What You Need to Know About Antique Auto Insurance

It’s time to start thinking about getting your classic car ready to hit the road. Just as important as making sure all your vehicle’s components are in good working order is making sure you have appropriate insurance for your ride. In this article you can find information about what types of vehicles can potentially be eligible for antique auto insurance, what conditions or requirements may need to be followed as part of an antique auto insurance policy, and some other considerations you may want to keep in mind when looking for insurance for your custom or antique vehicle.

the engine and headlight of an antique car

Classic Car Categories

In the classic car culture, there are various ways to describe and categorize your car. Some call their vehicles one thing, while others may call it something different. No matter what the category your ride may fall under, if your vehicle fits one of these descriptions you should contact us to see what coverage options may be available.

  • Antique and Classic Cars (Typically 25 years and older)
  • Hot Rods or Modified Vehicles
  • Classic Military Vehicles
  • High-End Exotic Cars
  • Collector Trucks, SUVs, and Tractors

What May Qualify Your Vehicle for Antique Auto Coverage?

There are various conditions or requirements that may be required by insurance carriers for your vehicle to be considered for antique auto coverage. Some of the typical carrier requirements include (but are not necessarily limited to):

  • The vehicle may need to be stored in an enclosed structure, carport, parking garage, or storage unit.

an antique car sits in a garage

  • You as the driver may need to meet eligibility requirements, such as not having any serious traffic infractions (such as alcohol related offenses, reckless driving, or outstanding speed violations) on your record.
  • The vehicle may need to meet age requirements, for example being 25 years or older or 20 years old with collectible value.
  • The permissible use of the vehicle may be limited, such as use only for exhibitions or pleasure/leisure activities, and it cannot be your primary mode of transportation.
  • You may not be able to use the vehicle for racing.
  • The annual on-road mileage may be limited.

What coverages are available with antique auto insurance?

While the uses of your classic car and daily driver differ greatly, the basic coverages available for both are quite similar. Depending on your needs and wants, the following are some of the typical coverages that are included in antique auto insurance.

  • Bodily injury liability
  • Property damage liability
  • Comprehensive insurance
  • Collision insurance
  • Medical Payments
  • Uninsured motorist coverage
  • Underinsured motorist coverage

When Do I Need Coverage?

You may be preparing for spring and getting your car ready, but just because you haven’t been driving your ride throughout the winter months doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep your insurance throughout the year. Although your classic or antique car is stored safely away, there is always the possibility of an unfortunate event such as fire, theft, or an “act of God” occurring. Taking your coverage off your ride can leave you vulnerable, and there is sometimes a misconception that your homeowner’s policy will cover a vehicle stored in your garage. In fact, homeowner’s insurance typically will exclude coverage for motorized vehicles meant for the road.

Types of Antique Auto Coverage

There are several additional coverage options that are typically optional when searching for antique auto insurance. These may include agreed value, tiered mileage plans, spare parts coverage, worldwide coverage, multiline discounts, and auto show medical. Below we will detail each coverage and what they consist of.

  • Agreed Value

Agreed Value is amount that you and your insurer agree your vehicle is worth when you purchase your insurance policy.

  • Car Show Coverage

This can help provide coverage in the event that someone is injured by your vehicle while it is at an automobile show or exhibit. 

cars lined up for an antique auto show

  • Parts Coverage

Having parts coverage can help provide you monetary assistance when a qualifying event occurs and your vehicle’s parts are destroyed, damaged, or stolen.

  • Tiered Mileage

Depending on how much you drive your antique auto, you could potentially benefit from lower or tiered mileage plans. Agreeing to limit the number of miles you put on your car every year can potentially help your rates.

  • Worldwide Coverage

If you plan on traveling out of the country for car shows or events with your vehicle, you should seriously consider worldwide coverage. Your general auto policy is usually restricted to inside the U.S., resulting in a need for this coverage if you plan on taking your classic auto outside of the country.

Antique Auto Insurance Quotes

Your classic car is not just a machine that you have spent hours caring for and restoring, but it is a piece of your history, something that holds sentimental value to you.  Your classic car may also be an investment that want to protect and care for. Cross Insurance can help you explore your options when it comes to antique automobile insurance.  To find out more, contact your local Cross Insurance today.

 

___________________________________________________________________

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon or used for any particular purpose. Cross Insurance shall not be held responsible in any way for, and specifically disclaims any liability arising out of or in any way connected to, reliance on or use of any of the information contained in this article. The information contained or referenced in this article is not intended to constitute and should not be considered legal, insurance, accounting or other professional advice, nor shall it serve as a substitute for the recipient obtaining such advice. The views expressed in this article are that of its author and do not necessarily represent the views of Cross Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Cross Insurance”) or Cross Insurance’s management or shareholders.

 

Request an Antique Auto Insurance Quote Today

More Resources