Best Car Insurance in Nevada: Finding the best car insurance in Nevada can feel like navigating a maze. With so many providers, coverage options, and factors to consider, where do you even start?
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a new driver in the Silver State, getting the right car insurance is essential for staying on the road legally and safely.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best car insurance options in Nevada, what you should look for, and how to get a free quote without hassle.
Why Car Insurance Is Important in Nevada
Car insurance is not just a legal requirement in Nevada; it’s also your financial safety net in case of accidents, theft, or damages. Nevada roads can be unpredictable, with a mix of city driving, desert highways, and congested tourist areas. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender in Las Vegas or a more serious accident on a rural road, having the right insurance coverage ensures you’re protected financially.
Nevada’s Minimum Insurance Requirements
Like most states, Nevada has minimum insurance requirements that all drivers must meet to legally operate a vehicle. According to Nevada law, you must carry at least:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person.
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death per accident.
- $20,000 for property damage per accident.
While these limits meet legal standards, they might not cover everything in the event of a serious accident. It’s often wise to consider higher limits or additional coverage options.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Car Insurance
When shopping for car insurance, it’s crucial to understand the various types of coverage available:
- Liability Insurance: This covers damages or injuries you cause to others in an accident. It’s mandatory in Nevada.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects your vehicle from non-collision-related incidents, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your car after an accident, regardless of fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have sufficient insurance.
Premiums and Deductibles
Premiums are the amount you pay for insurance, and deductibles are what you’ll need to pay out of pocket before your insurance covers the rest in an accident. Balancing these two is important – a lower premium often means a higher deductible, and vice versa.
Customer Service and Support
Customer service can make or break your insurance experience. You want a provider who is easy to reach, responsive, and helpful, especially in emergencies.
Top Car Insurance Providers in Nevada
Let’s dive into some of the top car insurance companies that offer competitive rates and coverage in Nevada.
Geico
Known for affordable rates and excellent online tools, Geico is a popular choice in Nevada. They offer competitive premiums, especially for good drivers, and have extensive coverage options.
State Farm
State Farm is one of the largest insurers in the U.S., and it has a strong presence in Nevada. They’re known for personalized customer service and excellent claims handling.
Progressive
Progressive is a great option if you’re looking to compare prices. Their “Name Your Price” tool helps you find a policy within your budget.
Allstate
Allstate offers robust coverage options with various discounts. Their Drivewise program can also help safe drivers lower their premiums.
USAA (For Military Members)
USAA is consistently rated as one of the best car insurance providers in the country, but it’s only available to military members and their families. Their rates are typically lower, and they provide outstanding customer service.
Cheapest car insurance companies in Nevada
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| GEICO | $1,205 |
| USAA | $1,579 |
| Progressive | $1,587 |
| State Farm | $1,767 |
| Nationwide | $2,101 |
| Farmers | $2,524 |
| Allstate | $2,951 |
Nevada auto insurance laws
Having car insurance is a requirement by law in Nevada and almost every state. Every driver must have at least the state minimum level of coverage in order to be road-legal, and also be able to show proof of insurance. Every state sets its own minimum limits for auto insurance.
Opting for the legal minimum coverage level is must more affordable than full coverage, but it can be risky — if you cause a catastrophic accident, you’d be caught in a situation where the minimum coverage isn’t enough to cover all the damage, leaving you liable to cover the rest out-of-pocket. Having liability-only insurance also wouldn’t cover any damage to your own vehicle. In Nevada, it costs about $723 every year for the state minimum level of coverage. This rate is less expensive than the nationwide average by 53%.
State minimum coverage
In order to drive legally in the state of Nevada, you must carry at least the minimum liability limits listed below:
- Bodily injury: $25,000 per person
- Bodily injury: $50,000 per accident
- Property damage: $20,000 per accident
Optional coverage in Nevada (varies by carrier):
- Comprehensive
- Collision
- Gap coverage
- Medical payments
- Roadside assistance
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
If you want more protection beyond the minimum, and coverage for your own car, you can opt for a policy with comprehensive and collision. This will protect you against the financial ramifications of car accidents, theft, vandalism or weather incidents. This is commonly known as full coverage.
Full coverage, however, comes at a higher cost. A full coverage insurance policy with a $1,000 deductible costs $1,648 in Nevada — that’s 128% more than liability-only insurance. If you choose a full coverage policy with a $500 deductible, expect to pay 164% more than you would for basic coverage.
Nevada car insurance premiums by rating factor
Rating factors such as your coverage level, age and driving history affect what you pay for car insurance. These will differ from person to person, and every company weighs these factors differently when generating quotes.
Consult average rates by rating factor below to get a better understanding of how much you can expect to pay in Nevada.
Cheap auto insurance in Nevada for minimum coverage
Getting liability-only coverage is much more affordable than full coverage. However, it can leave you at risk if you get in an accident. In Nevada, the average cost for minimum coverage is $60 per month, or $723 yearly — a savings of $1,186 compared to full coverage.
Cheapest insurance companies in Nevada for minimum coverage
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| GEICO | $492 |
| Progressive | $576 |
| USAA | $634 |
| State Farm | $691 |
| Nationwide | $879 |
| Farmers | $1,107 |
| Allstate | $1,170 |
Cheap auto insurance in Nevada with bad credit
Almost every state includes credit score as a rating factor. Past data inform insurers that those with poor credit are more likely to file claims, making them riskier to insure. This is why drivers with bad credit are charged much higher rates. In Nevada, people with poor credit generally pay an additional $1,421 yearly compared to drivers with excellent credit. Consult sample rates from different insurance companies below and use this information as a jumping-off point in your search for affordable insurance with bad credit.
Cheapest insurance companies in Nevada for bad credit
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| GEICO | $1,645 |
| Progressive | $2,309 |
| Nationwide | $2,945 |
| USAA | $3,399 |
| State Farm | $3,487 |
| Farmers | $3,963 |
| Allstate | $4,147 |
Cheap auto insurance in Nevada with an at-fault accident
It’s no secret that causing an accident will make your car insurance more expensive. Like bad credit, a history of accidents and citations is another risk indicator. In Nevada, a recent at-fault accident can raise your rate by as much as $1,139 annually.
Safe driver discounts
In addition to having a cheaper premium, some companies offer a safe driving discount. While the amount varies based on your company, it can range between 5 and 10%.
Cheapest insurance companies in Nevada after at-fault accident
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| GEICO | $1,977 |
| USAA | $2,128 |
| State Farm | $2,256 |
| Progressive | $2,643 |
| Nationwide | $3,199 |
| Farmers | $3,593 |
| Allstate | $3,832 |
Cheap auto insurance for young drivers in Nevada
Teens and drivers in their 20s pay the most for car insurance compared to older age groups. This is due to younger drivers’ relative inexperience on the road compared to older drivers. Teen drivers pay more than three times the national average rate. In Nevada, teens pay $6,557 per year, which is more than $5,000 over the national average and over three times as much as a Nevada driver in their 30s.
Cheapest insurance companies in Nevada for teen drivers
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| GEICO | $3,310 |
| USAA | $4,414 |
| State Farm | $6,363 |
| Nationwide | $6,609 |
| Progressive | $7,593 |
| Allstate | $8,724 |
| Farmers | $11,605 |
Nevada auto insurance rate by violation
Because every insurer’s pricing standards are different, it’s difficult to say how much exactly you can expect your rate to increase after getting a ticket or citation. Using data, however, we can provide general estimates.
See below for average auto insurance rates in Nevada after a variety of citations. Car insurance rates in Nevada after tickets, accidents, and violations
| Accident/Violation | Avg. Annual Premium | % Rate Increase | $ Rate Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| One Med/PIP claim | $2,229 | 0% | $0 |
| None | $2,229 | 0% | $0 |
| Two Med/PIP claims | $2,259 | 1% | $30 |
| One comp claim | $2,265 | 2% | $36 |
| Not-at-fault accident | $2,315 | 4% | $86 |
| Two comp claims | $2,352 | 6% | $123 |
| Failure to wear a seat belt | $2,516 | 13% | $287 |
| Failure to show documents | $2,536 | 14% | $307 |
| Child safety restraint | $2,548 | 14% | $320 |
| Driving without lights | $2,573 | 15% | $344 |
| Driving with expired registration | $2,584 | 16% | $355 |
| Cell phone violation | $2,683 | 20% | $455 |
| Texting while driving | $2,692 | 21% | $463 |
| Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over limit | $2,695 | 21% | $466 |
| Speeding in school zone | $2,700 | 21% | $471 |
| Speeding 11 – 15 MPH over limit | $2,701 | 21% | $473 |
| Failure to yield | $2,702 | 21% | $473 |
| Speeding 16 – 20 MPH over limit | $2,705 | 21% | $476 |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $2,706 | 21% | $477 |
| Illegal turn | $2,706 | 21% | $478 |
| Driving too slowly | $2,708 | 22% | $480 |
| Following too closely | $2,721 | 22% | $492 |
| Wrong way/wrong lane | $2,721 | 22% | $492 |
| Improper passing | $2,754 | 24% | $526 |
| In 65 MPH zone | $2,808 | 26% | $579 |
| Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over limit | $2,875 | 29% | $647 |
| Passing school bus | $2,887 | 30% | $658 |
| At-fault accident – less than $1000 | $2,955 | 33% | $727 |
| Operating a vehicle without permission | $2,982 | 34% | $753 |
| At-fault accident – greater than $2000 | $3,197 | 43% | $968 |
| At-fault accident – $1000-$2000 | $3,197 | 43% | $968 |
| Open container | $3,245 | 46% | $1,016 |
| Refusal to submit to a chemical test | $3,673 | 65% | $1,444 |
| Driving with a suspended license | $3,761 | 69% | $1,532 |
| Racing | $3,773 | 69% | $1,544 |
| DUI | $3,816 | 71% | $1,588 |
| Reckless driving | $3,828 | 72% | $1,599 |
| Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run | $3,988 | 79% | $1,759 |
Nevada DUI laws
If you get a DUI in Nevada, your premium can increase by over $1,500 annually. It can be a challenge to find affordable car insurance with a recent DUI on your record, as it often triggers a larger uptick in premium costs than many other citations.
Low-cost car insurance after a DUI in Nevada
It’s of the utmost importance to assess each of your insurance choices carefully if you’re convicted of a DUI or DWI violation in Nevada. Car insurance premiums following a DUI can vary substantially by insurance company. For example, the least expensive car insurance company with a DUI in Nevada, Progressive, advertises annual rates 41% less than the statewide average insurance rate with a DUI. The second-cheapest insurer for auto insurance after a DUI in Nevada is GEICO, while the most expensive is Nationwide, with prices 5% above average.
Cheapest insurance companies in Nevada after DUI
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Progressive | $2,241 |
| GEICO | $2,587 |
| State Farm | $2,923 |
| USAA | $3,279 |
| Allstate | $3,802 |
| Farmers | $3,877 |
| Nationwide | $4,024 |
Rates by city
Car insurance companies calculate your rate based on many factors, and an important one is the location of the vehicle. The cheapest car insurance in Nevada is found in Fallon and the most expensive in Winchester.
Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of Nevada’s biggest cities.
Car insurance rates in Nevada’s most populous cities
| City | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Reno | $1,869 |
| Henderson | $2,510 |
| North Las Vegas | $2,842 |
| Las Vegas | $2,856 |
| Paradise | $2,867 |
Car insurance price trends in Nevada
In Nevada, average annual auto insurance costs increased by $24 in the past year. A typical Nevada driver pays an average of $1,768 per year.
Year over year pricing trends in Nevada tend to be more volatile compared to rates across the United States. The highest surge of over $500 occurred in 2016, while the most notable decrease took place in 2012. While the cost of car insurance has overall increased over the past 10 years in Nevada, premiums have come down from their peak in recent years, especially in 2020.
NEVADA CAR INSURANCE RATE TRENDS
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Nevada | Yearly Change — Nevada | Avg. Annual Premium — US | Yearly Change — US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $1,768 | $24 | $1,529 | $46 |
| 2020 | $1,744 | -$248 | $1,483 | -$61 |
| 2019 | $1,992 | $88 | $1,544 | $23 |
| 2018 | $1,904 | $58 | $1,521 | $84 |
| 2017 | $1,846 | $49 | $1,437 | $69 |
| 2016 | $1,797 | $512 | $1,368 | $88 |
| 2015 | $1,285 | $66 | $1,280 | $51 |
| 2014 | $1,219 | $30 | $1,229 | $34 |
| 2013 | $1,189 | $4 | $1,195 | -$80 |
| 2012 | $1,185 | -$299 | $1,276 | $82 |
How to Get a Free Quote in Nevada
Getting a free car insurance quote in Nevada is simple and can be done in several ways:
Online Quote Tools
Many insurers, like Geico, State Farm, and Progressive, allow you to get quotes instantly online. Simply input your details, and you’ll receive a range of options tailored to your needs.
Using Insurance Brokers
Insurance brokers can help you compare quotes from multiple companies, ensuring you find the best deal without doing all the legwork yourself.
Comparing Multiple Quotes for the Best Deal
Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. It’s always a good idea to compare at least three to five quotes from different providers to ensure you’re getting the best rate.
Nevada-Specific Car Insurance Discounts
Safe Driver Discounts
Many companies reward drivers with clean records through discounts, often ranging from 10% to 20%.
Multi-Vehicle Discounts
If you insure more than one vehicle, many insurers in Nevada will offer a discount on your overall premium.
Bundling Auto and Home Insurance
If you already have home or renters insurance, bundling it with your auto policy can save you money with insurers like State Farm or Allstate.
Military and Senior Discounts
USAA provides special discounts for military members, and many companies offer reduced rates for senior drivers as well.
High-Risk Drivers in Nevada
What Defines a High-Risk Driver?
Drivers with a history of accidents, traffic violations, or DUIs may be classified as high-risk.
Best Insurance Options for High-Risk Drivers
High-risk drivers might have fewer options, but companies like The General and Dairyland specialize in offering coverage to drivers with poor records.
How to Lower Premiums as a High-Risk Driver
High-risk drivers can lower their premiums by maintaining a clean driving record, attending traffic school, or installing telematics devices that monitor driving habits.
Understanding Nevada’s Traffic Laws and Insurance Impacts
Driving Without Insurance Penalties
Driving without insurance in Nevada can result in hefty fines, license suspension, and the requirement to file an SR-22 form.
Nevada’s Point System and Its Effect on Premiums
Nevada uses a point system to track traffic violations. Accumulating points can increase your insurance premiums, so it’s important to drive safely.
DUI/DWI Offenses and Insurance Rates
A DUI or DWI offense in Nevada can cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket. Most providers will classify you as high-risk, leading to higher rates for several years.
Tips for Lowering Your Car Insurance Premium in Nevada
Maintain a Clean Driving Record
The best way to keep your premiums low is by avoiding accidents and traffic violations.
Increase Your Deductible
Opting for a higher deductible can significantly lower your monthly premiums, though you’ll need to pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.
Consider Usage-Based Insurance
Some insurers, like Progressive, offer pay-as-you-drive policies that can save you money if you don’t drive often.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Car Insurance in Nevada
Overlooking Coverage Gaps
Always ensure you have enough coverage to protect yourself fully in an accident, even if it costs a bit more.
Not Shopping Around for Quotes
Many drivers make the mistake of going with the first quote they get. Take the time to compare several options.
Ignoring Customer Reviews and Ratings
Look beyond price. Check out customer reviews and company ratings to ensure you’re choosing a provider with a good track record.
FAQs about Car Insurance in Nevada
1. What are the minimum car insurance requirements in Nevada?
Nevada requires all drivers to carry at least the following minimum coverage:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person.
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death per accident.
- $20,000 for property damage.
This basic liability coverage helps cover damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident.
2. Is car insurance mandatory in Nevada?
Yes, all drivers in Nevada must have car insurance to legally operate a vehicle. Proof of insurance is also required to register your car and renew your registration.
3. How can I find the cheapest car insurance in Nevada?
To find the cheapest car insurance in Nevada, compare quotes from multiple providers, consider raising your deductibles, and look for available discounts such as good driver, multi-car, and bundling policies. Many companies also offer discounts for paying in full or having certain safety features in your vehicle.
4. What happens if I drive without insurance in Nevada?
Driving without insurance in Nevada can result in fines, license suspension, and registration revocation. The state may also impose additional penalties such as requiring you to file an SR-22, which proves you have the necessary insurance coverage for a specific period.
5. Can I get car insurance in Nevada if I have a bad driving record?
Yes, you can still get car insurance with a bad driving record in Nevada, but it may be more expensive. High-risk drivers can look into state-sponsored insurance programs or non-standard insurance companies that specialize in covering individuals with traffic violations, accidents, or DUIs.
6. How does Nevada’s “fault” system impact my car insurance?
Nevada follows a “fault” system, meaning that the driver who is determined to be at fault in an accident is responsible for covering the damages. This impacts your insurance rates because if you’re found at fault, your insurer will have to pay for the other party’s expenses, which can lead to higher premiums.
7. What is uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage helps protect you if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your expenses. While it’s optional in Nevada, it’s highly recommended, given the number of uninsured drivers on the road.
8. Does Nevada offer any special discounts for car insurance?
Yes, many insurance providers in Nevada offer discounts for good driving habits, safe vehicles, and bundling policies. Additional savings can come from low-mileage discounts, student discounts, and loyalty programs. Always ask your insurance company about available discounts to reduce your premiums.
9. How do I file a car insurance claim in Nevada?
After an accident, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. You’ll need to provide details about the accident, including the date, time, and location, along with any police reports or witness statements. Your insurer will guide you through the claims process, including assessing the damage and settling the claim.
10. How can I lower my car insurance premiums in Nevada?
To lower your car insurance premiums in Nevada, you can:
- Increase your deductible.
- Bundle your auto policy with other types of insurance.
- Maintain a good driving record.
- Take advantage of discounts for good grades, safe driving, or having safety features in your car. Shopping around and comparing rates regularly can also help you find more affordable options.
Conclusion
Car insurance in Nevada is not only a legal requirement but also a vital protection for your financial well-being. By understanding your options and shopping around, you can find a policy that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Ready to get started? Get a free quote today and ensure you’re covered.
References
To ensure you have access to accurate and detailed information, we’ve gathered a list of reputable sources that can provide further reading and validation of the information covered in this guide to car insurance in Nevada. These resources offer up-to-date details on Nevada’s car insurance requirements, policies, and tips for finding the best rates.
- Nevada Division of Insurance
For an authoritative overview of Nevada’s car insurance laws and regulations, visit the official Nevada Division of Insurance website. This resource covers everything from state-specific requirements to consumer protections. - Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
The Nevada DMV website offers essential insights into insurance verification, registration procedures, and penalties for not carrying insurance in the state. - Insurance Information Institute (III)
The Insurance Information Institute provides a broad range of educational materials on insurance, including guidance on finding the cheapest car insurance policies in Nevada. - National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
For detailed reports and comparisons of car insurance rates across states, including Nevada, check out the NAIC website. They offer tools to help you better understand your insurance options. - NerdWallet – Best Car Insurance in Nevada
For a consumer-friendly breakdown of the best car insurance providers in Nevada, visit NerdWallet’s guide. This page is frequently updated to reflect the latest deals, discounts, and pricing trends.
Each of these sources is reliable and well-regarded within the insurance industry, making them invaluable for anyone seeking comprehensive and up-to-date information about car insurance in Nevada.
