How to compare car insurance quotes in California

Unfortunately, there is no standard cost for car insurance in California. While some insurance companies are being forced lower rates, there is still a wide range of costs for the same plan among different insurers.

According to the L.A. Times:

“Even when you eliminate the real dogs, however, you’ll still find a huge range of prices for what is essentially the same insurance. That’s because some companies prefer not to write certain types of insurance in certain areas, and price accordingly. Insurers also know that there’s a huge inertia factor–not as many consumers shop around as they should.

That’s why a married couple in Burbank with a good driving record might pay $2,144 a year for standard coverage from the Auto Club of Southern California, while the same policy from State Farm might cost $2,958 (these figures are from last year’s California Department of Insurance premium survey). Geico, meanwhile, was charging $4,372. All three companies have good reputations for customer service and for paying claims, but the couple who go with the Auto Club could save more than $2,000 a year.”

With ranges like that, comparing insurance costs between California companies is a must. So how should you go about comparing?

Compare apples to apples
This seems quite obvious, but many people compare different plans without realizing. Make sure that your insurance coverage matches from plan to plan.

Get at least three auto insurance quotes
The more quotes you get, the better chance you have of finding cheap auto insurance. Get at least three quotes. If you can get five, that’s even better.

Don’t just look at free car insurance quotes online
There are many sites that give instant free quotes online. But don’t base your decision off that alone. Call each of the companies to get a feel for their process, their customer service, and their call hold times. Sometimes low-cost car insurance can cost you in the long run (click to read why).

Ask around
Many people don’t do enough research before purchasing car insurance. One easy way to get info is to ask family, friends, and co-workers about the car insurance they use and their experience with their auto insurance companies.

Google it!
Before you are ready to buy, make sure to Google the company name of the insurer and see if there are a lot of complaints. Also check with the Better Business Bureau.

Check the list
Lastly, make sure the insurance company isn’t on the list of the worst auto insurance companies in California.