You have a new car—now you need to insure it. Here’s what you need to know.

Getting a new car can be difficult. So can finding the right insurance—but it doesn't have to be. With this piece, we answer some specific questions to help you understand the insurance buying process. Is car insurance required?

Yes. In most states across the country, the law requires you to have car insurance. While state laws and pricing (rate) requirements vary dramatically from state to state, simply put, if you’re a driver or own or lease a car, you need car insurance.

When should you add insurance to a new car?

As you shop for a new car, getting insurance should be a part of your plan from the beginning. Here are some things to keep in mind:

If you don’t have an existing policy, you should speak with an insurance agent before you buy your new vehicle. That way, you’ll be able to get an idea what it’ll cost to cover the vehicle you’re considering, so you can get an insurance policy in place before you drive the vehicle off the lot.
If you do have an existing policy, let your insurance agent know ahead of time that you’re shopping for a new car and find out what you need to do to make sure you’re covered when you buy the vehicle.
Once you’ve made a decision on what to buy or lease, notify your insurance agent as soon as possible so you’ll be covered. Be prepared to provide the year, make and model, vehicle identification number (VIN), and lien information. They’ll be able to update your policy right away.

Most insurance companies provide a grace period for you to notify them about adding a vehicle to an existing policy, but understand the coverage provided may not adequately cover you and your new vehicle.

What’s the minimum coverage available?

Generally, the minimum coverage mandated by law will only cover the damages to the other vehicles and occupants in an accident you caused, but won’t cover damages to you or your own vehicle. Understand the minimum required coverage can often be inadequate to pay for damages you might cause.

If you choose to pay for only the minimum mandated coverage, you’re taking on a much greater risk. You need to decide if the value of your vehicle is worth the extra premium it’ll cost you to completely protect it. Consider buying higher limits of coverage to give yourself greater peace of mind.

What’s the difference between liability coverage and full coverage?

The terms “liability only” and “full coverage” can mean different things to different people.

Depending on the state you’re in, you’ll normally be required to at least cover the damage or injury you cause others. That’s liability insurance.

Full coverage will pay for not only the damage you’ve caused to others, but the damage to your own vehicle, as well as medical expenses for yourself and others in your car.

What other auto insurance coverage options are available?

There are add-ons to car insurance policies that cover things like the cost of renting a car when yours is damaged, towing, emergency roadside assistance, and custom equipment installed on your car.

If you’d like to explore those options, it’s a good idea to talk with an insurance agent who can explain everything available, how it helps protect you, and how much it costs. Your new car is an investment. You want to make sure you’re adequately covered when an accident happens. We can help you understand what’s available so you can make an informed decision.

Should I add other drivers to my insurance policy?

Insurance companies require you to list everyone of legal driving age—including teenagers—in the household, and anyone else who might drive your vehicle on a regular basis. So, when you buy a new car and add insurance, give some thought to others who might be driving it. To include them on your policy, you’ll need their full name, date of birth, and driver’s license number.

What factors impact insurance costs?

Where you live, how many miles you drive, what you use your car for, and where you drive—especially if it’s a heavy traffic area—can all affect your rates. So can your driving record. Your insurance agent will ask you questions to discover the type of insurance that makes sense for you.

Do you have to speak with an agent, or can you buy insurance online?

At Dairyland, we provide options that let you choose. You can go through our website, call us directly, or find an independent agent near you to talk with. It’s generally a good idea to speak with someone who can help answer your questions and make sure you have the right coverage. Our team will work with you to make sure you have the coverage you need for your unique situation.

Are there ways to save on your insurance premiums?

One of the benefits of working with Dairyland is the number of payment options we offer. Popular options include monthly payments, quarterly payments, or paying the full amount right away. By paying more up front or making larger scheduled payments, you can improve your price. You’ll see the lowest overall cost when you pay your term premium in full.

You may also qualify for discounts for things like owning a home or having prior insurance. Most of all, it pays to have a good driving record. The cleaner your record, the more likely you'll get a better rate.

Prepare before buying a car

Plan for insurance coverage before you get behind the wheel. Don’t assume you can just take care of things after you’ve bought a vehicle. Be open and honest with your insurer so they can work with you to make sure you have the coverage you need, when you need it. That way, you can drive your new car with the peace of mind of knowing you’re protected if something goes wrong.