Quick Answer: Why Compare Auto Insurance?
Auto insurance rates for the same driver and vehicle can vary by hundreds of dollars per year between carriers. Comparing quotes is the single most effective way to lower your premium — and it takes just minutes at OwlQuotes.com, completely free.
What Does Auto Insurance Cover?
- Liability coverage. Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. Required in most states.
- Collision coverage. Pays for damage to your vehicle from a collision regardless of fault.
- Comprehensive coverage. Covers theft, vandalism, weather damage and other non-collision events.
- Uninsured motorist coverage. Protects you if you're hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- Medical payments coverage. Helps pay medical expenses after an accident.
- Roadside assistance. Covers towing and emergency services.
What Factors Affect Your Auto Insurance Rate?
- Your driving record. Clean records get the best rates — accidents and violations can raise your premium significantly.
- Your vehicle. Make, model, age and safety features all affect your rate.
- Your location. Urban areas and high-traffic ZIP codes typically carry higher rates.
- Your age. Young and senior drivers often pay more due to statistical risk.
- Your credit score. In most states, better credit means lower premiums.
- Coverage level. More coverage and lower deductibles mean higher premiums.
5 Ways to Lower Your Auto Insurance Premium
- Compare quotes from multiple carriers every year — rates change and loyalty doesn't always pay
- Bundle auto and home insurance with the same carrier for a multi-policy discount
- Ask about discounts — good driver, good student, multi-car, and safe vehicle discounts add up
- Raise your deductible to lower your monthly premium (make sure you can cover it if needed)
- Maintain a clean driving record — even one ticket can raise your rate significantly
Auto Insurance FAQs
How much auto insurance do I need?+
At minimum you need your state's required liability coverage. If you have a loan or lease, your lender will require full coverage including comprehensive and collision. Most drivers benefit from carrying more than the state minimum.
How often should I compare auto insurance rates?+
At least once a year, or whenever you have a major life change — new vehicle, moving to a new state, marriage, or adding a driver to your policy.
Will comparing quotes affect my credit score?+
In most cases, no. Getting an auto insurance quote typically uses a soft credit inquiry which does not affect your credit score.
What is the cheapest auto insurance?+
The cheapest option varies by driver, location and vehicle. The only way to find the best rate for your specific situation is to compare quotes from multiple carriers — which is exactly what OwlQuotes.com helps you do.
Is full coverage worth it?+
Full coverage is generally worth it if your vehicle is less than 10 years old or worth more than $4,000. For older vehicles, the cost of collision and comprehensive may exceed the benefit. Compare your vehicle's value against your annual premium to decide.
