Government Low-Cost Auto Insurance - Public Car Insurance Plans

People who think that owning a car is an inexpensive ordeal before getting their first one are quick to figure out that there are many expenses involved with owning an automobile. The purchase of a car, in addition to gas, insurance, tolls, and more, quickly adds up. One of the ways to save on automobile insurance is to shop around to find the lowest cost car insurance policies. For people who find that even with the lowest-cost auto insurance they can find is still out of their budget, public insurance plans may be the answer. Fortunately, the government offers low-cost automobile insurance plans in some areas.

What is government auto insurance?

Car insurance is required in all 50 states, with some states requiring a specific amount of liability insurance and other states requiring more. Liability insurance protects other drivers if you are at fault in an automobile accident. It can cover another person’s medical expenses and car repair bills, as well as property damage bills that occur. The rates for automobile insurance vary from one state to another, but regardless of the state you live in you may be able to save money with a government insurance policy.

Who qualifies for government car insurance?

Because automobile insurance can be quite expensive to purchase from a private car insurance provider, the government has put together public car insurance options to help people who need it. These include people who are low income and people who have disabilities; the options for public auto insurance can come from either the federal government or local governments.

Is government auto insurance better than normal policies?

A common question that arises when people consider government car insurance policies is whether or not they are a better option for people than a normal policy. The plans offered by the government can vary quite a bit from one state to the next.

California’s Low-Cost Auto Insurance Program (CLCA)

In California, the California Low-Cost Automobile Insurance program, or CLCA has the goal of providing affordable car insurance plans to low-income drivers who have a good driver's record. It is available in many of the larger cities and areas, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Alameda, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and Fresno. Drivers that are over the age of 19 and have a minimum of three years of driving experience are eligible for this insurance, which covers the minimum limits for car insurance in the state. In addition to these eligibility requirements, the person being insured must have a car that is worth less than $20,000 and meet the income requirements needed for a policy.

Maryland Auto Insurance Fund

Maryland also has a program, the Maryland Auto Insurance Fund. Established in 1972, this fund provides Maryland residents who cannot obtain insurance on the private market with liability insurance coverage. The policies offered by the Maryland Auto Insurance Fund cover the minimum limits for car insurance in the state. Quotes for these policies can be obtained on the department's website.

New Jersey’s Special Automobile Insurance Policy (SAIP)

Many people are not aware that New Jersey has some of the most expensive car insurance premiums in the country. The Special Automobile Insurance Policy has a car insurance program the provides affordable automobile coverage to eligible drivers. Drivers who qualify for the program can obtain medical care for auto accidents at a rate of one dollar per day, $365 for the year.

Are there other government plans?

There are other options in different states, and you will want to check to see whether or not you are state might have government car insurance plans available. The best place to check for this information is resources like this one or your local DMV. Even when there is not a government-sponsored car insurance program, you may be able to get assistance in other ways. Researching and asking is the only way to determine if help is available.

Should people buy government auto insurance?

With both health insurance and car insurance rates on the rise, people have questioned whether or not they can afford the policies that they need. There has been discussion about public healthcare options, and some people have debated whether or not that should include insurance for automobile accidents as well. Getting a cheap car insurance policy through the government can be a fantastic option for people who are struggling to make ends meet. You will still want to compare insurance quotes to find the cheapest car insurance policy that fits your needs.

Regardless of the route that you decide to go, the tools on this site can help you find the best car insurance policy at the lowest rates to fit your needs. It all starts by simply providing your ZIP Code and filling out some brief questions. Remember though, if you are part of a low-income household or have disabilities, you may qualify for government assistance for car insurance.