The following companies are among the most popular in the nation.  Surely, you have seen their advertisements and heard their announcements.  Now, learn more about the six major car insurance providers in the United States.

Allstate

“You‘re in good hands,” is the motto of this insurance company.  Allstate is the largest public provider of personal insurance coverage in America, offering everything from car to home to life and even motorcycle and boat insurance!  Important in today’s shaky economy is Allstate’s rock-solid financial strength ratings from evaluators like Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and A. M. Best. 

Even more important is the type of insurance Allstate provides:  liability, collision, comprehensive, and gap are available through this provider.  They also offer options for motorists to cover towing, sound systems, and rental car costs, so drivers can have peace of mind knowing that they are protected in almost every imaginable situation.

Progressive

Another auto insurance giant, Progressive offers drivers numerous ways to save money on their auto insurance.  Progressive has been in business since 1937, and its efforts to change with the times have been tremendous.   For instance, this company boasts “concierge level customer service,” meaning that when motorists must have their vehicles repaired or serviced as part of an insurance claim, the claim is handled start to finish by Progressive’s agents.  Claims can even be reported online, for quick, easy access, and repairs made at authorized shops are guaranteed for as long as you own your vehicle.  

Discounted rates are available for many things, including e-signing a new policy, home ownership, paying in full, insuring multiple vehicles, and various others are available based on the state in which you reside.  

 Geico

Who doesn’t know Geico, the car insurance company that brings humor into our homes with each and every gecko-filled commercial?  But did you know that Geico’s name originated in 1936, when it stood for Government Employees Insurance Company?  That’s right -- military and other government professionals were the first to sign with the now-famous Gecko.

Adorable advertising aside, Geico takes auto insurance seriously.  With more than 8.5 million policy holders, and 14.4 vehicles covered, this company is constantly seeking new ways to make car insurance more affordable and accessible for the average consumer.  Keeping with tradition, Geico offers discounts for military personnel, as well as for senior citizens, students, and individuals affiliated with one of more than 275 groups.  

Liberty Mutual

Liberty Mutual prides itself in offering car insurance that is both comprehensive and affordable.  The basic plan, called LibertyGard, includes liability, medical payments, uninsured motorist insurance, and has options for collision, other-than-collision (for natural disasters and other damages) and towing coverage.  Liberty Mutual is also a provider of Personal Liability Insurance, which protects policy-holders from lawsuits and pays for defense attorneys no matter what claim is made against them.  

New customers can receive discounts for their safe driving records, and all customers are eligible for discounted rates when they raise their deductibles or purchase a car that boasts a high safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  Liberty Mutual is a proponent of personal responsibility, and sponsors the Responsibility Project online, in an effort to promote safe driving.

Nationwide

Nationwide auto insurance boasts better, Blue Ribbon claims service than its competitors, a fact backed by the nine out of ten Nationwide customers who would recommend the service to a friend or family member.  In addition to the typical coverage options, this agent offers accident forgiveness for the first time a covered motorist is at-fault in a collision.  Teen drivers are not exempt, allowing all safe drivers to have a single accident without facing a tremendous increase in premiums.  

Policy holders are also eligible for discounted rates for numerous situations.  Purchasing both vehicle and home owner’s insurance from Nationwide, maintaining a safe driving record for five or more years, being a loyal customer, having certain anti-theft and safety devices installed in the insured vehicle, and passing state certified safe driving courses.  Families with teens can also secure lower premiums for their young drivers as long as those teens maintain a B average or better in school.  

State Farm

“Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there,” says the well-known motto of this insurance company, which has been in business since 1922.  Good neighbor or not, State Farm logs several factors that determine how much policy holders will pay for their auto insurance.  These include:  what sort of car you drive, how often you drive, and where you drive, as well as your age, sex, marital status, driving record, and credit history.  They advise customers to think carefully before buying a vehicle in order to keep premiums low, also encouraging motorists to consider carpooling and public transportation options in an effort to reduce time on the road.