where can i put in for car insurance quotes

[StJayden]

You can get car insurance quotes from several primary sources: online comparison websites, directly from insurance company websites, through independent insurance agents, and via captive agents who represent a single company, like State Farm or Allstate. The best method for you depends on whether you prioritize speed, personalized advice, or finding the absolute lowest price.

Online aggregators like The Zebra, Compare.com, or NerdWallet are the fastest way to get multiple quotes at once. You input your information once and receive estimates from several insurers. This is ideal for a quick baseline comparison. However, these sites may not include every insurance provider.

Contacting companies directly, such as Geico, Progressive, or Liberty Mutual, either online or by phone, allows you to get a precise quote tailored directly from the source. Independent agents represent multiple companies and can do the shopping for you, providing a curated list of options from their network. This is valuable if you have a complex driving history or want expert guidance. Captive agents offer in-depth knowledge of their specific company's products, which can be helpful for understanding bundling discounts.

For the most accurate picture, it's wise to use a combination of these methods. Start with an online comparison tool, then follow up by getting quotes from a major direct insurer and a local independent agent.

Quote Source	Best For	Pros	Cons	Estimated Time to Get Quotes
Online Comparison Sites	Quick, broad comparison	Fast, multiple quotes at once, anonymous initial search	May not include all insurers, data sold to agents	5-10 minutes
Direct Insurers (Web/Phone)	DIY shoppers, tech-savvy users	Direct from source, often exclusive discounts	Need to visit multiple sites individually	10-15 minutes per company
Independent Insurance Agent	Complex situations, personalized service	Shops for you, provides expert advice, handles paperwork	May not have access to direct-only insurers	1-2 days (requires a phone call)
Captive Agent (e.g., State Farm)	Brand loyalty, in-person service	Deep knowledge of one company's offerings, local support	Only offers policies from their single company	1 day (requires an appointment)

[OCayden]

Honestly, I just go straight to the big names online—Geico and Progressive. Their websites are super easy. You plug in your info, and you've got a number in like ten minutes. I’ll do both and see who’s cheaper. I don't have the patience for talking to people on the phone or meeting with an agent. It’s just car insurance; the online quotes are good enough for me to make a decision.

[LaAbigail]

As someone who values local business, I prefer using an independent agent in my town. I called her up, answered some questions, and she did all the legwork. A few days later, she emailed me three different options from companies I’d never even heard of, with a clear breakdown. It saved me so much time and hassle, and I felt confident I was getting a good deal from a reputable company she trusts.