Frequently Asked Questions
What is fault-based insurance?
After an accident, the police report and the evidence are analyzed and if you are found to be at fault, your liability insurance will help cover the cost of vehicle repairs, medical expenses and other related expenses for the other driver(s), such as lost wages. If another driver is found to be at fault, their liability insurance will cover these expenses for you. Most states have fault-based insurance.
What factors determine the cost of car insurance?
The cost of car insurance depends on a number of factors, including the vehicle you drive, where you live, your driving record, your age, your marital status, and more.
To find out exactly how much car insurance will cost you, speak to a Mercury agent by calling (800) 956-3728 or get a free quote above.
How much car insurance coverage do I need?
Your driving habits, vehicle, location and budget all determine how much coverage you need. You should consider the following when thinking about your car insurance coverage options:
- Your state may require you to have liability insurance.
- If you're making payments on your car, you may be required to have collision coverage.
- Choosing a higher deductible lowers the amount you pay for insurance, but it also increases the amount you pay out-of-pocket after a loss.
- If you have an older vehicle with a lower value, it might not make sense to pay for more expensive lines of coverage.
Taking the time to think about these things will put you on a path to better understand what level of car insurance you need. Mercury has more tips on this subject and we always recommend speaking with one of our agents. An agent can create a customized policy that is tailored to your needs.
By law, what is the minimum liability insurance I am required to have?
Many states require drivers have liability insurance to make driving financially safe for everyone on the road. If you don't have the required amount of insurance, you may be subject to fines and the state might even revoke your license and registration.
Find out how much insurance your state requires.
How can I lower my auto insurance premium?
Everybody loves to save money. Thankfully, there are a number of ways to help to lower your premium and qualify you for discounts. These may include:
- Anti-theft features installed in your vehicle
- Your driving record
- Annual vehicle mileage
- Teen driver school grades
- The number of cars insured by Mercury
- Bundling other policies you may have with a Mercury auto policy
A Mercury agent can help you find additional factors and discounts to lower your premium. Read more about discounts available from Mercury.
Does my auto insurance cover rental cars?
Mercury offers optional rental coverage with various choices for how much coverage you prefer and for how many days you can drive one while your vehicle is being repaired following a covered loss.
If you plan on renting a vehicle while travelling anywhere in the United States or Canada, your policy will generally provide the same coverage you have for your own car; however, you will be liable for the deductible that applies to your insurance policy. Some vehicles, such as a moving truck or a motorcycle, are not covered by your regular insurance policy so you should always buy the rental company insurance coverage.
As a precaution, check with your agent before renting a car to find out exactly what your policy covers.
Learn more about whether your auto insurance covers rental cars.
Does Mercury Offer Car Insurance In My State?
Mercury is proud to offer auto insurance and coverage in the following states: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia.
Each state has varying laws surrounding driving requirements. Reach out to a local Mercury Insurance agent today to find the coverage that best meets your needs.
Does my insurance cover me if I'm driving someone else's car?
Insurance typically follows the vehicle, therefore the policy on the vehicle you borrow would be primary in any loss incurred. Your personal policy would cover you for any insufficient or gaps in coverage if greater than the policy on the borrowed vehicle.
Before borrowing a vehicle, speak to a Mercury agent to ensure proper coverage.
Can I change my coverage options in the middle of my policy period?
In most scenarios, you can change your coverage options mid-policy period. Mercury customers can request a change through their agent or through our Customer Portal.
Can my rate change after I get a quote?
Whether you get your quote online or through an agent, your rate can change by the time you decide to buy the policy. This change can be caused by a variety of factors. For example, insurance rates change from time to time and your driving record may have changed since you last completed a quote. When you do see a change in your insurance premium, your agent can let you know what caused it.
Do I need to let my insurance company know if my car has a new driver or I purchased a new car?
Yes, you should let your insurance company know that someone new is regularly driving your car or that you purchased a new car immediately.
At Mercury, it's easy to add a new driver or car to your policy. All you have to do is contact your Mercury agent either by phone or through our Customer Portal, let them know about the new additions, and they will take care of everything.
What coverage options are available to me?
There are many different coverage options to select from, including:
How do I file a car insurance claim?
Mercury customers can file a claim 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Just call our claims hotline at (800) 503-3724 to get things started.
1Savings info. based on 2023 CA Department of Insurance rate comparison 255B.