Why Compare Auto Insurance With an Independent Agent?
Every auto insurance company uses its own proprietary rating algorithm. That means the same driver with the same car and the same driving record can receive wildly different quotes from different carriers. The only way to know you are getting the best rate is to compare them all.
As an independent agency, Better Choice Insurance Group has access to 22+ carriers. We run your information through multiple rating systems simultaneously, compare the results, and present you with the best options. We also look beyond price to evaluate claims satisfaction, financial strength, and coverage features so you are not sacrificing quality for a low premium.
Whether you are a new driver, have a clean record, need SR-22 filing, or own multiple vehicles, we find the carrier that fits your exact situation. And because we re-shop your policy at every renewal, you never have to worry about rate creep.
Auto Insurance Coverage Types
Understanding what each type of auto insurance coverage does helps you make informed decisions about your policy. Here are the seven main coverage types available.
Liability Coverage (Bodily Injury & Property Damage)
Liability insurance is required in all four states we serve. It pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Bodily injury (BI) liability covers the other party's medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Property damage (PD) liability covers repairs to their vehicle and other damaged property. We recommend limits of at least 100/300/100 for adequate protection.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage pays to repair or replace your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault. If your car is financed or leased, your lender will require collision coverage. Even if your car is paid off, collision coverage is worth carrying if your vehicle's value exceeds what you could comfortably pay to replace out of pocket.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle against non-collision events including theft, vandalism, hail, flooding, falling objects, animal strikes, and fire. Like collision, it is typically required by lenders. Comprehensive claims generally do not raise your premium the way at-fault collision claims can.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)
UM/UIM coverage protects you if you are hit by a driver who has no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover your damages. In Illinois, this coverage is mandatory. Given that an estimated 1 in 8 drivers nationwide is uninsured, this coverage is essential even in states where it is optional.
Medical Payments (MedPay)
Medical payments coverage pays for medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of fault. It covers hospital visits, surgery, X-rays, and rehabilitation. MedPay is particularly valuable if you have a high-deductible health plan or want to ensure your passengers are covered.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
PIP is a broader form of medical coverage that also includes lost wages, childcare costs, and funeral expenses. It is required in Minnesota and optional in other states. PIP pays regardless of who is at fault, making it a critical coverage in no-fault states.
Rental Reimbursement
Rental reimbursement coverage pays for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim. Without it, you would need to pay for a rental out of pocket, which can add up quickly if repairs take weeks. This affordable add-on typically costs just $20-$40 per year.
Auto Insurance Requirements by State
Each state sets its own minimum liability requirements. Below are the minimums for the four states we serve. While these are the legal minimums, we strongly recommend carrying higher limits to protect your assets.
| State | Bodily Injury (per person/per accident) | Property Damage | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $25,000 / $50,000 | $20,000 | UM/UIM required |
| Minnesota | $30,000 / $60,000 | $10,000 | PIP required ($40,000 min), UM/UIM required |
| Texas | $30,000 / $60,000 | $25,000 | PIP offered but can be rejected in writing |
| Indiana | $25,000 / $50,000 | $25,000 | UM/UIM available but not required |
Auto Insurance Cost by Coverage Level
Your auto insurance premium depends on your coverage level, driving record, vehicle, location, and other factors. Below are average six-month premium ranges across our service area.
| Coverage Level | What's Included | Avg. 6-Month Premium | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Minimum | Liability only at state-required minimums | $300 – $700 | Older vehicles with no loan, budget-conscious drivers |
| Standard (100/300/100) | Higher liability limits, UM/UIM, MedPay | $500 – $1,100 | Most drivers, good balance of protection and cost |
| Full Coverage | 100/300/100 + collision + comprehensive + rental + roadside | $700 – $1,800 | New or financed vehicles, drivers wanting maximum protection |
Rates vary widely based on individual factors. Get a personalized quote to see your exact rate from 22+ carriers.
Auto Insurance Discounts
We help you stack every available discount to bring your premium as low as possible. Here are the most common auto insurance discounts offered by our carrier partners.
Good Driver Discount
Maintain a clean driving record with no accidents or violations for 3-5 years and save 10-25% on your premium.
Multi-Car Discount
Insure two or more vehicles on the same policy and save 10-25% per vehicle. The more cars, the bigger the discount.
Bundling Discount
Combine your auto and home insurance with the same carrier to save 10-25% on both policies.
Good Student Discount
Full-time students under 25 who maintain a B average or better can save 5-15% on auto insurance.
Defensive Driving Course
Complete an approved defensive driving course and save 5-10%. Some carriers accept online courses for added convenience.
Anti-Theft Device
Vehicles equipped with anti-theft systems, GPS tracking, or VIN etching can earn a 5-15% discount on comprehensive coverage.
Low Mileage Discount
Drive fewer than 7,500-10,000 miles per year? You may qualify for a low-mileage discount of 5-15%.
Paid-in-Full Discount
Pay your entire 6-month or annual premium upfront and save 5-10%. No monthly billing fees either.
Our Carrier Partners
We work with 22+ auto insurance carriers, each with different strengths and pricing models. Whether you are a preferred-risk driver or need high-risk/SR-22 coverage, we have a carrier that fits.
Frequently Asked Questions
While state minimums are the legal requirement, they are rarely enough to fully protect you. If you cause an accident with injuries exceeding your liability limits, you could be personally liable for the difference. We recommend at least 100/300/100 for most drivers. If you have significant assets like a home, consider even higher limits or an umbrella policy for additional protection.
The biggest factors include your driving record, age, credit history (in states that allow it), vehicle type, annual mileage, location, and coverage levels. At-fault accidents and DUI/DWI convictions have the largest negative impact on rates. The carrier you choose also matters significantly, which is why comparing quotes from multiple carriers is so important.
It depends on your car's value and your financial situation. If your vehicle is worth less than $3,000-$4,000, the premium for collision and comprehensive may not be cost-effective. However, if your car is worth more than you could comfortably replace out of pocket, keeping these coverages is wise. Your agent can help you weigh the cost versus the benefit.
Yes. We work with carriers that specialize in high-risk auto insurance and SR-22 filings. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility required after certain violations like DUI/DWI, driving without insurance, or multiple at-fault accidents. We can find you affordable coverage and handle the SR-22 filing with the state on your behalf.