Car Insurance FAQ

ZIP code is required and must be 5-digits

ZIP code is required and must be 5-digits

ZIP code is required and must be 5-digits

ZIP code is required and must be 5-digits

ZIP code is required and must be 5-digits

ZIP code is required and must be 5-digits

ZIP code is required and must be 5-digits

Quotes are not available for risks located in AK, FL, HI and LA

Travel protection is offered by our trusted partner, Travel Insured International, through InsuraMatch, LLC, a Travelers-owned insurance agency.

InsuraMatch

InsuraMatch is a Travelers-owned insurance agency that sells insurance policies for various insurance companies. It receives commissions on the insurance policies it sells from these insurers and may receive other performance, profitability or volume-based compensation from the insurers. This compensation may vary by insurance company. For more information please visit InsuraMatch.

Pet insurance is offered by our trusted partner, PTZ Insurance Agency, Ltd through its ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance program via InsuraMatch, LLC, a Travelers-owned insurance agency.

InsuraMatch

InsuraMatch is a Travelers-owned insurance agency that sells insurance policies for various insurance companies. It receives commissions on the insurance policies it sells from these insurers and may receive other performance, profitability or volume-based compensation from the insurers. This compensation may vary by insurance company. For more information please visit InsuraMatch.

ZIP Code is required and must be 5-digits

Motorcycle insurance is offered by our trusted partner, Dairyland®, through InsuraMatch, LLC, a Travelers-owned insurance agency.

InsuraMatch

InsuraMatch is a Travelers-owned insurance agency that sells insurance policies for various insurance companies. It receives commissions on the insurance policies it sells from these insurers and may receive other performance, profitability or volume-based compensation from the insurers. This compensation may vary by insurance company. For more information please visit InsuraMatch.

Flood insurance is offered by our trusted partner, Neptune Flood, through InsuraMatch, LLC, a Travelers-owned insurance agency.

InsuraMatch

InsuraMatch is a Travelers-owned insurance agency that sells insurance policies for various insurance companies. It receives commissions on the insurance policies it sells from these insurers and may receive other performance, profitability or volume-based compensation from the insurers. This compensation may vary by insurance company. For more information please visit InsuraMatch.

All your car insurance questions answered

Have questions about car insurance?  You’re not alone. Here you’ll find simple answers to some of the questions we’re asked often . And, of course, if you still have questions, your Travelers representative or local independent agent can help you.

Car insurance policy basics

What is car insurance and why do I need it?

Car insurance is designed to protect you and everyone who shares the road with you from the potentially high cost of accident-related and other damages or injuries. It ’ s a contract in which you pay a certain amount – or “premium” – to your insurance company in exchange for a set of coverages you choose . Most states require that you have car insurance if you own a vehicle, but mandatory minimum coverage and policy limits vary. If you finance or lease your vehicle, your lender may also require specific coverages . Beyond legal requirements, having car insurance is a smart decision. If you cause an accident, you may be held responsible to cover the related expenses, such as car repairs, property damage, medical bills, lost wages, legal fees and more. Without the proper coverage, your financial well-being may be at risk. Working with an insurance representative to help you choose a car insurance policy that addresses your individual needs and budget can help protect you, your loved ones and your assets.

What does car insurance cover?

It depends on the coverage options you choose. Because bodily injury and property damage liability   insurance is required in most states, your policy should cover at a minimum vehicle and property damage and injury-related expenses for other people involved in an accident you cause, up to the state-mandated minimum policy limits. You and your car, however, may not automatically be protected by the minimum coverage requirements. To help get the best protection for your individual needs, discuss available coverage options with your  local independent agent   or Travelers representative.  

Who needs to be on my car insurance policy?

Anyone who drives your vehicles regularly, especially if they live in your household, should be listed as drivers on your policy. Typically, your policy protects other licensed drivers not listed on your policy who occasionally drive your car, such as:  

Extended family (visiting grandparent(s), parent(s), aunt/uncle(s), niece/nephew(s)).  

Friends (sharing shifts on a road trip).  

Boyfriend/girlfriend (who doesn’t live with you).  

Check with your  local independent agent   o r Travelers representative to learn more about who needs to be included and who is covered on your policy.  

What car insurance coverage and limits do I need?

This depends on your situation. At a minimum, drivers must carry  bodily injury and property damage liability   coverage at the state-mandated limits to help cover vehicle, property damage and injury-related expenses for other people involved in an accident you cause. Policy options beyond the minimum state requirements are available and can offer more complete protection. C arefully consider your specific circumstances, including your risk tolerance and budget, then work with your   local independent agent   or Travelers representative to choose a policy that addresses your needs. Be sure to discuss the following common coverage options with your agent as well :

Ask your insurance representative about the below situations and coverages

To cover: Repair or replacement of your own vehicle

Ask about:

Collision coverage  

Comprehensive coverage  

New car replacement coverage  

Loan/lease gap insurance

To cover: Towing and on-site roadside services, such as jump starts and flat tire changes  

Ask about:

Roadside Assistance  

Premier Roadside Assistance ®  

To cover: Rental car while you can’t use your covered auto because of an accident or incident

Ask about:

Car Rental Reimbursement  

To cover: Your own or your passenger's medical expenses related to an accident or incident

Ask about:

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)  

Medical Payments Coverage  

To cover: Accident-related expenses if the driver who caused the accident has no insurance or inadequate coverage

Ask about:

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage  

Why should I choose Travelers for car insurance?

Choosing a car insurance policy that addresses your needs starts with choosing the right insurance company. Since 1853, Travelers has been an insurance leader, committed to keeping pace with the ever-changing needs of our customers. As one of the nation’s largest casualty companies, we offer a variety of competitive policy options and packages to ensure you get the coverage you need and that can fit your budget . Our insurance representatives can help you create a policy that addresses your needs and budget. We also understand that having insurance is about more than just protecting your vehicle. It ’ s about making the process after any incident as simple and stress-free as possible.

How do I get a quote for car insurance?

Getting a car insurance quote from Travelers is easy. Just   talk with a local independent agent or Travelers representative or use our  online quoting tool to start creating a policy that offers the protection you need at a price you can afford.

Will my car insurance automatically renew or do I have to reapply for coverage?

Typically, most car policies renew automatically. We ’ ll notify you about any policy or premium changes in advance. It is important to review your coverage needs with your   local independent agent   or Travelers representative on an annual basis .

How and when can I change car insurance coverage and/or limits on my current policy?

Typically, Travelers customers can update their coverage options and policy limits anytime — online at  MyTravelers.com , the  MyTravelers ®  mobile app or by talking with a   local independent agent or Travelers representative. M aking changes to your policy can affect your premium.  Once a policy is updated, Travelers notifies customers and adjusts their premiums accordingly to reflect these changes. Remember to review your coverage needs with your   local independent agent   or Travelers representative every year .  

What is umbrella insurance and how does it apply to my car insurance policy?

Umbrella insurance   ( also known as excess coverage) provides additional liability coverage that can help p rotect your assets. It can also help cover defense costs, attorney fees and other charges associated with lawsuits. In a serious accident or incident , the damages you caused to others can quickly add up to exceed the liability limits of your policy. Umbrella insurance can provide extra protection in these cases and is a valuable addition to any insurance portfolio, particularly if you have many assets to protect. Underlying auto limits are required . Talk to your   local independent agent   or Travelers representative to see if an umbrella policy is right for you.

Premium pricing & discounts

Do I qualify for any discounts?

Where available, you may qualify for savings with our Safe Driver , multi-policy insurance bundles , multi- car and  G ood S tudent  discounts , to name a few.   Additional discounts may be available   if you are insuring a new or hybrid/electric car or own a home. You could save based on how you choose to pay as well as when you pay your car insurance premium in full. Or you could save by paying through electronic funds transfer (EFT), payroll deduction or by consistently paying your premium on time.* * Ask your local independent agent  or Travelers representative about these and other ways to save on your car insurance to help ensure you are getting all the discounts for which you are eligible.  

What can I do to lower my car insurance premiums?

Your premium partly depends on the coverages, deductibles and policy limits you choose. Here are a few ways to help you identify and keep the discounts that can save you money:  

Talk with your  local independent agent  or Travelers representative.   Make sure you have the right policy for your individual needs and that you are getting all the discounts for which you are eligible.  

Drive safely.   Savings are often available to safe drivers. Staying accident-, violation- and claim-free can translate to lower premiums.  

Bundle your policies.   Purchasing your car as well as homeowners, condo , renters, boat or umbrella insurance through Travelers may qualify you for our   multi-policy discount .  

Can I qualify for a discount if I have more than one policy with Travelers?

In most cases, yes. When you buy property insurance (home, condo or renters) together with your car insurance, you can save up to 10% on your auto policy premium. When you purchase multiple policies with Travelers (auto and home, in addition to other policies, such as boat or umbrella), you c ould save more . Ask your   local independent agent  or Travelers representative about our   multi-policy discount.  

Can I qualify for a discount if I insure more than one car with Travelers?

In most cases, yes. Typically, you can save money when you insure two or more cars on the same car insurance policy with Travelers. Ask your  local independent agent  or Travelers representative about our multi-car discount. * *

What’s a deductible and how does it affect my car insurance premium?

Your car insurance deductible is the amount you’ll be responsible for paying toward the costs due to a covered loss before your insurance coverage pays. The lower the deductible, the less you’ll pay out of pocket if an incident occurs. For example, if you chose a $1,000 car insurance deductible and have a covered loss that causes $2,000 in damage to your car, you would be responsible to pay the first $1,000. Selecting a higher deductible may lower your car insurance premium. But it is important to choose a deductible you can afford in the event of a loss. Talk to your  local independent agent   or Travelers representative about the deductible options available to you.

What’s a policy limit of liability and how does it affect my car insurance premium?

Your car insurance liability coverage limits – also referred to as limit of liability – are the most your insurance will pay to another party if you are legally responsible for an accident. Policy liability limits are often composed of two separate dollar amounts –  for example, $100,000/$300,000. The first amount ($100,000) would be the per-person policy limit, while the second amount ($300,000) is the total limit payable for a covered accident. To keep monthly premiums low, drivers often opt for lower liability limits. Choosing a higher limit provides you more protection if an accident occurs. C hoose a liability limit you can afford in the event of a loss. Ask your  local independent agent   or Travelers representative for more information about your policy limits and options. Coverage limits may vary by coverage type and state.

Coverages & limits

What is bodily injury liability coverage and how much do I need?

Bodily injury liability insurance   typically covers the costs associated with covered injuries you may have caused to other people in an accident you caused while you were driving. Coverage can also pay for a legal defense if you're sued for that accident. At a minimum, you need to purchase a policy with the bodily injury liability limits required by your state. However, the state-mandated minimum may not offer adequate protection. Discuss your bodily injury liability policy limits with your   local independent agent   or Travelers representative for guidance on the level of coverage that will suit your needs.

Does auto liability coverage pay for damage to other people’s property?

Liability coverage pays for property damage that you cause to other vehicles and property while you are driving. It can also pay for your legal defense if the other party files a lawsuit against you. Your   local independent agent   or Travelers representative can help you select the amount of liability coverage that's right for you.

What is collision coverage? Do I need it?

Collision coverage   – also called collision insurance – helps pay for damage to your vehicle, up to the policy limit, if you are in an accident with another vehicle or object, or if your vehicle rolls over. The maximum you can recover under collision coverage is the actual cash value of your vehicle, minus the deductible. When selecting your deductible, consider what you can afford to pay should you need to file a claim. To purchase collision coverage, you must also have comprehensive coverage. Collision is generally required if you have a loan or lease on your vehicle. Limits vary by state. Otherwise, coverage and limits are optional.

What are medical payments/PIP payments?

Medical payments coverage    prot ects you and passengers in your vehicle who may be injured in an accident, no matter who is at fault. It also protects you as a pedestrian. Coverages vary by state, so be sure to check with your  local independent agent   or Travelers representative to verify what your policy covers. Some states offer  personal injury protection (PIP )   in place of, or in addition to, medical payments coverage. Also known as “no-fault” insurance, PIP  may cover additional expenses related to injuries sustained in an accident, such as:  

Medical expenses  

Funeral expenses  

Without medical payments/PIP coverage, you typically will need to pay the full cost of medical and related expenses out of pocket after an accident. Consider your risk tolerance and financial circumstances when choosing the level of protection  that’s right for you and your family – then discuss your medical payments/PIP coverage needs and policy limits with your local independent agent  or Travelers representative.

What is uninsured motorist insurance? Do I need it?

Uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance   can help pay for damages and medical costs resulting from an accident caused by someone who has no insurance or inadequate insurance coverage. In some states, it may be offered as a combined coverage, while in other states it may be offered as two separate coverages (one for uninsured and another for underinsured motorists). Coverage can extend to you and your family members who live with you. As a pedestrian, if you are hit by an uninsured driver, you can be covered. Uninsured/underinsured coverage is required in some states. Consider your risk tolerance and financial circumstances when choosing the level of protection that's right for you and your family, then discuss your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage needs and policy limits with your  local independent agent  or Travelers representative.

What is gap insurance (or loan/lease insurance)? Do I need it?

Loan/lease ga p insurance  is an optional coverage that can help pay off your car loan or lease if your car gets totaled or stolen and you owe more than the car's actual cash value. Consider this : The value of a vehicle depreciates the minute you drive it off the lot. If you are financing or leasing your vehicle and it gets totaled in an accident or stolen and never recovered, you may owe more than the vehicle is worth. For example, if your car is worth $10,000 at the time it gets totaled in a covered incident but you still owe $15,000 on your loan or lease, loan/lease gap coverage could pay off the remaining $5,000 so you don’t have to settle the balance out of pocket.  Loan/lease g ap coverage does not cover carryover balances, lease penalties, overdue payments or extended warranties. To be eligible for this coverage, you must be the original owner of the financed or leased vehicle and the car must be purchased from a new car dealer -- not a previous owner. Talk with your  local independent agent  or Travelers representative to explore whether this coverage is right for you.

Do I need special coverage if I add new features like a sound system, sunroof or truck cap to my car?

That depends. It is important to review your coverage needs with your independent agent or Travelers representative yearly, or anytime you make "after-market" modifications to your vehicle, to make sure that your policy coverage remains appropriate for your needs and budget. To learn more about car insurance, talk with your local independent agent or Travelers representative.

* *Early Quote, EFT, New Car, Safe Driver, Continuous Insurance, Paid in Full, Good Payer and Multicar Discounts are not available in all states including CA. 

More about car insurance

CAR INSURANCE OVERVIEW

It’s quick and easy to get a car insurance quote. When you hit the road, feel confident that you, your loved ones and your pockets are protected.

WHAT'S COVERED

Car insurance can help protect you from costs related to auto accidents and other types of losses, such as the theft of your car.

WAYS TO SAVE

Find out how bundling multiple policies can reduce the cost of your monthly premium.

PREPARE & PREVENT

Insights to help you manage risks at home and on the road

Resources for Buying & Selling Cars

It's tempting to buy a new car that looks great and is fun to drive, but you should also consider safety and insurance costs. Learn Travelers' tips for buying a new car.

Car Maintenance Resources

A regular car maintenance routine can help protect the value and safety of your car.

Tips for Safe Driving

Knowing is half the battle, especially when it comes to insurance. Learn about common car accidents and how to help avoid them.

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*Quotes may not be available in all states or for all products. In CA, quotes for all products must be obtained through a local independent agent.

The information on this site is general in nature. Any description of coverage is necessarily simplified. Whether a particular loss is covered depends on the specific facts and the provisions, exclusions and limits of the actual policy. Nothing on this site alters the terms or conditions of any of our policies. You should read the policy for a complete description of coverage. Coverage options, limits, discounts, deductibles and other features are subject to individuals meeting our underwriting criteria and state availability. Not all features available in all states. Discounts may not apply to all coverages and/or vehicles.

Insurance is underwritten by The Travelers Indemnity Company and its property casualty affiliates, One Tower Square, Hartford, CT 06183. In TX: Automobile insurance is offered by Travelers Texas MGA, Inc. and underwritten by Consumers County Mutual Insurance Company (CCM). CCM is not a Travelers Company. Home Insurance is underwritten by Travelers Personal Insurance Company, One Tower Square, Hartford, CT 06183. In CA: Automobile Insurance is underwritten by Travelers Commercial Insurance Company, Certificate of Authority #6519, State of Domicile: CT; or Travelers Property Casualty Insurance Company, Certificate of Authority #6521; State of Domicile: CT. Homeowners Insurance is underwritten by The Standard Fire Insurance Company, Certificate of Authority #3545, State of Domicile: CT. Boat and Yacht insurance is underwritten by The Standard Fire Insurance Company, Certificate of Authority # 3545, State of Domicile: Connecticut. In WA: Automobile Insurance is underwritten by The Standard Fire Insurance Company. Homeowners Insurance is underwritten by Travelers Personal Insurance Company. Personal Article Floater Insurance is underwritten by The Phoenix Insurance Company and The Travelers Indemnity Company of America. Personal Liability Umbrella Insurance is underwritten by The Standard Fire Insurance Company, The Automobile Insurance Company of Hartford, Connecticut, The Travelers Indemnity Company of America, The Travelers Home and Marine Insurance Company, Travelers Commercial Insurance Company and Travelers Personal Insurance Company. Special Event Insurance is underwritten by The Standard Fire Insurance Company. Boat Insurance is underwritten by The Travelers Home and Marine Insurance Company. Yacht Insurance is underwritten by The Standard Fire Insurance Company, The Automobile Insurance Company of Hartford, Connecticut, and The Travelers Indemnity Company of America. All underwriting companies in CA and WA listed above are located at One Tower Square, Hartford, CT 06183.

Pet Insurance, Motorcycle Insurance, Flood Insurance and Travel Insurance is not underwritten by Travelers or its Affiliates (“Travelers”). Travelers utilizes its affiliate, InsuraMatch, LLC, an independent insurance agency, to refer consumers interested in pet coverage, motorcycle and off-road vehicle coverage, flood coverage and travel coverage. For more information about the underwriting entities click “Learn More” to be directed to the specific product page.