Oahu Insurance Switch: Where To Go

If you're looking to change your insurance provider in Oahu, Hawaii, there are several options to choose from. Some of the most popular insurance companies in the state include GEICO, Island Insurance, State Farm, Allstate, and Progressive. These companies offer a range of insurance products, including car, home, and health insurance. When considering a change, it is recommended to shop around and compare rates, coverage options, and discounts offered by different insurers to find the best fit for your needs. Additionally, it is worth noting that Hawaii is a no-fault state, and car insurance policies must include liability insurance and personal injury protection.

Car insurance in Oahu

Car insurance is a necessity if you own a vehicle in Oahu, Hawaii. The right car insurance can provide financial protection in the event of an accident or other damage to your vehicle. When choosing a car insurance policy, it's important to consider the level of coverage you need, as well as the cost of the premiums. Let's take a closer look at car insurance in Oahu and explore some options available to drivers in the area.

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Oahu

In the state of Hawaii, including Oahu, there are minimum car insurance requirements that all drivers must meet. The minimum coverage includes:

• Bodily injury liability coverage: $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident.
• Basic personal injury protection: $10,000.
• Property damage liability coverage: $10,000.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident.

It's important to note that uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can be rejected in writing if you choose to do so.

Car Insurance Companies in Oahu

When it comes to car insurance companies in Oahu, there are several options available. Here are some popular choices:

• GEICO: GEICO is the largest auto insurer in Hawaii and offers affordable coverage with great customer service. They can provide fast and free car insurance quotes to ensure you meet the minimum requirements for Hawaii.
• Island Insurance: Island Insurance is the state's only locally owned P&C insurer, and they have been protecting Hawaii families and businesses for over 80 years. They offer benefits such as flexible payment options, superior local claims service, and an Island Certified℠ auto repair network.
• State Farm: State Farm is a well-known insurance company with a strong presence in Hawaii. They offer a range of coverage options and may be a good choice for those looking for a more personalized experience as they work through a network of agents.
• Allstate: Allstate is another major insurance company that offers car insurance in Oahu. They may be a good option for those looking for discounts and added extras like built-in accident forgiveness and emergency towing.
• Progressive: Progressive is known for its competitive rates and is often a popular choice for drivers in their 20s and 30s.

When choosing a car insurance company, it's important to compare quotes and coverage options from multiple providers to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Additionally, consider factors such as customer service, claims handling, and the availability of local agents.

Tips for Saving Money on Car Insurance in Oahu

Car insurance can be a significant expense, but there are ways to save money on your premiums:

• Compare rates from multiple insurers: Shop around and get quotes from different insurance companies to find the most competitive rates.
• Maintain a good driving record: A clean driving record can help you qualify for lower premiums.
• Bundle your policies: Consider bundling your car insurance with other types of insurance, such as home or renters insurance, to take advantage of potential discounts.
• Look for discounts: Ask about available discounts, such as those for safe driving, having safety features in your vehicle, or being a loyal customer.
• Adjust your coverage: Review your coverage limits and consider adjusting them to find a balance between adequate protection and affordability.

In conclusion, car insurance in Oahu offers residents a range of options to protect themselves financially in the event of an accident or damage to their vehicle. By understanding the minimum requirements, comparing different insurance providers, and taking advantage of cost-saving measures, drivers in Oahu can find the right coverage at a price that fits their budget. Remember to review your policy regularly and make necessary adjustments to ensure you have the protection you need.

Home insurance in Oahu

When choosing a home insurance policy in Oahu, consider the following:

• Dwelling coverage: This protects the structure of your home, including the roof and walls, as well as any attached structures like a porch.
• Other structures coverage: This protects detached structures on your property, such as a fence or shed.
• Personal property coverage: This covers your personal belongings, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics, in the event of theft or damage.
• Personal liability coverage: This protects you financially if someone is injured on your property or if you damage someone else's property.
• Medical payments coverage: This covers medical expenses for others who are injured on your property.
• Loss of use coverage: This helps with additional living expenses if you need to temporarily relocate while your home is being repaired or rebuilt due to a covered loss.

When shopping for home insurance in Oahu, get quotes from multiple insurers and ask about available discounts. You may be able to save money by bundling your home and auto insurance policies or by choosing a higher deductible. Keep in mind that a higher deductible will result in lower premiums but a higher out-of-pocket cost if you need to file a claim.

Some of the top-rated home insurance companies in Hawaii include:

• State Farm: Offers a wide range of coverage options and discounts, with good customer satisfaction ratings.
• Allstate: Known for its affordable rates and various endorsement options, including identity theft protection and electronic data recovery.
• Liberty Mutual: Provides a wide array of policy add-ons and discounts, although customer experience scores are not the highest.
• Cincinnati Insurance: Sells policies through local independent agents and has far fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
• Ocean Harbor: A regional insurer that offers a wide variety of add-on coverage choices and potential discounts for new homes and security systems.
• Island Insurance: A local insurer that offers custom coverages designed with Hawaii homes and natural disasters in mind, including theft, fire, and ID theft resolution assistance.

Health insurance in Oahu

The average health insurance cost in Hawaii is $421 per month for a 40-year-old across all plan tiers, which is 3% more expensive than in 2022. The KP HI Silver 4000/45 from Kaiser Permanente is the cheapest Silver health plan in every county. However, HMSA offers the lowest-cost Catastrophic, Gold and Platinum health plans in Hawaii, making it the most affordable insurer for some of the more basic or comprehensive policies.

Hawaii does not have a specific law requiring individuals to have health insurance coverage. However, the Hawaii Prepaid Health Care Act, enacted in 1974, requires most employers to offer group health insurance to employees. This law has contributed to Hawaii's relatively low uninsured rate compared to the national average.

There are various types of health insurance plans available in Hawaii, including Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These plans differ in terms of monthly premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and coverage levels. Bronze plans typically have lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs, while Platinum plans offer the most comprehensive coverage with the highest premiums but the lowest out-of-pocket expenses. Silver and Gold plans strike a balance between premiums and out-of-pocket costs, making them suitable for average consumers or those with frequent healthcare needs, respectively.

When choosing a health insurance plan in Oahu, it is important to consider your coverage needs, budget, and personal circumstances. Additionally, it is worth exploring the different insurers and comparing their plans to find the one that best suits your needs.

Insurance for military families in Oahu

If you are a military family living in Oahu, there are a few things to consider when it comes to insurance. Firstly, let's look at the types of insurance you may need and then we can explore some specific options for military families.

Types of Insurance

There are several types of insurance that you may want to consider as a military family in Oahu. These include:

• Health Insurance: Hawaii does not have a specific law requiring individuals to have health insurance. However, most residents obtain coverage through their employer or a government-sponsored program. For military families, TRICARE is a health care program that may be an option.
• Home Insurance: Homeowners insurance is not mandatory in Hawaii, but it is recommended to protect your property and belongings. The cost of home insurance in Hawaii is generally lower than the national average.
• Car Insurance: Auto insurance is required in Hawaii, and there are several companies that offer coverage, including some that specialise in military family coverage.
• Other Insurance Types: Depending on your specific needs, you may also want to consider additional types of insurance such as life insurance, vision insurance, or dental insurance.

Insurance Options for Military Families

Now, let's explore some specific insurance options for military families in Oahu:

• USAA: USAA is highly regarded for its customised protections and customer service for military families. Their homeowners insurance includes special coverage for military-specific needs, such as protection for uniforms while on active duty. USAA also offers excellent rates and comprehensive coverage for auto insurance.
• Island Insurance: As Hawaii's only locally owned P&C insurer, Island Insurance has been protecting Hawaii families for over 80 years. They offer a range of insurance products, including auto, home, and renters insurance. They also provide benefits like flexible payment options and superior local claims service.
• DB Insurance: If you're looking for affordable coverage, DB Insurance offers the cheapest home insurance rates in Hawaii, with average annual premiums of $548. They also provide a steep discount when bundling home and auto policies.
• State Farm: State Farm is known for its strong array of coverage options and competitive discounts. They offer homeowners insurance, car insurance, and other types of insurance products. State Farm has a high customer satisfaction rating and is a trusted option for many.

Remember to compare quotes and coverage options from multiple insurers to find the best fit for your family's unique needs. Additionally, take advantage of any discounts you may be eligible for, such as bundling policies or having a good claims history.

Insurance for young drivers in Oahu

Young drivers in Oahu, Hawaii, can expect to pay an average of $42 to $50 per month or $501 to $596 annually for car insurance. The cost of car insurance for young drivers in Hawaii varies depending on factors such as age, gender, driving experience, and whether they are added to an existing policy or purchasing their own. Geico, Progressive, State Farm, and Island Insurance are among the insurance companies that offer competitive rates for young drivers in the state. It is recommended that young drivers compare quotes and consider eligible discounts to save on premiums.

Frequently asked questions