Questions you should ask about your auto insurance

There are a few basic questions you should ask about auto insurance, whether you plan to switch insurers or make some changes to your current policy. These questions include what coverages are available, how you can lower your rate, what the claims process is like, and more. For more general (or even very specific) questions, our insurance basics hub has all the answers you need.

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Frequently asked questions about car insurance

When looking for a new policy, ask your auto insurance company these questions to get an idea of whether they're a good fit for your needs:

What types of coverage do you offer?
Auto insurers offer many of the same coverages, such as liability, comprehensive and collision, and others. But some insurers may have unique coverage offerings and features. For example, Progressive offers a vehicle protection plan (where available) that can cover your car for major system failures and can be purchased if your vehicle is two model years old or newer and the applicable warranty is expired. You can also sign up for the Deductible Savings Bank^®, which rewards you with a lower deductible the longer you go without a claim or driving violation.

Ask your insurer about any unique programs you can enroll in that offer more protection or potential savings. You can also learn more about how car insurance works to get a better understanding of what coverage you need.
What are the policy limits and deductibles?
It's important to know your options when it comes to your policy's limits and deductibles. The coverages below typically allow you to choose from a range of insurance limits, which determine how much your insurance will pay out for a related claim:
The minimum limits available are typically determined by the state you live in, whereas the maximum limits available may vary by insurer and state.

Deductibles primarily apply to comprehensive and collision coverage and are the amount you pay toward a claim out of pocket. Deductibles can range from $100 to $2,000, depending on the insurer. Learn more about auto insurance deductibles and how they work.
Are there any discounts available?
Insurance discounts are important to consider as they can lower your rate considerably. Some common discounts include one for bundling home and auto insurance, as well as discounts for setting up automatic bill pay and signing up for paperless documents. Depending on the insurer, you may also be able to sign up for programs that may further lower your rate. For example, Progressive offers Snapshot, a usage-based insurance program that personalizes your rate based on how safely you drive.

Take a look at a few more ways to lower your car insurance rate, as well as the full list of Progressive auto insurance discounts.
What is the claims process like?
You should also ask your insurer or agent about the different ways you can file a claim, such as whether you can do so through an app, online, or over the phone. Taking a look at reviews of your insurance company's claims process is also a good idea. If most customers report positive experiences filing a claim with the company, then that's a good sign they have an efficient and customer-friendly approach.

If you're considering switching insurers, learn a few more tips about shopping for auto insurance to ensure you get the right coverage for you.