Car insurance is legally mandated in Oregon, and having enough coverage is key. Everyone’s needs vary so it is wise to shop around and compare quotes from multiple companies before making your selection. Here are a few key points when searching for Oregon car insurance policies:
Oregon law dictates a minimum requirement of liability coverage, to protect you in case you’re at fault in an accident. Comprehensive and collision coverage are also mandated; lenders often mandate them.
Driving history is one of the primary determinants of Oregon car insurance rates. Even one speeding ticket or DUI conviction could raise your rates substantially; on the other hand, being a safe driver and maintaining a clean record can lower them substantially. Luckily, you can reduce your rates simply by being an attentive and responsible driver!
One major factor determining car insurance rates in Oregon is your location. Insurers use various metrics, including crime statistics, accident rates and cost of living data, to set average car insurance rates in each city or ZIP code – hence why your neighbor in Bend could pay different premiums even with identical policies from the same provider.
Your credit score can also play a factor in the cost of Oregon car insurance rates. Many insurers use credit scores as a predictive indicator when setting premiums; low scores typically lead to increased rates; however, Oregon law regulates how insurers may use this factor when setting car insurance premiums.
Your car model can have an effect on Oregon car insurance premiums as well. Luxury models tend to be more costly to repair, leading to higher premiums; on the other hand, sedans tend to cost less to insure than SUVs due to lower repair bills.
Age plays an important role when it comes to Oregon car insurance rates. Young drivers will typically pay more than more experienced ones. According to MoneyGeek, adding a teenage driver can increase premium costs up to 2.9x; so it is vital that young drivers maintain clean driving records until they are old enough to do so safely.