Getting your first car—or upgrading to a newer one—is exciting, but before you can hit the road, there are a few details to take care of. One of the most important is purchasing an insurance policy on your car. Ohio requires drivers to insure their vehicles to cover losses in the event of an accident, or else you can’t legally register the car. The first step to getting this coverage is to request quotes.

What Is an Insurance Quote?

An insurance quote is an estimate of the cost for a policy from an insurance company. The quote is based on several factors, including the type of vehicle you drive, where you live, your driving record, and your credit history, as well as the types of coverage you purchase. At minimum, Ohio drivers must carry at least $25,000 in liability coverage for accidents involving one person, $50,000 in coverage for accidents involving two people, and $25,000 to cover property damage. However, most drivers opt for additional coverage for damage to their own vehicles, as well as optional features like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and medical payments. 

How Do You Get A Quote?

In most cases, getting insurance quotes only takes a few moments. Anyone can request a quote, and you can either go directly to an insurance company or visit a local agent who works with multiple carriers. Working with an agent can save you time because they’ll show you estimates from several different companies at once, saving you the legwork. 

To request a quote, you’ll have to provide information about yourself (and any other drivers who will be covered under your policy) and your vehicle. Have details like your Social Security number, driver’s license number, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) handy. If your car is financed, you may also need to provide details about the bank holding your loan. Since some insurance companies offer discounts for certain customers (like students), be ready to show proof that you qualify if necessary. 

What Can You Expect from an Insurance Quote?

When you get a quote for car insurance, it’s a reasonable estimate of your premiums based on the information you provided. Your actual cost may be more or less after the company completes a full check of your driving record and credit, and whether you make any changes to the desired coverage. Ideally, you should have 3-5 quotes to choose from. Compare them carefully to ensure you have the exact coverage you need before making a purchase decision. 

If you have questions about your car insurance and need a quote for coverage, the Kelley Agency will provide the answers you can count on. Serving consumers throughout Lorain, OH, this independent insurance agency will help you find the coverage you need, comparing options from multiple carriers to help you get a rate that fits your budget. For more details or to request a free quote, call (440) 282-8898 to speak with a friendly insurance agent.