Classic Car Insurance: What You Need To Know | Ground Up Motors

CRASH! Oh no – you were just cruising your restored beauty and somebody hit you. Once you check yourself out, you start assessing the damage to your classic. The next question is going to be – will my insurance cover this?

Classic car insurance isn’t like regular insurance. Generally speaking, it’s much cheaper, but there’s a trade-off for that. That could be mileage restrictions, where you store your car, or even where you can drive your car. It’s important to make sure to ask the right questions before you end up needing to use your insurance.

Modified and Classic Car Insurance

Classic or collector car insurance has different restrictions. Some might be only to-and-from shows only. If you want to be able to take your classic to the grocery store, make sure to ask if you’re covered in regular driving like that.

Definition: Whether it’s a modified marvel, a classic gem, or a vintage masterpiece, specialized insurance is important. Both modified and classic car coverages come with unique characteristics tailored to the specific risks associated with these vehicles.
Usage Distinctions: Unlike everyday car insurance, classic and vintage car insurance often takes into account how the vehicle is used, acknowledging its limited usage and significance as a collector’s item.

Key Considerations

When shopping for insurance, there are a few things you’ll need to tell them. On the flip side, there are a few things you should be asking them as well. It’s important to be as transparent as possible. The last thing you want is to get into an accident that’s not covered because of an exclusion on your policy.

Appraisal and Documentation:
- Thorough Documentation for All: Documenting modifications, vintage status, and condition is crucial for both modified and classic cars. For classics, obtaining comprehensive appraisals helps determine the agreed value.
Mileage Restrictions:
- Adapt to Driving Habits: Be mindful of mileage restrictions imposed by insurers for both modified and classic cars. Align your policy with your anticipated driving habits and choose coverage accordingly.
Storage and Security:
- Enhanced Security Measures for Both: Use enhanced security measures, including secure storage and anti-theft devices, leading to potential discounts. Secure storage is especially vital for maintaining classic car collector status in most cases.

Ensuring Proper Coverage

Be wary of using the same insurance company you do for your daily driver. There are companies out there that specialize in classic car auto insurance. This often means cheaper prices with better coverage for these situations.

Specialized Insurers and Regular Policy Reviews:
- Expertise for All: Seek insurers specializing in modified, classic, and vintage car coverage. Regularly review and update policies to reflect changes, ensuring continuous and proper coverage for all.
Additional Classic Car Insurance Considerations:
- Policy Additions for Classics: Classic car insurance includes various additional coverages such as agreed value coverage, tiered mileage plans, spare parts coverage, worldwide coverage, multiline discounts, and auto show medical coverage.
Classic Car Insurers:
- Trusted Providers: Consider insurers like Hagerty, American Collectors, Safeco, State Farm, and American Modern, each offering unique coverage options for classic, antique, or collectible cars.
Cost of Classic Car Insurance:
- Affordability: Classic car insurance is generally more affordable than regular car insurance, with policies ranging from $200 to $600 annually. Factors influencing costs include the vehicle’s value, usage, and maintenance.