1. Call your insurance professional as soon as possible — even from the scene of the accident—regardless of who is at fault. Even if the accident appears minor, it’s important to let your insurance company know about the incident and to find out whether your auto insurance policy covers you for the particular loss.

What is umbrella insurance?

Often referred to as excess liability coverage, umbrella insurance is a type of personal liability insurance that provides an additional layer of coverage beyond what standard homeowners, auto, or other vehicle coverage might provide.

An umbrella policy kicks in when you reach the limit on the underlying liability coverage for these policies. It may also cover risks that those policies often do not, such as libel or slander.

Should I purchase an umbrella insurance policy?

Auto insurance is mandated nearly everywhere in the United States. But it can be hard to get a policy if you have a poor driving record or are seen as a high risk for other reasons. This information will help you find coverage.

In order to obtain a price for an auto policy you'll need to provide your insurance professional with the following information.

About the car

For each car you want to insure, know:

Many factors can affect your auto insurance premium.

Almost every state requires you to buy a minimum amount of liability coverage. Chances are that you will need more liability insurance than the state requires because accidents cost more than the minimum limits. If you’re found legally responsible for bills that are more than your insurance covers, you will have to pay the difference out of your own pocket. These costs could wipe you out!

Having adequate car insurance is both smart and prudent, but there's no question that it adds to the expense of driving. The good news is that premiums can vary by hundreds of dollars depending on a number of factors. Review your coverage at renewal time to make sure your insurance is in step with your needs, and follow these practical steps to reduce the bottom line on your auto policy.

There are many insurance companies, so choosing between them can be a challenge. Here are the main points to keep in mind when selecting an insurance company:

There's a difference between an insurance company canceling a policy and choosing not to renew it.

Auto insurance cancellation

Insurance companies cannot cancel a policy that has been in force for more than 60 days except when:

There are more options for renting a car than ever before—bricks-and-mortar, peer-to-peer and membership-based car sharing services. While this means more choice for renters, it also creates more questions about insurance coverage. Use these tips to properly insure yourself when renting a car, and avoid wasting money on duplicative coverage.