Buying auto insurance can be very confusing. It can be confusing because there are so many types of auto insurance and coverage that are offered. You need to understand some of the factors that go into deciding what is right for you and your family. In many ways auto insurance is similar to life insurance. There are the risks that you take when you drive the vehicle, coverage that you want and need, and the premiums that you pay.

The six categories of auto insurance coverage include bodily injury liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorists, and custom or collision. Expect to give your age, address, marital status, insurance claims history, how much the vehicle is worth, the make and model of the vehicle, and its security features. Some vehicles may require more than one type of policy from several companies, so you will need to understand what each category of coverage covers and whether your vehicle could be eligible for any of them.

Bodily injury liability only is designed to cover you in the event you are at fault in a vehicular accident. This might be caused by alcohol or drug use, and it could be because of a pedestrian accident. If you have this coverage on your auto policy, you should not have to pay the full amount for it unless you can prove in the court that you were driving at the time of the accident. In some states auto insurance does not have to have bodily injury as a part of its coverage but many states have made it mandatory so you need to understand what the minimum is.

Comprehensive auto insurance coverages provide protection in the event you are involved in an accident in which the other party is at fault. These usually include medical payments, personal property damage (both mechanical and physical), and the loss of or damage to your vehicle. Most comprehensive discounts also come with reduced premiums so you can save money on your auto insurance premiums if you have several tickets that are paid off.

You may also want to consider personal injury protection. This coverage typically comes as a portion of a car insurance policy and provides coverage for an injured person in an accident with you. The cost of personal injury protection will depend on the type of coverage you purchase but you may be able to get some assistance with paying for it. There are several options available for personal injury protection, so talk to an agent to find out what is available in your state. Your car insurance policy should have this coverage but sometimes it is optional.

Some people do not think they can save money on their auto coverage but the truth is you can. If you have a high deductible the amount of money you will pay out on a claim will be less than someone with a lower deductible. Raising your deductible may take a little work on your part but you will save money in the long run. Always ask questions about your insurance requirements when you are talking to an agent. It is important to be certain you are covered for the things you need to be covered for.