| 60 | $1,605 |
| 70 | $1,695 |
If you are labeled as a high-risk driver by your insurance company, you may consider getting additional coverage on top of your auto insurance for added protection. For instance, you can shop for umbrella coverage that offers more liability protection after your insurance provider’s limit is reached.
For example, let’s say your regular auto coverage limit is $300,000. If you happen to get into an at-fault accident for $400,000, you will be required to pay $100,000 out of pocket for the damages that exceed your insurance policy limit. However, with an umbrella policy, you can have additional liability coverage that may cover the added costs.
Umbrella policies typically cover bodily injury and property damage. However, keep in mind that you must have existing car insurance before signing up for an umbrella policy. Also, your auto insurance liability coverage may need to meet a certain limit before you can get added umbrella coverage.
Of course, you may be looking for the cheapest car insurance and likely won’t want to shell out more for an umbrella policy. However, this added protection may come with a small price tag and may save you thousands in the event of an at-fault accident.
As with all things finance-related, credit score also plays a significant role in whether you can secure low-price car insurance rates. In fact, insured drivers with poor credit scores pay an average of 93% more for a year of coverage compared to excellent credit motorists. Similarly, average credit score drivers pay an average of 57% more annually.
Individuals with lower credit scores are more likely to file auto insurance claims. As such, insurance companies typically charge a higher premium to lower credit drivers to protect themselves from higher risk.
Insurance companies determine a driver’s likelihood of filing a claim based on their insurance score. This rating is based on an individual’s credit rating and assesses the potential level of risk an insured driver poses.
The top factors that influence your insurance score are:
Outstanding debt
Payment history
Length of credit history
Credit inquiries
Credit mix, which reflects the types of debt you have
However, for a lucky few, some states have outlawed using credit scores to determine car insurance rates. These states include California, Massachusetts, Hawaii, and Michigan.
When you compare car insurance rates online, remember that the price will be affected by your credit rating. For reasonable auto insurance prices, consider the average rates for full coverage based on your state and credit score:
| State | Poor | Fair | Good | Excellent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $3,117 | $1,896 | $1,760 | $1,543 |
| Alaska | $2,451 | $1,869 | $1,770 | $1,610 |
| Arizona | $3,118 | $1,903 | $1,743 | $1,527 |
| Arkansas | $3,646 | $2,002 | $1,806 | $1,521 |
| California | $2,190 | $2,190 | $2,190 | $2,190 |
| Colorado | $3,355 | $2,192 | $2,019 | $1,670 |
| Connecticut | $2,880 | $1,700 | $1,533 | $1,241 |
| Delaware | $3,280 | $2,140 | $1,963 | $1,655 |
| District of Columbia | $3,138 | $2,107 | $1,948 | $1,751 |
| Florida | $5,477 | $3,124 | $2,762 | $2,319 |
| Georgia | $3,172 | $2,122 | $1,985 | $1,254 |
| Hawaii | $1,206 | $1,206 | $1,206 | $1,206 |
| Idaho | $1,755 | $1,146 | $1,065 | $954 |
| Illinois | $2,455 | $1,649 | $1,548 | $1,329 |
| Indiana | $2,013 | $1,337 | $1,242 | $1,078 |
| Iowa | $2,230 | $1,393 | $1,254 | $1,078 |
| Kansas | $2,987 | $1,942 | $1,802 | $1,571 |
| Kentucky | $3,572 | $2,148 | $1,954 | $1,671 |
| Louisiana | $5,416 | $3,147 | $2,864 | $2,433 |
| Maine | $1,529 | $949 | $876 | $783 |
| Maryland | $3,127 | $2,094 | $1,931 | $1,665 |
| Massachusetts | $1,297 | $1,296 | $1,296 | $1,296 |
| Michigan | $5,896 | $2,644 | $2,345 | $1,798 |
| Minnesota | $3,155 | $1,849 | $1,692 | $1,459 |
| Mississippi | $3,082 | $1,859 | $1,701 | $1,482 |
| Missouri | $3,006 | $1,995 | $1,861 | $1,566 |
| Montana | $2,846 | $1,889 | $1,795 | $1,572 |
| Nebraska | $2,873 | $1,702 | $1,538 | $1,304 |
| Nevada | $3,505 | $2,569 | $2,426 | $2,168 |
| New Hampshire | $2,202 | $1,320 | $1,182 | $950 |
| New Jersey | $3,468 | $2,087 | $1,891 | $1,474 |
| New Mexico | $2,405 | $1,570 | $1,489 | $1,323 |
| New York | $6,835 | $3,339 | $2,996 | $2,464 |
| North Carolina | $1,743 | $1,439 | $1,392 | $1,340 |
| North Dakota | $2,284 | $1,375 | $1,225 | $1,025 |
| Ohio | $2,118 | $1,304 | $1,200 | $1,009 |
| Oklahoma | $3,379 | $2,067 | $1,902 | $1,664 |
| Oregon | $2,300 | $1,494 | $1,371 | $1,202 |
| Pennsylvania | $2,860 | $2,115 | $2,002 | $1,823 |
| Rhode Island | $3,039 | $2,098 | $1,847 | $1,649 |
| South Carolina | $2,794 | $1,600 | $1,464 | $1,195 |
| South Dakota | $3,253 | $1,719 | $1,542 | $1,260 |
| Tennessee | $2,654 | $1,549 | $1,383 | $1,192 |
| Texas | $3,088 | $2,033 | $1,868 | $1,620 |
| Utah | $2,551 | $1,578 | $1,449 | $1,224 |
| Vermont | $1,674 | $1,077 | $1,000 | $885 |
| Virginia | $2,344 | $1,456 | $1,340 | $1,113 |
| Washington | $1,366 | $1,321 | $1,313 | $1,296 |
| West Virginia | $2,597 | $1,676 | $1,527 | $1,301 |
| Wisconsin | $5,377 | $1,394 | $1,249 | $1,040 |
| Wyoming | $2,454 | $1,616 | $1,510 | $1,264 |
Finally, your auto insurance rates will be affected by your driving record, including accidents, driving violations, and tickets. Of course, the more points there are on your driving record, the higher your premium will be. As a result, it may be difficult to find the cheapest car insurance.
Nevertheless, at Smartly, we believe that making smart car insurance decisions start with being well-informed. Unfortunately, your rates will always go up following an accident. However, not every provider increases the rate by the same amount. As such, you may still be able to shop car insurance for an affordable deal.
According to experts, rates can increase by upwards of 50% after an at-fault accident. Of course, the exact number will vary by provider, state, and the extent of the damage. However, your premium will not go up until you renew your policy.
Unfortunately, even if you are not at fault for the accident, you may still see a slight increase in your rates. Typically, the premium will go up by around 4%. Although, drivers with accident forgiveness may be able to avoid this cost. Some insurance providers will not raise your premium after the first accident.
If you have been in an accident, finding the cheapest online car insurance may not be possible, especially if you are at fault. Nevertheless, you may still be able to find low-price car insurance that gives you the coverage you need.
Compare premiums from the following providers:
| Provider | Estimated Dollar Increase | Estimated Percent Increase |
|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $517 | 56% |
| Nationwide | $568 | 57% |
| Allstate | $629 | 66% |
| Liberty Mutual | $608 | 69% |
| Farmers | $757 | 71% |
| Geico | $393 | 77% |
| Progressive | $549 | 84% |
Similarly, you can compare car insurance rates after an accident based on the state you are insured in:
| State | Estimated Dollar Increase | Estimated Percent Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $307 | 44% |
| Alaska | $235 | 43% |
| Arizona | $353 | 54% |
| Arkansas | $306 | 49% |
| California | $585 | 69% |
| Colorado | $320 | 44% |
| Connecticut | $434 | 42% |
| Delaware | $352 | 31% |
| Florida | $386 | 47% |
| Georgia | $586 | 54% |
| Hawaii | $173 | 35% |
| Idaho | $155 | 39% |
| Illinois | $367 | 55% |
| Indiana | $246 | 51% |
| Iowa | $134 | 41% |
| Kansas | $284 | 51% |
| Kentucky | $489 | 53% |
| Louisiana | $605 | 48% |
| Maine | $214 | 47% |
| Maryland | $538 | 50% |
| Massachusetts | $382 | 68% |
| Michigan | $921 | 48% |
| Minnesota | $351 | 46% |
| Mississippi | $341 | 59% |
| Missouri | $253 | 43% |
| Montana | $223 | 50% |
| Nebraska | $256 | 60% |
| Nevada | $450 | 41% |
| New Hampshire | $214 | 49% |
| New Jersey | $756 | 59% |
| New Mexico | $215 | 39% |
| New York | $941 | 52% |
| North Carolina | $287 | 60% |
| North Dakota | $183 | 50% |
| Ohio | $227 | 55% |
| Oklahoma | $328 | 51% |
| Oregon | $383 | 49% |
| Pennsylvania | $283 | 56% |
| Rhode Island | $280 | 32% |
| South Carolina | $350 | 43% |
| South Dakota | $130 | 40% |
| Tennessee | $229 | 46% |
| Texas | $447 | 57% |
| Utah | $379 | 51% |
| Vermont | $152 | 44% |
| Virginia | $489 | 53% |
| Washington | $379 | 53% |
| West Virginia | $219 | 39% |
| Wisconsin | $175 | 42% |
| Wyoming | $100 | 36% |
Contrary to popular belief, no-fault states still assign fault when an accident occurs. The only difference between an at-fault and no-fault state is the person who pays for the injured party’s damages. This means that one party involved in the accident will be assigned fault for causing the accident. In turn, the party found liable will need to pay for the injured person’s vehicle damages.
However, in no-fault states, each driver’s own insurance company will cover damages related to physical injuries, such as medical bills. But this coverage is only up to the limit specified in the personal injury protection policy. The outstanding cost will come out of pocket.
There are currently 12 states that have no-fault auto insurance laws, including Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Utah.
In at-fault states, the driver who is at fault for the accident will be required to cover the damages caused to the other driver. The at-fault driver’s insurance company will cover these costs up to the coverage limit. After that, the at-fault driver will be responsible for covering the remaining balance.
Typically, the property damage liability part of the plan will cover costs related to vehicle repairs. Similarly, the bodily injury liability portion will cover medical expenses. Depending on the type of coverage, the insurance company may also cover property and bodily damages sustained by the at-fault driver. Unfortunately, an at-fault accident will stay on your driving record for three to five years.
Even if you have been in an accident, there may be steps you can take to find discount car insurance rates. For instance, you can:
While finding the cheapest car insurance is the best option, it may not always be possible, especially after an at-fault accident. Therefore, your best value on auto insurance will be the one that you can comfortably afford. In some cases, you can decrease your liability coverage for a lower rate. However, the risks with this option are high, as you will be required to pay out of pocket should you get into another accident.
Some providers may also offer discounted car insurance if you take a safe driving course. In some cases, you may also be able to remove points from your driving record if you attend traffic school. However, keep in mind that the at-fault accident will remain on your record for 3-5 years.
Some providers may offer you accident forgiveness benefits if you switch your policy. In exchange for your business, they may waive your premium increase if you suffered an at-fault accident. However, these offers will likely not be offered by many providers. In any case, you can still look into adding accident forgiveness to your current policy to protect against future accidents.
Conversely, you can raise your deductible on your car insurance policy, allowing you to pay a lower monthly premium. Again, the downside to this option is high out-of-pocket costs until you meet your deductible and your insurance provider chips in.
Traffic violations may also add points to your driving record and increase your car insurance cost. While parking tickets likely won’t hike up your rate, other more serious violations can significantly increase your insurance, such as DUIs, hit and runs, reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license. On average, these types of serious offenses raise auto insurance rates by 82%.
As with at-fault accidents, each insurance provider will set its own rates regarding traffic violations and tickets. These rate increases depend on how serious the provider considers the offense and how they define the policyholder’s level of risk. For instance, car insurance rates typically increase by 60% after one DUI.
If your driving record has been negatively impacted by a DUI, you may still be able to find full coverage from a top-rated auto insurance provider. Compare car insurance from the following insurers for a smarter decision:
| Provider | Estimated Base Rate | Estimated Rate After One DUI |
|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $1,267 | $1,711 |
| USAA | $1,000 | $1,905 |
| Progressive | $1,533 | $1,983 |
| Travelers | $1,371 | $2,203 |
Similarly, if you have received a citation for reckless driving, chances are your rates will be relatively high. However, the more you shop car insurance rates, the better informed you’ll be for a smarter choice. If you’re looking for low-rate auto insurance, consider the price increases with a citation:
| Violation | Estimated Dollar Increase | Estimated Percentage Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Hit and run | $1,209 | 82.2% |
| Racing | $1,084 | 73.7% |
| Reckless driving | $1,034 | 70.4% |
| Driving with a suspended license | $918 | 62.4% |
| Speeding | $341 | 23.2% |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $333 | 22.7% |
| Illegal turn | $332 | 22.6% |
| Driving with an expired registration | $161 | 10.9% |
As with at-fault accidents, you may be able to lower the impact of these violations on your driving record and insurance rate. Similarly, you can attend traffic school to prevent the points from being added to your history. You can also contest the ticket in court. If you have a strong case, you may be able to get the case dismissed or the violation reduced.
While you shop for car insurance online based on coverage options and providers, also compare car insurance prices based on bundles. For instance, some insurance companies allow you to bundle different types of coverage for a discounted car insurance rate.
Most policyholders opt to bundle home or renters’ insurance with auto coverage for a multi-policy discount. In addition to saving money with a single carrier, it can be easier to manage all your policies if you bundle with a single provider.
If you opt to bundle, you can protect your home with a policy that covers damage to the property and personal belongings. Many providers also offer add-on coverage that protects against liability.
To bundle your home and auto insurance, start by requesting quotes from providers and comparing policies online. Make sure you carefully read through the coverage options, as some insurance providers may offer more coverage options at a discounted rate. Others may provide better deals for new policyholders.
Additionally, you are not only limited to bundling home and auto insurance. To snag low-price car insurance, you can also bundle RV, motorcycle, life, boat, ATV, and vacation home policies.
To find discounted car insurance, compare bundle rates from the following top-rates auto insurance providers:
| Provider | Estimated Annual Full Coverage Rate | Estimated Bundle Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $2,438 | 25% |
| Nationwide | $1,383 | 20% |
| State Farm | $1,397 | 19% |
| Travelers | $1,447 | 13% |
| USAA | $1,209 | 10% |
Most insurance providers will offer some customizability when it comes to your auto insurance coverage options. For instance, policyholders may pick between full coverage or minimum coverage plans. Aside from choosing a plan based on your needs, also take into consideration coverage requirements for your state and the amount you want to spend out-of-pocket.
Most states require drivers to obtain a minimum coverage plan; however, others may require more. Additionally, choosing a minimum coverage plan will likely mean that you will pay more out-of-pocket in the event of an accident for which you are found liable.
Here is a breakdown of coverage options you must obtain:
If you’re at fault for an accident, bodily liability will cover the cost of the injured party’s medical bills. Most insurance companies include a bodily injury limit per injured person and per accident. For instance, your plan may have a per-person limit of $30,000 and a per-accident limit of $50,000. This means that your insurance provider will only pay up to $30,000 for the injured person’s medical bills and $50,000 for bodily injuries for the overall accident.
Property liability will cover the cost of the damages caused to the injured party’s car when you are at fault. Keep in mind that this type of coverage does not cover the cost of repairs for your vehicle. Property damage liability will likely have one amount listed for the limit. This can range from $25,000 to hundreds of thousands.
If you are in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or only has minimum coverage, you may be on the hook for the damages. In this case, uninsured or underinsured coverage will cover the cost of your medical bills and property damage. This type of coverage may be mandatory in your state.
Based on the state, the following coverage types may be optional:
This type of plan covers the cost of damage to your car regardless of who is at fault for the accident. There is no limit to this type of coverage. However, the insurance company will likely only pay up to the vehicle’s value after depreciation. In some cases, you may also be required to pay a deductible until the coverage kicks in.
If you live in an area with higher chances of natural disasters, you may want to consider comprehensive coverage. This plan will cover damage to your vehicle that results from hail, wind, floods, fires, theft, vandalism, and falling objects. In some cases, this plan will also cover windshield replacement. However, it also comes with a deductible.
Unless you are a policyholder in Maine, this coverage option is optional. It covers the cost of medical injuries your passengers sustain regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Additionally, this coverage option may protect you if a driver hits you as a pedestrian. The limit for medical coverage usually ranges between $1,000 and $10,000.
Unfortunately, it is all too common that your car is totaled after owning it for a limited time. In these cases, new car replacement coverage may cover the cost of getting a new car if your totaled vehicle was under a certain age or mileage limit.
Finally, some lesser-known factors that can influence your car insurance rate include your gender and the type of vehicle you are insuring. Typically, males have higher auto insurance premiums compared to females. Unfortunately, this is because many providers view male drivers as riskier, increasing their chances of filing a claim.
While the difference in rate is relatively minimal, drivers should still compare car insurance rates from providers based on their gender. To make a smarter auto insurance decision, use car comparison sites to request multiple quotes. The average rates for age and gender are outlined below:
| Age | Estimated Annual Rate for Males | Estimated Annual Rate for Females |
|---|---|---|
| 18 | $4,371 | $3,816 |
| 19 | $3,695 | $3,224 |
| 20 | $3,329 | $2,919 |
| 21 | $2,615 | $2,348 |
| 22 | $2,404 | $2,193 |
| 23 | $2,228 | $2,046 |
| 24 | $2,096 | $1,941 |
| 25 | $1,829 | $1,750 |
| 30 | $1,569 | $1,570 |
| 35 | $1,740 | $1,729 |
| 40 | $1,693 | $1,689 |
| 50 | $1,416 | $1,420 |
| 60 | $1,540 | $1,526 |
| 70 | $1,682 | $1,651 |
It may come as a surprise to many that the type of vehicle you are insuring impacts your car insurance rates. Generally, the size of the vehicle, crash rating, cost of repairs, and body style are factors used by insurance companies to determine your price.
In most cases, smaller cars, such as coupes, hatchbacks, and sedans, will be less costly to insure than trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. Similarly, luxury vehicles will likely cost more because of the specialty parts and technicians required for repairs.
Of course, the top reason drivers shop around for car insurance is to find the cheapest online car insurance or the best car insurance deals. However, another equally important reason is to educate yourself on the types of coverage, the limits, and your options. Ultimately, more information leads to smarter car insurance decisions, helping you find the best car insurance deals for your needs.
Now that you know what factors influence your auto insurance rate, it’s time to dive into how to compare car insurance policies to find low-cost vehicle insurance that fits your needs. Follow these steps to shop car insurance rates and make a smarter choice:
Before you shop car insurance policies, make sure to gather all your personal and vehicle information. Even if you are getting a quote, the insurance provider will require preliminary details about your car’s year, make, model, and mileage. Additionally, the provider will ask for more in-depth information if you are bundling your home or adding additional drivers to your policy.
Once you have collected your personal information, research the policy and coverage options offered by different insurance providers. As an incentive, some insurance companies may offer new policyholder discounts if you switch. In some cases, you may find better bundle offers.
Another trick to save extra money on car insurance is to participate in a telematics program. This is also known as a safe-driving program that tracks your driving habits and rewards you with discounts when you practice safe habits.
As mentioned previously, to some degree, your auto insurance coverage options are customizable. Per state regulations, you’ll be required to obtain minimum coverage for bodily and property injury, as well as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. However, providers will still offer more comprehensive coverage options for passengers and medical bills.
When you shop car insurance coverage options, first check what your state’s minimum requirements are. Here is a breakdown of each state’s minimum coverage requirements:
| State | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Alaska | Bodily injury Liability per person: $50,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $100,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Arizona | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $15,000 |
| Arkansas | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| California | Bodily injury Liability per person: $15,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $30,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $5,000 |
| Colorado | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $15,000 |
| Connecticut | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 |
| Delaware | Bodily injury liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage liability per accident: $10,000 Personal injury protection per person: $15,000 Personal injury protection per accident: $30,000 |
| District of Columbia | Bodily injury liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage liability per accident: $10,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Uninsured motorist property damage coverage per accident: $5,000 |
| Florida | Property damage liability per accident: $10,000 Personal injury protection: $10,000 |
| Georgia | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Hawaii | Bodily injury Liability per person: $20,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $40,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $10,000 Personal injury protection: $10,000 |
| Idaho | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $15,000 |
| Illinois | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $20,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 |
| Indiana | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Iowa | Bodily injury Liability per person: $20,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $40,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $15,000 |
| Kansas | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Personal injury protection (including Medical expenses): $4,500 (up to $900 per month for a year of disability or loss of income; $25 per day for in-home services; $2,000 for funeral or cremation costs; and $4,500 for rehabilitation) |
| Kentucky | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Louisiana | Bodily injury Liability per person: $15,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $30,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Maine | Bodily injury Liability per person: $50,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $100,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $50,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $100,000 Medical payments coverage: $2,000 |
| Maryland | Bodily injury Liability per person: $30,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $60,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $15,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $30,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $60,000 Uninsured/underinsured property damage coverage per accident: $15,000 |
| Massachusetts | Bodily injury Liability per person: $20,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $40,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $5,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $20,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $40,000 Personal injury protection: $8,000 |
| Michigan | Bodily injury Liability per person: $50,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $100,000 Property damage Liability per accident outside Michigan: $10,000 Property protection within Michigan: $1 million Personal injury protection: $250,000 |
| Minnesota | Bodily injury Liability per person: $30,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $60,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $10,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Personal injury protection: $40,000 |
| Mississippi | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Missouri | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 |
| Montana | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $20,000 |
| Nebraska | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 |
| Nevada | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $20,000 |
| New Hampshire | Bodily injury liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Uninsured/underinsured property damage coverage per accident: $25,000 Medical payments coverage: $1,000 |
| New Jersey | Property damage liability per accident: $5,000 Personal injury protection: $15,000 |
| New Mexico | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $10,000 |
| New York | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Liability for death per person: $50,000 Liability for death per accident: $100,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $10,000 Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage per accident: $50,000 Personal injury protection: $50,000 |
| North Carolina | Bodily injury Liability per person: $30,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $60,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $30,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $60,000 Uninsured motorist property damage coverage per accident: $25,000 |
| North Dakota | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Uninsured/underinsured property damage coverage per accident: $25,000 Personal injury protection: $30,000 |
| Ohio | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Oklahoma | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Oregon | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $20,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Personal injury protection: $15,000 |
| Pennsylvania | Bodily injury Liability per person: $15,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $30,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $5,000 Medical benefits: $5,000 |
| Rhode Island | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| South Carolina | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Uninsured motorist property damage coverage: $25,000 |
| South Dakota | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 |
| Tennessee | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $15,000 |
| Texas | Bodily injury Liability per person: $30,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $60,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 |
| Utah | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $65,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $15,000 Personal injury protection: $3,000 |
| Vermont | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $10,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $50,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $100,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist property damage coverage per accident: $10,000 |
| Virginia | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $20,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist property damage coverage per accident: $20,000 |
| Washington | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $10,000 |
| West Virginia | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 Uninsured motorist property damage coverage: $25,000 |
| Wisconsin | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $10,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per person: $25,000 Uninsured motorist coverage per accident: $50,000 |
| Wyoming | Bodily injury Liability per person: $25,000 Bodily injury Liability per accident: $50,000 Property damage Liability per accident: $20,000 |
Once you have determined the minimum, consider the factors that affect your car insurance rate and your needs. If you’re looking for the cheapest car insurance option, you may opt for minimum coverage.
However, if you have at-fault accidents on your record or a poor credit rating, cheap online insurance may not be possible for you. Or you may not feel comfortable paying out-of-pocket if an accident occurs. In either case, you can still opt for full coverage options with add-ons at an affordable rate.
Once you’ve gathered your information and settled on the type of coverage you want, you can shop for cheap online insurance. There are two ways you can get quotes from different providers: submit a request on each provider’s website or search rates on car insurance comparison sites.
Typically, getting a quote does not affect your credit score. Most insurance providers will only conduct a preliminary soft credit check to give you coverage options. As a rule of thumb, it is best to get quotes from at least three different providers.
If you opt to compare car insurance rates using a comparison site, you can save time by receiving multiple quotes from various providers. These sites will offer you a quote after weighing the top factors mentioned above: your state, age, driving record, and credit score.
In addition to comparing rates on car insurance price comparison sites, you can also search customer satisfaction ratings. More than securing the cheapest car insurance rate, a third-party consumer reporting website can help you compare providers based on customer service, number of complaints, and claim satisfaction.
For instance, consider consulting the following third-party websites when searching for low-rate auto insurance:
While you may be searching for the cheapest online car insurance rate, this may not always be the best option for you. Depending on your coverage needs, cheap online insurance may not fully cover you in case of an at-fault accident that results in bodily injury and property damage.
Instead, the best car insurance deals may be ones that balance the coverage you need with affordability. In any case, the more informed you are, the smarter car insurance choice you can make.
If you are looking for low-price car insurance from top-rated auto insurance providers, compare full coverage policies from these companies:
| Provider | Monthly Estimate | Annual Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | $96 | $1,158 |
| State Farm | $111 | 1,333 |
| Nationwide | $105 | 1,258 |
| Progressive | $123 | $1,471 |
| USAA Liberty | $82 | $986 |
| Travelers | $120 | $1,437 |
| Allstate | $139 | $,671 |
| Farmers | $149 | $1,789 |
If you’re still looking for more comprehensive information on car insurance, we’ve got you covered. Check out these frequently asked questions to make an even smarter decision on car insurance:
Generally, you'll need to provide proof of your age and driving history, as well as your current address and the vehicle's information. Additionally, you may be asked to provide information on any previous claims or accidents that may have occurred in the vehicle.
Some of the documents you may be asked to provide include the following:
Car insurance can cover many types of damage, and your coverage level will depend on your policy (minimum or full coverage). The most common are listed below:
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of car you are purchasing or leasing and the type of insurance you are looking to purchase. In general, it is recommended to get car insurance as soon as possible after purchasing or leasing a car.
For new cars, it can take up to 30 days for the insurance company to issue a policy after applying for coverage. For used cars, it can take up to 60 days. Additionally, many insurance companies require a car to be registered before issuing insurance coverage. In some cases, the dealer will not allow you to take possession of the vehicle until you show proof of insurance.
Now that you are more familiar with the various factors that affect your car insurance rates, we invite you to request insurance. Use Smartly’s car insurance request form to try to connect with a top-rated auto insurance provider. We give you the resources you need to request an affordable auto insurance rate for your coverage needs.