You can buy auto insurance in Rhode Island from a multitude of insurance companies. Whether you're insuring a fleet of business vehicles or the family sedan, it's important to determine which company offers the best plan for your needs.

But even before you begin your search for insurance, it's good to know your state's minimum requirements for auto insurance. Rhode Island's minimums are 25/50/25, which means that you are covered up to $25,000 for each individual injury in an accident, with $50,000 allowed per accident, while the total that insurance would pay for property damage is $25,000. Being insured for higher amounts would decrease your chances of being forced to pay out-of-pocket expenses for a costly accident.

Several factors can affect the Rhode Island auto insurance coverage you need and how much it will cost per month, such as the following:

1. The amount you drive;

2. The make of vehicle;

3. The crime rate of the city in which you drive the most;

4. Your driving record;

5. Your credit rating.

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

Compare quotes from several Rhode Island auto insurance companies

Many companies allow you to ask for a quote online after filling out some information. This allows you to price shop and compare different Rhode Island insurance companies.

I recommend: Punch in your zip code to get started on comparing quotes at the Progressive website. Nationwide is national company from which you can get quotes for car insurance in Rhode Island.

Select a Rhode Island automobile insurance plan from a national company

If you want to just go directly through a company for car insurance, Rhode Island is home to many companies willing to allow you to bypass the agent. You will usually save money going this route.

I recommend: Amica offers both auto and home insurance to Rhode Island residents. State Farm is one of the largest nationwide insurers. Enter you zip code on State's Farm's home page to get started.

Get Rhode Island vehicle insurance from a local agent

If you prefer a personable, friendly experience when getting auto insurance, you should use a local Rhode Island auto insurance agent. This might cost you a little more money because the agent fee is typically included in your premium.

I recommend: Providence-based Burns & Cotter has been selling auto insurance, as well as other types of insurance, for more than 50 years. Input your personal information at East Greenwich-based Howard Russell Insurance's website to get a quote for auto insurance in Rhode Island.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you need to lower your Rhode Island insurance premium, you can increase your deductible so that when you do get into an accident, you pay more out of pocket. This is beneficial to those who have very few or no accidents on their record.