Cheapest Car Insurance in North Carolina: Everything You Need to Know

Car insurance is an essential aspect of car ownership, but it can be expensive. Luckily, there are ways to get the coverage you need without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll discuss how to find the cheapest car insurance in North Carolina while still getting the coverage you need.

Understanding Car Insurance in North Carolina

Before we dive into how to find cheap car insurance in North Carolina, it’s important to understand the state’s insurance requirements. North Carolina law requires that drivers carry liability insurance with the following minimum coverage:

Type of Coverage
Minimum Coverage Amount
Bodily injury liability
$30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident
Property damage liability
$25,000 per accident

Note that these are just the minimum coverage requirements. It’s a good idea to carry higher limits if you can afford it, as accidents can easily exceed these limits.

What is Liability Insurance?

Liability insurance covers you if you’re at fault in an accident and someone else is injured or their property is damaged. It does not cover your own injuries or damages to your own vehicle. That’s where additional types of coverage come in.

How to Find Cheap Car Insurance in North Carolina

Now that you understand North Carolina’s insurance requirements, let’s dive into how to find the cheapest car insurance rates in the state.

Shop Around

One of the best ways to find cheap car insurance in North Carolina is to shop around. Get quotes from multiple insurers to compare rates and coverage options. Don’t just go with the first quote you receive – take some time to compare and find the best deal.

Consider Your Coverage Needs

Before you start shopping for car insurance, consider your coverage needs. Do you want just the minimum liability coverage, or do you want additional types of coverage like collision or comprehensive? Keep in mind that additional coverage will increase your premiums, so consider what you can afford.

Look for Discounts

Many insurers offer discounts that can help lower your car insurance premiums. Some common discounts include:

  • Multi-policy discounts for bundling your car insurance with other types of insurance like home or renters insurance
  • Safe driver discounts for having a clean driving record
  • Good student discounts for students who maintain a certain GPA
  • Low mileage discounts for driving less than a certain number of miles per year

Consider Raising Your Deductible

Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Generally, the higher your deductible, the lower your insurance premiums. Consider raising your deductible if you can afford to pay a higher amount out of pocket in the event of an accident.

Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score can affect your car insurance premiums. Insurers often use credit information to determine rates, as research has shown that people with lower credit scores are more likely to file claims. Improving your credit score can help lower your car insurance premiums, so consider working on your credit if it needs improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of car insurance in North Carolina?

The average cost of car insurance in North Carolina is around $865 per year for minimum coverage and $1,365 per year for full coverage. However, your actual premiums will depend on factors like your age, driving record, and the type of car you drive.

Is liability insurance enough?

Liability insurance is the minimum coverage required by law in North Carolina, but it may not be enough to cover all the damages in the event of an accident. Consider additional types of coverage like collision or comprehensive to protect yourself and your vehicle.

What factors affect car insurance premiums?

Car insurance premiums are affected by a variety of factors, including:

  • Age
  • Driving record
  • Type of vehicle
  • Credit score
  • Location
  • Gender
  • Marital status

Does North Carolina offer any car insurance assistance programs?

Yes, North Carolina offers the North Carolina Reinsurance Facility, which helps high-risk drivers get insurance coverage when they can’t find it elsewhere. The state also offers the Safe Driver Incentive Plan, which rewards safe drivers with lower premiums.

What should I do if I get into an accident?

If you get into an accident, you should first make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if necessary. Exchange insurance information with the other driver and take photos of the damages. Then, file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible.

What if I can’t afford car insurance?

If you can’t afford car insurance, you may be eligible for the state’s Low-Cost Auto Insurance Program. This program offers liability coverage at a reduced rate for drivers who meet certain income and eligibility requirements.

Conclusion

Finding the cheapest car insurance in North Carolina requires some time and effort, but it’s possible. Shop around, consider your coverage needs, and look for discounts to help lower your premiums. And remember, it’s important to have adequate coverage to protect yourself and your vehicle in the event of an accident.