
You can switch auto insurance anytime—just make sure your new policy starts before your old one ends to avoid a lapse in coverage.
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To avoid a lapse in coverage, make sure your new policy is active before canceling your old one. You can choose a future start date for your new policy—ideally the same day your current policy ends. Most insurers let you select this during the quote or checkout process. Once your new policy is confirmed, contact your previous insurer to cancel the old one. Keep proof of both policies and their dates in case there’s any confusion down the line. Even a one-day gap can lead to penalties or higher rates later.
Personal auto insurance coverage doesn’t include commercial driving. If you’re an Uber or Lyft driver, you’ll need to find a provider that offers rideshare coverage.
While switching car insurance can often save you money, it’s not always the right move. Here are a few situations where it might be better to wait:
In these cases, it might be smarter to stay with your current provider—at least for now. Once your situation changes, you can re-shop and switch with more confidence.
If you’re ready to switch, here are some of the best insurance companies to consider. These providers offer competitive rates, solid customer service, and easy policy management—making them great options for a smooth transition.
Provider | Best For | Full Coverage Average Rate | Minimum Coverage Average Rate |
---|---|---|---|
State Farm | Balancing cost and service | $2,167 | $674 |
USAA | Military and veterans | $1,407 | $417 |
Progressive | Higher-risk drivers | $1,960 | $638 |
GEICO | Cheapest Widely Available | $1,731 | $517 |
Allstate | Bundling | $2,605 | $840 |
The Hartford (AARP) | Seniors | $2,688 | $738 |
Erie | Full coverage | $1,647 | $581 |
Nationwide | Low-mileage drivers | $1,808 | $718 |
Auto-Owners | Households with young drivers | $1,547 | $451 |
Amica | Best in class customer satisfaction | $2,371 | $878 |
Switching car insurance can be a smart move if you’re looking to save money, improve your coverage, or find a company that better fits your needs. The process is straightforward: decide on the coverages you want, compare quotes, and make sure there’s no lapse between your old and new policies. Just be sure to watch out for potential downsides, like cancellation fees or switching too soon after a claim. If you have a loan or lease, don’t forget to update your lender. Need help finding a more affordable policy? Check out our guide to the best cheap car insurance companies to start comparing.
Auto Insurance Repair Cycle Times Improve but Price Increases Take a Toll, J.D. Power Finds. (2024, Oct 29).
https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2024-us-auto-claims-satisfaction-study