Auto Insurance For Residents In Coastal North Carolina

As an independent insurance agency with over 50 years of combined experience, we’ve built solid relationships with our partner insurance companies so that we can offer you the coverage you need at the best rate. 

Don’t get caught thinking all auto policies are the same. Your auto insurance policy needs to be customized to fit your individual needs. One size does not fit all when it comes to auto insurance.

Is Auto Insurance In North Carolina Required?

Yes, in North Carolina, auto insurance is the LAW. You must carry at least liability insurance on all vehicles tagged in your state. NC’s minimum liability limit is 30/60/25 ($30,000 per person/$60,000 per accident/$25,000 property damage).

Typically we recommend no less than 100/300/100 and an umbrella policy will more than likely require you to carry 250/500/100.

What An Auto Insurance Policy Covers

Most auto insurance policies include several types of coverage, some of which are mandatory in North Carolina.

Bodily Injury Liability

Bodily Injury Liability is for accidents where you’re at fault for causing an injury to the other driver or passenger(s). Coverage includes:

• Medical bills
• Prescriptions
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

Property Damage Coverage

Property Damage car insurance covers damage to the other party’s property, such as:

• Vehicles
• Yard
• Light pole
• Fencing
• Backing into a garage door

Un/ Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage can be confusing. This coverage is for times when you’re injured by someone who doesn’t have auto liability insurance, or whose coverage isn’t sufficient to pay for the damage caused. Available compensations include:

• Medical expenses
• Funeral expenses
• Vehicle repairs

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from damage not caused by a collision. Although not required by law, it’s highly recommended for complete financial protection. Comprehensive coverage includes:

• Weather-Related Damage
• Theft and Vandalism
• Fire and Explosions
• Animal Collisions

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage helps to repair or replace your car if it’s damaged in a collision, regardless of who’s at fault. Though not mandatory, it is highly recommended, particularly for newer or financed vehicles. Collision coverage includes:

• Accidents with Other Vehicles
• Single-Car Accidents
• Hit-and-Run Incidents

How Much Coverage You Need

The question of “how much coverage is enough?” often comes down to your personal situation, including your assets, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a quick guide to help you assess your needs:

Assess Your Assets and Risk Level

• Homeowners and High-Net-Worth Individuals: If you own a home, a boat, or have other significant assets, higher liability limits are a wise choice. In North Carolina, auto insurance liability limits of 100/300/100 are often recommended as a baseline, covering $100,000 per person for bodily injury, $300,000 per accident, and $100,000 for property damage.
• Consider an Umbrella Policy: For added protection, especially if you have considerable assets, an umbrella policy can offer additional liability coverage that applies once your auto insurance limits are reached.

Family and Occupation Considerations

• Families with Teenage Drivers: If you have younger or less experienced drivers on your policy, consider increasing both your liability and comprehensive coverage limits. Teens are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents, which can increase your risk for costly claims.
• Frequent Commuters or Carpoolers: If you drive regularly, especially for work, higher coverage limits like 250,000/500,000/100,000 could make sense. Daily driving increases exposure to risks, making a more robust policy beneficial.

Budget and Payment Preferences

• Choose Coverage You Can Sustain: While high coverage limits are ideal, it’s important to balance this with what fits within your monthly budget. Many insurers offer affordable payment plans, allowing you to obtain a strong policy without straining your finances.

What Factors Affect Auto Insurance Rates In Wilmington, North Carolina

Auto insurance rates in Wilmington are influenced by a combination of local, personal, and policy-related factors. Here’s a streamlined look at what impacts your premium:

Location and Coastal Risks

Coastal weather like hurricanes and flooding raise risks, leading to higher premiums, especially for comprehensive coverage. Wilmington’s busy tourist seasons also contribute to increased traffic and accident rates.

Driving Record

A clean record typically means lower rates, while accidents and violations raise premiums. Frequent claims, even for minor incidents, can also increase your cost.

Vehicle Type and Age

Premiums vary based on your car’s make, model, and age. Luxury and newer cars usually cost more to insure, but safety features can qualify for discounts. Older cars may have lower premiums if full coverage isn’t needed.

Usage

Business use often results in higher rates because the vehicle is used more frequently.

Driver Experience

Young and inexperienced drivers face higher premiums due to higher accident rates, while experienced drivers may see lower rates. Seniors may see rate increases but can also qualify for some discounts.

Credit Score

Referred to as Insurance Score, in North Carolina, credit history impacts rates, with better credit scores generally leading to lower premiums due to perceived reduced risk.

Discount Eligibility

Wilmington drivers can reduce premiums through discounts for safe driving, multi-policy bundling, low mileage, and more.

Discounts For Drivers: Maximize Your Savings

At The Huneycutt Group, we know that finding affordable auto insurance is a priority for our clients, which is why we work to secure the best discounts available. As an independent agency, we have the flexibility to compare offerings from multiple insurers, allowing you to take advantage of a range of discounts tailored to your driving habits, vehicle features, and personal lifestyle. Here’s a look at some common discounts you might qualify for as a driver in Wilmington, NC.

Safe Driver Discounts

• Good Driving Record: One of the most rewarding discounts for drivers comes from maintaining a clean driving record. If you avoid accidents and traffic violations, you may qualify for a significant safe driving discount. Insurance companies often reward drivers who demonstrate lower risk, with some policies offering discounts up to 30% for a spotless record.
• Accident-Free Discounts: If you’ve gone a certain period (e.g., 3-5 years) without any claims, many insurers offer an additional accident-free discount. This reward is a great way to lower your premiums and recognize your safe driving habits.

Multi-Policy Discounts (Bundling)

• Auto & Home Insurance Bundles: If you’re looking to save even more, consider bundling your auto and home insurance policies with The Huneycutt Group. Multi-policy discounts are popular for drivers who also need homeowners or renters insurance. Bundling can save you up to 25% on both policies and offers the convenience of managing all your insurance through one provider.
• Additional Vehicle Bundling: For households with multiple vehicles, bundling them under the same insurance policy can result in savings. This is particularly beneficial for families with multiple drivers or teens who drive.

Vehicle Safety and Anti-Theft Discounts

• Safety Features: If your car has modern safety features, like anti-lock brakes, airbags, electronic stability control, or lane-departure warnings, you may be eligible for a safety feature discount. These features reduce your risk of injury in an accident, and insurers often reward this added protection with discounts.
• Anti-Theft Devices: Installing anti-theft devices, such as alarms or GPS tracking systems, can also reduce your premium. Wilmington drivers know the peace of mind that comes from added security, and insurers often pass those savings on to you.

Good Student and Young Driver Discounts

• Good Student Discounts: Many insurers recognize academic success by offering discounts for high school and college students who maintain a high GPA, typically 3.0 or higher. This is a great way for young drivers to save, as teens and young adults generally pay higher premiums due to a lack of driving experience.
• Driver Training and Education: For young drivers, completing a driver’s education or defensive driving course may also qualify for additional discounts. These courses teach valuable skills that lower accident risk, which insurers reward through premium reductions.

Senior and Loyal Customer Discounts

• Senior Discounts: If you’re a senior driver, you may be eligible for discounts tailored specifically for mature drivers. Many insurers offer lower premiums to seniors, as they typically drive less and are more cautious on the road.
• Loyalty Discounts: Many providers reward customers who remain with them over time. If you’ve been with the same insurer for a few years, ask about loyalty discounts, which can save you up to 10% or more depending on the length of your relationship with the insurer.

Payment and Renewal Discounts

• Pay-in-Full Discount: Paying your premium in full at the beginning of your term often qualifies for a discount. It’s a one-time payment, but it typically saves you up to 10% compared to monthly or quarterly payments.
• Automatic Payment and Paperless Billing: Many insurers encourage auto-pay and paperless billing by offering small discounts. These conveniences reduce administrative costs, which are then passed on as savings for you.

Military and Occupational Discounts

• Military Discount: If you’re an active-duty or retired member of the military, many insurers offer exclusive military discounts as a thank you for your service.
• Occupation-Based Discounts: Some insurers provide discounts for people in certain professions, such as teachers, nurses, or first responders. These individuals are seen as lower risk, and insurers often provide reduced rates as a benefit.

Bundle Auto & Homeowners Insurance And Save

You’ve heard that bundling your auto insurance and home insurance can save you money. If you are looking to reduce your auto insurance rates, The Huneycutt Group can bundle your auto and home insurance together to save you even more. 

Offering Insurance Solutions In Wilmington, North Carolina

We live and work in Wilmington, North Carolina. We’re local. We get you. We know that you’re interested in finding coverage that meets your specific needs at the best possible price.

Auto Insurance Companies We Represent

Progressive
National General
Travelers
Hagerty
PURE

FAQs For Auto Insurance In Wilmington, NC And Beyond