Auto Insurance in Georgia: Everything You Need to Know

If you live in Georgia, you need auto insurance to be able to drive legally. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right policy for your needs. This article will guide you through the basics and provide you with all the information you need to know about auto insurance in Georgia.

What is Auto Insurance in Georgia?

Auto insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for damages or injuries resulting from a car accident. In Georgia, drivers are required to have liability insurance, which covers damages or injuries you may cause to others while driving.

Aside from liability insurance, there are other types of auto insurance policies you can choose from, such as collision insurance, comprehensive insurance, and uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance. We’ll discuss each of these in more detail below.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is the minimum coverage required in Georgia. This type of insurance policy covers damages or injuries you may cause to others while driving. It includes two types of coverage:

  1. Bodily Injury Liability: Covers the medical expenses and lost wages of people injured in an accident you caused.
  2. Property Damage Liability: Covers the cost of repairing or replacing property you damaged in an accident you caused.

Georgia law requires drivers to have a minimum of $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, $50,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability coverage per accident.

It’s important to note that liability insurance only covers damages or injuries you cause to others. It does not cover damages or injuries you or your passengers suffer in an accident, or damages to your own vehicle. For that, you will need additional coverage.

Collision Insurance

Collision insurance is optional coverage that pays for damages to your car if it’s involved in a collision, regardless of who caused the accident. This type of insurance also covers damages to your car if it’s hit by another vehicle or if it collides with an object, such as a tree or a fence.

Collision insurance is subject to a deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium will be.

Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance is optional coverage that pays for damages to your car that are not caused by a collision. This includes theft, vandalism, fire, and natural disasters, such as floods and hailstorms.

Like collision insurance, comprehensive insurance is subject to a deductible, which you choose when you purchase your policy.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance

Uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance is optional coverage that protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or does not have enough insurance to cover the damages or injuries they caused.

This type of insurance also covers hit-and-run accidents, where the other driver leaves the scene without providing their information.

Uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance is subject to a coverage limit, which is the maximum amount your insurance will pay out in the event of an accident.

How Much Does Auto Insurance Cost in Georgia?

The cost of auto insurance in Georgia varies depending on several factors, such as your age, driving record, the type of car you drive, and the coverage options you choose.

According to ValuePenguin, the average cost of auto insurance in Georgia is $1,311 per year for a full coverage policy and $456 per year for a minimum coverage policy.

However, your actual cost may be higher or lower than the average, depending on your individual circumstances.

How to Get Auto Insurance in Georgia?

To get auto insurance in Georgia, you can follow these steps:

  1. Shop around for insurance quotes from different providers.
  2. Compare the coverage options and prices of each quote.
  3. Select the policy that best fits your needs and budget.
  4. Purchase your policy and make your payments.

When shopping for auto insurance, it’s important to compare quotes from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Be sure to read the fine print and ask any questions you have before signing up for a policy.

FAQs

What Happens if I Don’t Have Auto Insurance in Georgia?

If you’re caught driving without insurance in Georgia, you may face fines, license suspension, and even jail time. You may also be held responsible for any damages or injuries you cause in an accident, which can be costly.

Can I Get Auto Insurance With a Suspended License in Georgia?

It may be difficult to get auto insurance with a suspended license in Georgia, as most insurance companies require a valid driver’s license to provide coverage. However, there may be some companies that offer insurance to drivers with suspended licenses.

Can I Use My Insurance to Cover a Rental Car in Georgia?

Most insurance policies provide coverage for rental cars, but it’s important to check your policy to make sure. Some policies may only provide limited coverage for rental cars, while others may provide full coverage.

What Happens if I’m in an Accident With an Uninsured Driver in Georgia?

If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver in Georgia, you may be able to file a claim with your uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance, if you have it. This type of insurance can help cover the costs of damages or injuries suffered in an accident with an uninsured driver.

Do I Need Gap Insurance in Georgia?

Gap insurance is optional coverage that pays the difference between what you owe on your car loan and the actual cash value of your car if it’s totaled or stolen. If you owe more on your car than it’s worth, gap insurance can be beneficial. However, if you own your car outright or owe less on your loan than your car is worth, gap insurance is not necessary.

Conclusion

Auto insurance is a necessary investment for drivers in Georgia. By understanding the different types of coverage available and shopping around for quotes, you can find a policy that provides the protection you need at a price you can afford.

Remember, having insurance not only protects you from legal and financial consequences, but it also provides peace of mind while on the road.