Auto Insurance

Last updated: December 9, 2025 Recently updated

Auto Insurance Guide

Coverage for your vehicle including liability, collision, and comprehensive

Not sure what coverage you need? Take our free 2-minute quiz to get personalized insurance recommendations.

What is Auto Insurance?

Auto Insurance provides essential protection for you and your family. Understanding how it works helps you make better coverage decisions.

Key Features

Coverage details and benefits
What’s typically included
Common exclusions to be aware of
Cost factors that affect premiums

Who Needs Auto Insurance?

Learn whether this type of coverage is right for your situation and how to determine the appropriate coverage amount.

How to Choose a Policy

Tips for comparing policies, understanding terms, and finding the best value for your needs.

Auto Insurance Costs by State

Auto insurance costs vary significantly by state—from $864/year in Maine to $3,096/year in Michigan. Factors include state regulations, population density, and litigation rates.

→ View all 50 states ranked | Detailed cost guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about auto insurance answered.

Moving States Checklist - Auto insurance when relocating
Getting Married Checklist - Combining auto policies

Umbrella Insurance - Extra liability protection beyond auto limits
Life Insurance - Income protection if a serious accident occurs

Auto Insurance Coverage Guide - Detailed coverage explanations
Insurance for New Drivers - Coverage tips for young adults

Data Sources

Auto insurance data in this guide come from NAIC (opens in new tab) , Insurance Information Institute (opens in new tab) , and state insurance department filings. Learn more about our data collection methods on our Methodology page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What auto insurance coverage do I legally need?

Requirements vary by state but typically include liability insurance (bodily injury and property damage). Some states require uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), or medical payments coverage. Check your state’s minimum requirements, though minimums may not provide adequate protection.

What's the difference between collision and comprehensive coverage?

Collision covers damage to your car from accidents with other vehicles or objects, regardless of fault. Comprehensive covers non-collision damage: theft, vandalism, weather, animal strikes, fire. Both are optional but usually required if you have a car loan or lease.

How can I lower my auto insurance premiums?

Compare quotes from multiple insurers, bundle with other policies, increase your deductible, ask about all available discounts (safe driver, good student, low mileage, defensive driving course), maintain good credit, and review coverage limits—you may not need comprehensive/collision on older vehicles.

What is uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you if hit by a driver with no insurance. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage kicks in when the at-fault driver’s coverage isn’t enough to cover your damages. This coverage is important since about 12% of drivers are uninsured.

Property-Casualty by State

Property-Casualty requirements and costs vary significantly by state. Select your state for specific regulations, average premiums, and local resources.