Auto Insurance Quotes Pennsylvania: Navigating the world of auto insurance can feel like walking through a maze, especially in a state like Pennsylvania, where specific laws and requirements can make the process even more confusing. But don’t worry, getting the right auto insurance doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, one of the smartest moves you can make is to start by obtaining free auto insurance quotes. This simple step can save you money, ensure you have the right coverage, and give you peace of mind every time you hit the road.
Why Auto Insurance is Essential in Pennsylvania
Auto insurance isn’t just a good idea; it’s the law in Pennsylvania. Every driver is required to have a minimum level of coverage, and for a good reason. Without insurance, you’re not just putting yourself at financial risk, but also others on the road. If you’re caught driving without insurance in Pennsylvania, you could face hefty fines, suspension of your driver’s license, and even impoundment of your vehicle. Beyond the legal aspects, having insurance protects you financially from the high costs of accidents, repairs, and medical expenses.
Understanding Auto Insurance Quotes
So, what exactly is an auto insurance quote? Simply put, it’s an estimate of how much you’ll pay for your car insurance policy. Quotes vary from one provider to another and are based on a variety of factors that reflect the level of risk you pose as a driver. Knowing how these quotes are determined can help you understand your options better and make more informed decisions.
Types of Auto Insurance Coverage in Pennsylvania
Understanding the different types of auto insurance coverage available in Pennsylvania is crucial to choosing the right policy.
Liability Coverage: This is mandatory in Pennsylvania and covers the costs if you’re at fault in an accident. It includes:
- Bodily Injury Liability: Covers medical expenses for injuries to others.
- Property Damage Liability: Covers damage to other people’s property.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers your own medical expenses regardless of who is at fault in the accident.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance.
Collision Coverage: Pays for repairs to your car if it’s damaged in an accident.
Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damages to your car that aren’t caused by accidents, like theft or natural disasters.
How to Get a Free Auto Insurance Quote in Pennsylvania
Getting a free auto insurance quote in Pennsylvania is easier than ever. Here are the main methods:
- Online Insurance Comparison Websites: Websites like NerdWallet and The Zebra allow you to compare quotes from multiple insurers quickly.
- Directly from Insurance Companies: Many insurance companies, such as Geico and State Farm, offer free quotes directly through their websites.
- Through Insurance Agents: An insurance agent can provide quotes from multiple providers and help you find the best deal based on your specific needs.
Factors That Affect Your Auto Insurance Quote in Pennsylvania
Several factors can influence the quote you receive:
- Driving Record: A clean driving record can significantly lower your premium.
- Age and Gender: Younger drivers typically pay more, as do male drivers, due to statistical risk factors.
- Location: Urban areas with higher traffic volumes and crime rates tend to have higher insurance costs.
- Type of Vehicle: The make, model, and age of your car affect your quote. Luxury and sports cars usually cost more to insure.
- Credit Score: In Pennsylvania, insurance companies can use your credit score to determine your premium.
- Coverage Limits and Deductibles: The higher your coverage limits and the lower your deductible, the more you’ll pay.
Cheap full coverage in Pennsylvania
The average cost of car insurance in Pennsylvania is $1135 for a six-month policy. Our research shows that Travelers offers the cheapest rates for full-coverage auto insurance, with an average monthly cost of only $68. Full coverage typically includes comprehensive, collision, and liability coverage.
Below are the average rates from top companies in Pennsylvania, including Travelers. As you look at these costs, remember that your individual rates will likely differ. Rating factors such as age, specific ZIP code, driving history, and more are considered when an insurance company evaluates your profile.
Full coverage quotes in PA
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $410 | $68 |
| Nationwide | $607 | $101 |
| Erie | $664 | $111 |
| State Farm | $749 | $125 |
| GEICO | $871 | $145 |
| USAA | $1,029 | $171 |
| Progressive | $1,049 | $175 |
| Allstate | $1,157 | $193 |
Best car insurance in Pennsylvania — honorable mentions
While Erie may have taken the top spot on our list, there are several other quality car insurance options if you’re a driver in Pennsylvania. All the companies listed below have received positive customer reviews from both J.D. Power and through our Zebra Customer Satisfaction Survey. Remember that USAA is only available to military members and their immediate family.
Best car insurance companies in Pennsylvania
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $410 | $68 |
| Nationwide | $607 | $101 |
| State Farm | $749 | $125 |
| USAA | $1,029 | $171 |
Cheap liability insurance in Pennsylvania
The state average cost for liability-only is $301 for a six-month policy. According to our research, the cheapest company for minimum coverage is Travelers, with an average six-month rate of $163.
To drive legally in the state of Pennsylvania, you must carry at least the minimum liability limits, which are as follows: $15000 in bodily injury per person, $30,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 in property damage per accident. PA also requires personal injury protection (PIP) at $5,000 per accident. The state additionally requires you to choose a tort option: a limited tort restricts your ability to sue another driver except for extreme circumstances, and a full tort allows a policyholder to sue for any post-accident pain and suffering (this usually costs more). About 31% of our customers opt for the state minimum in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania is also a no-fault state, meaning all drivers must use their own insurance to cover their own costs if an accident occurs, regardless of who is at fault. Learn more about car insurance requirements in Pennsylvania with our helpful guide.
Cheapest liability coverage in PA
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $163 | $27 |
| Erie | $230 | $38 |
| GEICO | $264 | $44 |
| USAA | $290 | $48 |
| Progressive | $296 | $49 |
| State Farm | $300 | $50 |
| Nationwide | $311 | $52 |
| Allstate | $490 | $82 |
How have car insurance costs in Pennsylvania changed?
In Pennsylvania, the average price of annual auto insurance coverage increased by $277 over the past year. A typical Pennsylvania driver pays an average of $1,894 per year.
Since 2015, car insurance rates have generally been upward, with a few fluctuations in particular years. Between 2019 and 2021, rates dropped, but 2022 saw costs skyrocket by over $500. Car insurance costs in Pennsylvania since 2014.
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Pennsylvania | Yearly Change — Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $1,894 | $277 |
| 2023 | $1,617 | $160 |
| 2022 | $1,777 | $511 |
| 2021 | $1,266 | -$72 |
| 2020 | $1,338 | -$140 |
| 2019 | $1,478 | -$2 |
| 2018 | $1,480 | $88 |
| 2017 | $1,392 | $209 |
| 2016 | $1,183 | $88 |
| 2015 | $1,095 | $34 |
Car insurance in popular Pennsylvania cities
Car insurance companies use many different factors to determine your rate, including where your vehicle is located. For example, the cheapest car insurance rates in Pennsylvania cities are in Erie, while the most expensive is in Philadelphia.
Check out the table below for the average car insurance costs in some of Pennsylvania’s biggest cities.
Auto insurance quotes in Pennsylvania’s biggest cities
| City | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Erie | $946 | $158 |
| Scranton | $985 | $164 |
| Allentown | $997 | $166 |
| Pittsburgh | $1,000 | $167 |
| Philadelphia | $1,768 | $295 |
Pennsylvania auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket
When you’re involved in a car accident, it can significantly impact your car insurance liability in several ways. A recent at-fault accident in Pennsylvania can raise your rate by anywhere from $200 to $1,200 annually, depending on the damage caused.
Best insurance companies in PA after an accident
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $644 | $107 |
| Erie | $1,109 | $185 |
| Nationwide | $1,361 | $227 |
| GEICO | $1,400 | $233 |
| State Farm | $1,548 | $258 |
| Allstate | $1,687 | $281 |
| USAA | $1,726 | $288 |
| Progressive | $2,135 | $356 |
In addition to having a cheaper premium if you are a safe driver, some companies offer a safe driving discount. While the amount varies based on your company, it can range between 5% and 10%.
See below for average auto insurance rates after common citations in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania auto insurance quotes by violation
| Accident/Violation | Avg. Annual Premium | $ Rate Increase |
|---|---|---|
| None | $2,271 | $0 |
| One Med/PIP claim | $2,271 | $0 |
| Two Med/PIP claims | $2,350 | $80 |
| Not-at-fault accident | $2,422 | $151 |
| One comp claim | $2,449 | $178 |
| At-fault accident – $1000-$2000 | $2,507 | $236 |
| At-fault accident – less than $1000 | $2,511 | $240 |
| Failure to wear a seat belt | $2,552 | $282 |
| Child safety restraint | $2,556 | $285 |
| Cell phone violation | $2,564 | $293 |
| Following too closely | $2,588 | $318 |
| Texting while driving | $2,590 | $319 |
| Improper passing | $2,590 | $320 |
| Illegal turn | $2,590 | $320 |
| Passing school bus | $2,599 | $328 |
| Driving without lights | $2,609 | $338 |
| Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over limit | $2,621 | $350 |
| Speeding 11 – 15 MPH over limit | $2,623 | $352 |
| Driving too slowly | $2,623 | $353 |
| Failure to yield | $2,629 | $358 |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $2,629 | $358 |
| Two comp claims | $2,636 | $365 |
| Speeding 16 – 20 MPH over limit | $2,648 | $378 |
| Failure to show documents | $2,651 | $380 |
| Wrong way/wrong lane | $2,660 | $390 |
| Speeding in school zone | $2,667 | $396 |
| Driving with expired registration | $2,670 | $399 |
| Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over limit | $2,683 | $412 |
| In 65 MPH zone | $2,742 | $471 |
| Open container | $2,975 | $704 |
| Operating a vehicle without permission | $3,057 | $786 |
| At-fault accident – greater than $2000 | $3,481 | $1,211 |
| Racing | $4,105 | $1,834 |
| Reckless driving | $4,120 | $1,850 |
| Refusal to submit to a chemical test | $4,156 | $1,886 |
| DUI | $4,185 | $1,915 |
| Driving with a suspended license | $4,197 | $1,926 |
| Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run | $4,240 | $1,969 |
Tips for Finding the Best Auto Insurance Quotes in Pennsylvania
Finding the best quote isn’t just about looking for the lowest price; it’s about getting the best value. Here’s how:
- Compare Multiple Quotes: Never settle for the first quote you receive. Comparing quotes from different providers can reveal significant differences in price and coverage.
- Look for Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for safe driving, bundling policies, or having certain safety features in your car.
- Consider Bundling Insurance Policies: If you have other insurance policies (like home or life insurance), consider bundling them with the same provider for a discount.
- Review Coverage Needs Annually: As your life changes, so do your insurance needs. Review your policy every year to make sure you have the right coverage at the best price.
How to Compare Auto Insurance Quotes Effectively
When comparing quotes, it’s not just about the bottom line. Here’s what to consider:
- Evaluating Coverage Options: Make sure the coverage options match your needs.
- Understanding the Fine Print: Look for exclusions and limitations that could affect your coverage.
- Checking the Insurer’s Reputation: Use customer reviews and ratings to gauge the reliability of the insurance provider.
The Role of Discounts in Auto Insurance Quotes
Discounts can significantly lower your premium. Common discounts include:
- Good Driver Discounts: For drivers with a clean driving record.
- Multi-Car Discounts: For insuring more than one vehicle with the same company.
- Good Student Discounts: For students with good grades.
- Safety Feature Discounts: For cars equipped with features like anti-lock brakes and airbags.
Pennsylvania-Specific Auto Insurance Requirements
In Pennsylvania, the law requires the following minimum auto insurance coverage:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident.
- Property Damage Liability: $5,000 per accident.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): $5,000.
Pennsylvania operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means your insurance covers your medical expenses regardless of who is at fault in an accident.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting Auto Insurance Quotes
When seeking out quotes, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Focusing Only on Price: The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Make sure the coverage meets your needs.
- Not Reading the Policy Details: Skipping the fine print can lead to surprises down the road.
- Ignoring Customer Service and Claims Process: A company with poor customer service or a complicated claims process can cause headaches when you need help the most.
How to Switch Auto Insurance Providers in Pennsylvania
If you find a better deal elsewhere, switching insurance providers can be straightforward. Here’s how:
- Review Your Current Policy: Make sure you understand your current coverage and cancellation terms.
- Get New Quotes: Obtain quotes from other providers.
- Notify Your Current Provider: Once you’ve secured new insurance, notify your old provider and cancel your policy.
- Avoid Coverage Gaps: Ensure your new policy starts before the old one ends to avoid any lapses in coverage.
The Importance of Regularly Reviewing Your Auto Insurance Policy
Your insurance needs can change over time. Regularly reviewing your policy ensures you’re not paying for unnecessary coverage or missing out on new discounts. Life events like moving, buying a new car, or adding a teen driver should prompt a review of your policy.
FAQs about Auto Insurance Quotes in Pennsylvania
1. What factors affect my auto insurance rates in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, auto insurance rates are influenced by factors such as your driving history, age, the type of vehicle you drive, and your geographical location. Insurers also consider your credit score and previous insurance claims to determine your premium.
2. Is auto insurance mandatory in Pennsylvania?
Yes, auto insurance is mandatory in Pennsylvania. All drivers must have at least the state-required minimum liability coverage and personal injury protection to drive legally.
3. How can I find the cheapest auto insurance in Pennsylvania?
To find the cheapest auto insurance, compare quotes from multiple insurers. Consider bundling your auto insurance with other policies like home insurance for discounts, and regularly review your policy to adjust coverage as needed.
4. What types of coverage are available in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania offers several types of auto insurance coverage, including liability insurance, collision insurance, comprehensive insurance, uninsured motorist insurance, and underinsured motorist insurance. Each type provides different levels of protection and suits different needs.
5. How does Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance system work?
Pennsylvania operates under a choice no-fault system. This means drivers can choose between a no-fault and a traditional tort policy. In a no-fault policy, your insurer will pay your injury claims regardless of fault, up to a specified limit.
6. What should I do if my insurance claim is denied?
If your insurance claim is denied, first review the reasons for denial. Contact your insurance provider to clarify and see if the decision can be reconsidered. If unsatisfied, you can file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Insurance Department.
Conclusion
Getting the right auto insurance is crucial for every driver in Pennsylvania, and the first step is obtaining multiple quotes. By comparing quotes, understanding your coverage needs, and taking advantage of discounts, you can find the best policy that offers both protection and value. So, take a few minutes today to start the quote process—it could save you hundreds of dollars and provide peace of mind on the road.
References
For further information and to validate the details provided in this article about auto insurance quotes in Pennsylvania, consider exploring these reputable sources:
- Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) – This official site offers comprehensive details on motor vehicle laws and insurance requirements in Pennsylvania. Visit PennDOT
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – NAIC provides insights into insurance regulations and offers consumer information on various types of insurance, including auto insurance. Explore NAIC Resources
- Insurance Information Institute (III) – The III offers detailed articles, studies, and guides on auto insurance, helping consumers make informed decisions. Learn More at III
These sources are invaluable for anyone looking to understand auto insurance dynamics in Pennsylvania better and ensure they are getting the best possible coverage.
