Shopping for auto insurance can feel like jumping through a lot of hoops, especially if you’re not familiar with the various terms relating to insurance and what type of insurance you should purchase for your vehicle. You should also be aware that several factors will come into play when it comes to how much you pay for insurance. These factors include where you live and work, your age and gender, your credit history, how you store your vehicle and what kind of safety features it has, such as an alarm system and anti-lock brakes.

There are two primary types of auto insurance: comprehensive and liability. Comprehensive provides coverage for damage to your vehicle and other vehicles. Liability-only, or limited coverage, insurance covers just the other driver, not you or your vehicle.

Once you’ve decided between comprehensive, which is a must for newer and high-value cars as well as cars that have a lien on them, or liability-only, which is better for older cars that aren’t worth as much, you’ll also want to consider limitations for bodily injury, medical expenses, and vehicle and property damage. These can vary, though all states have required minimums. Deductibles are another thing to consider. Lower deductibles mean that in the event of a claim, you’ll only pay a few hundred or less out of pocket, but a low deductible will significantly increase how much you pay each month. Opt for a higher deductible and watch your monthly payment drop significantly.

There are many add-ons you can consider for a car insurance Harrisburg policy. From free roadside assistance to free or reduced towing to rental reimbursement, there are many driving-related features that your policy can carry. If you’re on the road a lot or don’t have a secondary vehicle in your household, then you’ll want to at least consider rental car coverage. There are also add-ons for financial assistance if you miss work due to injuries as well as special policy pay-outs in the event of severe injuries or death. While these will increase the cost of your premium, they are certainly worth considering, especially if you have a family.

Before committing to an auto insurance policy, make sure you fully understand your policy’s coverage, what is or isn’t covered and what your expenses will be. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask.