Insuring Your Classic Car
You’ve spent years restoring your classic car to a perfect finish. You’ve found parts hundreds of miles away and agonized over specific paint colors and trim. You love taking it out for a ride or displaying it at a car show.
Your classic car is obviously special to you, and it deserves special coverage. A standard Massachusetts auto insurance policy isn’t enough to cover your most prized possession. Take a look at what you can expect with classic car insurance coverage.
What is a Classic Car?
To keep a 20 year clunker from being miscategorized as a classic car for insurance purposes, it’s important to understand what many insurance companies consider “classic.”
- The vehicle must be between 20 and 25 years old. Some companies allow certain types of cars that are younger but this usually only applies to very rare vehicles.
- It must be restored to mint or near-mint condition.
- The make and model of the vehicle must be considered fairly rare meaning not a lot were manufactured originally.
- You must have limited use of the vehicle. If it’s used in your daily commute, it won’t be eligible for this type of coverage.
How Classic Car Insurance is Different
Every insurance company will have it’s own criteria to meet, but for the most part, you can expect specific coverage options.
Cost
The cost of your insurance coverage will likely be much lower than a standard auto insurance policy. Because it’s driven much less than a regular car, the chances of being in an accident are much lower. Most classic cars are kept well stored and better protected than your typical vehicle, which also decreases the potential for damage.
Agreed Value
Unlike a regular car, the value of your classic car is expected to go up, not down. The reason why you want classic coverage is because you’ll be paid for the agreed value of the car if you experience a total loss. You’ll have to show photos, receipts, repair information, and other documentation to support why you believe your car should be valued for a specific amount.
Mileage Cap
Part of your classic car coverage includes an annual mileage cap. Typically, it’s set between 2,500 or 5,000 miles each year. You can get extended mileage coverage if you need it, for an additional cost. Put too many miles on your car, though, and it may be labeled a commuter car and subject to standard auto insurance.
Off-Season Usage
In many locations with cold winters, classic cars are used when the weather is good and put away when it’s not. Classic car coverage accounts for a difference in rates when it’s being used and when it’s not. You’ll need to work with your insurance agent to transition your policy between usage and non-usage/storage rates.
Storage Stipulation
Many classic car insurance policies require that the vehicle be stored in a locked garage or other storage unit when not being used. Parking your car in the driveway puts it in danger of theft or damage.
You’ve lovingly restored your classic car down to the last detail. Now it’s time to protect it with the right insurance coverage. If you need a quote for classic car insurance, contact Click Insurance today.
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