Compare equivalent coverage
Use the same liability limits, deductibles, drivers, vehicles, and optional features when comparing policy information.
Review deductibles
A higher deductible may reduce premium in some cases, but it can also increase your out-of-pocket responsibility after a covered loss.
Ask about available discounts
Discounts vary by carrier and may relate to multiple policies, vehicle safety features, driving history, payment method, or other factors.
Update vehicle use
Annual mileage, commute patterns, garaging information, and household drivers should be accurate when policy information is requested.
What can affect auto insurance pricing?
Insurers may consider many factors allowed under applicable law, including driving history, vehicle characteristics, location, coverage structure, household drivers, claims history, mileage, and other rating information. The specific approach varies by carrier and state.
When should you review a policy?
Drivers often review coverage after buying or selling a vehicle, moving, adding or removing a household driver, changing commute patterns, financing a vehicle, or when a policy renews. A review can also be useful when life circumstances or risk tolerance changes.
A simple policy-review checklist
- Confirm every vehicle and regular household driver is accurately listed.
- Compare equivalent liability limits, deductibles, and optional coverage features.
- Review annual mileage and vehicle-use information for accuracy.
- Ask which discounts are actually applied and what requirements must be maintained.
- Consider the out-of-pocket impact of a higher deductible before selecting one.
- Review renewal documents for changes in premium, coverage, or policy terms.
Price matters, but structure matters too
Two policies with different premiums may also have different limits, deductibles, exclusions, claims features, and optional benefits. A useful comparison looks beyond the monthly or annual price and considers how the policy is designed to respond when a covered loss occurs.