Car insurance doesn’t have to break the bank. You may be able to save by shopping around, declining unnecessary coverage and trading high deductibles for lower premiums. Indeed, you can cut costs, but you can't cut corners. If you drive in the United States, you need car insurance in the United States. Just how much and what kind depends on where you live, as insurance requirements vary by state. Here are some basic guidelines, however:

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Browse car insurance quotes online
If you need car insurance, online car insurance quotes are a good starting point. Available from all major car insurance companies, they offer a fast and convenient way to research and compare premiums.
Solicit car insurance quotes from national auto insurance providers
Most major insurance carriers offer car insurance and all that do provide competitive car insurance rates.

Get car insurance from local and regional car insurance companies
Car insurance quotes can vary dramatically; for some of the most affordable, consider locally based providers.

Use an independent agent to find car insurance bargains
Buying car insurance via an independent insurance agent can expose you to new resources, practical advice and special rates.

I recommend: To find an independent agent who can sell you car insurance in your town, search the member directory at the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America.

Choose car insurance companies that you can trust
Before doing business with auto insurance providers, review their records with consumers to make sure they are reliable, reputable and responsible.

I recommend: If you subscribe to Consumer Reports, you can check up on car insurance companies in your state and nationwide. Another good resource is your state’s insurance department, as most compile and publish statistics on complaints against car insurance companies.

Tips and Tactics
Consider buying more coverage than is required by state law; minimum car insurance in your state might not be enough to cover car repairs or medical bills after an accident.

Penalties for drivers who don't have car insurance vary nationwide but might include driver's license and license plate suspension, cash fines, vehicle impoundment and even jail time.

If you're leasing or financing your car, dealerships might require you to have more and better car insurance than is required by your state's insurance laws.

Higher deductibles typically mean lower premiums and more monthly savings on car insurance.

If you own a business, don't forget to buy car insurance for company cars. If you own the vehicles, you'll need a commercial auto policy. If you don't own them, however, you should consider hired and non-owned auto liability coverage, which kicks in if you or your employees are in an accident while driving a personal or rented vehicle for business purposes.