Auto insurance should not be a purchase that consumers are willing to skimp on, however there are ways to ensure protection without having to over-insure a vehicle, resulting in unnecessary costs.

While auto insurance in Virginia is not mandatory, most motorists do not choose to opt out of insuring their vehicles. According to Fox Business, only 2,425 out of 5.4 million drivers licensed in the state opted out of protecting their vehicle, a telling statistic. Most consumers know how crucial it is to be protected in the event of an accident or injury.

PR Newswire reports that consumers should discuss with insurance agents what type of limits exist on their liability coverage. Liability coverage is mandatory for all motorists and minimums are designated on a state-by-state basis. State minimums are often not sufficient in covering costs accumulated by a major accident. Increasing liability coverage doesn't result in a large difference on premium payments, and oftentimes can result in a discount if packaged together with renters or homeowners insurance policies.