- 1). Get a copy of your driving record, particularly if you've had tickets or citations in the past. Check with the DMV to get a copy. Anything that shows up on your driving record might increase the cost of car insurance so make sure it's accurate.
- 2). Gather the information for you car, including the make, model, year and VIN. If the vehicle is already covered by another insurance policy, find a copy of it that shows your current coverages and costs. You'll also need your driver's license number and those of any other drivers listed on the policy.
- 3). Determine how much coverage you need. Remember you're not only protecting your own vehicle and safety but also those of your passengers and other drivers on the road. Buying the minimum insurance might not cover everything, particularly if you cause an accident that results in serious injury. An insurance agent can offer you more personalized advice based on your specific situation.
- 4). Ask for recommendations from your friends and family. Ask for the name of the insurance company they use and how satisfied they are with it. Determine how well the companies handle claims and their general level of customer service. This helps you target your search to companies with good reviews.
- 5). Contact several local insurance agents to get quotes. Have all of your information handy. Some agents will take your information over the phone while others might require an in-person meeting. Also consider that some agents work with several different insurance companies, giving them more flexibility to find the most affordable option. Others are tied to only one company, such as State Farm or Allstate agents.
- 6). Compare the quotes you received from each company. Make sure you're comparing the same coverages to get a true comparison. Choose the company that best fits your budget and needs.
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