As a college student, everything around you is changing. Your wings have finally been set free, and you’re off to explore the real world on your own. As exciting as this is, it’s also stressful.
It seems like the weight of adulthood is quickly increasing on your shoulders. You’re forced to find a dorm or off-campus apartment to live in. You don’t have anyone to cook or clean for you, and all of the things adults deal with are now coming to light.
One of those things is car insurance. Is it necessary to get car insurance while in college? Are there affordable options for college students?
Student car insurance rates vary depending on several different factors. Whether you need your own car insurance also depends on a few situational factors. Before you make any decisions about your car insurance, you’ll want to continue reading below.
Here’s everything you need to know about college student car insurance!
1. Stick With Your Parents’ Policy
If you already own a car and are on your parents’ insurance policy, then consider sticking with it. Most insurance providers will allow college students to stay on their parents’ policies while attending school. The first thing you need to do is contact the insurance company and inquire about the situation.
If you’re able to stay on their policy, then you can continue to benefit from their rates. In some cases, you might even get more of a discount if your school is located in a more rural area than where your parents live.
2. Shop Around If Needed
If you’re required to obtain your own college student car insurance, then it’s time to shop around. Remember, if you’re not able to stay on your parents’ policy and need to get your own, make sure the car is in your name. This will require your parents to transfer the title into your name, which can be done at the DMV.
Never go with the first option you find. To get the best insurance, you’ll need to shop around. Look at different insurance companies and their prices. Get a few quotes and inquire about discounts offered as well.
Many insurance companies offer discounts for good grades, anti-theft devices, and more!
3. Look Into Per-Mile Insurance
Not all insurance companies offer per-mile insurance and those that do tend to only have it available in select states, but it’s worth looking into. If you live on campus and don’t plan to drive your car often, then this is something that might work well for you.
The way it works is that you’ll pay a base rate each month and then an added charge per mile. The less you drive your car, the less you’ll be required to pay. It’s a great option for someone who doesn’t use their car much while in school.
Miles are tracked in a few different ways including an app and a car diagnostic report.
4. Leave Your Car at Home
If you plan to live on campus, then there’s a good chance that you won’t use your car too often. Everything you need is located on campus and for the times when you do need to leave here and there, you have friends, the bus, and other options! When this is the case, leave your car at home.
Your car will still need to be insured while it stays at home to prevent a lapse in insurance coverage, but keeping it at home will save you lots. Speak with your insurance company to see if you can save by leaving your car behind.
Not having your car with you will also eliminate the risk of receiving tickets and competing with other students over parking spaces.
5. Bundle It Up
If upon moving out of your parents’ house you need insurance on several different things, then you should consider bundling them. By using the same insurance company for several different insurance needs, you can save. For example, if you plan to live in your own apartment near the campus, then you should look into renter’s insurance.
Some apartments require it while others don’t. Either way, it’s something to think about. Renter’s insurance will protect you in case of theft and other types of damages.
Purchase your renter’s insurance and car insurance from the same company and benefit from the bundle discount!
6. Know What Type of Coverage You Need
The cost of an insurance policy also relies heavily on the type of coverage you purchase. Know what type of coverage you need to prevent paying for something that you don’t need. Collision coverage will protect your vehicle if it’s damaged in an accident or if something falls on it.
Comprehensive coverage will pay for damages to your vehicle other than those caused by an accident. Some of these damages include theft, vandalism, fire, and more. Uninsured motorist coverage will cover you if someone hits you but doesn’t have the insurance to cover your damages.
These are just to name a few. Be sure to look into all of the different types of coverages and pay for what you need.
Are You in Need of Student Car Insurance?
Are you ready to embark on your next life journey as a college student? If so, then it’s time to consider student car insurance! Use these tips listed above to ensure you find the best deal for your specific needs.
For more helpful and informational posts like this one, keep checking back with us regularly!