If you own or lease a vehicle, having quality auto insurance is a must. However, just because you have to be insured does not mean that you have to settle for over-priced coverage or a subpar policy. So the question becomes: Where can I get multiple auto insurance quotes without having to do a ton of work?
Whenever you are shopping around for a new insurance policy, it is important that you compare multiple quotes. We understand that navigating the world of auto insurance can be complicated and outright frustrating, which is why we have created this simple guide. Above, we’ll answer common questions and help connect you with a reputable insurance provider. Our experts have reviewed the best car insurance companies in the industry for reputation, coverage, cost and customer service.
To go ahead and get free quotes, enter your zip code into our simple too. You can compare each offer, then choose the best option for your needs.
Where Can I Get Multiple Auto Insurance Quotes?
There is more than one way to obtain multiple car insurance quotes:
- Visit a provider’s website
- Call a provider directly
- Meet an agent in person
- Use a quote comparison tool
What is a Comparative Rate Tool?
A comparative rate tool is a kind of software that uses an algorithm to obtain insurance rates for you. When you input the requested information, it will quickly analyze the data and provide multiple quotes.
For instance, if you have negative marks on your driving record (like at-fault accidents or tickets), then you will most likely be matched with a high-risk insurance company. Don’t let that worry you, though. Many well-respected companies like Progressive partner with high-risk drivers.
You won’t receive just one quote, either. Typically, a comparative rate tool will provide you with anywhere from two to four quotes from major providers.
Reasons to Shop for Multiple Auto Insurance Quotes
There are many advantages to shopping around for car insurance. First and foremost, comparing multiple quotes can help you find the best rates. If you immediately sign up with the first company that you speak to, you could be stuck paying unnecessarily high premiums.
Comparing rates is not a one-time task, either. You should obtain multiple rates every time your policy is up for renewal. It is especially beneficial to compare rates if your current provider is upping your premiums. You may be shocked at just how much you can save by ditching that old company that you have been using for years.
What’s the Best Way to Look for a New Car Insurance Policy?
There are tons of options when it comes to obtaining auto insurance quotes. Each method has its share of advantages, but there are some potential drawbacks that you should be aware of as well. Let’s take a look at each of your options:
Visit a Provider’s Website
If you can do without personal interaction, getting online quotes through provider websites can be a simple and efficient way to compare rates. You can find most coverage information on providers’ sites, allowing you to get a good idea of which plan will be right for you.
With that being said, you will need to input personal information on each site that you visit, and while the process is similar for each provider, none of the data will carry over from site to site.
Call a Provider Directly
Calling insurers is a good option if you would like some degree of personal interaction, but do not need or desire a face-to-face meeting. This method is more efficient than driving from location to location and can still allow you to ask any questions you have about insurance coverage.
However, calling around is still not the most efficient option. Many insurance companies rely on automated prompts, which can result in you being bounced around from person to person.
Meet an Agent in Person
Obtaining quotes online is convenient, but it does not provide any face-to-face interaction. If you want to sit down and discuss your insurance needs with another person, visiting an office to speak to an agent directly is the way to go. This way, the representative can walk you through each option and answer any questions that you may have. This is especially a good choice if you do not know much about auto insurance.
Keep in mind that in-person visits can be time-consuming. Another potential downside is the price. Agents sometimes have relationships with certain insurers and can find you discounts, but they also need to charge a fee for their services.
Using a Quote Comparison Tool
For those who like to shop online, using a quote comparison tool can be a way to save time. Rather than visiting each insurer’s website individually, you can enter your information into one page and receive quotes from several top insurers. Most of your personal info will even be ported over to the provider’s site should you choose to buy a policy.
The downside to using an online tool is that you can’t ask questions during the process. But it can be a great place to start comparing rates so you have an idea of which provider might earn your business. And if you don’t have any questions, then it’s generally the fastest way to compare prices and purchase coverage.
Our Recommendations for Auto Insurance
Two of our top recommendations for coverage are GEICO and Progressive. Read on to learn more about why these insurers topped our industry-wide review. If you are ready to start comparing quotes, simply enter your zip code below. You will be matched with leading insurers in your area.
Progressive: Best for High-Risk Drivers
We gave Progressive an overall rating of 9.1 out of 10.0 stars. The insurer is one of the nation’s most popular choices for car insurance for its comprehensive coverage offerings, affordable prices and advanced technology. In addition to standard coverage, Progressive drivers can purchase roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and custom parts and equipment coverage.
GEICO: Best Overall
When using our rate tool, you may receive a quote from GEICO. The company came in first place in our review for its low rates and strong customer service scores from experts like J.D. Power. You can purchase add-on policies like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement, as well as GEICO mechanical breakdown insurance, which is similar to an extended car warranty.
Methodology
The Detroit Bureau collects data from every major car insurance provider to formulate rankings of the best insurers. Our in-depth rating system takes into account market share, coverage, pricing, customer satisfaction and ratings from industry experts. Each insurer is given a weighted score in four categories, as well as an overall score out of 10.0.
We recommend auto insurance companies based on these rankings, but we also encourage you to perform your own research and compare quotes to find the best coverage.
