June is National Camping Month - Tips for Drivers

“We have five flashlights and the batteries only work in one!”

“If you think that’s bad, we ran out of mosquito repellant on the first night. We are literally being eaten alive!”

"Oh yah. We are not even there yet. I have no idea where to find my spare tire, or even if there is one!"

June is National Camping Month, and campgrounds across the country are filling up with families, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a break from everyday life. Whether you're driving a car, towing a camper, or traveling in an RV, a little preparation can help your trip go smoothly.

Prepare your vehicle

Before heading out, check your tire pressure, engine oil, coolant, battery, and windshield washer fluid. If you vehicle is an RV, or if you are towing a trailer with propane and other onboard systems, be sure to check them before your trip. Make sure that all awnings, slide-outs, and storage compartments are secured before driving.

That old trailer that hasn’t moved in almost a year?

If you're towing a trailer, inspect the hitch, safety chains, electrical connections, and trailer tires. A few minutes of inspection can help prevent hours of roadside frustration. Trailer tires are notorious for aging out before they wear out, so look carefully for cracks or signs of deterioration.

No doubt you have seen trailers alongside the highway in the summer, with some unfortunate person sweating away while swappin in a (dubious) spare tire. Their families stand in the background, wondering when the fun starts. Don’t get in on that adventure! Check your tires and spares before leaving home.

Know your campground

Does your intended campground require a reservation? Also, before arriving, learn what facilities are available. Some campgrounds offer electrical hookups, water, dump stations, showers, and laundry facilities, while others provide only basic campsites. There is roughing it, and then there is really roughing it! Which do you want?

Review campground rules, including quiet hours, campfire restrictions, pet policies, and parking requirements.

Drive with extra caution

Camping trips often involve unfamiliar roads, narrow campground lanes, gravel surfaces, and increased pedestrian traffic.

* Slow down on curves and rough roads.
* Increase your following distance.
* Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists, and wildlife.
* Use caution when backing into campsites.
* Allow extra stopping distance when towing.

Pack emergency supplies

Yep. Don’t get caught without flashlights, spare batteries, sunscreen, and bug repellent. Also carry water, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, tire-changing equipment, a phone charger, and paper maps or directions. Cell service can be unreliable in remote areas.

Camping should be about enjoying the outdoors, not dealing with preventable problems. A little preparation before you leave can help you arrive safely and spend more time in a hammock and less time muttering about the one thing that you forgot to check.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

First Car - New or Used?

If you are saving for your first vehicle, you may wonder, "Should I plan to buy a new car or a used car?" Parents of soon-to-be drivers may be facing a similar dilema. So how can you think this matter through?

For most first-time buyers, a used car is a wise move but there are a few factors to consider when buying a new car makes more sense. Below are a few reasons to help you decide what to buy.

The reality 

New cars are expensive, with an average cost of around $49,000. New cars lose their value fast—approximately 20% in the first year alone. On the other hand, used cars are typically $20,000 or less. 

Why might a used car could be a better choice for your first vehicle?

A typical used car is less expensive in terms of the upfront cost and the monthly cost. 

Less debt = less stress

You may have lower insurance costs compared to a new car, and there is no need to worry about the first scratch. 

A good rule of thumb is to try to find a vehicle that is 3-5 years old. They are still modern looking and if they were taken care of by the first owner, the car should still be reliable.  

Why might buying a new car might make sense?

Get a new car if you can comfortably afford it (not stretching your budget). One nice perk with new cars is that they often come with a warranty that will cover certain types of maintenance and repairs for several years. Be sure to research this carefully, because there are different types of warranty coverage. It is good to know about warranties and related costs before you actually talk to a new car salesperson. They can be quite persuasive and the pressure to buy could cause you to make a poor decision.

Once in a while, car dealerships will offer low-interest financing or incentives for those purchasing new cars. Depending on the company, they might be willing to offer you complimentary services, for example, free oil changes or car washes, as long as you own the car.

For many, their preference in investing in a new car is to also get the latest safety technology, and perhaps better fuel efficiency. 

Smart first-car strategy

 * Buy used (3–5 years old)
 * Look for reliable brands (Toyota, Honda, KIA, etc.)
 * Once you find a vehicle, make sure to get a pre-purchase inspection
 * Keep your total car costs (payment, gas, insurance) reasonable

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

Going on a Trip — Should You Drive or Fly?

Vacation time! Perhaps you’ve already been imagining a cold beverage and your toes in the sand—even months before you head out for rest and adventure. But one big question is looming in your mind: should you drive or fly?

The answer depends on several important factors, including cost, distance, time, comfort, and how much patience you have for airport security lines or sitting in traffic behind a camper traveling 12 mph uphill.

When Driving Makes More Sense

Driving can be a great option for shorter trips or family vacations. If your destination is only a few hours away, taking your own vehicle may save money compared to buying airline tickets for everyone and then still having to rent a vehicle once you get there.

Road trips also give you freedom. Want to stop for snacks? Go ahead. Want to visit the “World’s Largest Ball of Yarn” along the way? (That’s 813 Wisconsin St., Cawker City, Kansas, in case you are asking.) Nobody can stop you. You can take detours, explore small towns, and pack more luggage without worrying about baggage fees.

Driving may also be more practical if you are bringing sports equipment, camping gear, or pets. Most dogs would probably choose a road trip over sitting in an airplane cargo area any day.

However, driving does have downsides. Long hours behind the wheel can become exhausting, especially in traffic, bad weather, or construction zones. Fuel costs can also add up quickly, especially for larger vehicles. Plus, after eight straight hours in the car, even your favorite music playlist may start to feel like punishment.

When Flying Is the Better Choice

Flying is usually the fastest option for long-distance travel. A trip that might take two days by car could take only a few hours by plane. If your vacation time is limited, flying can help you spend more time actually enjoying the destination instead of staring at highway exit signs.

Air travel can also reduce wear and tear on your vehicle. Long road trips add mileage, tire wear, and maintenance costs to your car. Sometimes people forget that driving across several states is basically giving your vehicle a surprise endurance contest.

Of course, flying comes with its own challenges. Airports can be crowded and stressful. Flights may be delayed, luggage occasionally disappears into another dimension, and airplane seats somehow become smaller every year. Travelers also have less flexibility because they must follow airline schedules.

Questions to Ask Before Deciding

Before choosing between driving and flying, ask yourself a few simple questions:

* How far away is the destination?
* How many people are traveling?
* How much will fuel, hotels, and food cost compared to plane tickets (and perhaps rental car costs)?
* How much time do you have?
* Will you need a car once you arrive?
* Are you comfortable with long drives or busy airports?

For some trips, driving clearly makes more sense. For others, flying is worth the extra cost to save time and energy.

Other options

Even if you have not been thinking about traveling by train or bus, it is probably a good idea to at least investigate the cost. For medium-distance trips (under 400 miles), the train cost may be similar to flying if you book well in advance and travel on weekdays. Plus, you can avoid all of that TSA unpleasantness. Many travelers find train travel to be one of the most relaxing ways to travel. In fact, a train ride through the Rocky Mountains or along the Pacific Coast can actually become part of the vacation itself.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

5 Tips to Drive Safely in the Fog

Before getting into the tips, it’s important to understand that fog is one of the most hazardous driving conditions. It can significantly reduce visibility and distort depth perception, making it harder to judge distance and speed. Some of the largest fog-related pileups in U.S. history have involved dozens—even hundreds—of vehicles, often occurring on high-speed highways where visibility suddenly drops to near zero.

If you can delay your trip, that’s always the safest option. But if driving is unavoidable, here’s how to handle fog safely. These five practical tips can help you stay safer.

Tip #1 - Before you get on the road, listen to the weather report. Does the weatherman have an idea when the fog is going to lift?  Once you are on the road, use a visual search pattern to assess conditions ahead. Pay attention to how dense the fog is, how far you can see, and whether there are additional hazards like drizzle or ice on the roadway. These factors should guide your speed and driving decisions. 

Tip #2 - Reduce your speed more than you feel is necessary. Fog limits how far ahead you can see, so you need extra time to react to, for example, stopped vehicles or animals on the road. Adjust your speed so you can be ready to slow down if conditions worsen.

Tip #3 - Use low-beam headlights (not high beams). When you have your high beams on, they reflect off the fog and make your visibility worse. If you use your low beams, they will help illuminate the road without creating glare.

Tip #4 - Increase your following distance. In normal conditions, a three-second gap may be enough. In fog, you should double that distance or more, depending on how heavy the fog is. You will need extra space that gives you more time to react if the vehicle ahead stops suddenly. Follow road markings to stay on track, for example, lane lines—especially the right edge line as a guide. This helps you maintain your position on the road when visibility is limited.

Tip #5 - Never stop in a travel lane. Stopping in an active lane puts you at serious risk of being hit. If visibility becomes too poor to continue, safely signal and move slowly to the right lane or pull into a shoulder or parking area if possible, and turn on your hazard lights. 

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

May is National Moving Month – Tips for Drivers

May kicks off the busiest moving season of the year. The weather is nicer, school is winding down, and suddenly it seems like everyone—and their couch—is on the move. If you’re planning to rent a moving truck and drive it yourself, a little preparation can save you money, stress, and possibly your favorite lamp.

Know the Costs Before You Go

Renting a moving truck isn’t just about the daily rate. Most companies charge based on a combination of time, mileage, and truck size. A local move might seem cheap at first, but those per-mile fees can add up quickly.

Also, don’t forget to factor in fuel, insurance coverage, and optional equipment like dollies or furniture pads.

Choose the smallest truck that safely fits your load.  

Packing Like a Pro

Don’t just start loading up the moving truck frantically, like you are trying to flee a tornado. Take your time and do it right. Boxes can help to keep everything organized and packed protectively, but make sure that they are not too heavy for you to lift safely.

Packing well isn’t just about protecting your belongings—it also makes driving safer. Keep heavier items on the bottom and distribute the weight evenly from side to side. An unbalanced truck can feel like it’s leaning into every turn, which is not the kind of excitement you want.

Secure everything tightly. Use straps, tie-downs, and padding to keep items from shifting.

Tip: What should you load last? Load essential items (like tools, chargers, snacks, and anything you might need first at your new home) where you can access them easily without unpacking half the truck at your destination.

Do You Need a Special License?

For most household moves, you won’t need a special license. In the United States, a standard driver’s license typically allows you to operate rental trucks up to a certain size (usually around 26 feet). These are the same trucks offered by companies like U-Haul or Penske Truck Rental.

However, if you’re towing a trailer or driving something larger, it’s wise to double-check your state’s requirements. And even if you can legally drive it, that doesn’t mean it will feel natural right away. A 20-foot truck does not handle like your everyday sedan—it’s more like driving your living room down the highway.

Safety Tips for the Road

Driving a moving truck requires a mindset shift. You’ll need more time, more space, and a bit more patience.

* Take it slow. Acceleration and braking take longer, so give yourself extra following distance.
* Mind your height. Low bridges, drive-thrus, and parking garages are not your friends. Know your truck’s clearance before you go exploring.
* Make wide turns. Trucks need extra room to turn without clipping curbs—or unsuspecting mailboxes.
* Use your mirrors. A lot. Your rearview mirror may be useless if the truck is packed full, so side mirrors become your new best friends.
* Plan your route. Avoid narrow streets, steep hills, and tight parking areas when possible. GPS is helpful, but it doesn’t always account for truck-friendly routes.

Final Thought

Moving may never be “fun,” but it doesn’t have to be chaos on wheels either. With a little planning, smart packing, and careful driving, you can get your belongings—and yourself—to your new home safely. And if all goes well, the only thing you’ll have to worry about at the end of the day is where you packed the coffee maker.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

Ups and Downs: 10 Tips for Driving in the Mountains

Snow-covered peaks! Crystal blue alpine lakes! Cascading waterfalls! Driving in the mountains can be breathtaking—but it also demands extra attention, patience, and skill. Here’s a practical, easy-to-follow guide to help you stay safe and confident on those winding roads.

1. Slow Down

Mountain roads often have sharp curves, steep grades, and limited visibility. Even if the speed limit seems reasonable, reduce your speed to match the road conditions. If the road looks like a roller coaster, don’t drive it like one.

2. Master the Curves

- Brake before entering a curve, not while you are in the curve.
- Look through (past) the turn to where you want the car to go.
- Stay in your lane—hugging the center line can be dangerous.

3. Use Lower Gears on Descents

Riding your brakes downhill can overheat them and reduce stopping power. Shift to a lower gear by shifting from “D” to “3” or “2” gear; this will help your engine to control the speed of your vehicle.

4. Don’t Speed Up When You Are Going Uphill

Steep climbs require steady acceleration—not aggressive speeding. Press the gas smoothly to maintain traction and control.

5. Watch for Changing Conditions

Mountain weather can shift fast:

- Fog can reduce visibility in seconds.
- Rain or snow makes roads slick.
- Falling rocks or debris may appear unexpectedly.

6. Keep a Safe Following Distance

Give yourself extra space between you and the car ahead—especially on steep slopes when it takes longer to stop.

7. Use Escape Ramps (Runaway Truck Ramps) When Needed

They’re not just for trucks—they’re your “plan B” if things get a little too exciting. If vehicles are piling up behind you or you are feeling like your vehicle is getting out of control, pull over at a designated runaway truck ramp and let the traffic pass. It keeps traffic flowing, reduces stress and can prevent accidents. 

Yes. Any vehicle experiencing brake failure or unable to slow down on a steep grade can—and should—use a runaway truck ramp to avoid a crash.

8. Use Headlights Wisely

Keep your headlights on in fog, rain, or tunnels—even during the day—so others can see you more clearly.

9. Be on the Lookout for Wildlife

Animals like deer can suddenly cross the road, especially at dawn or dusk. Stay alert and scan the roadside.

10. Check Your Vehicle Before You Go

- Are your brakes in good condition?
- Are the tires properly inflated with good tread?
- Do you have a full tank of gas (stations can be far apart)?

Mountain driving isn’t about rushing—it’s about control, awareness, and enjoying the journey safely. Take your time, stay calm, and let the road guide you and your passengers safely. 

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

DIY Interior Car Detailing: Step-by-Step Guide

Have you ever climbed into someone else's vehicle and immediately felt like you were sitting in a dumpster? Yep, it does not take long for one wrapper on the floorboards to morph into a rat's nest on wheels. You may find yourself determined to never let your car even start down that road. But how can you keep your vehicle calm and serene in its neatness without paying for expensive detailing?

Interior detailing removes dirt, dust, and odors while protecting surfaces from wear and fading. With the right tools and a simple process, you can detail your car’s interior effectively at home.

Essential Interior Detailing Tools and Products

Before starting, gather these basic supplies:

√ Vacuum with hose attachments
√ Microfiber cloths
√ Interior cleaner or all-purpose cleaner
√ Glass cleaner
√ Upholstery cleaner
√ Leather cleaner and conditioner (for leather seats)
√ Interior protectant for plastic and vinyl surfaces
√ Small detailing brushes

These tools allow you to clean delicate surfaces without causing damage.

Step 1: Remove Trash and Personal Items

Before cleaning, remove trash and personal items. This includes water bottles, snack wrappers, and any mysterious items that may have been living under the seat since last year. Yes, everything! Clean out all of the following, including all contents of the trunk and glove compartment:

√ Trash
√ Personal belongings
√ Loose change
√ Water bottles
√ Floor mats
√ That tangle of cords

Clearing the space allows you to reach every surface during cleaning.

Step 2: Vacuum the Interior

Vacuum the entire interior thoroughly. Vacuuming the interior often reveals things you forgot you owned—loose change, old receipts, and sometimes fries that have clearly seen better days. Focus on these areas:

1. Carpets
2. Floor mats
3. Seat surfaces
4. Under the seats
5. Door pockets
6. Center console

Use smaller vacuum attachments to reach tight areas and crevices.

Step 3: Clean Dashboard and Interior Surfaces

Use an interior cleaner or all-purpose cleaner to wipe down these areas:

1. Dashboard
2. Door panels
3. Steering wheel
4. Center console
5. Interior trim

Note: Soft detailing brushes work well for cleaning air vents, buttons, seams, and tight corners. 

Avoid overly shiny products that can create glare on the dashboard.

Step 4: Clean the Seats

Cleaning methods depend on the seat material.

Cloth seats: 1) Apply upholstery cleaner, 2), Gently scrub using a soft brush, and 3) Blot dry with microfiber towels.

Leather seats: 1) Use a leather cleaner designed for automotive interiors. 2) Apply leather conditioner afterward to keep the leather soft and prevent cracking.

Step 5: Clean Interior Glass

Interior windows can develop a film caused by plastic materials and airflow. Use glass cleaner and a microfiber towel to clean:

1. Interior windshield
2. Side windows
3. Rear window

Tip: Buff the glass with a second towel to remove streaks.

Step 6: Reinstall Floor Mats and Finish Up

Once the interior surfaces are clean:

1. Reinstall floor mats.
2. Apply interior protectant to plastics if desired.
3. Perform a final inspection for missed spots.

Do you want an air freshener?

Some do. Some don't. Choosing a car air freshener involves balancing scent preference, longevity, and type—such as vent clips for strong distribution, gels for long-lasting aroma, or sprays for quick fixes. Top choices include Pura Car Pro (smart), Drift (natural), and Air Spencer Squash (long-lasting). Prioritize subtle, non-toxic scents to avoid headaches and ensure they don't block visibility.  

Done!

After detailing the interior, take a moment to enjoy the result. Your car now smells better, looks better, and your passengers will love the uncluttered peace.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

New Drivers: How to Overcome Anxiety While Driving

Feeling anxious as a new driver is extremely common—your brain is just trying to keep you safe in a situation that still feels unfamiliar. (It’s basically your brain saying, “Hey… are we sure about this?”) The goal isn’t to eliminate anxiety overnight, but to gradually make driving feel predictable and manageable.

Here’s how to work through it in a practical, step-by-step way:

1. Start Small and Controlled

            -Don’t jump straight onto highways or busy intersections.

            -Begin driving in empty parking lots or quiet neighborhoods.

            -Drive at off-peak hours (early morning or late evening).

            -Repeat the same short routes until they feel boring.

This builds familiarity, which reduces anxiety. 

2. Use Gradual Exposure

This is a key approach based on the psychological concept of Exposure Therapy. Think of driving like leveling up. No one starts at “expert mode”—and that’s the point.

             -Level 1: Empty parking lot

             -Level 2: Quiet streets

             -Level 3: Moderate traffic

             -Level 4: Highways

Only move up when the previous level feels comfortable—not perfect, just manageable.

3. Control Your Anxiety Before you Drive

Try these tricks before and during driving:

              -Slow breathing: inhale 4 seconds, exhale 6 seconds.

              -Relax your shoulders and your grip on the steering wheel.

              -Keep your eyes moving across the road (don’t fixate on one thing).

If your shoulders are up by your ears, it’s time to reset. This will calm your nervous system quickly.

4. Change Your Self-Talk

New drivers often think: “I’m going to mess up!” or “Everyone is judging me!”

Replace that with thoughts like: “I’m learning.” and “Other drivers don’t care as much as I think.”

Your brain listens to what you repeatedly tell it.

5. Practice With a Calm Companion

Drive with someone who:

           -Doesn’t overreact and gives clear, simple directions.

           -Makes you feel safe, not pressured.

Avoid people who make you more nervous—even if they’re experienced drivers.

6. Know That Mistakes Are Normal

Even experienced drivers miss turns, take a moment to react, or brake suddenly and get honked at. Mistakes don’t mean you’re a bad driver—they’re part of becoming a good one.

7. Have a “Pull-Over Plan”

If your anxiety spikes:

          -Signal and pull into a safe area.

          -Take a minute to breathe.

          -Reset and continue when ready.

Knowing you can pull off the road and pause can be a huge anxiety-reducer. 

8. Limit Overstimulation

Early on, keep things simple. No loud music, no phone distractions, and avoid complicated routes. Focusing on the road builds confidence faster.

9. Be Consistent

Driving once a week keeps anxiety high. Even short drives help.

         -Trying to drive 10–15 minutes daily will lower your anxiety. 

         -Consistency trains your brain by telling it, “This is normal.”

Confidence comes from repetition while slightly uncomfortable.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

Which States Use Digital Driver’s Licenses?

Digital driver’s licenses (often called mobile driver’s licenses or mDLs) are transforming how people carry and present identification. Instead of relying solely on a physical card, drivers can now store a secure, digital version of their license on a smartphone or smartwatch. But where are these digital IDs actually available—and how widely are they accepted?

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Digital Driver’s License?

A digital driver’s license is an electronic version of your state-issued ID stored in a secure app, typically within your phone’s digital wallet. These IDs use encryption and biometric authentication (like Face ID or fingerprint) to protect your personal information.

Unlike simply taking a photo of your license, an official digital ID is issued and verified by your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency.

States That Currently Offer Digital Driver’s Licenses

As of early 2026, several U.S. states have launched digital driver’s license programs, either fully available or in limited rollout.

Fully Available or Widely Implemented

1. Arizona – One of the first states to adopt digital IDs, integrated with major mobile wallets.
2. Colorado – Offers a state-specific app for secure digital ID storage.
3. Georgia – Available through compatible smartphone wallet systems.
4. Maryland – Provides digital IDs with growing acceptance.
5. Utah – Early adopter with broad in-state usability.

Available or Expanding Programs

1. California – Pilot program expanding to more users.
2. Iowa – Rolling out mobile ID options.
3. Kentucky – Gradual implementation underway.
4. Oklahoma – Offers a mobile ID app for residents.

Many other states are actively developing or testing digital license programs. The following states may launch full programs in the near future as technology and regulations continue to evolve.

1. Florida
2. New York
3. Texas
4. Virginia
5. Washington

Don’t see your state on these lists? Keep checking. Some states are all-in on digital licenses, while others are taking a ‘let’s watch how this goes first’ approach.

Where Can You Use a Digital License?

Even in states that offer digital licenses, acceptance is still growing. Currently, you may be able to use a digital ID in the following situations:

1. Airport security (TSA checkpoints) at select airports
2. Traffic stops (in participating states)
3. Retail or age verification at some businesses
4. Government services or identity verification apps

However, not all law enforcement agencies or businesses accept digital IDs yet, so it’s important to carry your physical license as a backup.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

1. Limited acceptance: Not universally recognized yet
2. Device dependency: Requires a charged and functioning smartphone
3. State-by-state variation: Availability and features differ widely

For now, think of your digital license as a convenient supplement—not a replacement for your physical ID. Digital driver’s licenses are the future—just don’t toss your physical one yet. The future is still buffering.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

5 Tips for Choosing Vehicle Insurance

Choosing the right vehicle insurance can help you save money and protect you financially if something goes wrong. But aren't all insurance companies and insurance coverage alike? No. You need to do your research. Pick an insurance company and an insurance policy that is right for you. 

Here are 5 practical tips to help you pick the best policy.

1. First, understand the types of coverage and choose coverage based on your car’s value, your budget, and your risk level.

 Liability Coverage – Pays for damage or injuries you cause to others.
 Collision Coverage – Covers damage to your car from an accident. 
 Comprehensive Coverage – Covers non-accident events like theft, fire, or storms.

Think of insurance coverage like layers of clothing—liability is your T-shirt, collision is your jacket, and comprehensive is the umbrella you didn’t think you’d need… until you really do.

2. Then, compare quotes from multiple insurers

Prices vary widely between companies. Well-known insurers like GEICO, State Farm, Progressive Corporation, and Allstate often offer different rates for similar coverage. Getting several quotes helps you find the best price for the same protection.

3. Next, check the deductible amount

The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance covers the rest.

The higher the deductible → The lower the monthly premium 
The lower the deductible →  The higher the monthly premium     

4. Next, look for Discounts

 Many insurers offer discounts such as:

Safe driver discount
Multi-policy discount (home + auto)
Good student discount 
Low mileage discount

These discounts can significantly reduce your annual premium. Ask your insurance agent if you qualify (or could qualify) for these sorts of discounts.  

5. Last but not least, review the insurer’s reputation

An insurance company might sound great—until you actually need them. That’s when reviews suddenly become very important. Check the following:

1. Their customer reviews
2. Their claim settlement process
3. Their financial strength rating

Tip: Review your insurance every year. If your driving habits, vehicle, or financial situation changes, you might find a better deal.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!