Drivers in Columbus Can Save Up to $610 Per Year!
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How RateWire Works
Step One
Share a few details about yourself and your car. Our short form takes just a minute or two and lets us prepare personalized auto insurance quote options for you in seconds.
Step Two
Review your insurance options side by side. Seeing auto insurance quotes from multiple providers in one place makes it simple to choose what fits you best.
Step Three
Lock in lower rates for the coverage you actually need. Reduce your monthly auto insurance costs and put the extra savings toward your next vacation or home project.
Legal, Simple, and Built for Budget-Conscious Drivers
Basic auto insurance gives you the legal minimum coverage you need to drive without overpaying for protection you may not need right now. It's a solid starting point for drivers with older vehicles, limited budgets, or those returning to coverage after a lapse.
Understanding what basic coverage includes — and what it doesn't — helps you make an informed choice and upgrade strategically when the time is right.
Basic Coverage Components
| Component | What It Covers | Included in Basic? |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability | Other people's medical bills if you're at fault | Yes |
| Property Damage Liability | Other people's property damage if you're at fault | Yes |
| Collision | Your own vehicle after a collision | No |
| Comprehensive | Theft, weather, fire damage to your vehicle | No |
| Uninsured Motorist | Protection when other driver has no insurance | Varies by state |
| Medical Payments / PIP | Your own medical bills after any accident | Varies by state |
ⓘ Coverage requirements vary by state. Some states mandate additional components beyond basic liability.
Pros and cons
Advantages
- ✓Lowest monthly cost of any legal coverage option
- ✓Simple and easy to understand — no complicated add-ons
- ✓Appropriate for vehicles with low actual cash value
- ✓Gets you back on the road legally after a coverage lapse
Drawbacks
- ✗No protection at all for your own vehicle after a collision
- ✗Low liability limits may not fully cover a serious accident
- ✗Cannot be used on financed or leased vehicles — lenders require more
- ✗Leaves gaps that could lead to significant personal out-of-pocket expenses
Frequently asked questions
Disclaimer: RateWire is an independent lead generation and comparison service. All rate figures are market estimates from publicly available data sources. By submitting your ZIP code, you may be connected with licensed insurance agents or carriers who will provide actual quotes based on your individual profile. Always verify coverage terms and pricing directly with a licensed agent before purchasing.