Almost every state in the United States, according to the Insurance Information Institute, requires you to carry liability insurance. The exceptions are New Hampshire and Vermont (in these states you only have to show proof of financial responsibility or that you have sufficient funds to pay for the results of a car accident). Purchasing insurance helps to protect yourself, your family and your assets in the event of a covered loss. Knowing what's involved with insuring your vehicle will help expedite the process and ensure you receive the proper coverages.
Step 1
Collect all pertinent information to give to the agent. Important information includes: garaging address, names, birth dates, drivers' license numbers and possibly social security numbers for every driver and vehicle identification numbers for all the vehicles you wish to insure.
Step 2
Contact insurance companies either by phone or through the Internet and request a quote. Insurance companies will ask for your pertinent information as well as what kind of coverages you desire. The two basic coverages are liability, which covers the other person and his vehicle when you are at fault, and physical damage coverage, which will repair your vehicle in the event of a covered loss. Though it may seem intrusive, the more information you provide to the agent, the more accurate your quote will be.
Step 3
Compare quotes and decide which company and agent you wish to place your insurance with.
Step 4
Inform the agent when you are ready to start your policy. The agent will normally require you to submit a signed application and a down payment.
Step 5
Wait for your policy packet to arrive, then place your new auto ID card in the glove compartment. You will need to show this to any law enforcement official that requests it.
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