How Much Car Insurance Do I Need?

Deciding how much insurance coverage you need can be a challenge. After all, it's hard to predict which policy will guard against incidents that haven't happened yet. Use this guide and advice from an insurance agent to plan coverage options that make the most sense for you.

How much auto insurance do I need or should I have?

Here are some things to consider when buying auto insurance, as well as factors that may affect your insurance rate:

• The market value of your vehicle
• Your driving record
• Your accident history
• How much you drive each year
• The garaging location (the address where you live)
• Mileage
• Use (Commute, Pleasure, Business)

Because each state has its own minimum auto insurance requirements, where you live is important in determining how much insurance you must have. Plus, you may opt for additional protection. Collision coverage, for instance, pays for damage to your vehicle after an accident. Your insurance agent can help you customize a policy to fit your needs.

How to compare auto insurance quotes to get the best deal.

Comparing auto insurance quotes is a smart way to find the best deal. You'll want to examine the premium and deductible of each quote you get. The premium is the amount you pay each month for coverage; the deductible is what you pay before your insurance provider contributes toward a claim.

Learn more by calling Senate Select Insurance

If you have questions about how to buy auto insurance, let the experts at Senate Select Insurance help. To find out which insurance policy is best for your vehicle and your budget, call 1-800-622-9333.

The provided information were obtained from sources believed to be reliable and is intended for informational purposes only. Senate Select Insurance and its affiliates assume no liability in connection with providing it or your use of it. Your circumstances may not warrant or require some or all of the safety suggestions, and there may be additional available safety procedures that are not referenced on this webpage.

Car Insurance Questions and Answers

Car insurance can be a complicated subject, so we've provided some answers to the most common questions. If you don't see your question here? Call 1-800-622-9333 and talk to a licensed Senate Select Insurance Agent who will help you find the information you need.

Is auto insurance required?

Yes, minimum auto insurance is required to operate a vehicle on public roadways in all 50 states.

How much coverage do I need?

The amount of car insurance coverage depends on several factors. Minimum coverage requirements vary by state, but all require liability coverage. The limits you need and whether other coverage options are right for you will depend on your own situation.

Can I add or remove coverage options in the middle of a policy?

With a few exceptions that vary by state, most coverage options can be changed while your policy is in effect.
However, you must still maintain the state required minimum coverage.

How is my car insurance rate calculated?

Car insurance rates are determined by different factors, including the make, model, year and value of your vehicle; your driving record; and where you live.

How do I find the cheapest car insurance?

The cheapest insurance coverage is usually the state required minimum, However buying the minimum can be more expensive in the long run if you're in an accident and have to pay more for repairs out-of-pocket. To find the cheapest plan that keeps you covered, call Senate Select Insurance at 1-800-622.9333.

If I have a lapse can you backdate an auto insurance policy to cover the lapse?

In most cases we are able to backdate a policy to cover a lapse to prevent or lower the MVA fine. State-specific rules apply so call a Senate Select Insurance Agent at 1-800-622-9333.

What is no-fault insurance?

No-fault insurance - or Personal Injury Protection coverage (PIP) as it is called in some states – provides coverage after an accident regardless of whether the driver is at-fault.

Do leased or financed vehicles require special coverage?

Generally, not. However, the bank or other holder of the loan may require a minimum amount of insurance coverage. You also have the option of buying "gap coverage," which pays the difference between the value of your vehicle and the remaining balance of the loan if it is totaled.

Where are you offices located?

Greenbelt, Maryland
Essex, Maryland
Capitol Heights, Maryland
Alexandria, Virginia
Oxon Hill, Maryland
Glen Burnie, Maryland
Woodlawn, Maryland
Laurel, Maryland
Washington, DC

The provided information and safety suggestions were obtained from sources believed to be reliable and is intended for informational purposes only. Senate Select Insurance and its affiliates assume no liability in connection with providing it or your use of it. Your circumstances may not warrant or require some or all of the safety suggestions, and there may be additional available safety procedures that are not referenced on this webpage.

Discount Car Insurance: Learn How to Save

At Senate Select Insurance, we know you have to make tradeoffs every day. That's why we offer car insurance discounts that can help you save money on your monthly insurance premium. Contact your local Senate Select Insurance agent or call 1-800-622-9333 today to find out what discounts on affordable auto insurance coverage you may qualify for.

Senate Select Insurance Carrier's car insurance discounts include:

Multiple-car insurance discount
Do you own more than one vehicle? Simplify your auto insurance bills every month -- combine and save when you insure multiple cars with Senate Select Insurance.

Accident-free auto insurance discount
Your safe driving should be rewarded. Save on your premium when you stay accident free.

Good student auto insurance discount
Yet another reason to study for that math test. Discount auto insurance is available to students who do well in school.

Association Membership
If you or your spouse are active members of an organization recognized by Senate Select Insurance, you may be eligible for an insurance discount.

Military car insurance discount
Senate Select Insurance Insurance wants to thank you for your service. Members of the military may qualify for lower car insurance rates.

Anti-theft device car insurance discount
Protecting your car from theft can save you money in more ways than one. Anti-theft devices reduce your risk of car theft and can lower your insurance premium.

Farm use discount
Save when you protect the vehicles that work as hard as you do. Agricultural vehicles may be eligible for discount auto insurance.

Electronic funds transfer (EFT)
Paying your monthly auto insurance bill electronically could lower your premium. Plus, paperless is good for the environment.

Mature driver
Experienced drivers may qualify for discount auto insurance. 
The availability, amount and eligibility for auto insurance discounts may vary by state.

Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
You may qualify for a discount if your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes.

Prior carrier discount
You may receive a discount if you were covered by standard auto insurance before coming to Senate Select Insurance.

Homeowner car insurance discount
Do you own a home? Find out how homeowners may qualify for discount auto insurance.

Advance quote
Get an insurance quote 8 or more days before your current active policy expires to be eligible for this discount.

Motor vehicle safety course discount
Everyone can stand to brush-up on driving laws. Take a refresher course on the rules of the road and save on insurance coverage.

Air bag discount
Stay safe and save. Driving a vehicle with air bags and other safety features could lower your insurance premium.

Become a Senate Select Insurance customer today
Get an online auto insurance quote
Call 1-800-622-9333
Find a Senate Select Insurance Insurance agent or broker near you