Cheap auto insurance rates in Indiana will save you thousands of dollars in premiums. We find the lowest car insurance prices in the Hoosier state, and make it easy for you to compare offers from the best companies. Whether you already are covered, had your policy recently lapse, or need to show proof of benefits to get back on the road, we can help. Do you need same-day coverage or a low down-payment? No problem! Additional property and casualty products are also offered, including coverage for your home, rental property, boat, RV, or motorcycle.
After your zip code is provided, we immediately show you which carriers will save you the most money. You can instantly request a free online personalized quote, and if needed, apply for coverage online. There are no fees or obligations, and most persons save hundreds of dollars by shopping for the best offers on our website. Although State Farm, Indiana Farm Bureau, Allstate, Geico, American Family, USAA, and Progressive hold the largest market share, we also review and study offers from the other major companies. And as their prices change, we keep you informed. Each year, lower rates are offered by many carriers, so it's always a good idea to shop.
What Are Some Of The Factors Used In Rating Companies And Policies?
The size of the company makes a difference. Although larger carriers don't necessarily charge lower rates, because of their financial position, they tend to avoid big increases better than smaller companies. Obviously, if your premium increases, you would much rather see a 4% increase as opposed to a 17% hike. Sometimes, if you own specific types of vehicles, or live in a particular area, there are affordable options you may not be aware of. We help you find these offers that provide the best fit, even if you are currently uninsured. For example, prices and underwriting guidelines in Carmel and Muncie are always different than Indianapolis and Elkhart. Also, although Marion, Hendricks, Johnson, and Morgan Counties border each other, prices will vary.
Smaller regional carriers can occasionally offer very competitive prices. But if you move from one area of the state to another, or to a neighboring state, you may not be able to keep your policy. Also, simply because of economies of scale, it is typically difficult to maintain low rates over a longer period. Some of the smaller and lesser-known carriers with affordable rates include Harleysville, Allied, Encompass, Auto-Owners, Cincinnati, Wolverine Mutual, Pekin, Western Reserve, and Amica. Their rates are particularly competitive in mid-sized cities, such as New Albany, Valparaiso, La Porte, Vincennes, Logansport, Kokomo, New Castle, and Jasper.
Additional factors that impact the cost of coverage:
Age -- Drivers under 21 pay the highest rates. Typically, drivers between the ages of 35-65 pay the lowest rates. Senior drivers over age 75 may be required to provide proof of good health to ensure safe driving habits. The number of years that you have been licensed is also a factor. Thus, a newly-licensed driver (age 40) will pay more than a 25 year-old that has more than five years of driving experience.
Sex -- Often males are more expensive to insure because of the larger incidence of accidents and claims. This occurs especially with newly-licensed drivers under age 22. By age 25, prices are beginning to reduce. Currently, there are no additional underwriting guidelines for transgender drivers or persons undergoing changes to their biological sex.
Zip Code -- Rates are not the same statewide, so your zip code (or county) of residence is a factor. Often, entire counties will have a higher (or lower) rate than surrounding or bordering counties. It's not unusual to see different costs of coverage from cities less than 20 miles apart. Most carriers do not charge the same rate throughout an entire state.
Usage Of Car -- Vehicles driven to work (instead of pleasure usage) cost more. Typically, if the mileage (one way) to work is less than three miles, a "pleasure" rating will be applied. Otherwise, longer trips to work result in slight rate increases. If the one-way distance is more than 10 miles, it's possible a slightly-higher premium may be charged.
Marital Status -- Young married applicants often pay less than young single applicants. Married couples under age 25 will often pay more than an unmarried applicant over age 30. However, once both spouses have reached age 25, prices will be discounted.
Driver-Training History -- Completion of defensive driving courses can lower your premium. Although not all courses are free, the savings from the discount generally exceeds the cost of any course. AARP and many other companies offer special course for Seniors that are pre-approved for a discount.
Also, what type of customer service treatment are you going to receive? When you call, will you be talking to a person located thousands of miles away? That's a big "no-no" to us. Can you talk to a live person 24/7? We feel that's important too, especially if you have a claim that needs immediate attention or you are at a dealership purchasing or trading vehicles. You may also need an ID card immediately sent or faxed, or a declaration page needed to provide proof of compliance. Most carriers allow you to file a claim and send vehicle damage photos through their apps. Often, an adjuster is not required to view the vehicle when an authorized dealership completes the repairs.
Although outsourcing customer service tasks is becoming more popular, we assume that our customers prefer to speak to a live person here in the US, instead of someone in Europe or South America. Typically, your phone call is shorter with a higher degree of accuracy when speaking to someone local. It's also more likely that they will have more experience in handling a potential problem. However, outsourcing customer services is becoming more popular with most major companies.
A helpful device regardless which carrier covers you, is the Wreckcheck Mobile Application, endorsed by the NAIC. After an accident, the app advises what steps to take, what information should be taken, and how to properly send your report and photos to the appropriate party. By knowing which information to provide (and not provide!), your chances of becoming a victim of identity theft are reduced and your privacy is protected. Many carriers (Progressive, Esurance, Farmers, Geico, and USAA) have apps that greatly simplify the claims process. You can easily report the accident, submit photos, and quickly receive authorization to have your vehicle repaired.
Is Insurance Cheaper In Indiana
Auto insurance prices in the Hoosier State are typically less expensive than most other states. Illustrated below are average annual costs of minimum liability coverage in many states. Indiana's 25/50/25 (bodily injury and property damage) limits vary from may other state limits.
Maine -- $1,002
Ohio -- $1,020
Wisconsin -- $1,168
Hawaii -- $1,208
Indiana -- $1,236
Tennessee -- $1,267
Vermont -- $1,282
Massachusetts -- $1,294
Pennsylvania -- $1,389
North Carolina -- $1,396
Illinois -- $1,418
West Virginia -- $1,419
Nebraska -- $1,627
Missouri -- $1,658
Texas -- $1,662
New Jersey -- $1,1802
Georgia -- $1,845
California -- $1,921
Michigan -- $2,300
New York -- $2,284
Is Cheap Car Insurance In Indianapolis Available?
Yes! Inexpensive rates are offered in Marion County be several carriers. Typically, the companies that offer the cheapest premiums are Erie, Progressive, Geico, Allstate, Auto Owners, AAA, and American Family. Additional options in the immediate area are provided by American Family, Direct Auto, Grange, Hanover, Liberty Mutual, Safe Auto, Safeco, and Westfield.
The average rate for liability (only) in the least expensive counties is approximately $47. The average rate for full coverage is approximately $125. The zip codes with the most affordable prices are 46290, 46280, 46259, 46256, 46240, 46237, 46260, 46236, and 46217. SR-22 Bonds are available for high-risk situations.
Does Credit Impact Your Rate?
Your credit rating will likely affect the cost of your coverage, although each carrier weighs your score differently. Also, not all components of your credit will be used. For example, several companies will surcharge customers that have a bankruptcy on their record. But that is the only factor that is utilized. Other companies may examine the records closer, and discount premiums if you meet particular guidelines. Multiple household members may qualify for a discount.
Allstate, in a recent study, was judged to rely on credit more than most major companies. Also, the impact of good/bad credit on rates was higher with Allstate than any other carrier in Indiana. State Farm was judged to utilize credit scores the least, as part of its underwriting criteria. If you are unsure of your credit score, you can check your live score annually without any cost. Minor fluctuations are normal with credit scores. Adding too much debt will lower your rating, especially if the household income reduces.
So what does this mean for you? If you have great credit, we'll focus on the carriers that give you the biggest discounts for credit-worthiness. If you lack good credit, we'll find companies that concentrate on other variables. If guidelines change that result in a benefit to you, we will let you know. When applying for homeowner's insurance, credit history is typically an underwriting factor.
Since each individual or family is completely unique, it's important that there are available policies to match the needs of each household. Whether it is special billing, discount availability, or uncommon coverage requirements, we always research every available option. If you have teenage drivers, you especially will want us to shop for you. Utilizing and maximizing student discounts can easily save $300-$600 per year. If your child transfers to a different school, has a large GPA grade change, or picks up a few moving violations, your premium could change. Major violations (DUI and DWI) or multiple at-fault accidents can also cause a substantial rate increase.
Who Are The Best Auto Insurance Companies In Indiana?
This is quite a long list since there are many carriers that offer competitive pricing while also taking good care of their customers. We have listed below the companies that typically write the most business in the state, although that does not guarantee that they will be the best fit for the drivers in your household and/or the vehicles you own.
Also provided, is the "complaint index," provided by the Indiana Department of Insurance. Of course, the lower the number shown, the fewer percentage of complaints per customer are handled by the insurer. The index is updated each year, so fluctuations can occur.
Allstate .71
American Family 1.07
Auto-Owners .19
Consolidated Insurance 1.36
Elephant 4.91
Erie 2.23
Esurance 1.92
Farmers 1.81
Geico 1.71
Hastings Mutual .75
Illinois Farmers .18
Indiana Farmers .53
Liberty Mutual 2.42
Metropolitan Property And Casualty 1.14
Nationwide .27
Progressive 1.37
Safe Auto 1.93
Safeco .69
Shelter 1.28
State Farm .48
Travco 1.08
USAA .59
Western Reserve Mutual .60
Westfield .80
21st Century 1.83
Is It Difficult To Change Companies?
Many years ago, changing from one carrier to another was a lengthy process that involved letter-writing, weeks of follow-up, and often a dysfunctional billing nightmare. Fortunately, purchasing new coverage and canceling an old policy is now much easier. There are typically no fees, and of course, no lapses in coverage. It is important to coordinate the cancellation date with the new effective date to ensure a smooth transition. And of course, we can help with that.
Many carriers require written notice (fax or hard copy in mail is acceptable), the requested date of termination, and occasionally the name of the new carrier and ID or policy number. Refunds are usually quickly sent and any current ID cards with that company are naturally invalidated. Generally, it is best to initiate the replacement process about 21-30 days before the new policy effective date. Once completed, your new ID card should reflect the accurate effective date.
Indianapolis Car Insurance Rates -- Are They Expensive?
For a major city, Indianapolis offers very affordable prices compared to other large cities. For example, the five cities with the most expensive rates are Miami, Philadelphia, Detroit, New Orleans and Newark. Conversely, a few large cities with the lowest prices in the US are Roanoke, Green Bay and Boise. Indianapolis is a big city with "small town" car insurance rates. Area cities that also offer cheap rates include Speedway, Lawrence, Greenwood, Carmel, Zionsville, Noblesville, Franklin, Brownsburg, Fishers, Lebanon, and Beech Grove.
Marion County typically features very reasonable prices. Some of the bordering and nearby counties that also tend to have very favorable offers include Hancock, Shelby, Anderson, Putnam, Greene, Madison, Howard and Delaware. Lake County, for many carriers, has the highest available rates. But each situation is different, since there are many rating variables. Indianapolis has long been considered a "clean" city, and perhaps that impacts prices. Zip codes included in the rating area are: 46077, 46107, 46113, 46163, 46183, 46201, 46202, 46203, 46204, 46205, 46206, 46207, 46208, 46209, 46210, 46211, 46213, 46214, 46217, 46218, 46219, 46220, 46221, 46222, 46224, 46225, 46226, 46227, 46228, 46229, 46230, 46231, 46234, 46235, 46236, 46237, 46239, 46240, 46241, 46242, 46244, 46250, 46251, 46253, 46254, 46255, 46256, 46259, 46260, 46262, 46266, 46268, 46274, 46275, 46277, 46278, 46282, 46283, 46285, 46291, 46295, 46296, and 46298.
NOTE: If you live in a larger city, such as Indianapolis, South Bend, Evansville, or Fort Wayne, the variance among prices will be much larger than smaller cities and towns. Therefore, it's much more important to shop, since you could be overpaying premiums by as much as 40%. Also, more carriers write business, so more affordable options are often available. This applies to small business and group coverage also. Payroll-deduction may also be offered through larger employers, with additional options for retired workers.
What Are The Lowest Liability Limits I Can Have?
The state minimum liability requirements are $25,000 per person, $50,000 per occurrence and $10,000 property damage. Since the property damage limit will not be enough to cover most newer vehicles, we highly recommend you never select a coverage below $25,000. It won't make a big dent in your premium. You can also select $50,000 and $100,000 options. A separate "umbrella" liability rider is also available that extends $1 million (or more) to your vehicles and any other property you own. You may be required to have underlying limits of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident. Multiple ownership of boats and/or rental property may result in a higher premium.
Uninsured motorists protection minimum limits are also $25,000 per person and $50,000 per occurrence. Since there are thousands of uninsured drivers in the state, these benefits are needed. Higher amounts are also available with all companies. The Indiana BMV helps determine and enforce these requirements. Non-compliance could result in a temporary loss and/or suspension of license. NOTE: uninsured and underinsured damages are paid by the insurer directly to you. They are not paid by the other party. The cost to add these benefits to your policy is fairly insignificant.
Another important state requirement is the filing of a "Certificate Of Compliance" after you receive a moving violation or are involved in a traffic accident. Since financial responsibility is required, this form must be sent to the State Department of Motor Vehicles. Copies can be obtained from a broker or the DMV. Also, you can request a copy of your record at any time. An official driving record (ODR) will cost $4. You can also view it (free) at the Indiana BMV website.
Which Vehicles Are Most Likely To Be Involved In An Accident?
We listed below several of the cars, trucks, cycles or other vehicles that have the greatest chance of being involved in an accident. However, the list is not intended to persuade consumers from purchasing them. Parking your vehicle off the road (and preferably in a garage), will drastically reduce the chance of theft.
Ford (F-Series) Pickup Trucks
BMW 4-Series
Chevrolet Silverado Pickup Trucks
International Harvester CBE
Harley-Davidson 750cc or bigger
Cadillac ATS
Dodge Caravan
Lexus RX 350
Chevrolet Cavalier
Ford Bronco (older models)
The Counties with the most traffic collisions and accidents per vehicle miles traveled are St. Joseph, Elkhart, Kosciusko, Noble, Allen, Howard, Tippecanoe, Jay, Delaware, Marion, Wayne, Vigo, Monroe, Brown, Lawrence, Jefferson, Dearborn, Clark, Floyd, Harrison, and Dubois. The Counties with the least traffic collisions and accidents per vehicle miles traveled are Benton, Newton, Tipton, Rush, Henry, Union, Martin, Daviess, Pike, and Vermillion.
I Have Been Turned Down When I Applied For A Policy. Now What?
You can still qualify for a policy under the "Indiana Auto Insurance Plan" (AIPSO). It has been in existence for more than 60 years, although many Hoosiers are not aware of it. Its participants are licensed insurers that write business in the state. The companies that write the most standard policies, will also underwrite the most policies in AIPSO. Therefore, you will always be covered by a "name" company. The Hoosier State is not a big participant in this program. States with the largest volume of submitted applications are New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, California, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.
Additional information regarding high-risk auto insurance rates is also discussed by our writers. Remember...You don't have to stay "high-risk" forever. A few years of clean driving will dramatically reduce your rate. Good credit and prompt bill-paying will also help lower premiums. In some situations, moving to a different county could lower rates. Depending on the carrier, your first ticket or accident may not be considered when determining the premium.
AIPSO is not designed to make a profit, so all of its costs are paid by insurers throughout the US. The program is not unique to Hoosier residents. Governing committees provide various services, such as application processing, legal counsel, fraud containment, broker certification, and car safety. Licensed and appointed agents or brokers can submit the paperwork for you. You may also contact AIPSO directly at PO Box 6530 Providence, RI 02940.
Indiana Driver Safety Program
Drivers convicted of two or more traffic violations within a one year period may be required to enroll and complete a "Driver Safety Program." The class must be approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Each moving violation accumulates one point. The total points will vary from 0-10, depending on the seriousness of the violation. Points stay on the operator's driving record for 24 months. If under the age of 21 with two traffic offense convictions, completing the program becomes mandatory.
The Bureau of Motor Vehicles, once notified, requires course completion within three months or the driver's license will be immediately suspended. Details are typically sent in writing. Any Indiana resident can take a DSP course. Upon completion, a four point credit is given to the official driver record. The course may be taken every 36 months. The maximum cost is $55 for all available courses. Several options are listed below:
Indiana Driver Safety Program
A Better Driver
All Star Driver Education
Aceable
Welcome Driver
I Drive Safely
At Your Pace Online
National Safety Council
Traffic Safety Consultants
Who Decides The Rate For My Coverage?
Both the auto insurance company and the Department Of Insurance have input. The companies submit/file their projected rates subject to approval. Assuming there is justification for charging those premiums, they will become effective shortly afterward. The public and other companies have access to this information. If you would like a copy, simply contact us. Typically, you can learn about a potential price change about six months before implementation. Reviewing carrier financial reports may provide information that helps predict future rate movement.
Also, "rating factors" are used to ultimately determine the amount you pay. Some of the most important factors are: Age, number of tickets and accidents, gender, liability limits, deductibles, optional coverage taken, type of vehicle and its crash test results, and credit. There are also additional variables that can impact cost. Since these are not often published, we research and closely study any recent trends so we can provide the most competitive offers. Occasionally, companies will change or tweak their rating. For example, the inclusion (or exclusion) of credit ratings in the vehicle underwriting process often changes.
PAST UPDATES
If you drive a 1990s Chevrolet pick-up truck, keep your eyes open and watch the vehicle like a hawk! A reputable national research group recently concluded that it is the most stolen vehicle in the state. Second on the list was the 1990 Dodge Caravan. If you own both of these vehicles, you better get them in a locked garage and fast!
The DOI released a checklist to help consumers update their current insurance needs. Some of the recommendations included reviewing and checking liability limits, consider raising or lowering comprehensive and collision deductibles, and to verify that your coverage documents are in your vehicle, including the declarations page from the policy.
Electric car sharing is now available in Indianapolis. BlueIndy and Bollore Group, a French corporation, have created a joint venture that is renting vehicles to consumers. The City and Indianapolis Power and Light have contributed a combined $9 million while Bollore has added more than $40 million. As electric technology improves, the cost of operating these types of vehicles will reduce.
A membership must be purchased, and vehicles can be loaned for one-hour increments. When finished, drivers return the vehicles to one of 26 locations. The service is expected to be popular for residents that only require occasional use of a car, college students, and Hoosier residents that perhaps can not afford the ongoing costs of maintaining their own vehicle (insurance, gas, maintenance etc...). Currently, more than 1,000 memberships have been purchased.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) is concerned with an intersection of US 41 in the Oaktown area. Dozens of fatalities and accidents have occurred, mainly the result of drivers failing to yield. This stretch of highway in Knox County has visibility problems with drivers that sometimes don't have enough time to avoid other vehicles. A median U-turn has been proposed to correct the problem, although it may take years to implement.