Cheap Car Insurance in North Carolina

North Carolina is one of the most diverse states in the US, with natural beauty and outdoor activities. The state has the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which gets 12 million visitors a year. It also has 439 miles of Blue Ridge Parkway, 200 miles of islands, beaches and the city of Banner Elk with world class ski resorts.

North Carolina Car Accident and Insurance Statistics

All drivers in North Carolina must have car insurance. Insurance providers have a real time database to track active and lapsed coverage which is reported to the state. Several factors affect insurance rates including age, claims history, zip code and participation in safe driving or loyalty programs.

• According to NCDOT Annual Crash Facts Report, there were 247,214 traffic crashes in 2020, 1,523 fatal crashes and 1,658 deaths.
• Average annual cost of full coverage car insurance in North Carolina is $1,325 which is lower than the national average of $1,674.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in North Carolina?

North Carolina drivers pay an average of $1,325 (or about $110 per month) for full coverage insurance. However, several factors affect the cost including age, driving history, safe driving programs and vehicle safety features like anti-lock brakes.

Full coverage car insurance typically consists of three parts:

• Comprehensive Coverage – Covers theft, vandalism, extreme weather and non-collision incidents.
• Collision Coverage – Pays for damages from collision with other vehicles or objects.
• Bodily Injury Liability – Covers medical expenses for injuries or fatalities caused by the policyholder.

To get more protection, increase liability limits and lower deductibles (e.g. from $1,000 to $500) is recommended. Although this will increase monthly premiums, it will reduce out of pocket expenses in case of an at-fault accident.

How much does Minimum Liability Car Insurance Cost in North Carolina?

Minimum liability insurance in North Carolina costs an average of $34 a month. This minimum coverage protects the other driver’s expenses when the insured driver is at fault but policy limits may not cover all damages and medical costs.

Car insurance rates in North Carolina vary by city. Generally drivers in rural areas pay lower premiums than those in urban areas where there’s a higher likelihood of claims, theft and accidents.

Safe Driver Discounts in North Carolina

North Carolina offers car insurance discounts based on multiple factors:

• Affiliation Discounts – For university alumni or members of certain organizations.
• Vehicle-Related Discounts – For features like passive restraint systems.
• Driving History Discounts – For clean record.
• Policy-Based Discounts – For paying in full or paperless billing.
• Personal Discounts – For seniors, homeowners and students.

Defective driving courses can further lower insurance premiums. The cleaner the record the more discounts a driver can get.

North Carolina Car Insurance Laws

North Carolina has strict car insurance laws. Car insurance companies must notify the state when a policy is purchased, canceled or lapses. If a lapse occurs the state may impose fines and suspend the driver’s license and registration until proof of insurance is presented.

Minimum Liability Coverage Requirements:

North Carolina is an at-fault state meaning the driver at fault in an accident must pay for all medical expenses and property damage. The state minimum car insurance requirements are listed below.

• Bodily Injury Liability coverage per Person: $30,000
• Bodily Injury Liability coverage per Accident: $60,000
• Property Damage Liability coverage per Accident: $25,000

All drivers must present proof of insurance when registering a vehicle. Leased vehicle owners should also check with their finance companies for additional coverage requirements.

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in North Carolina

Driving without insurance in North Carolina has severe penalties. First time offenders are fined up to $50 while repeat offenders are fined up to $150 plus $50 restoration fee. If fines are not paid, license plates may be revoked.

North Carolina does not require SR-22 insurance to prove financial responsibility but drivers who let their insurance lapse will likely see their premiums increase by at least 3 years.

Uninsured drivers may also face additional legal costs and transportation expenses such as using public transit or rental cars.

Factors Affecting Car Insurance in North Carolina

Auto Insurance premiums in North Carolina are affected by:

• Driving Record – A history of at-fault accidents or violations, you pay less with a clean driving record.
• Location – Urban areas have higher insurance costs.
• Age – Young drivers with less driving experience and older drivers pay more.
• Vehicle Type – Luxury and high-performance cars cost more.
• Participation in Safety Programs – Taking defensive driving courses or installing anti-theft devices can lower costs.

Keeping a clean record and staying with the same insurer for 3-5 years can help reduce premiums.

Accident Reporting in North Carolina

All traffic accidents resulting in injury, death or property damage over $1,000 must be reported to the North Carolina Highway Patrol or county sheriff’s office.

If law enforcement doesn’t file a report, drivers must submit a written report to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles within 24 hours including details of the accident, road conditions and insurance information.

Driving in North Carolina: Accidents and Uninsured Drivers

Traffic Accidents in North Carolina

According to the NCDOT Annual Crash Facts Report there were 247,214 crashes in 2020. Speed was a factor in 25% of traffic fatalities and alcohol was a factor in 11,475 crashes. Of the 1,658 fatalities 545 were not wearing seatbelts.

Uninsured Drivers in North Carolina

An estimated 7.4% of drivers in North Carolina are uninsured. Compared to states like New Jersey (3.1%) with the lowest uninsured rate and Mississippi (29.4%) with the highest, North Carolina is 9th highest.

Law enforcement checks for proof of insurance during traffic stops. Failure to maintain coverage can result in heavy fines and higher premiums.

Car Insurance FAQs in North Carolina

Can Low-Income Drivers Get Cheap Car Insurance?

Yes. Low-income drivers can opt for the state’s minimum liability coverage or drive an older vehicle to reduce premiums. Keeping a clean record and staying with the same insurer for 3-5 years can also lower costs.

Can Undocumented Workers Get Car Insurance in North Carolina?

Currently undocumented workers can’t get car insurance in North Carolina. However, proposed legislation allows individuals without legal status to apply for restricted driver’s licenses.

What if I Have a DUI on My Record?

Drivers with a DUI can get car insurance but rates can increase by as much as 358%. North Carolina does not require SR-22 insurance but those with a DUI can expect higher premiums for at least 3 years. A second DUI within 3 years will result in higher fines and possible jail time.

Get Cheap Car Insurance in North Carolina

Insurance Navy can help North Carolina drivers get the cheapest auto insurance coverage. Full coverage is recommended over minimum liability to have more financial protection.

Visit a North Carolina office, request a quote online or call (888) 949-6289 today for a free, no-obligation quote.