Get a Florida auto insurance quote online

If you need a Florida car insurance rate, the Internet is a good starting point. Available from all major Florida auto insurance agents and companies, an online Florida car insurance quote is a valuable research tool with which to quickly and conveniently compare premiums.

I recommend: Get comprehensive online quotes from Florida automobile insurance providers at websites such as InsWeb, Insurance.com, InsuranceUSA and InsuranceFinder, or from companies like Progressive and Esurance, which quote both their own and competitors' rates.

Solicit a Florida car insurance quote from national providers

Most major car insurance carriers offer auto insurance in Florida and all can provide you with a competitive Florida auto insurance rate.

I recommend: Among the largest and most popular Florida car insurance companies are AIG, Allstate, Chubb, Farmers, GEICO, The Hartford, Liberty Mutual and State Farm. National associations like AAA and AARP are also good sources for affordable auto insurance in Florida.

For car insurance, Florida based companies may be the answer

In the big "FL," auto insurance rates can vary dramatically; for some of the most affordable, consider locally based providers.

I recommend: For auto insurance in Florida, try Florida-based companies like Erwin Insurance Agency, Hugh Cotton Insurance, Kraft Insurance Agency and Pruitt Insurance. Also consider local programs, like the one offered by the Florida Automobile Joint Underwriting Association, which is designed for drivers who can't easily find auto insurance in Florida.

Use an independent agent to find Florida car insurance bargains

Buying car insurance in Florida via an independent insurance agent can expose you to new resources, practical advice and special rates.

I recommend: To find independent Florida auto insurance agents who can sell you car insurance in Florida, use the “agency locator” feature at the Florida Association of Insurance Agents or search the member directory at the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America.

Choose Florida auto insurance companies that you can trust

Before doing business with Florida car insurance providers, review their records with consumers to make sure they are reliable, reputable and responsible.

I recommend: If you subscribe to Consumer Reports, you can check up on Florida car insurance companies. Another good resource is the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, which publishes information about Florida auto insurance companies, as well as complaints against them, in the “Market Investigations” section of its website.