Do red cars cost more to insure? Choose a car color that suits you the most; after all, you will be using it for a long time. However, if your choice is red, you may be hesitant because of the rumors that red cars cost more to insure.
If you have heard of this myth, you are not alone. According to research, over 44% of Americans believe that red cars are very expensive to insure. Although many factors may increase your premium, will the color of your ride increase the cost? Read to the end to learn the facts from the myths when it comes to the cost of a red car insurance policy.
Do Red Cars Increase Your Insurance Premium?
No need to worry! The idea that red cars cost more to insure is just a myth. Auto insurance companies consider many factors when determining your insurance rate, but car color isn’t one of them. When you get auto insurance, the provider will ask for your car’s make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Instead of color, insurers focus on the make and model of your car. For example, standard models typically cost less to insure than luxury imports.
Insurance companies assess risk factors like claim history, location, age, gender, and driving record to see how likely you are to file a claim. While insurers use similar risk factors, each company calculates rates differently, so it’s smart to compare quotes from various providers to find the best deal.
Insurance rates are influenced by your car’s make and model, engine size, and sticker price. Additionally, insurers often provide discounts for safety features like daytime running lights or anti-theft alarms that help prevent accidents or theft.
Do Red Cars get pulled over more than others?
The truth is, getting pulled over isn’t just about the color of your car. It can happen for reasons like following the flow of traffic without monitoring speed, rushing due to running late, or facing an emergency that requires you to drive faster.
In any of these cases, driving a red car is just a coincidence; there’s no proof that red vehicles are specifically targeted by law enforcement. Nearly half of drivers think measures should be taken to control speeding, such as photo enforcement or devices that warn when you’re over the speed limit.
Where did the Red Car Myth come from?
The belief that red cars cost more to insure likely stems from their association with sporty or flashy styles. This makes them more noticeable than cars with muted colors. For instance, 40% of Ferraris are red, linking the color with high-performance vehicles. This connection might suggest that red cars are driven more aggressively and therefore cost more to insure, but this is a myth.
In reality, statistics show white cars receive the most traffic tickets, accounting for 19% of violations, while red cars account for 16%.
There’s also a rumor that red cars are stolen more often, which could raise insurance costs. However, theft risk depends more on the type of vehicle than its color.
What Factors Affect Car Insurance Costs?
Every insurer weighs various factors to determine auto insurance rates. Some of the common factors that are used to determine auto insurance rates include:
Driving record:
Having a spotless driving history can help you secure a reduced car insurance rate. On the other hand, if you have been involved in accidents or have speeding fines and traffic infractions, your insurance costs might rise.
Type of vehicle:
Cars such as sports cars or luxury vehicles usually come with higher insurance costs. Cars that are frequently stolen can also affect your insurance rate.
Annual Mileage:
Your driving habits can influence your insurance rates. More time spent on the road increases the chance of an accident and may lead to filing a claim, affecting your premium.
Age:
Younger drivers often face higher insurance costs because they have less driving experience. However, in Hawaii and Massachusetts, state laws don’t allow age to impact insurance rates.
Marital status:
In most states, married drivers often enjoy lower car insurance rates. However, in Hawaii and Michigan, insurance companies can’t consider marital status when setting rates.
Gender:
In some states, your gender might affect your car insurance rates, with men typically paying more. However, in California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, insurance companies can’t use gender to calculate your rate.
Deductible:
The insurance deductible is the sum you pay out of pocket after an insured event. Opting for a higher deductible generally leads to lower premiums as you take on more of the risk.
Police endorsement: Adding optional services like rental car coverage and roadside assistance can raise your insurance premiums.
Credit score:
In many states, a track record of late payments or credit issues can lead to higher premiums, except in California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Michigan.
Location:
Your insurance costs can be affected by where you live, including your state and ZIP code. Each state has its required minimum coverage, which influences your rate. High rates of vehicle theft, heavy traffic, and bad road conditions in certain ZIP codes can also lead to higher insurance rates.
The level and type of coverage you choose can impact the price of your car insurance. Minimum coverage, which is required by the state, is usually the most affordable option but provides the least protection. Full coverage, however, tends to be more expensive. Bankrate found that full coverage averages $2,543 per year, while minimum coverage is around $740.
Other Vehicle Features that Impact Car Insurance Rates
While your car color does not affect your insurance rates, other features of the car can. They include vehicle age, size, trim level, body design, safety features, and repair costs. These features can determine how much you will pay for your car insurance. However, there are numerous ways you can lower the cost. You can boost your credit score, drive less, and evaluate your policy before the renewal date.
Check rates from different insurance providers to find a better deal. Each company calculates rates differently, so getting multiple quotes can help you secure the best price. Look for discounts. Many insurers offer discounts that can cut your costs. Contact your insurance provider to ensure you’re benefiting from all possible discounts.