How to Get the Best North Carolina Car Insurance Quotes: A Step-by-Step Guide
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In almost every state, auto insurance is a necessary requirement for owning a vehicle. It helps protect your wallet if you get into an accident, but it can be expensive and confusing. Car insurance in North Carolina is usually more affordable than the national average, but unique regulations and requirements can complicate your shopping experience. If you're looking for a new policy in North Carolina, it's important to understand how insurance in the state works.
How To Get North Carolina Car Insurance Quotes
The first step in finding affordable coverage is to compare auto insurance quotes from various providers. At EverQuote, we want the process to be as simple as possible. Our customizable quotes are tailored to your specific needs, coverage options, and budget.
To receive the most accurate quotes, gather the following information:
- Your driver's license
- Vehicle information (VIN, year, make, model, and trim level)
- Your driving habits
- Where you intend to park the vehicle
- Info for additional drivers or vehicles (if applicable)
Once you submit the necessary information, you'll receive a list of policies from some of the largest auto insurance companies in North Carolina. Pay close attention to the type of coverage, deductibles, and any discounts you might be able to take advantage of. You can also connect with an agent online or over the phone to get more information about a specific policy.
Factors That Affect North Carolina Car Insurance Premiums
Insurance companies weigh a variety of factors when calculating your rate. Understanding these variables — especially those within your control — can help you save money on car insurance.
Driving History
Your driving record helps insurers evaluate your risk profile. Here are some red flags that can impact your rates:
- Accidents: Even one accident on your record can raise your insurance premiums.
- Moving violations: Tickets for speeding or reckless driving can make it more difficult to find affordable coverage.
- Previous claims: If you've made insurance claims in the past, it may make you less desirable to insure.
Vehicle Information
Because car insurance covers damages in an accident, the type of vehicle you insure significantly impacts your premium. Here are some characteristics insurance providers might consider:
- Vehicle age: Newer cars are generally more expensive to repair or replace, leading to higher insurance rates.
- Body style: Larger vehicles can cause more damage in an accident while sports cars may have a higher assumed risk. Additionally, insurance companies may factor in past claims with similar vehicles when calculating your rate.
- Safety features: Advanced safety features can positively impact your premium by helping you avoid collisions. However, if the system uses complex technology, a higher repair cost may offset any savings.
Coverage Types
Because North Carolina is an at-fault state, it's important to understand the types of coverage before you choose a policy. Here are some popular coverages and what they protect:
- Liability Coverage: Pays for out-of-pocket repairs if you damage someone's property or vehicle in an accident. This is half of the minimum required insurance in North Carolina.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist Coverage: Protects you if you are not at fault for an accident and the other driver doesn't have adequate insurance. It is the other half of the state's minimum coverage.
- Collision Coverage: Covers damage to your vehicle if you cause an accident. It is more expensive than liability but will cover repairs after paying your deductible.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against non-collision damage from natural disasters, theft, or vandalism. This coverage will increase your rate but will cover damage that is out of your control.
Understanding North Carolina's Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
In North Carolina, all drivers are required to carry both liability and uninsured motorist coverage. North Carolina car insurance requirements are currently set at:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
Starting January 1, 2025, these requirements will increase to:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $50,000 for property damage per accident
These regulations make sure that victims are protected from financial liability in the event of an accident. The upcoming changes aim to enhance auto insurance coverage and provide a stronger safety net for all motorists in North Carolina.
Review the insurance requirements of your state:
North Carolina Reinsurance Facility: What You Need To Know
The North Carolina Reinsurance Facility (NCRF) exists to ensure that all eligible drivers in North Carolina can obtain liability insurance, regardless of their assigned risk. All auto insurers in the state must participate, pooling high-risk policies across multiple providers. Because of this, insurance premiums through the NCRF are generally higher than the open market.
High-Risk Drivers
If your auto insurance company thinks that you have become too high of a risk, they can transfer your policy to the NCRF. This allows you to obtain adequate protection even with multiple claims or accidents on your record.
Low-Risk Drivers
Low-risk drivers can also have their policies assigned to the NCRF to help offset losses, though they won't have to pay elevated rates. However, all drivers in North Carolina are required to pay a "recoupment surcharge" to help cover losses incurred by the NCRF.
Shop Around for the Best Quotes
Are you ready to start comparing car insurance quotes in North Carolina? EverQuote's free online comparison tool can help you narrow down your options and save you money on car insurance.