Insurance in Georgia: A Guide to Auto & Home Coverage
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If you're planning a move to Georgia, it helps to understand the insurance landscape. Georgia requires its residents to carry car insurance if they operate a vehicle on the state's roads. You may also need homeowner's or renter's insurance for your property, as well as health coverage to visit the doctor. Depending on personal circumstances, some individuals buy life and business insurance.
Read on to learn about insurance in Georgia and your coverage options.
Types of Insurance Coverage Available in Georgia
You can find a variety of insurance types in Georgia. While you may not need every coverage, understanding your options helps you select what best aligns with your situation.
Auto Insurance in Georgia
If you plan on driving in Georgia, you must have proof of insurance that meets state requirements. Under the law, you're responsible for securing a policy that meets the legal minimums.
Note that liability insurance only covers injuries and property damage to others in an accident you're responsible for. It does not pay for your losses. You may buy collision and comprehensive coverage to pay for vehicle repairs in an at-fault accident or other incident that damages the car.
While not required, uninsured/underinsured coverage can protect you if another driver without insurance runs into your vehicle. Having uninsured/underinsured auto insurance coverage gives you peace of mind if you're ever in an accident with someone who doesn't have coverage or whose insurance doesn't cover the full extent of your losses.
Some drivers purchase personal injury protection (PIP) as part of their auto insurance in Georgia. PIP pays for medical costs for drivers and passengers, regardless of who is at fault in the accident. Some PIP policies also provide lost wages if you or your passengers can't work due to injuries.
Home Insurance in Georgia
A homeowner's insurance policy pays for repairs if your property sustains damage from fire or vandalism. It may cover the replacement of personal belongings if someone breaks into your home. Some homeowner's policies also cover property damage from windstorms and hail.
If you live in an area susceptible to flooding or hurricanes, you may wish to add special coverage to protect your home from water damage. Your basic homeowner's policy may not pay for repairs from those types of storms.
Renters may be responsible for buying renter's insurance under their lease terms. Even if your lease doesn't require you to purchase renter's insurance, it's worth considering. A renter's policy can reimburse you if your personal belongings incur damage from fire, theft, or vandalism.
Factors Affecting Insurance Rates in Georgia
Insurers consider numerous elements when setting insurance premiums. Some factors that may affect car insurance rates include the extent of your coverage, deductible amounts, and vehicle make and model.
Other aspects an insurer may consider when setting rates are your age and driving history. If you've recently received a ticket or filed an insurance claim, you may see higher rates.
Useful Georgia Insurance Resources
The Georgia Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire (OCI) oversees insurance activities within the state. It's a good starting point for consumers seeking information about insurance companies and insurance agents in Georgia.
Another useful resource is Georgia Access, the state's health insurance marketplace. This should be your first stop to enroll in the program and shop around for medical coverage.
EverQuote can help you find cheap insurance in Georgia. Through our service, you can receive a free comparison of insurance quotes from major insurance companies in Georgia. It just takes a few minutes to get started and may save you money. Complete our short form and receive your personalized rates in minutes.