Obtaining initial auto insurance can be a pain. This is particularly true if you have to deal with the dilemma of needing insurance coverage to purchase your first car, but not being able to receive coverage without specific vehicle information. Understanding this process makes the move to car ownership much easier. We’ll guide you through the complexities of getting auto insurance as a first-time vehicle owner so that you can select the right plan to protect yourself and your new investment.
Can I Get Car Insurance Before I Buy A Car?
Even though you need to have valid car insurance before you drive off the lot, there is a work-around if you have never had auto insurance or a car. You technically can obtain car insurance without owning the vehicle you are looking to get insured. It can be helpful to obtain quotes from different insurance companies before you settle on a vehicle. This gives you more time to find an insurance company that offers the specific coverage you are looking for at a price that works for you. Once you have a quote and carrier that you are happy with, you are ready to go car shopping!
How Can I Obtain Auto Insurance Before I Purchase A Car?
Once you have found the perfect car at the dealership, you need to reach out to your insurance company of choice and give them the VIN number of the car you are going to be purchasing. The insurance agent will be able to redo your quote that may have been given as you “shopped around” for insurance to accurately reflect the exact car your policy will be covering. Your insurance card will be electronically sent to the car dealership so that you can print it out and drive your new car home!
Will I Be Able To Buy A Car Without Auto Insurance?
Although you can purchase car insurance without owning a vehicle, you cannot purchase a vehicle without having a valid auto policy in place. Most, if not all, dealers require car buyers to have valid insurance before they drive their new car off the lot. If the car is being financed through a financial institution, they will often require proof of insurance before disbursing funds to the dealership.
Even if the car salesman allowed you to drive home without insurance, it is definitely not something we recommend doing. In Pennsylvania, it is required by law that all drivers have valid car insurance. If you are caught driving a vehicle that is not insured, you may be facing some severe penalties, such as:
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A minimum fine of $300
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A 3 month suspension of both your driver’s license and vehicle registration
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Restoration fee of $94 to restore your license at the end of the 3-month period
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Restoration fees to restore your vehicle’s registration at the end of the 3-month period
Contact Strickler Insurance For Your Car Insurance Needs
Don’t wait until you are at the dealership to start looking into your first car insurance policy. Contact us at Strickler Insurance to learn how our local team in Lebanon, PA can help you find a comprehensive auto policy that fits your needs.
