Auto Insurance
Auto insurance can help with the financial consequences of an accident, vehicle damage, or theft. The protection you have depends on the coverage you select, your policy’s terms, and the requirements where you live.
What does auto insurance cover?
An auto policy may include several types of coverage:
Liability: Helps pay for injuries or property damage you cause to others.
Collision: Helps pay for damage to your vehicle from a collision with another vehicle or object.
Comprehensive: Helps pay for covered losses such as theft, fire, hail, or damage from an animal.
Medical payments or personal injury protection: May help with medical expenses and, depending on the coverage, other costs following an accident.
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage: May help when an at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage.
Availability, requirements, limits, and deductibles vary. Ask an agent to explain what each part of a proposed policy would cover.
How much coverage do you need?
Start with your state’s requirements and any conditions attached to a vehicle loan or lease. Minimum required coverage may not be enough to meet the costs of a serious accident.
Consider your financial circumstances, the value of your vehicle, and what you could afford to pay yourself after a loss. Compare policies using similar coverage limits and deductibles, rather than price alone.
What if you finance or lease a vehicle?
Your lender or leasing company will generally require collision and comprehensive coverage in addition to legally required insurance.
Ask about gap coverage, which may help address a difference between the vehicle’s insured value and the outstanding loan or lease balance following a covered total loss. Terms and exclusions vary.
Does your policy cover a rental car?
Some personal auto policies extend certain coverage to rental vehicles, but you should confirm the details before renting.
Ask your insurer about coverage for the destination, vehicle, drivers, and purpose of the trip. If you plan to rely on a credit card benefit, check its requirements and exclusions separately.
Who drives your vehicle, and how is it used?
Tell your insurer about household drivers and anyone who regularly uses your vehicle. Also disclose business use, delivery work, or rideshare driving, which may require additional or different coverage.
Providing accurate information helps the insurer assess your needs and explain any restrictions.
What should you do if you need to make a claim?
Contact your insurer promptly and follow its reporting instructions. Keep photographs, relevant documents, and records of your communications.
Ask how your deductible applies and what the next steps involve. Whether a claim affects your premium or renewal depends on the circumstances, insurer, and applicable state rules.
Find an insurance professional
Connect with an LGBTQ+ or affirming insurance agent to discuss your vehicle, driving needs, and available coverage.