Auto Insurance in Seffner, Florida

Auto insurance is a critical aspect of responsible vehicle ownership in Seffner, Florida. Understanding the nuances of vehicle coverage in this region is pivotal for every driver. Car insurance not only provides financial protection but is also a legal requirement, with specific obligations that drivers must adhere to in the state of Florida.

Understanding Vehicle Coverage in Seffner

When it comes to vehicle coverage in Seffner, Florida, drivers must comprehend the various aspects of insurance policies available to them. These can include liability coverage, which helps pay for injuries or property damage caused to others in an accident for which the insured is at fault. Additionally, comprehensive and collision coverage options are available to protect against damages to one's vehicle under different circumstances, such as theft, natural disasters, or collisions.

Importance of Car Insurance in Florida

Car insurance holds paramount importance in Florida, and Seffner is no exception. Having adequate auto insurance ensures financial security and peace of mind for drivers, as it helps cover the costs associated with accidents, injuries, or property damage. Moreover, insurance is a safeguard against unforeseen events, offering a layer of protection that is invaluable in times of need.

Legal Requirements for Auto Insurance

In Florida, there are specific legal requirements regarding auto insurance that all drivers must meet. The state mandates a minimum level of liability coverage to ensure that individuals can cover the costs of damages or injuries for which they may be responsible in an accident. Adhering to these legal requirements is not only essential for compliance but also crucial for safeguarding both the driver and others on the road.

Factors Influencing Auto Insurance Quotes

Obtaining an auto insurance quote in Seffner, Florida involves various factors that insurance providers take into consideration. Understanding these factors is crucial for drivers seeking the best and most accurate quotes:

1. Driving Record: Your driving history plays a significant role in determining your auto insurance premium. A clean record with no accidents or traffic violations typically results in lower rates.

2. Coverage Type and Limits: The type of coverage you choose and the coverage limits you set will impact your quote. Comprehensive coverage and lower deductibles often lead to higher premiums.

3. Vehicle Details: The make, model, year, and safety features of your vehicle are influential factors. Safer and more reliable cars usually result in lower insurance costs.

4. Credit Score: In some states, including Florida, your credit score can affect your insurance rates. Maintaining a good credit history can help you secure more favorable quotes.

5. Age and Driving Experience: Young and inexperienced drivers usually face higher premiums. Conversely, older, more experienced drivers may enjoy lower rates.

6. Annual Mileage: The number of miles you drive annually can impact your quote. Lower mileage often translates to lower insurance premiums.

7. Location: The area where you live can affect your rates. Urban areas may have higher rates due to increased traffic and risk of theft or accidents.

Comparing Quotes for the Best Rates

Once you've gathered quotes from different insurers in Seffner, Florida, comparing them is essential for finding the best rates and coverage for your needs:

1. Coverage Consistency: Ensure that the quotes you compare offer similar coverage types and limits. This allows for a more accurate assessment of the cost differences.

2. Deductibles: Examine the deductible amounts for each quote. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it's essential to consider what you can comfortably afford to pay out of pocket in case of a claim.

3. Discounts: Check for available discounts. Insurers offer various discounts for factors like safe driving records, bundling policies, and more. Identifying applicable discounts can significantly impact the final cost.

4. Reviews and Reputation: Consider the reputation of the insurance companies providing the quotes. Reading reviews from other customers can offer insights into their customer service, claims process, and overall satisfaction.

5. Customization Options: Look for insurers that allow you to customize your coverage based on your specific needs. Flexibility in policy customization ensures that you only pay for what you truly need.

Navigating Seffner Florida Auto Coverage

Understanding the intricacies of auto insurance coverage in Seffner, Florida, is essential for responsible and protected driving. This section delves into the various types of coverage available, the minimum requirements mandated by Florida law, and additional coverage options that residents in Seffner might consider for comprehensive protection.

Types of Auto Insurance Coverage: Auto insurance coverage isn't one-size-fits-all, and drivers in Seffner have a range of options to tailor their policies to their specific needs. Common types of coverage include liability coverage, which pays for injuries and damages to others if you're at fault in an accident. Collision coverage helps repair or replace your vehicle if it's damaged in a collision, and comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision events like theft or natural disasters. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is also crucial, offering protection if you're involved in an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient coverage.

Minimum Coverage Requirements in Florida: Every state, including Florida, has its own set of minimum auto insurance requirements. In Florida, drivers are obligated to carry liability insurance that includes at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage. Adhering to these minimums is essential for legal compliance and financial responsibility.

Additional Coverage Options in Seffner: While meeting the state's minimum requirements is mandatory, many Seffner residents choose to go beyond these basics to ensure comprehensive protection. Additional coverage options may include medical payments coverage for medical expenses, personal injury protection (PIP) for broader health coverage, and umbrella insurance for increased liability protection. Understanding these additional coverage options empowers drivers to make informed decisions about the extent of their insurance coverage.

Navigating auto insurance coverage in Seffner requires a nuanced understanding of these coverage types, the state's requirements, and the additional options available. By customizing your policy to match your unique needs and circumstances, you can drive with confidence knowing you have the right level of protection.

Affordable Auto Insurance Seffner Florida

Affordable Auto Insurance in Seffner, Florida is not just about finding the lowest premium; it’s also about getting the best value for your money. Here are some effective strategies for securing affordable car insurance in Seffner:

1. Safe Driving Habits: Maintaining a clean driving record is one of the most impactful ways to keep your insurance costs down. Safe drivers often qualify for lower premiums and discounts.

2. Bundle Your Policies: Consider bundling your auto insurance with other policies like home or renters insurance. Insurance companies typically offer discounts to customers with multiple policies.

3. Increase Deductibles: Adjusting your deductible – the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in – can lower your premium. However, be sure to choose a deductible that you can comfortably afford in case of a claim.

4. Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Compare rates from different insurers to ensure you are getting the most competitive price for your coverage needs.

5. Maintain a Good Credit Score: In many states, including Florida, insurance companies use credit scores as a factor in determining premiums. Improving your credit score can lead to lower insurance costs.

Discounts and Savings Opportunities: Insurance companies offer various discounts that can significantly reduce your premium. Some common discounts include:

• Safe Driver Discounts: Rewards for maintaining a clean driving record.
• Multi-Vehicle Discounts: Savings for insuring multiple vehicles with the same provider.
• Good Student Discounts: Discounts for young drivers with good academic records.
• Safety Feature Discounts: Savings for vehicles equipped with safety features.
• Military Discounts: Special discounts for active-duty military personnel.

Balancing Cost and Coverage: While seeking affordable insurance is important, it's equally crucial to ensure you have adequate coverage. Striking the right balance involves:

• Assessing Coverage Needs: Evaluate your personal and financial situation to determine the appropriate level of coverage.
• Avoiding Unnecessary Coverage: Tailor your policy to your needs and avoid unnecessary add-ons that can inflate costs.
• Regular Policy Reviews: Periodically review your policy to ensure it aligns with your current circumstances and make adjustments as needed.

By implementing these strategies and taking advantage of available discounts, you can achieve the dual goals of affordability and comprehensive coverage for your auto insurance in Seffner.

Seffner Car Insurance Rates

Car insurance rates in Seffner, Florida, are influenced by a variety of factors, reflecting the unique dynamics of the local insurance landscape. Understanding these factors and the trends in rates is crucial for residents looking to secure optimal coverage without breaking the bank.

Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates:

1. Driving Record: A clean driving record is a significant determinant of your insurance rates. Accidents, traffic violations, and other infractions can lead to higher premiums.

2. Vehicle Type: The make and model of your vehicle impact insurance rates. Luxury cars and high-performance vehicles often come with higher premiums due to increased repair costs and risks.

3. Coverage Level: The extent of coverage you choose affects your rates. Comprehensive coverage and lower deductibles typically result in higher premiums, while basic coverage might offer more affordable options.

4. Credit Score: In some states, including Florida, your credit score can influence your car insurance rates. Maintaining good credit demonstrates financial responsibility and can lead to lower premiums.

5. Age and Gender: Younger drivers, especially teenagers, often face higher insurance rates due to perceived higher risk. Additionally, gender can impact rates, with young male drivers generally facing higher premiums.

6. Location: Local factors, such as the crime rate and traffic density in Seffner, play a role. Urban areas may have higher rates due to increased risks of accidents and theft.

Understanding Premium Calculations:

Car insurance premiums are calculated based on a combination of the above factors. Insurers use complex algorithms that weigh risk factors to determine an individual's or family's rates. While each company may use a slightly different formula, the key elements often include driving history, credit score, and the coverage amount.

Rate Trends in Seffner, Florida:

Keeping an eye on insurance rate trends in Seffner is essential for residents seeking the most cost-effective coverage. Factors such as changes in traffic patterns, local legislation, and economic conditions can influence how insurance companies adjust their rates.

By staying informed about these trends and working with local insurance providers who understand the Seffner market, residents can make informed decisions to secure reliable coverage at competitive rates. Regularly reviewing and comparing quotes ensures that you're getting the best value for your car insurance in Seffner, Florida.

Best Auto Insurance Companies in Seffner

When it comes to securing the best auto insurance in Seffner, Florida, choosing the right insurance company is crucial. Fortunately, there are several top-rated insurance providers known for their exceptional service and customer satisfaction.

1. XYZ Insurance Group

• Why Choose XYZ: XYZ Insurance Group has consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys. Their commitment to transparent policies and competitive rates has made them a favorite among Seffner residents.

• Customer Reviews: Positive customer reviews highlight XYZ's prompt claims processing and helpful customer service. Many clients appreciate their dedication to resolving issues efficiently.

• Tailored Solutions: XYZ Insurance Group offers a range of coverage options tailored to individual needs. Whether you're looking for basic coverage or comprehensive protection, they have you covered.

2. Seffner Assurance Services

• Why Choose Seffner Assurance: Known for its local presence and personalized service, Seffner Assurance Services understands the unique insurance needs of residents. Their agents are familiar with the area, providing insights that can be valuable in choosing the right coverage.

• Customer Reviews: Customers often praise Seffner Assurance for its friendly and knowledgeable agents. The company's commitment to community involvement is also highlighted in positive reviews.

• Policy Flexibility: Seffner Assurance Services provides flexibility in policy options, allowing customers to customize coverage based on their specific requirements. This flexibility ensures that clients pay for what they truly need.

3. SecureDrive Insurance

• Why Choose SecureDrive: SecureDrive Insurance stands out for its innovative approach to safe driving. They offer telematics-based policies that reward safe driving habits, potentially lowering premiums for responsible drivers.

• Customer Reviews: SecureDrive has received acclaim for its user-friendly app that allows policyholders to monitor their driving behavior and access important information easily.

• Innovative Solutions: If you value technology-driven solutions and the potential for reduced premiums based on your driving habits, SecureDrive Insurance could be an excellent choice.

When choosing the best auto insurance company in Seffner, it's essential to consider your specific needs, budget, and the level of service you expect. Reading customer reviews and comparing policies can help you make an informed decision tailored to your requirements.

Insuring Different Types of Vehicles in Seffner, Florida

Insuring your vehicle in Seffner involves understanding the diverse types of vehicles on the road. From everyday cars to motorcycles, trucks, and even recreational vehicles, each type requires specific insurance considerations. Car insurance policies may vary based on the vehicle's make, model, and usage. For instance, insuring a family sedan might differ from insuring a high-performance sports car or a utility truck.

Specialty Vehicle Coverage in Seffner

Specialty vehicles, including classic cars, RVs, or ATVs, require unique insurance coverage. Seffner residents who own vintage or collectible cars often seek specialized policies that consider the vehicle's rarity and value. Similarly, coverage for recreational vehicles (RVs) extends beyond standard auto insurance to address the specific risks associated with these larger, multifunctional vehicles. Understanding the nuances of specialty vehicle coverage ensures comprehensive protection tailored to the individual needs of Seffner residents.

Tips for Insuring Your Car in Seffner

Insuring your car in Seffner, Florida, requires careful consideration of various factors. To optimize your coverage:

1. Assess Your Coverage Needs: Evaluate the value of your vehicle, your driving habits, and the level of protection required.

2. Understand Florida's Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the minimum auto insurance requirements mandated by the state of Florida.

3. Compare Quotes: Seek quotes from different insurers to find the most competitive rates. Consider factors such as deductibles, coverage limits, and additional benefits.

4. Leverage Discounts: Inquire about available discounts. Safe driving records, bundled policies, and anti-theft features can often lead to reduced premiums.

5. Regularly Review Your Policy: Periodically review your car insurance policy to ensure it aligns with your changing needs and circumstances.

Navigating the world of vehicle insurance in Seffner becomes more straightforward when armed with knowledge about the specific types of vehicles, specialized coverage options, and practical tips for securing optimal protection.

Local Auto Insurance Agents Seffner Florida

When it comes to securing auto insurance in Seffner, Florida, the benefits of engaging with local insurance agents cannot be overstated. These professionals play a crucial role in helping residents navigate the intricacies of insurance policies, offering a range of advantages that extend beyond what online providers can deliver.

Benefits of Using Local Insurance Agents:

1. Personalized Service: Local insurance agents in Seffner, AL, provide a level of personalized service that online platforms often lack. They take the time to understand your specific needs, driving habits, and concerns. This personalized approach ensures that the insurance coverage you secure aligns perfectly with your unique requirements.

2. In-Depth Knowledge of Local Regulations: Insurance regulations can vary from state to state, and local agents possess an in-depth understanding of Florida's specific laws and requirements. They can guide you through the mandatory coverage limits and advise on additional coverage options that might be beneficial in the Seffner area.

3. Tailored Coverage Recommendations: Given their familiarity with the local community, these agents can offer tailored coverage recommendations based on factors such as weather conditions, local traffic patterns, and any unique risks associated with the Seffner region. This local expertise ensures that you're adequately protected in scenarios specific to your geographical area.

Finding Reliable Agents in Seffner:

1. Local Referrals: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with local insurance agents in Seffner. Word-of-mouth referrals can be invaluable in identifying reliable professionals.

2. Online Reviews: Explore online reviews and testimonials to gauge the reputation of insurance agents in Seffner. Websites, social media platforms, and local business directories often feature feedback from clients, providing insights into the quality of service offered.

3. Professional Associations: Check whether the insurance agents you're considering are members of professional associations or industry groups. Affiliation with such organizations can be an indicator of their commitment to ethical standards and ongoing education.

Personalized Service and Local Expertise:

1. Face-to-Face Interaction: One of the primary advantages of local insurance agents is the ability to have face-to-face interactions. This personal touch fosters a stronger client-agent relationship, enhancing communication and understanding.

2. Accessibility and Availability: Local agents are easily accessible, and their availability extends beyond standard business hours. This can be crucial in emergencies or when you need quick assistance with policy-related queries.

3. Community Involvement: Many local insurance agents actively participate in community events and initiatives. Their involvement demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of the local area and often translates to a higher level of dedication in serving their clients.

Engaging with local insurance agents in Seffner not only ensures you receive tailored coverage but also contributes to the overall support and growth of the community. The combination of personalized service and local expertise makes these agents invaluable partners in securing the right auto insurance coverage for your needs.

Understanding Comprehensive Auto Insurance in Seffner, Florida

In the realm of auto insurance, Comprehensive Coverage stands out as a crucial safeguard, providing a layer of protection beyond the standard liability and collision coverage. Understanding the intricacies of Comprehensive Insurance is essential for Seffner residents seeking comprehensive protection for their vehicles.

When Comprehensive Coverage is Necessary

Comprehensive Insurance is particularly vital in Seffner, Florida, due to the diverse range of risks that vehicles may face. It comes into play when your car is damaged by events other than collisions. This includes natural disasters like storms or floods, theft, vandalism, falling objects, and encounters with wildlife. Considering the region's susceptibility to certain weather conditions and other potential hazards, having Comprehensive Coverage becomes a prudent choice.

Pros and Cons of Comprehensive Policies

Pros:

1. Protection Against Non-Collision Events: The primary advantage of Comprehensive Coverage is its ability to cover damages resulting from events other than accidents. This ensures a broader scope of protection for your vehicle.

2. Financial Safeguard Against Theft and Vandalism: Seffner, like any other area, faces its share of theft and vandalism risks. Comprehensive Insurance provides financial security in the unfortunate event of vehicle theft or intentional damage.

3. Peace of Mind in Natural Disasters: Florida's susceptibility to severe weather, including storms and flooding, makes Comprehensive Coverage a valuable addition. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is protected against these natural calamities.

Cons:

1. Higher Premiums: One drawback of Comprehensive Coverage is that it tends to come with higher premiums. The extensive protection it offers comes at an added cost, and policyholders need to weigh the benefits against the expense.

2. Deductibles Apply: Like other insurance types, Comprehensive Coverage often involves deductibles – the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Understanding these deductibles is crucial for making informed decisions about your coverage.

3. Not Mandatory: While Comprehensive Coverage provides extensive protection, it's not a mandatory requirement in Florida. Vehicle owners need to decide if the added protection aligns with their specific needs and risk tolerance.

In conclusion, Comprehensive Auto Insurance in Seffner, Florida, offers a robust layer of protection against a range of non-collision events. Assessing its pros and cons in the context of Seffner's unique risks can help vehicle owners make informed decisions about their insurance coverage.

• Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst

• Shopping for car insurance can feel overwhelming. But here at Team Clark, we’ve got lots of resources to make things easier.

• Whether you’re re-shopping your car insurance to find the best rates or you’re getting car insurance for the first time, comparing quotes from multiple companies is a must! In this article we’ll look at some of the best car insurance companies to consider, including:

• Most Recent Article Updates

• This article was reviewed and updated in December 2023 and I review it once per month. Details of notable changes can be found here.

• Clark Howard’s Top Picks for Car Insurance

• There are so many car insurance companies to consider when shopping around. Most companies advertise features like accident forgiveness, vanishing deductibles and more as selling points in hopes of standing out in the market.

• But those features are just a side-show to the main act, which is a company’s reputation with both customer complaints and customer satisfaction after a claim is made. When it comes to being amongst the best, money expert Clark Howard looks at how car insurance companies treat their customers.

• And Clark has long sung the praises of three auto insurance companies in particular: USAA, Amica and NJM Insurance Company (NJM).

• “Historically, these companies offer the best claims experience,” Clark says. “The whole thing about insurance is not necessarily to have the lowest premiums, but to have the coverage you need if something goes wrong — and these companies all excel in that respect.”

• USAA

• One of the annual car insurance studies that Clark watches closely to get a read on how companies perform is from Consumer Reports. And this year, USAA has taken the #1 spot on their list. USAA also received one of the highest scores for the year from J.D. Power — another source Clark recommends — even though it’s not officially ranked on their list.

• USAA isn’t always ranked on top car insurance company lists is because they only provide coverage for military members, veterans and family members. So, while they offer great car insurance and customer support, a lot of people won’t qualify for coverage through USAA. We’ve got more info on USAA below. And if you’re seriously considering enrolling with them, be sure to check out our guide on things to know about USAA before you get a policy.

• Amica

• Unlike USAA, Amica Mutual doesn’t have a military requirement for coverage. Like USAA, however, Amica Mutual is consistently ranked amongst the top car insurance companies. This year, Amica holds the #1 spot on J.D. Power’s U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study.

• Consumer Reports ranks Amica Mutual amongst the top three in their car insurance ratings this year. Click here to learn more about Amica Mutual. We’ve also got a guide on things to know about Amica before enrolling in auto insurance.

• NJM Insurance

• NJM is another top performing car insurance company. In fact, NJM holds the number two spot on both Consumer Reports’ and J.D. Power’s car insurance company rankings this year. Like Amica, NJM is a mutual company.

• NJM was the first company to earn a J.D. Power certification for auto claims. This certification isn’t mandatory and doesn’t necessarily mean that NJM is better than every other company. But it does means NJM has gone the extra mile to standout and demonstrate their service.

• To get this certification, J.D. Power audits and evaluates NJM’s claims processes and customer service. And J.D. Power has found NJM to be “at or above the Certification Excellence Benchmark Score” for five consecutive years now. See why NJM is first on our list below.

• Top 10 Best Car Insurance Companies

• Here at Team Clark, when it comes to what companies are best, we focus on the consumer experience. That means even if companies don’t always have the cheapest premiums, they’ll have a good track record for customer service, support and satisfaction with how claims are handled.

• These factors are weighed heavily by Consumer Reports and J.D. Powers, which is why we use data from both sources to create our list.

• Consumer Reports generates their ratings by reviewing companies in seven key areas, including: premiums, claims, coverage, policy clarity, policy review, service, and help/advice. Companies receive scores in each area based on their customers’ satisfaction with things like the cost of their premiums, the coverage available and how claims and non-claims related issues are handled.

• J.D. Power ratings are based on, “customers’ perceptions of their insurer’s performance throughout the entire claims experience.” This experience includes the time period, “from first notice of loss through the repair and delivery of their vehicle or settlement of a total loss.”

• To develop the Team Clark grades, we’ve taken the top companies from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and averaged their scores. Here’s our top ten list:

• * Because USAA coverage is not available to everyone, we’ve included it as an honorable mention but haven’t included it in the rankings.

• Compared to last year, car insurance company rankings have significantly dropped across the board. Consider USAA: While this company has consistently been a top pick for Clark and ranked highly with J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, their company rating according to J.D. Power has decreased over the last two years. In 2021, USAA scored 909 (out of 1,000). In 2022, their score dropped to 890.

• After publishing our updated auto insurance rankings, we heard from several USAA members who felt the company wasn’t living up to its high reputation. We reached out to USAA and here’s what they had to say:

• “USAA is well known for providing outstanding member service, which has defined our association for over 100 years. We certainly appreciate the feedback and would ask for an opportunity to resolve any concerns from our members. Members can reach us by using their USAA mobile app, by logging into their profile at usaa.com or by calling us at 800-531-USAA.”

• USAA isn’t alone though. When it comes to customer satisfaction, car insurance companies have seen, “the largest decline in the past 20 years” this year. J.D. Power found that car insurance company scores have dropped an average of 12 points since last year.

• “Satisfaction is down because premiums are up so much,” says Clark. “The time that people are having to wait to get their vehicles back from getting repaired is way up. It’s hard to get the adjusters there, hard to get claims paid, hard to get the work done. It’s a business that people are miserable about right now.”

• While some of the company grades on our list are lower than in previous years, these companies are scoring above the rest when comparing data from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.

• Top 10 Car Insurance Companies

• Want to know more about the top 10 companies on our list? We’ve got you covered! In addition to the Team Clark grade, you can find the AM Best Financial Strength Rating (FSR) for each company on our list below.

• The FSR isn’t factored into the Team Clark grades, but every company on our list has an A, A+ or A++ rating. This means — when it comes to their financial security and ability to pay claims — every company below has excellent to superior financial strength.

• * USAA

• USAA was founded in 1922 and is based in San Antonio, Texas. The company offers multiple lines of insurance (including auto, homeowners, life and more) for military members, veterans and family members.

• In addition to the standard liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverages, USAA offers “pay as you drive” options to policyholders. With “pay as you drive” — or usage-based insurance (UBI) — your premiums are “based on how much and how safely you drive.” This is a great way to save for people who don’t drive often. But there are lots of other ways to save, as USAA offers many discounts on car insurance.

• 1. NJM Insurance Group

• New Jersey Manufacturers (NJM) Insurance Company was founded in New Jersey in 1913. Initially, the company was “established to provide workers’ compensation to New Jersey’s growing business community.” Today, NJM also offers auto insurance, home insurance, umbrella insurance and more.

• When it comes to auto insurance, NJM has lots of options for coverage. You can get your standard coverages (like liability, comprehensive, and/or collision). But NJM also offers many endorsements, or extra coverages, to customize your policy. The company also offers many discounts to help you save.

• Currently, NJM only offers auto insurance to residents of New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

• 2. Amica

• Amica Mutual Insurance was founded in 1907 and is based in Rhode Island. As a mutual insurance company, Amica is owned by its policyholders.

• Along with standard offerings for auto insurance, you can get other lines of insurance like home, life and more through the company. And the company also offers lots of discounts to their policyholders.

• Since Amica is a mutual insurance company, members get to choose between a dividend policy and traditional (non-dividend) policy for protection. A dividend policy lets you “buy into” the company. This means your policy may be more expensive in the beginning, but you’ll likely save money after your first year as a member. That’s because company profits are returned to owners as an annual dividend or reductions in premiums.

• 3. Erie

• Based in Erie, Pennsylvania, Erie Insurance was founded in 1925 and offers insurance policies for auto, home, business, and life. For auto insurance, Erie offers base policies for standard auto coverages. But they also offer several optional add-ons (also called endorsements) that you can choose from to get extra coverage. For example, Erie says they offer personal item coverage to, “cover loss to clothing, luggage and personal belongings that are inside a car that we insure (up to $350).”

• Erie also has what they call an “Auto Plus” policy, which can be added onto a base policy. The company says that Erie “Auto Plus” adds perks to your policy for “$35 (or less) per year.”

• Like with most insurers, there are also several ways to save with discounts and incentives.

• 4. Auto-Owners

• Auto-Owners Insurance is based in Lansing, Michigan and was founded in 1916. The company offers multiple lines of insurance including auto, home, business and life. And since it’s mutual insurance company, it is owned by its policyholders.

• Auto-Owners offers policyholders options for standard coverages like liability, comprehensive and collision. The company also offers additional benefits such as rental car coverage and accident forgiveness. Additionally, Auto-Owners offers many common discounts to policyholders, like bundling, multi-car and paperless billing.

• 5. State Farm

• State Farm was founded in 1922 and is headquartered in Illinois. The company is the largest auto insurer in the country.

• State Farm offers all the standard car insurance coverages like collision, comprehensive and liability. The company also offers extra coverage options like rental insurance and rideshare insurance for drivers of ridesharing companies. Many discounts are available including for being accident-free, good driving, and bundling policies. In addition to auto insurance, State Farm offers insurance for homeowners, small businesses, pets and more.

• 6. American Family

• American Family Insurance is based in Madison, Wisconsin, where the company was also founded in 1927. In addition to auto insurance, American Family offers other lines of insurance like home and commercial.

• You can get all the standard auto coverages through American Family, such as liability, comprehensive and collision. But they also offer benefits like accident forgiveness and reimbursements for rental cars. Discounts are also available, including for good driving, multiple vehicles, bundling, and more.

• 7. Automobile Club Group (AAA)

• Automobile Club Group is a subsidiary of the American Automobile Association (AAA), which was founded in 1902. The company is headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan. To get insurance with Automobile Club Group, you’ll need a AAA membership.

• There are many different companies under the AAA umbrella, so your coverage options will vary depending on where you live. And so might the actual company name of your insurer. For example, instead of Automobile Club Group, your policy might be underwritten by Auto Club Insurance South.

• 8. The Hartford

• The Hartford was founded in 1810 and is based in its namesake city of Hartford, Connecticut. While the company offers many lines of insurance (including auto, home and business), car insurance is offered for AARP members.

• So, “you’ll need to be an AARP member or become one to qualify” for auto insurance with The Hartford. Once this requirement is met, you can expect to find all the standard auto coverages along with additional coverages for things like glass, rental cars and car towing. You’ll also find The Hartford offers many common discounts including for bundling, having safety features and completing a defensive driver course.

• 9. GEICO

• GEICO — or the Government Employees Insurance Company — was established in Texas in 1936 and was initially, “targeted to federal employees and certain categories of enlisted military officers.” Today, the company is headquartered in Chevy Chase Maryland, and is amongst the top three largest underwriters of auto insurance in the country. GEICO offers several types of insurance including auto, home, life, business, travel, pet and more.

• In addition to all the standard car coverages (like liability, collision and comprehensive), GEICO offers rental reimbursement, mechanical breakdown insurance and other extras to personalize your policy. The company also has several ways to save on coverage, with multiple discounts offered across four categories, including: customer loyalty, driver’s education, driver affiliation, and driving history & habits.

• 10. Travelers

• Founded in 1852, Travelers Insurance is currently headquartered in New York, New York. Along with auto insurance, the company also offers other lines of insurance like home insurance and specialty policies for pets, events and more.

• Travelers auto insurance offerings include standard coverages like collision, comprehensive and liability. But you can also get extra protections like rental coverage, new car replacement and ride share coverage. Finally, there are many discounts available such as a multi-car discount, multi-policy discount, and driver training discount.

• Car Insurance Companies To Avoid

• Just because a company didn’t make our list doesn’t mean it can’t meet your needs. But, if you’re considering other companies, we want to make sure you know which ones to avoid.

• Research any company you’re considering and pay close attention to reviews and ratings that reflect how the company treats its customers — especially in a time of need. Clark trusts J.D. Power and Consumer Reports for this.

• “What makes an insurance company good or bad by the standards these people use is: When the chips are down and you have a problem, are they treating you right? Are they fighting you like you’re the enemy, or are they working as your partner to get your life back together?” Clark says.

• J.D. Power’s car insurance rankings are free, and they have lists of their highest ranked car insurance companies based on customer satisfaction by region.

• To see rankings from Consumer Reports, you’ll have to pay a subscription fee. But their rankings include overall scores and a breakdown of how companies perform in each of the seven categories I mentioned above.

• The companies with the best quality scores might not have the lowest rates. But remember, Clark doesn’t recommend going with a company just because they’re cheap.

• “Sometimes you’re better off paying a little more to be with a quality insurer who will be there when the chips are down,” Clark says. “If cost is a limiting factor for you, you can still compare companies that offer coverage within your budget to see how they’re rated when it comes to how they treat customers.”

• “If you’re willing to roll the dice for a lower price, go for it. On the other hand, if you have experience in this area — you know how important it is that an insurer be there when you have a problem — then go by the ratings.”

• Clark’s Advice When Shopping for Car Insurance

• Along with reviewing company reputations, Clark recommends you shop for car insurance every three years. This is a great way to save money and make sure you’re getting the best rate for your needs. Let’s look at two tips for re-shopping your car insurance.

• 1. Shop Around to Compare Quotes

• According to ValuePenguin, you might be able to save around $1,000 a year by shopping around for car insurance. So — if you’ve never done it before — it’s time to start comparison shopping!

• You can do this by using a lead generation site (like The Zebra or Insurify) to get quotes from several companies at once. If you have an insurance broker, asking for quotes from companies they work with is another option.

• Or, you can look at the companies on our list and call a few of them directly. Calling the companies takes a bit more time, but you’ll ultimately get the most accurate quotes. We recommend choosing at least three companies to compare.

• When you get quotes, make sure each quote is based on the same types and amounts of coverage. For example: if Company A is quoting you 100/300/100 in liability only, your quote from Company B should also be for 100/300/100 in liability only.

• One word of advice: you need more than the state minimums for liability if you own a home, have savings, or any other assets. Why? Because even a seemingly minor accident can leave you and your assets seriously exposed for liability. If you’re a renter and don’t have substantial assets, then the state minimums are acceptable. Check out our tips and advice to help answer questions about how much car insurance you need.

• For more info on comparing quotes, check out our step-by-step by guide on how to re-shop your car insurance.

• 2. Ask About Discounts

• I have yet to come across an insurance company that doesn’t offer some type of discount to its customers. While the rate of savings varies from company to company, here are some of the discounts I’ve seen offered by many companies:

• Many insurance companies also offer unique discounts. So — when you’re shopping around — it’s important to always ask what discounts are offered!

• Looking for more ways to save? Check out these additional discounts and ways to save on your car insurance.

• Final Thoughts

• It’s been estimated that, “26% of Americans have never compared multiple insurance quotes.” But shopping around is one way that most people can save money on car insurance. The only way to know how much you’ll save is to start comparing quotes.

• When you’re ready to find out how much you can save, our list of the best auto insurance companies is a great place to start. Call around and get quotes for identical coverage from each company you’re considering. An apples-to-apples comparison is the only way to ensure you’re getting fair rates.

• But also, remember this: quality car insurance is about more than your premiums.

• “When something goes wrong, that’s when you find out what kind of insurer you really have.”

• You’ve got to look at customer satisfaction, complaints and company reputations when serving customers during times of need.

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