At What Age Should People Buy Auto Insurance?

Car accidents occur daily worldwide, sometimes causing harm to drivers and passengers, from physical injuries to mental health issues. The incidents can also cause significant damage to vehicles. The legal and health expenses, along with costs for auto repair or replacement, can be challenging, which is why having car insurance is vital. Before signing up for a plan, it’s an excellent idea to learn more about the policy, its benefits, and what age is best to get insured.

Teens

Teenagers are considered risky drivers due to their lack of skills and knowledge about everything from the vehicles they operate to the roads they drive on. Although parents are often hesitant about letting their teenagers get behind the wheel, most adults allow their teens to drive to boost their knowledge and enable them to gain more responsibility and maturity.

The cost of coverage can be high, but it’s necessary. However, the type of car insurance Chula Vista and other San Diego County parents purchase for their teens will determine the final cost. Most parents prefer to select bodily injury liability coverage, giving teenagers adequate coverage for less cost than full coverage. Parents can adjust the policy type as their teens become familiar with traffic laws and strengthen their driving skills.

The 20s

People in their 20s can also expect higher car insurance premiums. Although drivers in their early 20s aren’t as risky as teens, most companies believe drivers of this age are still riskier to insure compared to those in their 30s and 40s. Regardless of age, being viewed as a risk by an automotive insurance company will almost always result in more expensive policy premiums. 

Age isn’t the only factor. Some individuals in their 30s can have higher premiums based on their driving records, which might include car accidents and traffic tickets. As you age and your skill as a motorist improves, you could qualify for lower premiums.

The 30s

The lowest price for auto insurance coverage typically occurs during your 30s, as long as your driving record is in good shape. Therefore, this is one of the best times to get full coverage, especially if price is a crucial factor in your selection. Regarding accidents when you weren’t at fault, the insurance provider will generally not consider those when determining a rate. 

The vehicle you operate also factors in. For example, the more expensive your car is, the higher your premium will likely be. After the age of 30, a slight decrease in insurance rates could continue until you’re 60.

60 & Above

Elderly drivers are some of the most cautious motorists. However, insurance rates tend to increase significantly after age 60. Most companies raise their rates due to older drivers’ declining health, which may include vision, hearing, and mobility issues. Cognitive health also plays a role, with most seniors stereotyped as having declining memory and a decreased ability to think and react quickly. Thus, insurance companies often feel older adults will struggle with making safe driving decisions. Operating on the assumption that seniors are more likely to get into accidents, premiums are usually higher for them.

For a detailed personalized quote on auto insurance, contact your insurance agent. If you’re looking for reliable car insurance and high-quality service, call on the trustworthy agents from Altra Insurance Services. We also provide dependable renters, homeowners, and motorcycle insurance. San Diego drivers of all ages should give us a call today at (619) 404-6311.