If you’re looking for cheap car insurance in Alabama, finding the best deal can be challenging. Insurance costs vary depending on your age, ZIP code and other factors. Sometimes rates simply rise or fall from one insurer to the next.
To help Alabamians streamline their shopping, NerdWallet researched the cheapest car insurance options statewide for the following types of motorists:
Cheapest for safe drivers
For drivers with no at-fault accidents, DUIs or moving violations
Although USAA notched a slightly lower premium than Geico, only active or former military members or their families qualify. Safe driver discounts are available from both companies. USAA offers legendary customer service, something to consider for those who qualify for their coverage.
Cheapest for young drivers
For drivers in their early 20s
For drivers under age 25, USAA had the cheapest average quotes from our test. But again, only military and their families are eligible. For non-military folks, Geico is still a solid choice with comparable rates. Both companies offer similar coverage options and a wide selection of discounts to help drivers trim their premium.
Cheapest for high-mileage drivers
For drivers who travel more than 40 miles a day
For drivers who are on the road a lot, Geico had the cheapest average premium from our study. Both companies offer emergency roadside assistance in case drivers get stranded far from home. USAA, again, has famed customer service that is a major plus for those who qualify, but Geico is definitely a safe bet, and in this case, a bit cheaper, too.
Cheapest for drivers with imperfect records
For drivers who’ve had at-fault accidents, DUIs or moving violations
USAA scored the lowest rate for drivers who have an accident or violation on their record, though Alfa Insurance was not far behind. Both companies offer an accident forgiveness feature, which could waive any premium increase after your first accident with the company. Both insurers also have quality customer service, so don’t be afraid to call them and ask how an accident or spotty driving history can affect your rates.
Minimum car insurance requirements in Alabama
Drivers in Alabama are required to purchase liability insurance, which kicks in to cover others’ expenses (up to your limit) if you’re at fault in the accident.
The minimum limits you must select are:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 property damage liability per accident
Keep in mind, it’s typically smart to get more than the bare essentials, as these limits may not be enough to fully cover the post-accident costs if the incident is serious.
Visit NerdWallet’s guide to state car insurance requirements for more detail on optional coverages and limits you might want for your Alabama policy.
Alternative car insurance in Alabama
If you’ve been denied car insurance from traditional insurers because of violations, poor credit or other factors, you may be able to secure coverage through the Alabama Automobile Insurance Plan.
Drivers searching for cheap car insurance in Alabama can also turn to NerdWallet as a go-to source. Our anonymous car insurance comparison tool lets you review estimates side by side and even find out how discounts and violations affect your premium. Try it out today and see how much you could be saving.
METHODOLOGY
NerdWallet ran rates from the largest insurers in Alabama across several ZIP codes. We tested for drivers with no accidents or violations, drivers younger than 25, drivers who travel more than 40 miles per day, and drivers with violations or accidents on their record. We used a Toyota Camry as our sample vehicle, the most popular car in Alabama.
Alex Glenn is a staff writer for NerdWallet, a consumer finance website. Email: aglenn@nerdwallet.com.
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