Temporary Car Insurance In Utah 2024

Ever needed car insurance for a short period, like for a weekend getaway in a borrowed car or a quick visit home from college? Year-long policies can be too much of a commitment and cost for these occasions. That’s when temporary auto insurance can save the day. Though it’s not widely available from U.S. insurers, there are still options.

With my extensive experience in the insurance sector as a licensed insurance agent, I’ll detail why temporary coverage might be necessary and offer tailored options for Utah residents. If you’re worried about being uninsured or paying for more than you need, keep reading.

What Is Temporary Car Insurance?

Insurance companies typically offer policies lasting from six to twelve months. Temporary car insurance, however, is designed for shorter durations—usually under six months. Since it’s not widely available in the United States, drivers seeking short-term coverage may need to explore other options, such as opting for a standard six-month policy and ending it before its term expires.

Alternatives To Temporary Car Insurance

Several temporary car insurance choices are available, depending on the reason for seeking coverage.

Non-Owner Car Insurance in Utah

Designed for frequent drivers in Utah without a personal vehicle, non-owner car insurance ensures coverage whether driving your own car or someone else’s.

Utah Pay-Per-Mile Insurance

If you’re not driving frequently, pay-per-mile car insurance might be more beneficial than temporary coverage. Unlike traditional insurers who charge a fixed rate regardless of mileage, pay-per-mile policies adjust your payments based on how much you drive. This approach could result in savings over the long term while still providing sufficient insurance coverage.

Rental Car Insurance In Utah

Numerous drivers think about temporary car insurance, especially when they rent a vehicle. Yet, you can purchase insurance directly from the rental company, bypassing the need for your own policy. It’s advisable to secure coverage from the rental company as most personal auto policies do not cover the loss of use of the rental car, which can be costly.

Rideshare Car Insurance

Uber drivers are prevalent in Utah, highlighting the necessity of rideshare insurance. Regular auto insurance policies do not cover accidents that occur while drivers are actively employed by transportation network companies. Therefore, it’s crucial for Uber and Lyft drivers to obtain specialized insurance to ensure protection for themselves and their passengers.

While certain major insurers may provide partial coverage, opting for insurance directly from rideshare companies is advised.

Buying A Six-Month Utah Insurance Policy And Canceling It Early

The majority of car insurance firms provide coverage for either six or twelve months, with shorter durations being uncommon. Nonetheless, there’s usually no restriction on buying a six-month policy and cancelling it early.

Altering Utah Car Insurance Temporarily Depending On Your Needs

In need of temporary car insurance? Adjusting your current policy or opting for a six-month policy with specific coverage if you’re currently uninsured could be beneficial. These are instances where such decisions could prove valuable.

College Student Away At School

A significant percentage, about 56%, of college students have cars while they’re in school, so managing car insurance is generally simple for them. They can either stick with their parents’ policy or choose their own. What about those without cars? It might seem that they don’t need insurance, but this isn’t entirely true.

Each year, roughly 1,519 college students are injured in alcohol-related incidents, including car crashes. If your child needs to prevent a friend from driving under the influence, insurance issues should not be a problem.

Although insurance usually follows the car, accidents can exceed policy limits, leaving the driver responsible for additional costs. In Utah, the minimum liability requirements are $25,000 per person, $65,000 per accident for injuries, and $15,000 for property damage. Even minor accidents can surpass these limits. Keeping your child on your policy or getting a non-owner policy can help manage these potential risks.

Storing Your Car

When your car is parked for extended periods or certain times of the year, storage insurance provides a practical option. This insurance allows you to temporarily suspend liability coverage on your vehicle, protecting it from risks like fire, theft, or vandalism during its inactive periods.

Most standard auto insurance companies offer storage insurance as part of their policies, making it easy without requiring special arrangements. Inform your insurer to halt coverage during storage and they can restore it when you’re ready to use your car.

Letting Someone Else Drive Your Car

Sometimes, you may find yourself in a situation where someone else needs to drive your vehicle. Depending on how often they use it, you might need to formally add them to your insurance policy as a driver. If their usage is sporadic, they’re typically covered under the permissive use clause. Many insurance providers offer coverage to authorized drivers under this clause, which proves beneficial during emergencies or when you lend your car.

Remember to inform your insurer about household members or individuals who regularly use your car, as they may need to be listed on your policy regardless of their driving frequency.

Adding Your Child To Your Policy

When your child obtains their driver’s license, you might be reluctant to add them to your auto insurance due to the expenses. Nonetheless, it’s advisable to include them, even if they won’t drive regularly. Insurance providers typically mandate that you disclose all licensed drivers in your household. Failing to do so could lead to complications when filing claims or even result in policy cancellation. If they genuinely won’t be driving, you could potentially exclude them from your coverage.

International Drivers

Travelers driving internationally can choose insurance depending on how long they plan to be in a foreign country. Short-term visitors renting cars can get insurance from the rental company. For longer stays, it’s recommended to purchase a standard auto insurance policy or a non-owner policy. Note that some insurers may require an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a US driver’s license. It’s important to research and prepare the correct driving documents before traveling.

Being An Infrequent Driver

Individuals who drive infrequently might not find it essential to have their own insurance policy, depending on their driving patterns. Nonetheless, insurance providers generally expect most licensed household residents to be included in car policies, even if their driving is infrequent. Many policies also include a permissive use clause, allowing sporadic car usage with the owner’s consent. If you frequently drive cars owned by others, consider a non-owner policy to ensure coverage for yourself, no matter the vehicle.

Average Cost Of Short-Term Car Insurance For Good Drivers

Average Cost Of Short-Term Car Insurance For Young Drivers In Utah

Average Cost Of Short-Term Car Insurance After An Accident In Utah

Temporary Car Insurance Rates In Utah – By Policy Length

Utah’s Department of Insurance reveals that American Family is the top player in auto insurance. Our analysis shows it’s also the most expensive for temporary vehicle insurance, while USAA provides a more affordable alternative.

Temporary Car Insurance Rates In Utah – By Insurance Company

Short-Term Auto Insurance Rates In Utah – By City

Each year, Utah sees numerous car accidents. In West Valley City, where auto insurance costs are high, accidents are more common. In contrast, West Jordan has a lower accident rate compared to the state average, resulting in comparatively lower insurance premiums as found in our analysis.