I Know I Need Auto Insurance, But Where Do I Start?

Researching auto insurance can seem a bit daunting. We can help you shop smartly by clarifying some of the basics and offering valuable insights.

Whether you’re buying your first auto insurance policy, changing insurance companies, or upgrading your coverage, there’s a lot to consider.

While we can’t give you the magic formula that’ll match you with your ideal policy, we can help you zero-in on some important things to think about when looking at the possibilities.

You’re the only one who can decide what’s best for your unique situation. So understanding your individual needs and your options is key.

Begin With the Basics

Whether you’re researching things online, or getting ready to talk to an Allstate agent, have your vehicle information close at hand. This includes: the year, make, and model of your car (for instance, “a 1990 Honda Accord”); the original list price (what you paid for the car); and the Vehicle Identification Number (or VIN), if you’ve got it.

Your Life, Your Needs

To find the best policy for your situation, consider the factors that are unique to your life. Things like: your age, your marital status, the number of drivers you need to insure (for example, are you insuring only yourself, or are other family members going to be included on the policy?). You’ll also need to factor in coverage considerations. For instance, do you want Comprehensive Coverage, Collision Coverage, or both? The answers to these questions will help you get an accurate sense of the extent and type of coverage you need.

Going Deeper

As you go further with your research, you’ll most likely be asked broad questions about things like: Do you own a house or rent? Do you have other important investments?

These kinds of questions are necessary because truly effective insurance is designed to protect you, your car, and your assets — even some things you may not have thought about. So it’s smart to consider everything you want to protect — your possessions, investments – as well as your car and family and then determine if they will qualify for coverage.

This information will help clarify which policies, coverage options, and coverage limits serve you best.

Allstate lets you shop anonymously. Our Ballpark Estimate Tool; can get you started without even having to give your name or other personal information.

Reworking an Existing Policy

If you’re changing or upgrading an existing policy, or switching providers, make sure you know the ins and outs of your current coverage. The Policy Declarations (which is part of your current policy) is a great place to start.

And if you’re shopping around, make sure the policy specifics, such as coverages and coverage limits, are truly the same. (You want to be comparing apples to apples, not apples to carrot sticks.)

http://www.allstate.com/auto-insurance/auto-insurance-comparison.aspx

Finding the Right Insurance Company

Insurance isn’t just about price. It’s about protection.

You’re giving valuable business to your chosen provider. So make sure you feel good about them. Are you getting the right insurance protection possible for the money? Will your claims process be smooth? Is the company responsive and available? How knowledgeable and experienced are their agents and staff? ... Choose a company  that lets you feel safe, listened to, valued, and supported.

If you still have questions, our Bumper-to-Bumper Basics ^SM   virtual guides can give you the inside scoop on car insurance, quickly and easily.