How much auto insurance coverage do I need?

Almost every state requires you to buy a minimum amount of liability coverage. But you may need more liability insurance than your state requires because accidents cost more than the minimum limits. If you're found legally responsible for bills that are more than your insurance covers, you will have to pay the difference out of your pocket. These costs could wipe you out!

Tip: If you are active-duty military and moving from one state to another, make sure you check your new state's requirements on liability coverage.

You may want to talk to your agent or company representative about purchasing higher liability limits to reflect your personal needs. You may also consider purchasing an umbrella or excess liability policy. These policies pay when your underlying coverages are exhausted. Typically, these policies cost between $200 and $300 per year for a million dollars in coverage.

If you have your homeowners (or renter) and auto insurance with the same company, check out the cost of coverage with this company first. If you have coverage with different companies, consider switching them to the same company or bundling with your auto insurance.

In addition to liability coverage, consider buying collision and comprehensive coverage. You don't decide how much to buy. Your coverage reflects the market value of your car and the cost of repairing it.

Decide on a deductible-the amount of money you pay on a claim before the insurance company reimburses you. Typically, deductibles are $500 or $1,000; the higher your deductible, the lower your premium.

For additional questions on your current coverage, and to determine how much you need, talk to your AFI representative.

Armed Forces Insurance: your trusted auto insurance advisor

Armed Forces Insurance has been a trusted advisor to American armed forces service members and veterans for more than 135 years. We’re not a giant corporate skyscraper full of slick insurance executives. We’re a small company headquartered just down the road from Fort Leavenworth in Kansas. We know each other, and our customers know us. If you’re looking for someone you can trust to shoot you straight and help you protect your home and property, check out our auto insurance page.