12 guides
Car insurance guides
Independent consumer education. We're not an insurer, agent or broker, we don't sell or quote insurance, and we don't take commissions.
Coverage basics
What each coverage does, limits, deductibles and your declarations page.
- Car insurance coverage types, explained
Liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist and the rest, in plain English.
- What do liability limits like 50/100/50 mean?
How to read split limits, and why state minimums are often too low.
- Choosing a deductible
How a higher deductible changes your premium, and how to choose one you can afford.
- How to read your declarations page
The one-page summary of your policy, line by line.
Judging insurers
Complaints, financial strength and claims experience.
- How to judge a car insurance company
Price is one factor. Licensing, complaints, financial strength and claims handling matter too.
- The NAIC complaint index, explained
What the complaint index measures, how to look it up and how to read it.
- Insurer financial strength ratings
What AM Best and other ratings mean for you as a driver.
Shopping smart
Comparing quotes fairly, agents and timing.
- How to compare car insurance quotes fairly
Same drivers, same cars, same coverage, or the comparison means nothing.
- Captive agents, independent agents and buying direct
The three ways to buy car insurance and what each is good for.
- When to shop for car insurance
Life changes and renewals that are good times to compare.
Protect yourself
Scams and switching without a gap.
- Car insurance scams to avoid
Fake policies, "ghost brokers" and cheap-quote traps.
- How to switch car insurance without a gap
The order of steps that avoids a lapse, a double charge or a surprise bill.