Car Insurance Companies
Auto insurance is a crucial financial obligation for many Americans, as it is illegal to drive a vehicle without it, and public transportation options are limited in areas beyond major U.S. cities.
The expense of insuring a vehicle can be substantial, especially for new drivers or individuals insuring luxury vehicles. Having insurance coverage can avert substantial financial losses in case of damage or theft.
Auto Insurance Provider
The ideal auto insurance provider combines comprehensive coverage with competitive rates and excellent customer service. While cost is an important factor when choosing a Car Insurance Companies it should not be the only deciding factor.
Choosing a company with a high customer satisfaction rating guarantees a smooth and hassle-free process when making a claim. Moreover, a reputable Car Insurance Companies provider will offer various discounts to recognize responsible and loyal customers.
Identifying the top car insurance companies depends on several factors. In this analysis, Select divides the leading auto insurance providers into six main categories.
(For a detailed explanation of our selection process for the best car insurance companies, please refer to our methodology.)
Best car insurance companies
- Top Choice for Affordable Rates: Geico
- Top Choice for Customer Satisfaction: State Farm
- Top Choice for Extensive Coverage: Nationwide
- Top Choice for Minimum Coverage: Auto-Owners
- Top Choice for Discounts: Amica
- Top Choice for High-Risk Drivers: Progressive
- Top Choice for Military Members and Veterans: USAA
1- Best for affordability
Geico stands out as the premier option among budget-friendly car insurance companies, offering the most economical average premiums for both minimum and comprehensive coverage. Geico also offers 16 discounts, rewarding policyholders for safe driving habits, completion of defensive driving courses, and insuring multiple vehicles.
The company also provides coverage for various insurance products such as homeowners’ and renters’ insurance, offering convenient bundling options for additional savings.
Average annual premium for full coverage: $1,353
2- Best for customer satisfaction
State Farm holds the title of the largest auto insurance company in the United States, according to market share data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). It also achieves the highest average J.D. Power score among major insurers, solidifying its position as the leading option for customer satisfaction.
Average annual premium for full coverage: $1,480
3- Best for wide coverage
Nationwide boasts one of the most expansive networks among car insurance companies, offering coverage in 46 states and the District of Columbia (excluding Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Massachusetts).
The extensive reach of its network is significant, as a larger pool of insurers competing for customers often leads to lower premiums. Furthermore, Nationwide sets itself apart with its usage-based insurance program, SmartMiles.
Average annual premium for full coverage: $1,422
4- Best for minimum coverage
Auto-Owners stands out as a cost-effective option for those in search of minimum coverage, offering an average annual premium of just $325. Stubby Select has identified Auto-Owners insurance as a preferred choice for young adult drivers and seniors. It is important to note that coverage is limited to 26 states.
Average annual premium for full coverage: $1,361
5- Best for discounts
Amica is distinguished as a top choice because of its wide range of discounts, offering 18 ways to save. Significant discounts are available for young drivers, including benefits such as a driver training discount and a good student discount.
Additional discounts are focused on the vehicle, with incentives for anti-theft systems, electronic stability control, and features like forward-collision warning. Amica offers savings through bundling home and auto insurance, insuring multiple vehicles, and choosing to pay the full premium upfront.
Average annual premium for full coverage: $1,467
6- Best for high-risk drivers
Progressive is a top choice for insurance among high-risk drivers, particularly those with a DUI or DWI on their records. Despite the usually higher insurance premiums for high-risk drivers, Progressive offers more competitive rates compared to other insurers.
The average full-coverage premium after a DUI or DWI is $2,049, demonstrating Progressive’s dedication to providing relatively lower rates for this group of drivers.
Average annual premium for full coverage: $1,642
7- Best for military members and veterans
USAA excels across multiple aspects, offering the most economical average premiums and emphasizing customer satisfaction, which is crucial for a seamless claims process.
USAA consistently achieves the highest J.D. Power Car Insurance Companies customer satisfaction scores, ensuring a dependable experience. Its affordable rates and high customer service ratings also make it a top choice for bundling options with cost-effective homeowners insurance.
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However, it’s important to note that USAA is exclusively available to military members, veterans, and their immediate family members.
Average annual premium for full coverage: $1,361
More on our top car insurance companies
Geico
Established in 1936, Geico has become a major player in the auto insurance industry, thanks to its combination of reasonable premiums and relatively high customer service ratings.
- NAIC complaint index (1 is average): 1.35, above average
- J.D. Power rating: 857 out of 1,000
- A.M. Best rating:
- A++
Various Types of Auto Insurance Coverage
Auto insurance includes five main types of coverage that can be included in your policy, each offering different levels of protection in case of a loss.
The fundamental coverage is liability coverage, which is required in most states and protects against damage and bodily injury. Depending on the level of protection you want, you can add additional coverage to your policy. Here is an overview of these options:
- Liability coverage: Typically required in most states, it includes bodily injury liability and property damage liability, protecting against personal injuries and property damage.
- Collision coverage: This covers repairs from a collision with an object, rather than another vehicle.
- Comprehensive coverage: This protects your vehicle from damage caused by non-vehicular incidents, such as theft, weather-related damage, and vandalism.
- Personal injury protection: Covers your medical expenses and lost income from an accident.
Uninsured motorist coverage: This protects your vehicle in hit-and-run accidents.
How to Select the Ideal Auto Insurance Provider for Your Needs
The most efficient way to find the perfect auto insurance provider is by conducting thorough comparison shopping.
Premium Car Insurance Companies
Every auto insurance provider evaluates the factors impacting your premium uniquely, so the rate a friend or neighbor received might not apply to you. Start by looking at companies you already have relationships with, like your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance provider. Bundling your coverage could lead to savings.
Insurance Requirements
Get several quotes customized to meet your specific auto insurance needs to find the best fit. Choose a policy that meets or exceeds your state’s minimum auto insurance requirements. Since Car Insurance Companies is a form of financial protection, it’s wise to choose a policy that aligns with or exceeds your net worth – the total value of your assets minus any debt.
After deciding on the right coverage amount, collect quotes from different insurers while keeping limits, coverage options, and deductibles consistent. By comparing these quotes, you can find the most affordable premium.