Affordable Car Insurance For College Students

It is possible to get a good auto insurance plan if you're a college student. You just have to know how to look and what to look for. Not only is it important to get car insurance at the right price, but it's also a good idea to find the right plan to meet your needs. Here are some tips for college students shopping for auto insurance:

SHOULD COLLEGE STUDENTS HAVE THEIR OWN CAR INSURANCE POLICY?

You may be wondering whether you need your own car insurance policy now that you're moving away from home. The answer depends on where you'll be living while attending school and who owns the vehicle you'll be driving.

What Are Your Living Arrangements?

If your parents' address is still considered your permanent address, you may be able to keep the vehicle you drive on their car insurance policy (depending on who owns the vehicle). So, if you're living on campus or renting an apartment temporarily during the school year, check with your agent to make sure you can stay on your parents' policy.

Whose Name Is On The Title?

If the car is titled in your parent's name and you're taking it to school with you, you may be able to stay on the family car insurance policy.

If the car is jointly titled — it contains your name and a parent's name — you may be able to stay on your parent's car insurance policy.

If your name is on the title, you'll likely need to buy your own car insurance policy in your name.

CAN I HAVE INSURANCE ON A CAR IN ANOTHER STATE?

If you're a parent whose child is attending school out of state, you may be able to keep him listed on your car insurance policy, if you own the vehicle he is driving. Otherwise, he might need to buy his own separate insurance policy.

CAR INSURANCE COVERAGE CONSIDERATIONS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

Whether you're going away to college or commuting, you may want to consider your policy's current coverages to see if they suit your new situation.

For example, if you're taking your car to school, think about where it will be parked. If it's most often parked outside, consider comprehensive coverage. It may help pay to replace your car if it's stolen or repair it if it's damaged by things like hail or vandalism.

Collision coverage may be a good idea if you'll be driving to and from class, for example. It may help pay to repair your car if it's damaged in an accident with another vehicle or object.

If you're leasing or financing your vehicle, collision and comprehensive coverage are usually required by your lender. If your car is paid off, though, you may be able to drop one or both coverages from your car insurance policy to help save on premiums. Just remember, if your car is damaged and you don't have comprehensive coverage or collision coverage, your policy won't pay to repair your vehicle.

CAR INSURANCE DISCOUNTS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

If you (or your parents) are looking to save money on your car insurance premium now that you're in college, consider these potential discounts.

Resident Student Discount

If your car is titled in your Mom or Dad's name and you're leaving it at their house while you live on campus, you may be able to save them a few extra dollars. If your college is at least 100 miles away from home, your parents may qualify for the "resident student" discount because you won't be driving the family car as frequently now that you're away at school.

Good Grade Discount

Good grade benefits on your car insurance policy don't stop when you graduate high school. Most insurance companies offer a good grade discount for unmarried, full-time students up to age 25.

Anti-Theft Device Discount

It's always a good idea to research local crime statistics before taking up temporary residence. This gives you a good idea of what to expect, as well as how to prepare for life in your new surroundings. If you're going away to college and bringing your car, it may be a good time to purchase an anti-theft device for your vehicle. Doing so may cut back on the likelihood of your stuff being stolen and also land you a discount on your car insurance.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all car insurance recommendation for college students. Each student has his or her own individual needs, which in turn may affect the amount of coverage needed and the dollar amount of the premium. To create a policy that fits your needs, Just give us a call at 215-677-2006 and get your quote today!