Understanding Auto Insurance Basics in New England
- B1 Insurance Team
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 24
Auto insurance is essential for protecting not only your vehicle, but also your financial well-being in the event of an accident or unforeseen event. Whether you’re driving through Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, or Maine, understanding the core components of your auto policy can help ensure you’re properly covered.
What Does a Standard Auto Insurance Policy Include?
Most personal auto insurance policies are made up of several key coverages:
Liability Coverage
Required in most states, this covers medical costs and property damage if you are found at fault in an accident.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle if it is damaged in a collision, regardless of who is at fault.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision-related incidents such as theft, fire, vandalism, or damage from weather and animals.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Required in Massachusetts, this covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who has insufficient or no insurance.
How to Determine What Coverage You Need
Your ideal coverage depends on several factors, including:
The value and age of your vehicle
Whether your car is leased, financed, or owned outright
Your driving habits and location
Your comfort level with risk and out-of-pocket expenses
For instance, if you drive a newer vehicle or lease a car, comprehensive and collision coverage may be essential. If your vehicle is older or paid off, your priorities may differ.
Common Auto Insurance Pitfalls
We often see the following issues when reviewing policies for new clients:
Underinsured drivers: Choosing state minimums that offer insufficient protection in serious accidents.
Overlapping benefits: Paying for services already included through another provider (e.g., roadside assistance).
Unfamiliar deductibles: Opting for low premiums without fully understanding the deductible trade-offs.
A brief review can often reveal small adjustments that lead to better protection or more cost-effective coverage.
Why work with B1 Insurance?
At B1 Insurance, we take a consultative approach to coverage. As an independent agency with over two decades of experience providing personal and commercial policies throughout New England, we work with a variety of carriers and can help tailor a plan that fits your unique needs and budget — without unnecessary upselling or pressure.
We pride ourselves on being approachable, knowledgeable, and committed to the best interests of our clients.
If you’re unsure whether your current policy truly meets your needs, we invite you to contact us. We’ll review your coverage at no cost and provide straightforward recommendations for improvements, if needed.
