A List of Car Insurance Companies in Florida

Florida has some of the highest car insurance rates in the country, which is why it pays to shop around using a convenient list of auto insurance companies for reference. For example, one year of insurance at one of the state's more expensive companies can cost the same as seven years' worth of comparable insurance from a less expensive company. When you compare plans, keep in mind that a comprehensive insurance policy along with excellent customer service is worth paying a little extra for.

While a list of car insurance companies in Florida can be a helpful starting point for shopping for the best rates in the state, it’s wise to check the respective insurer’s websites for more detailed information about their coverage and policies. Also, search for reviews that may indicate whether or not a company offers superior customer service, or conversely, reveal they offer poor follow-up to claims.

If you live in Florida, you're legally required to have auto insurance in order to register your vehicle. While many other states require you to have only liability insurance that covers damage and injuries in car accidents you caused, Florida requires you to carry personal injury protection. This plan covers you, your family members and any uninsured passengers in your vehicle – no matter who is at fault. It also covers you and your children as a pedestrian, cyclist or while riding in someone else's vehicle.

The minimum coverage a Florida driver must have includes $10,000 in personal injury protection and $10,000 property damage liability, which covers any property damaged in a car accident you caused. If you fail to keep your vehicle registered, you can have your driving privileges suspended and it could cost up to $500 to have them reinstated.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is not required in Florida, but can be added to a plan, just like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement and collision insurance coverage.

Due to the state's unique insurance requirements, an auto insurance policy for Florida residents must be issued by a company operating within the state. Fortunately, most national car insurance companies operate in Florida, including:

• USAA
  
• Geico
  
• State Farm
  
• Metlife
  
• Progressive
  
• Esurance 
  
• Allstate
  
• Travelers  
  
• Safeco
• Pearl Holding Group
• Bristol West
• 21st Century  
  
• Liberty Mutual  
  
• Farmers
• Mercury Insurance

There are also some smaller, local companies in Florida, such as Florida Farm Bureau Insurance or Florida Peninsula Insurance Company. Other options to consider include:

• AmTrust Financial
  
• Infinity
  
• United Automobile
  
• Windhaven Insurance  
  
• Gator Auto Insurance of Clearwater
  
• Amica Mutual Company
  
• All Lines Insurance Agency
  
• Wilcox Family Insurance Company
  

Beware that the major insurance companies don't always have the best offers. There are plenty of small and family-owned agencies that can give you a good deal. Since they're competing against key industry players, they often have better rates or more comprehensive policies. That's why it's important to request multiple quotes from different providers. Shop around just like you do when purchasing a new computer or TV.

Independent reviews of the most inexpensive and the best auto insurance companies in Florida rank USAA at or near the top for quality, customer service and price. Unfortunately, to obtain insurance through USAA, you or a family member must be an active member of the military or a veteran.

For those without a military connection, it's also worth noting that sometimes an affordable insurance company may not always have the best customer service or coverage options. However, GEICO, State Farm and Progressive are all ranked highly for both quality and affordability. Beware that rates vary dramatically from company to company based on your driving record, age, credit score, vehicle and more, so it always pays to shop around before selecting an auto insurer.