Start with the policy snapshot
Your car insurance declarations page, often called the “dec page,” summarizes the key details of your policy. It usually lists the policy number, insurance company, policy period, covered people and vehicles, selected coverages, limits, deductibles, and premium. Keep it somewhere you can find easily when reviewing your coverage or contacting your insurer.
The declarations page is not the entire policy. Definitions, exclusions, conditions, and endorsements may appear in separate documents. Use the summary as a starting point, then read the full policy or ask your insurer to explain anything that is unclear.
Check dates, people, and vehicles
Find the start and end dates of the policy period, including the effective times. A renewal notice is not necessarily proof that the next policy period is active. Confirm payment requirements and renewal status with your insurer, especially when changing coverage or switching companies.
Check the named insured, address, and listed drivers. The named insured and a listed driver may have different rights and responsibilities. Make sure household and regular drivers are reported accurately. Review each vehicle’s year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN), along with any lender or leasing company listed. Report errors promptly.
Understand limits and deductibles
Liability coverage helps pay for covered injuries or property damage you cause to others, subject to policy terms. Split limits such as 50/100/25 commonly mean $50,000 in bodily injury liability per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability per accident. These are examples, not recommended limits. Some policies use a combined single limit instead.
Collision generally addresses covered damage to your vehicle from a collision. Comprehensive generally addresses covered non-collision losses such as theft, vandalism, or certain weather events. Each may have its own deductible: the amount you pay toward a covered loss. Check both amounts and consider whether you could afford them.
Look for additional protection
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage may help with eligible losses involving drivers who lack adequate insurance. Availability, required amounts, and whether it applies to injuries or property damage vary by state and policy. Also look for personal injury protection or medical payments coverage where applicable.
Review endorsements that add, change, or restrict coverage. Rental reimbursement, roadside assistance, excluded drivers, or special vehicle use may appear separately. Before renewal, check changes in drivers, mileage, address, vehicle use, limits, deductibles, and premium. Confirm that your policy meets state and lender requirements, and ask your insurer about any unfamiliar change before making a decision.
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Get free guidanceThis guide provides general information, not insurance, financial, or legal advice. Coverage and requirements vary by state.