Auto insurance made for you

For minimum, state-mandated coverages, the average cost of car insurance in the United States is $470 per year for drivers with “excellent” credit scores, $701 per year for drivers with “fair” credit scores, and $1,012 per year for drivers with “poor” credit scores according to the latest data available from the Consumer Federation of America. However, premiums for recommended coverage levels are significantly higher, and vary drastically depending on other factors, including the driver's location.

Insurers calculate premiums based on risk assessments that heavily weigh a driver’s age, driving record, and location. Personal financial data, such as credit history, and vehicle details — like safety ratings and repair costs — also play significant roles in determining rates.

At Kin, a standard policy provides liability coverage, which pays for bodily injury and property damage caused to others in an accident for which you are legally responsible. Full coverage policies add collision coverage for damage to the policyholder's vehicle caused by rollover and collision accidents, and comprehensive coverage for non-collision incidents like theft, fire, or weather damage. Policies can also include protections for medical expenses and damages caused by uninsured drivers.

At Kin, standard auto insurance policies exclude coverage for routine maintenance, mechanical breakdowns, and general wear and tear. Personal belongings stolen from inside a vehicle are also not covered by auto policies and typically fall under homeowners or renters insurance. Furthermore, using a personal vehicle for business purposes, such as rideshare driving or delivery services, is excluded.

Financial experts recommend purchasing enough liability coverage to protect your total net worth, including savings and home equity, from potential lawsuits. While state minimums allow you to drive legally, they often fall short of covering the costs of an accident, leaving you personally liable for the difference. If you lease or finance a vehicle, your lender will almost always require you to carry full collision and comprehensive coverage.

Yes, every state except for New Hampshire requires proof of insurance to legally drive an automobile. While Virginia previously allowed motorists to pay an annual fee to opt out of coverage, the state repealed this provision in July 2024, making insurance compulsory there as well. Even in New Hampshire, drivers who choose not to buy insurance must still prove financial responsibility and are personally liable for all damages if they cause an accident.

Most states require drivers to carry bodily injury liability and property damage liability to cover costs if they cause an accident. The specific dollar amounts vary by state, such as $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, though some states also mandate uninsured motorist coverage or personal injury protection. One state, New Hampshire, allows drivers to opt out of insurance if they pay a fee or prove financial responsibility.

Drivers should consider rental reimbursement coverage to pay for transportation while their vehicle is in the shop for covered repairs. For extra peace of mind, roadside assistance coverage can offer financial protection against expenses incurred for breakdowns and other roadside emergencies.