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Can You Buy Temporary Car Insurance? Exploring Your Short-Term Coverage Options

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Operating a vehicle comes with a lot of responsibility, and finding the right insurance is high on the list. Not only is maintaining minimum liability a requirement in almost every state, but it also protects you financially from harm to vehicles, property damage, and medical expenses.

In certain situations, you might be looking for short-term coverage. While it may seem like there are plenty of choices available, acquiring a temporary policy isn't as straightforward as you might think.

What Is Short-Term Auto Insurance?

Short-term or temporary insurance is any policy lasting less than the traditional six-month or yearly term. This option may seem appealing for those who need to protect a vehicle for just a few days or weeks, but major providers do not offer plans with less than six months of coverage. 

A quick online search may reveal a variety of companies offering short-term protection, but be cautious. Some might be scams and leave you with inadequate coverage, while others may try to sell you a traditional six-month policy instead. 

When Might You Need Short-Term Car Insurance?

While traditional plans work for most drivers, certain circumstances may arise that require extra attention. In some cases, an additional policy might not even be necessary. In others, obtaining the appropriate coverage may require just one or two extra steps. 

Borrowing a car or loaning yours out

If you're borrowing a friend's vehicle or loaning yours to someone else, confirming whether the driver has adequate protection is important. You may not know that most insurance policies include permissive use, which covers anyone operating the vehicle with the owner's permission. The vehicle owner should check with their provider to confirm permissive use applies and ask about any restrictions. 

If the borrower frequently drives the vehicle, insurers may require that they be permanently added to the policy. This may increase rates but protects the driver from denial of coverage. Keep in mind that some providers may require additional drivers to live at the same address as the policyholder, so it's best to discuss your options with an agent. 

If the borrower no longer needs coverage, removing them from the policy is usually straightforward. 

Long-term Storage

If you plan to store your car and not drive it for a while, it's essential to maintain some level of protection from unforeseen damages. Many insurance companies offer comprehensive-only policies that cover damage while your car is not in use, such as from a storm, theft, or vandalism.

Keeping insurance on a car that isn't being driven is especially appropriate if you want to avoid fines or increased rates from lapses of coverage. Drivers who allow their insurance to lapse generally pay around 25% more than those who maintain continuous coverage. 

Renting a Car

Many car rental agencies offer short-term auto insurance coverage for an additional fee. This kind of protection can be useful when traveling or if you're concerned about potential damage to the rental car. However, there may be other options. 

You may already be protected if you have a current policy on another vehicle, so you can contact your agent to ask if your plan covers a rental car. Additionally, some credit card companies provide their own insurance if you use them to rent the vehicle.

No matter which option you choose, it's crucial to have sufficient protection. Some plans seem more affordable upfront but may leave you responsible for damages to the vehicle, even in an accident. 

Student Drivers

If you have a student away at college who only drives your car during holidays, temporary car insurance may be a good option. If they don't have their own policy, you can add them to yours and remove them when they don't need to drive. 

Note that some insurance providers require that students remain on their parents' plan year-round, so check with your agent before making any changes. If so, ask about student driver discounts, which may reward safe driving or good grades. Your insurer may also have plans specifically designed for students who only drive your car a few times per year.

How Can I Buy Temporary Car Insurance?

Because temporary policies aren't sold as standalone products by major insurers, obtaining short-term coverage can be tricky. Here are some alternative ways to secure a temporary vehicle insurance policy:

Cancel a Traditional Policy Early

The most straightforward way to get short-term insurance is to purchase a traditional policy and cancel it when you no longer need it. Most insurance companies allow early cancellation, but you should ask about cancellation fees before buying anything. It's also wise to make sure the coverage is appropriate for your needs.

If you plan to keep the vehicle, speak to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) about deregistering it before canceling insurance. They will usually ask you to fill out some paperwork and turn in your plates. This extra step will prevent a lapse in coverage and protect you from future fines or higher insurance rates.

Opt for a Mileage-based Plan

Some insurers offer plans that cater to those who don't drive much. If you're looking for protection on a vehicle that isn't driven often or want coverage while selling a car, these pay-as-you-go plans might be best suited for you. 

These policies typically track your distance with the same devices used for safe driving discounts. If you buy a mileage-based plan, you'll pay a flat monthly fee plus an additional charge for each mile you drive.

Purchase a Non-owner Policy

Non-owner insurance may be better if you drive someone else's vehicle but can't join their policy. These plans are particularly beneficial if you borrow multiple cars or use a car-sharing service. 

Just like traditional insurance, non-owner policies are for six months or a year but can often be canceled early. They are usually more affordable than standard plans but generally only include liability coverage. This means that if you're in an accident, insurance will cover damages and injuries to others but not your injuries or damage to the vehicle you're driving.

Should I Purchase Temporary Car Insurance?

While traditional insurance is often all you need, there are plenty of scenarios where you may need to think outside the box. Whether you're borrowing someone else's vehicle, putting your own in storage, or trying to insure a student driver, exploring your options can help you make an informed and economical decision. 

Discussing your specific circumstances with an agent is always a good idea. They can provide tailored guidance for adequate protection without breaking the bank. An agent can help adjust your current policy to better meet your needs or transition you to a new plan if necessary.

If you need to compare rates, EverQuote is here to help. A custom comparison is always free and only takes a few minutes.

FAQ

Is temporary car insurance available in all states?
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No. True short-term car insurance is not available, but most providers offer standard policies that can be canceled early in all states.
What is the shortest-term policy for car insurance?
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Six months for legitimate insurers.
What are some alternatives to temporary car insurance?
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A traditional policy that you cancel early, mileage-based plans, or non-owner insurance are all excellent alternatives for those seeking short-term car insurance.