What to Do If a Car Insurance Company Won’t Cover Your Vehicle?
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Automotive
Certain cars, especially those prone to theft or considered high-risk, may be denied coverage by insurers. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s how to navigate the challenges:
Why Some Cars Are Denied Coverage
High Theft Risk:
- Models with high theft rates, like some Hyundais and Kias, may be harder to insure.
High-Performance or Collector Cars:
- Sports cars like the Corvette or vintage collectibles often fall into the "unacceptable risk" category due to repair costs or limited availability of parts.
Driver Risk Profile:
- Insurers consider factors such as:
- Age, gender, and driving record
- Location, especially high-traffic or crash-prone areas
Rising Insurance Costs:
- Increasing claims, distracted driving, and costly repairs have caused premiums to rise 26% on average over the past year.
Steps to Take If You’re Denied Coverage
Widen Your Search
- Most mass-market cars are covered by major insurers, so shop around to find one willing to insure your vehicle.
Consider Specialty Insurers
- If you own a high-performance or collector car, look for specialty policies tailored to these vehicles.
- These policies may use agreed-upon car values and set annual mileage limits.
Assigned Risk Pools
- If you can’t secure traditional coverage:
- Use an assigned risk pool, a last-resort option managed by AIPSO (Find a Producer).
- Be prepared to pay significantly higher premiums (up to 50% more).
Check Coverage Before Buying
- Research potential insurance costs and availability for the car model you’re considering before making a purchase.
Tips for Avoiding Insurance Issues
- Research Theft Rates: Avoid vehicles with high theft rates unless you’re ready to pay more for insurance.
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Drive safely to lower your risk profile.
- Consider Usage-Based Policies: High-end or collector cars often qualify for policies with mileage limits.
The Bottom Line
- Most mass-market vehicles are insurable, though costs vary widely.
- Shopping around and understanding your vehicle’s risk profile can save you headaches.
- If all else fails, specialty insurers or assigned risk programs can ensure you’re covered.
Pro Tip: Use tools like car insurance ratings to compare insurers and find the best option for your situation.
