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Best Car Insurance Companies

We compared 50 companies and chose the top car insurance providers

  • Best overall
    Freeway Insurance
  • Discounts
    Amica Car Insurance
  • Accident forgiveness
    SAFECO Auto Insurance
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By: Danni White
+2 more
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Edited by: Vincent Landino
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Reviewed by: Matthew Brodsky

Best Car Insurance Companies

Auto insurance is more than just a legal necessity for driving in most states. It’s a way to protect your finances in case the worst happens.

Based on our analysis, Freeway Insurance is the best car insurance company in 2025. Amica stands out for offering many discounts, and Safeco is our pick for accident forgiveness.

Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
  • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
  • 4,773,849 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
  • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
  • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
  • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

Our 6 picks for the best car insurance companies

  1. Best overall: Freeway Insurance
  2. Best for discounts: Amica
  3. Best for accident forgiveness: Safeco
  4. Best for classic car drivers: Farmers
  5. Best for high-risk drivers: The General
  6. Best for older drivers: AARP

To pick the best car insurance, we evaluated companies on recent verified customer reviews, available discounts, perks, coverage for special types of drivers and other factors.

Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations. Read our full methodology for all the details on how we selected the best car insurance companies.

Compare the top auto insurance companies

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Best overall

Freeway Insurance

Freeway Insurance
4.7
566 reviews
24/7 customer servicee
Yes
Discounts
Yes
Availability
Nationwide
Read Reviews

Freeway Insurance is a great way to go if you’re in the market for auto insurance. Since Freeway is a broker, it connects drivers with affordable policies across multiple carriers.

There are options for high-risk drivers, which is nice to see. The company also serves both Spanish- and English-speaking customers.

Pros
  • Wide range of coverage options
  • Offers coverage for high-risk drivers
  • Serves both Spanish and English-speaking customers
Cons
  • Relatively high brokerage fees
  • Some complaints about customer service
“The agent I worked with was particularly helpful and provided a lot of information. … The coverage they offered met my needs and was exactly what I was looking for.”
Jaslyn Denver, CO
“Freeway had a better deal than my insurance provider before. Dealing with the reps was great and I got everything I needed.”
William Woodland Hills, CA
“All in all, Freeway's customer service was excellent.”
Marceyttia Huger, SC
Best for discounts

Amica Car Insurance

Amica Car Insurance
3.0
294 reviews
24/7 customer service
No
Discounts
Yes
Availability
Most states
Read Reviews

We selected Amica as the best for discounts because of the tremendous number of ways you can save on your policy. These include bundling with other policies, insuring multiple vehicles, remaining with the company for a certain number of years, defensive driver discounts and more.

The company also offers a unique dividend policy option that costs a little more up front but can pay back actual dividends if the company performs well.

Pros
  • Unique dividend policy options
  • Numerous discounts available
  • Lots of perks, including roadside assistance
  • Coverage in every state except Hawaii
Cons
  • Can be expensive compared with competitors
  • Relatively few physical branches
“Over my lifetime I've dealt with several auto insurance companies. … Amica far outshone all other companies when I had a serious accident.”
walter Vero Beach, FL
“I have been insured by them for homeowners and auto for over 30 years. Every contact with them leaves me with a positive impression as to how good they are.”
Samuel Boca Raton, FL
Best for accident forgiveness

SAFECO Auto Insurance

SAFECO Auto Insurance
1.9
212 reviews
24/7 customer service
Yes
Discounts
Yes
Availability
Several states
Read Reviews

We selected Safeco for the excellent perks, including accident forgiveness. It also has a new car replacement policy where it will replace a totaled vehicle with a brand new one if it meets certain requirements.

Happy policyholders often highlight Safeco for its reasonable pricing, ease of filing claims and helpful customer service.

Pros
  • Optional new car replacement
  • Numerous coverage options, including pets
  • Backed by Liberty Mutual
  • Lots of optional add-ons
Cons
  • Some features have limited availability
  • Little focus on high-risk drivers compared with competitors
“I have been very satisfied with everything. Very customer oriented and very easy to contact and work with.”
Judy Overland Park, KS
“I have a good policy. SAFECO offers multi-car discounts. We have two fully covered vehicles for a wonderful price.”
Rene Seattle, WA
“Great purchasing experience with SAFECO Auto Insurance. … They are also very responsive and easy to work with when filing a claim. I'm completely happy with my insurance.”
Karen Santa Ana, CA
Best for classic car drivers

Farmers Auto Insurance

Farmers Auto Insurance
2.1
550 reviews
24/7 customer service
No
Discounts
Yes
Availability
Nationwide
Read Reviews

Farmers has a variety of special coverage options, including customized equipment coverage. There are several discounts available, and even optional rideshare coverage for customers who use their vehicles for Uber and Lyft.

People seem to appreciate the personalized service provided by their agents and the ease of filing claims. The big downside with Farmers is that it doesn’t offer traditional gap coverage.

Pros
  • Special coverage options, such as customized equipment coverage
  • Several discounts available
  • Optional rideshare coverage for Uber and Lyft drivers
Cons
  • No traditional gap coverage
  • Rates can be higher than at competitors
“Farmers is second to none when it comes to standing by the clients in the event of a claim.”
Michael San Diego, CA
“Farmers is a great insurance company. I was welcomed with excellent customer service as well as a fast and affordable quote which helped me make the decision to switch.”
Connie Spring City, TN
Best for high-risk drivers

The General Car Insurance

The General Car Insurance
2.1
589 reviews
24/7 customer service
No
Discounts
Yes
Availability
Most states
Read Reviews

The General is an excellent option for high-risk drivers and those with low credit scores. In fact, it’s geared specifically towards customers who might otherwise struggle to find insurance.

The company’s service is also highly affordable compared with many competitors. The General is available in 46 states.

Pros
  • Highly affordable
  • Special focus on high-risk drivers
  • Down payments are relatively low
Cons
  • Early cancellation penalties
  • Website lacks useful information
“Very easy and quick to get insurance and great price. I was able to shop around online and selected the policy and price I needed.”
April Denver, CO
“They were very helpful and very efficient in starting my policy.”
Mary San Jose, CA
Best for older drivers

AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford

AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford
1.9
928 reviews
24/7 customer service
No
Discounts
Yes
Availability
Nationwide
Read Reviews

AARP is an easy pick for older drivers. If you’re an AARP member, you can get very affordable coverage that’s designed especially for seniors. We also like that it offers fast, free quotes.

Positive AARP auto insurance reviews often highlight competitive rates, excellent customer service and an efficient claims process.

Pros
  • Specifically designed for senior drivers
  • Extra discounts and perks for AARP members
  • Free quotes available
Cons
  • Must be over 50 years of age
  • Only available to AARP members
“AARP Hartford is great car insurance. Consistently gives the best rates and discounts that fit our changing lifestyle and auto usage. Superb customer service.”
Deborah Hancock, NH
“Great reputation. Affordable coverage. Really good umbrella policies. Many payment options. Super-duper really good customer service. They care about their customers…”
kimberly Sherman Oaks, CA

How we chose the best car insurance companies

The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach to find the best car insurance companies in 2025.

1. Customer feedback analysis
We analyzed hundreds of verified reviews to measure how satisfied existing policyholders are in four key areas:

  • Customer service
  • Coverage
  • Claims handling
  • Staff

2. Company offerings
We reviewed each insurer’s available discounts and features, such as accident forgiveness. We also considered the range of driver types who can qualify for coverage (for example, classic car drivers or high-risk drivers).

3. Scoring system
Each company received a score from 1 to 10 for every metric. The company with the highest performance in a category earned a 10, and all others were scored relative to that benchmark.

Car Insurance Buyers Guide

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Car insurance can be confusing, especially with all the different types of coverage and costs involved. Whether you're a new driver or simply looking to better understand your policy, this guide breaks down the essentials. We'll cover what car insurance is, how it works, the main types of coverage available, what affects your rates and more. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of what you're paying for and how to make smart choices for your budget and driving needs.

Key insights

Car insurance isn't just protection for your vehicle—it's a financial agreement that can shield you from costly repairs, liability claims and medical bills after an accident.

Jump to insight

Understanding the differences between liability, collision and comprehensive coverage helps you avoid overpaying or underinsuring, especially if your car is older or has a low market value.

Jump to insight

Your premium is influenced by more than just your driving record—credit history, mileage and how you use your car also play a significant role, making it crucial to shop around regularly.

Jump to insight

What is car insurance?

Car insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company that protects you financially in the event of an accident, theft or other damage involving your vehicle. In exchange for regular premium payments, your insurer agrees to cover certain types of costs outlined in your policy, such as repairs, medical bills and liability claims.

How does car insurance work?

You pay a monthly or yearly fee in exchange for protection against the costs associated with vehicle damage or bodily injury resulting from a collision and certain other circumstances. If your car sustains damage in an accident, you file a claim with your car insurance company, and they pay you the amount specified in your policy minus your deductible. If you’re determined to be at fault in an accident, your premium may go up.

Terms to know:

  • Claim: A claim is a request for a payout on an insurance policy. You will submit a claim in the event of a collision or other covered damage. Most car insurance companies have an online claims portal to make submitting a claim quick and easy.
  • Deductible: A car insurance deductible is the amount of money you will be required to pay out of pocket to cover a claim. Let’s say a car rear-ends you in traffic, scratching your paint, damaging your bumper and breaking one of your tail lights. The total cost of repairs is $2,500, and your deductible is $500. You will pay the $500, and your insurance will pay out the remaining $2,000 to cover the cost of the repairs. Electing for a higher deductible is one way drivers can secure cheaper car insurance.
  • Policy: An insurance policy is a document that outlines the terms and conditions of your insurance coverage.
  • Policyholder: This person is the named party on the insurance policy. For example, if you’re a teenager, your mother might be the policyholder on your insurance.
  • Premium: An insurance premium is the total amount you pay for car insurance each year. Premiums are often broken down into monthly payments.

Types of car insurance coverage and requirements

Car insurance is typically broken up into different types of coverage, each with separate limits and protections. Here’s a rundown of what they cover so you can understand what you’re paying for.

Liability insurance

Liability insurance covers you if you’re in an accident deemed to be your fault. It will cover repairs to damaged property, as well as medical bills resulting from injury to the other driver and their passengers. Most states require at least a minimum amount of liability insurance, but it’s a good idea to purchase extra protection if you can afford it.

Collision coverage

If you are involved in an accident, collision coverage pays for the repairs to your car whether or not you’re at fault. If your car is “a total loss,” good collision coverage will pay for the value of your car. If you drive an older car that isn’t worth much money, it may not be worth it to pay for collision insurance.

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive coverage handles things that happen to your car outside of collisions, such as weather damage, theft and other factors. It’s a good idea to opt for comprehensive coverage if you can afford it, but it can get costly and might not be worth it for older or otherwise inexpensive cars.

Personal injury protection

Personal injury protection is imperative for all drivers. Medical bills following an accident can be devastating. Good personal injury coverage will cover medical expenses for you and your passengers, as well as missed work expenses.

Uninsured motorist protection

About one in six drivers is uninsured, even though this is illegal in most states. Uninsured motorist protection offers payment when you are in a hit-and-run or a collision with another driver who is at fault and does not have insurance. It can be relatively inexpensive to add uninsured motorist protection to an insurance policy.

Rental car coverage

Check your policy for rental reimbursement. It doesn’t usually add too much to your monthly bill and can be a lifesaver if your car has to undergo major repairs in the shop as a result of an accident.

» LEARN: Does car insurance cover rental cars?

Gap insurance

Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe and what your car is worth.

For new cars, gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe and what the car is worth. Gap insurance generally comes into play for totaled or stolen cars.

Stacked coverage

If you insure more than one vehicle, you may be able to stack your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. For example, let’s say you cover two vehicles on the same policy and each vehicle has a standard $25,000 in uninsured motorist protection. If you have stacked coverage and sustain injuries in a crash caused by an uninsured driver, you’ll be able to draw from both payouts for a combined total of $50,000 in coverage.

Pet injury coverage

Pet injury insurance will help cover vet bills in the event your pet is injured in an automobile accident. Pet coverage is sometimes included as a part of collision insurance.

New car replacement

Exactly as it sounds, new car replacement insurance pays for the cost of a new car of the same make and model as your insured vehicle in the event your car is totaled or stolen. New car insurance won’t be available for every vehicle, and it generally must be purchased in addition to a full coverage policy, so it will be pricey.

» MORE: How much is the car insurance industry worth?

Car insurance cost

The cost of car insurance varies widely depending on a range of factors, including your age, location, driving record, type of vehicle and chosen coverage levels. Insurers also consider your credit history, annual mileage and whether you use your car for business or personal reasons.

Because of this, there's no single price for a standard car insurance policy. Some people may pay under $100 per month, while others could pay several hundred. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to compare quotes from multiple providers and consider bundling policies or raising your deductible to lower premiums.

It's also helpful to regularly review your policy to make sure it still fits your needs and budget. Even small changes in your circumstances could affect what you pay.

Understanding state-specific car insurance requirements

Most states require a minimum level of liability insurance to drive legally, but specific coverage limits and additional mandates vary widely. This means that while one state might require personal injury protection (PIP), another state may not, making it critical to confirm the rules where you live.

For example, Florida is a no-fault state that requires PIP, whereas Oklahoma uses an at-fault system that typically mandates bodily injury and property damage liability. Keeping track of evolving laws ensures you don’t risk fines, license suspensions or gaps in essential coverage. If you move or buy a car in another state, reviewing insurance requirements ahead of time can save you money and hassle overall.

FAQ

Is it illegal not to have car insurance?

Technically not. Most states require drivers to have car insurance, but some don’t. They may require you to prove financial responsibility in another way, though.

What are car insurance requirements?

Car insurance minimums vary by state. For example, Wisconsin requires a minimum of $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person while North Carolina requires $30,000 of the same coverage. Some states, like Florida, may only require a certain type of coverage. Consult your state government to find your minimum coverage.

How much car insurance do I need?

Generally, you will be required to have at least liability insurance. Liability insurance pays out when you’re at fault in an accident. Liability coverage varies, covering vehicle repairs, property damage or the medical costs of anyone injured during the accident.

Liability insurance is usually presented as three numbers, which represent your coverage limits. For example, a 100/300/50 liability policy would cover up to $100,000 for bodily injury per person, $300,000 for bodily injury per accident and $50,000 for property damage per accident.

Coverage beyond liability is up to you; if you have a newer or pricier car, you may want to opt for total protection with collision and comprehensive coverage. If your car is being financed, the lien holder may require coverage beyond liability as well.

What does my car insurance cover?

The amount of coverage required by law varies from state to state. If you’re a cautious person, you might opt for a more expensive policy with better coverage. If you have a lot of assets, experts recommend that you get enough liability coverage to protect them; otherwise, the other party involved in an accident could sue and attempt to collect on those assets.

Carefully examine your auto insurance policy to understand what’s covered and excluded, and work with your agent and insurance company to make the right adjustments to suit your unique situation.

  • Limits: Pay attention to the limits and deductibles set by the insurance policy. In some cases, there will be a maximum payout, which may not be as high as you’re looking for. In others, the deductible could be higher than you’re willing to pay out of pocket in the event of a claim.
  • Exclusions: Sometimes, insurance policies will have exclusions, and if you don’t read your policy carefully, you could end up paying out of pocket for an accident or repair that you thought would be covered. Some common exclusions are damage caused by an uninsured driver, car theft and damage from natural disasters.
How long do insurance claims take?

Car insurance claims can take as little as a few days to as long as a month to process, depending on the type of claim. Total loss claims may take longer to process than a simple claim like a broken tail light or dented bumper.

Who has the cheapest car insurance?

When choosing a car insurance provider, it’s important to shop around for coverage that fits your budget and lifestyle. Multiple factors affect how much you pay for car insurance:

  • Your driving record
  • Your credit score
  • Type of car you drive
  • Type of coverage you want

Don’t be afraid to get quotes from multiple providers and compare benefits. You can also read company reviews to find out about other customers’ experiences.

» COMPARE: Geico vs. Progressive vs. State Farm

Is minimum coverage enough for financed cars?

Lenders typically require full coverage if you have a car loan, meaning you need more than just basic liability to protect the vehicle and meet financing obligations. While minimum coverage meets legal requirements, it might not fully cover the car’s value in an accident.

Disclaimer

Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.

*Verified companies are in good standing with regulatory authorities, have been vetted and approved by InsuraMatch, our trusted partner, and are represented by Insuramatch or it's affiliates.

Car insurance company information

AAA Auto Insurance

This company is a motorist membership organization that offers auto insurance and other services. You don’t need to be a member to purchase coverage, but members do receive special discounts. The company has an A+ rating from AM Best for financial strength.

Read 1391 Reviews
AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford

AARP, the nonprofit organization devoted to senior living, partners with The Hartford to offer auto insurance to its members. Many seniors’ reviews of this company point out the benefit of working with a company focused on their demographic. AM Best gives an A+ rating for financial security.

Read 928 Reviews
Allstate Car Insurance

This company’s accident forgiveness means rates don’t go up after one accident, no matter who’s at fault. Customers also have options when it comes to limits and deductibles. The company’s Milewise program offers coverage based on mileage driven per day and is a good option for those who don’t drive as much.

Read 2437 Reviews
Amica Car Insurance

This auto insurance company is fairly new but has a reputation for affordable car insurance. The company has an A+ rating for financial strength from AM Best. Customers enjoy several free benefits with every policy, including lock replacement, air bag repair and depreciation protection. Auto insurance is already priced affordably, but customers still can qualify for several discounts.

Read 294 Reviews
Esurance

This auto insurance marketplace has auto insurance policies available for 43 states. After a quick survey, this website automates the tedious process of price comparison and finds affordable car insurance plans for users.

Read 1092 Reviews
Farm Bureau Auto Insurance

In addition to cars, this company offers insurance for vans, RVs and motorcycles. The company has an A rating from AM Best for financial strength. It’s important to note the company only offers auto insurance policies directly in Arizona, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Read 338 Reviews
Farmers Auto Insurance

This insurance company has 24/7 customer service. Its ride-share insurance fills the gaps that regular auto policies don’t cover, and an app called Signal monitors driving behavior and helps customers qualify for discounts.

Read 550 Reviews
GEICO

This company is one of the nation’s second largest auto insurers. It stores user information for 90 days, so prospective customers who want to think on their quote for a while can come back and pick up where they left off. Customer service is available 24/7. The company also insures motorcycles and recreational vehicles.

Read 5309 Reviews
Liberty Mutual Car Insurance

This insurance company has a unique deductible-reducing policy and also offers auto insurance specifically designed for teachers. The company’s RightTrack program monitors driving and qualifies customers for additional discounts.

Read 1564 Reviews
Mercury Car Insurance

This insurance company sells both auto and home insurance that can be bundled together. The auto insurance is bare-bones and a good choice for those seeking basic, affordable coverage. This company offers coverage in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia.

Read 419 Reviews
Nationwide Auto Insurance

This company sells homeowners, life and other types of insurance, in addition to auto insurance. It has a 24/7 claims center. Insurance is available for all types of vehicles, including classic cars. Safe drivers receive discounts for good driving behavior tracked through an app.

Read 1086 Reviews
The General Car Insurance

This insurance company provides good options for drivers perceived as being higher risk for coverage, including young drivers and those with poor driving histories. The annual cost for a 21-year-old male who has had an accident is about $4,000 a year. This may be expensive, but other companies can charge nearly $6,000 a year.

Read 589 Reviews
Progressive Auto Insurance

This company, in addition to auto insurance, offers property, personal and commercial insurance products. Customers can bundle these plans with their auto insurance. The company’s Loyalty Rewards Program gives customers points for loyalty and offers benefits like accident forgiveness. Features include 24/7 customer service and plenty of discounts.

Read 4757 Reviews
State Farm Car Insurance

This insurance company offers customers — current and potential — tons of helpful educational resources via its website, including helpful tips for purchasing the right car and equipment for the lowest insurance prices possible. A bevy of discounts allows customers to save on their premiums.

Read 3985 Reviews
Grundy

This company specializes in insuring collectible automobiles but offers coverage for regular-use automobiles as well. It is a division of Philadelphia Insurance Companies, which has a financial strength rating of A++ from AM Best. This is the highest possible rating.

Read 4 Reviews
USAA Car Insurance

This company offers auto insurance and other insurance options for active-duty, retired and honorably discharged military personnel and their eligible family members. The company sets up flexible payments at no charge. Customers get discounts for storing vehicles at a military base.

Read 2319 Reviews
Chubb Auto Insurance

Chubb has insurance options for regular vehicles, classic motorcycles, classic cars, vintage trucks, vintage military vehicles and antique tractors. The company also offers home insurance policies.

Read 20 Reviews
Hagerty

This auto insurance company specializes in insurance for classic cars. It also sells boat insurance. Individuals with negative driving histories are not eligible for the company’s auto insurance plans.

Read 70 Reviews
Auto-Owners Insurance

This company is an independent agency that customizes quotes from a large network of providers to find the best choice for the individual customer. The company has 35,000 independent agents and coverage in 26 states. Its financial strength rating from AM Best is A++.

Read 182 Reviews
Erie Auto Insurance

This auto insurance company writes policies in 12 states and Washington, D.C. The company also offers homeowners insurance. Bundling this with auto insurance means lower premiums on both. The company’s Auto Plus package includes benefits like rental car coverage, vanishing deductibles and death benefits.

Read 223 Reviews
Grange Insurance

Grange offers auto, business, home and life insurance. It has an AM Best rating of A for financial strength. The company has insurance options in Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin.

Read 452 Reviews
NJM Auto Insurance

The company has an A++ rating for financial strength from AM Best. This is the highest possible rating. The company writes insurance policies in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Consumers can turn to the company to find coverage for personal vehicles, business fleets and motorcycles.

Read 57 Reviews
Plymouth Rock Auto Insurance

The company has a rating of A- for financial strength from AM Best. Its auto insurance is available in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. The company also offers home insurance, condo insurance, renters insurance and umbrella insurance. These are available for bundling discounts.

Read 96 Reviews
SAFECO Auto Insurance

This is a Liberty Mutual Company that provides a broad range of insurance products for vehicle and property owners. While the company has a national presence, it also employs local agents who provide services in specific states.

Read 212 Reviews
Shelter Auto Insurance

This insurance company offers car insurance policies in the Midwestern and southern United States. It has more than 1,300 licensed agents. Policies are available in Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.

Read 45 Reviews

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