What is Classic Car Insurance?

Classic car insurance refers to coverage specifically tailored for classic cars. If you have a classic vehicle, a normal personal auto insurance policy may not cover all of your needs.

A classic car is one that is generally 19 to 24 years old and is in its original condition. You can ask about and research your vehicle’s make, model and value in order to discover whether or not your old car is considered a classic.

Classic Car Insurance vs. Normal Car Insurance

At a glance, classic car insurance and normal car insurance aren’t that different. Both policies offer a lot of the same coverages, including:

·        Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage provides compensation for damages to the vehicle caused by fire, wind, hail, lightning, smoke, theft, etc.

·        Collision Coverage: Collision coverage provides compensation for damages to the vehicle caused by a collision with another vehicle or object.

·        Liability: Liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage you may cause someone else while operating the insured vehicle.

·        Medical Payments Coverage: Medical payments coverage covers medical bills you and your passengers may face after an accident.

·        Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: This insurance covers damages incurred in an accident involving another driver who is not carrying insurance.

There are some additional coverages available for classic cars, however, as well as higher limits.

The way your vehicle is insured is also different. Normal vehicles are insured based on your vehicle’s actual cash value. However, the actual cash value of a classic vehicle can be hard to pinpoint. Instead, the vehicle is insured at an agreed-upon value as decided between the owner and the insurer. This allows you to increase your insurance coverage as the value of the classic car goes up, whereas a normal car would depreciate in value.

Keep in mind that because the type of vehicle is inherently different, you will need a different policy even if you plan on carrying normal coverage. If your vehicle falls into the classic car range, an insurer may not cover you under a basic personal auto insurance policy. Every driver is different as are their classic cars. It is important to speak with your insurance agent and protect your classic car with a classic car insurance policy tailored for your needs and the value of the vehicle. Shop around and compare quotes to find the best deal or insure with an independent agency to help you along the way.