Special Classic Car Insurance

Owning a classic car may require you to purchase a special type of classic car insurance. Classic car insurance is not a standard type of coverage and has special protections for your investment. However, classic car insurance providers have certain qualifying factors before a policy for your vehicle can be underwritten.

In most cases, a classic car, as defined by the classic car insurance industry is one that is more than 15 years old. Some states have a wider definition of 25 years, so a check with your department of motor vehicles would be a first step to determining if your vehicle qualifies as a classic.

Since collector car insurance differs from regular car insurance, the providers of coverage will require a stricter set of rules on a classic car. In addition to the age of the vehicle, insurance companies will require several other conditions to be met. Those conditions will be a limit on the number of miles driven in a year, keeping the car securely stored when not in use, and limitations on the age of the driver and their driving experience and record. As part of your classic car insurance, the company will also stipulate an ‘agree-upon’ value .

State laws, although they vary, allows a negotiation between an insurance provider and insured to agree on the value of the classic car when the policy is written. The insurance company and you will set a value on the classic car that will become part of the policy. In case of total loss, this is the amount the insurance company would pay as value of the classic car. Unlike a regular vehicle, where ‘the blue book’ or fair market value determines the total loss value of a vehicle.

As far as the drivers age, most insurers will mandate a driver be over 25 and to have a license for at least so many years. Of course, an insurance company will also check your driving record prior to issuing a antique car insurance policy.

In addition to the age and experience of the driver/owner, a mileage limit will be assessed on the classic car. Insurance providers vary on this limit, some allow up to 5,000 miles per year while others may permit more. Some providers will allow you to choose a lower annual mileage, which may lower your monthly premiums. In many cases the insurer will not restrict your use of the car to drive to car clubs, classic car events or car shows, they will restrict your use for commercial purposes or daily commuting.

To get the best out of your classic car insurance, find a company that specifically writes this type of policy. You will find that specialists in this field are better situated to handle your specific needs.