Cheap Car Insurance in Hawaii: Car insurance is essential for Hawaii’s drivers, offering vital protection against the unexpected.
To navigate the islands’ unique driving challenges, finding affordable car insurance tailored to your needs is key.
Discover practical tips for securing cost-effective coverage in Hawaii, ensuring both safety and savings.
Understanding Car Insurance in Hawaii
Car insurance is a crucial safeguard for drivers, offering financial protection in case of accidents. Understanding the specifics of car insurance in Hawaii helps residents ensure they meet legal requirements and select the best coverage for their needs.
Hawaii’s Car Insurance Requirements
Hawaii mandates that all drivers possess a minimum level of car insurance coverage to legally operate a vehicle. These requirements include:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Hawaii operates under a no-fault system, requiring drivers to carry PIP coverage. This insurance helps cover medical expenses for you and your passengers regardless of who is at fault in an accident.
- Liability Insurance: While PIP covers your own expenses, liability insurance is required to cover the costs of other people’s injuries or property damage if you are at fault. The minimum limits are $20,000 for bodily injury per person, $40,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 for property damage.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection: Although this coverage is optional, it is recommended. It covers you in case you are involved in an accident with a driver who is either uninsured or doesn’t have sufficient insurance to cover the damages.
Types of Car Insurance Coverage Available in Hawaii
Apart from the basic required policies, there are several types of additional coverage available to drivers in Hawaii, enhancing protection and peace of mind:
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your car resulting from a collision, regardless of who is at fault.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against damage to your car caused by non-collision events such as theft, fire, or natural disasters.
- Full Coverage: A combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverages. This is often required if you are financing or leasing your vehicle.
Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates in Hawaii
Several factors influence the cost of car insurance in Hawaii, making premiums vary significantly among drivers:
- Driving Record: A clean driving record without accidents or traffic violations can lower your premiums significantly.
- Age and Experience: Younger, less experienced drivers generally face higher rates due to their increased risk of accidents.
- Type of Vehicle: High-performance or newer vehicles typically cost more to insure due to higher repair costs.
- Location: Rates can vary depending on where you live in Hawaii. Urban areas with higher traffic density may see higher rates than rural areas.
- Credit Score: In many states, including Hawaii, insurers consider your credit score when determining premiums, with better scores often leading to lower costs.
However, understanding these elements will help you navigate the complexities of car insurance in Hawaii and choose a policy that suits both your needs and budget.
Finding Affordable Car Insurance in Hawaii
When searching for cheap car insurance in Hawaii, comparison shopping stands out as the most effective first step. By comparing quotes from various insurers, you can identify the most cost-effective policy that meets your specific needs without compromising on coverage.
Importance of Comparison Shopping
Comparison shopping is crucial in the Hawaiian car insurance market. It allows you to explore different policies and ensure that you’re not overpaying for your car insurance. This process can be simplified by using online tools that aggregate prices and policies from multiple insurers, providing a comprehensive overview of your options.
Tips for Lowering Premiums
To further reduce your car insurance premiums in Hawaii, consider the following tips:
1. Maintain a Clean Driving Record
A clean driving record is one of the most influential factors in obtaining lower car insurance rates. Avoiding accidents and traffic violations can significantly decrease your premiums, as insurers view a clean record as a sign of a lower-risk driver.
2. Opt for Higher Deductibles
Choosing higher deductibles can lower your insurance premiums. This means you agree to pay more out of pocket in the event of an accident, which reduces the financial risk for the insurer and can result in cheaper monthly payments.
3. Take Advantage of Discounts
Many insurers offer a variety of discounts that can substantially lower your premiums:
- Multi-car discounts: Insure more than one car with the same company to receive a discount.
- Safe driver discounts: Demonstrating safe driving habits can qualify you for additional savings.
- Student discounts: Full-time students with good academic records may be eligible for reduced rates.
By implementing these strategies, you can find affordable car insurance in Hawaii that provides the protection you need at a price that fits your budget.
Top Providers of Cheap Car Insurance in Hawaii
When it comes to finding affordable car insurance in Hawaii, several providers stand out due to their competitive rates and unique benefits. Here’s a rundown of the top insurers in the Aloha State:
Geico
Geico often offers the lowest premiums in Hawaii. It stands out for its comprehensive coverage options, generous discounts for safe drivers, and an easy-to-use mobile app for managing policies and filing claims quickly.
State Farm
Known for exceptional customer service, State Farm provides competitively priced car insurance policies in Hawaii. It offers a variety of discounts, including those for accident-free drivers and multi-vehicle policies, which make it a cost-effective choice for families.
Allstate
Allstate is favored for its customizable policy options. It allows customers in Hawaii to tailor their coverage extensively, from standard liability to full comprehensive plans. The insurer also provides unique value-adds like the Drivewise program, which rewards safe driving habits with premium reductions.
Progressive
Progressive stands out with its “Name Your Price” tool, which helps Hawaii residents find a policy that fits their budget. Additionally, its loyalty rewards program offers decreasing deductibles and other benefits, making it appealing for long-term customers.
USAA
Exclusively serving military members, veterans, and their families, USAA offers some of the most affordable car insurance rates in Hawaii. Known for its outstanding customer support and high satisfaction ratings, USAA also provides substantial discounts for low annual mileage and safe driving.
However, each of these providers offers a unique set of benefits and discounts, making it important for Hawaii residents to compare quotes and features to find the best fit for their car insurance needs.
Hawaii car insurance premiums by rating factor
Your rates are determined by a number of individual factors, including your coverage level, driving history, location, and more. Explore average premium costs by rating factor below to get a better sense of how much you should be paying for auto insurance in Hawaii.
Cheap auto insurance in Hawaii for minimum coverage
Forgoing full coverage for liability-only at the state minimum level will make your car insurance significantly cheaper. In Hawaii, the average cost for minimum coverage is $31 per month, or $370 yearly — a savings of $761 compared to full coverage.
Cheap auto insurance in Hawaii for minimum coverage
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $366 |
| Island Insurance Group | $381 |
| GEICO | $423 |
| State Farm | $443 |
| Allstate | $555 |
| Progressive | $655 |
Cheap auto insurance in Hawaii with bad credit
While most states use your credit history in the underwriting process, Hawaii has banned the practice. This means that those with a poor credit history do not have to worry about it affecting how much they pay for auto insurance.
Cheap auto insurance in Hawaii with an at-fault accident
Your driving history plays a big part in how much you pay. Insurance companies look for previous accidents for which you have been at fault to gauge the level of risk you pose as a customer. An at-fault accident in recent years could see your car insurance rates increase by as much as $439 per year.
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%.
Cheap auto insurance in Hawaii with an at-fault accident
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $1,437 |
| State Farm | $1,613 |
| GEICO | $1,671 |
| Island Insurance Group | $1,746 |
| Progressive | $2,239 |
| Allstate | $2,761 |
Cheap auto insurance for young drivers in Hawaii
Young drivers — aged between 16 and 25 — pay very high car insurance rates, with those aged 16 to 19 paying the most expensive premiums of all. Because of the risk presented by inexperienced drivers, teen drivers pay more than three times the national average for car insurance. In Hawaii, teen drivers pay an average $1,128 per year — this is uncharacteristically low compared to teen drivers in other states.
Cheap auto insurance for young drivers in Hawaii
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $1,167 |
| State Farm | $1,240 |
| Island Insurance Group | $1,267 |
| GEICO | $1,401 |
| Allstate | $2,074 |
| Progressive | $2,152 |
Hawaii auto insurance rate by violation
In Hawaii, a bad driving record will cause your rates to skyrocket. If you receive a ticket or citation, your auto insurance premiums will probably rise. By how much depends on the violation, your insurer’s pricing standards, and differing local insurance regulations and risks. That’s why tickets may have a different impact on insurance in your state compared to the national average. Car insurance premiums typically increase by 146% after a DUI and 20% after a speeding ticket.
See below average auto insurance rates in Hawaii after a few common citations.
Hawaii auto insurance rate by violation
| Accident/Violation | Avg. Annual Premium | % Rate Increase | $ Rate Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| One Med/PIP claim | $1,409 | 0% | $0 |
| Not-at-fault accident | $1,409 | 0% | $0 |
| None | $1,409 | 0% | $0 |
| One comp claim | $1,428 | 1% | $19 |
| Two comp claims | $1,428 | 1% | $19 |
| Two Med/PIP claims | $1,428 | 1% | $19 |
| Failure to wear a seat belt | $1,502 | 7% | $93 |
| Failure to show documents | $1,511 | 7% | $102 |
| Child safety restraint | $1,542 | 9% | $133 |
| Driving without lights | $1,542 | 9% | $133 |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Cell phone violation | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over limit | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Failure to yield | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Texting while driving | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Speeding in school zone | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Following too closely | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Illegal turn | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Speeding 11 – 15 MPH over limit | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Wrong way/wrong lane | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Improper passing | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Driving too slowly | $1,577 | 12% | $168 |
| Speeding 16 – 20 MPH over limit | $1,596 | 13% | $187 |
| Driving with expired registration | $1,601 | 14% | $192 |
| At-fault accident – less than $1000 | $1,671 | 19% | $262 |
| Passing school bus | $1,681 | 19% | $272 |
| Operating a vehicle without permission | $1,756 | 25% | $347 |
| At-fault accident – greater than $2000 | $1,877 | 33% | $468 |
| At-fault accident – $1000-$2000 | $1,877 | 33% | $468 |
| In 65 MPH zone | $2,195 | 56% | $786 |
| Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over limit | $2,201 | 56% | $793 |
| Open container | $2,402 | 70% | $993 |
| Reckless driving | $3,530 | 151% | $2,121 |
| Racing | $3,619 | 157% | $2,210 |
| Driving with a suspended license | $3,657 | 160% | $2,248 |
| Refusal to submit to a chemical test | $3,675 | 161% | $2,266 |
| DUI | $3,675 | 161% | $2,266 |
| Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run | $3,758 | 167% | $2,349 |
Hawaii DUI laws
In Hawaii, a DUI offense can increase your annual car insurance premium by an average of $1,625. Finding affordable auto insurance in the wake of a DUI violation isn’t simple. In fact, a DUI often brings about a bigger premium increase than any single road violation — more than an at-fault accident, racing, or reckless driving.
Low-cost car insurance after a DUI in Hawaii
If you’re convicted of a DUI or DWI violation in Hawaii, it’s key to mull over each of your insurance choices carefully. Auto insurance premiums following a DUI can vary substantially by insurer. For example, the least expensive car insurance company with a DUI in Hawaii, State Farm, advertises annual rates 54% less than the statewide average insurance rate with a DUI. The second-cheapest insurer for auto insurance after a DUI in Hawaii is USAA, while the priciest firm is Island Insurance Group, with prices 340% above average.
Low-cost car insurance after a DUI in Hawaii
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| State Farm | $1,890 |
| USAA | $2,323 |
| Progressive | $2,425 |
| GEICO | $4,051 |
| Allstate | $4,468 |
| Island Insurance Group | $12,051 |
Rates by city
Car insurance companies calculate your rate based on many factors, the location of the vehicle being an important one. The cheapest car insurance is found in Pearl City, Hawaii, and the most expensive in Hilo, Hawaii.
Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of Hawaii’s biggest cities.
Average rates by cities in Hawaii
| City | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Pearl City | $1,415 |
| Honolulu | $1,425 |
| Waipahu | $1,431 |
| Kailua | $1,455 |
| Hilo | $1,495 |
Car insurance price trends in Hawaii
In Hawaii, average annual auto insurance costs increased by just $8 in the past year. A typical Hawaii driver pays an average of $1,088 per year.
The recent pricing trend in Hawaii leans toward significantly cheaper car insurance costs than the national average. The steepest decrease occurred from 2017 to 2018, while the highest surge took place from 2016 to 2017. At the same time, car insurance rates across the United States have stayed relatively steady in the past few years, moving from $1,521 in 2018 to $1,529 in 2021.
HAWAII CAR INSURANCE RATE TRENDS
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Hawaii | Yearly Change — Hawaii | Avg. Annual Premium — US | Yearly Change — US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $1,088 | $8 | $1,529 | $46 |
| 2020 | $1,080 | -$21 | $1,483 | -$61 |
| 2019 | $1,101 | -$20 | $1,544 | $23 |
| 2018 | $1,121 | -$675 | $1,521 | $84 |
| 2017 | $1,796 | $234 | $1,437 | $69 |
| 2016 | $1,562 | -$323 | $1,368 | $88 |
| 2015 | $1,885 | $216 | $1,280 | $51 |
| 2014 | $1,669 | $155 | $1,229 | $34 |
| 2013 | $1,514 | -$63 | $1,195 | -$80 |
| 2012 | $1,577 | $323 | $1,276 | $82 |
Steps to Get a Free Car Insurance Quote in Hawaii
Getting a free car insurance quote in Hawaii can be straightforward if you follow these steps. Whether you’re shopping for a new policy or checking if you can get a better deal, here’s how to proceed:
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Obtain a Free Quote
Online Through Provider Websites:
- Visit the websites of car insurance providers licensed in Hawaii.
- Look for the “Get a Quote” or “Insurance Quote” option, typically accessible from the homepage.
- You’ll be guided through an online form where you’ll input necessary information to receive your quote.
Direct Calls to Local Agents:
- Search for local insurance agents in your area or find contact details on insurance providers’ websites.
- Give them a call during business hours to discuss your needs directly.
- The agent will ask for specific details to provide you with a personalized quote.
Utilizing Comparison Websites:
- Use reputable comparison websites that allow you to compare multiple quotes from different insurers simultaneously.
- Enter your information once, and receive various quotes to easily compare rates and coverage options.
Information Needed to Get an Accurate Quote
To ensure the quotes you receive are as accurate as possible, be prepared to provide the following details:
- Vehicle Information: Make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN) of your car.
- Driver’s License Number: Your Hawaiian driver’s license number is required to verify your driving record.
- Driving History: Details about any past accidents or traffic violations.
By collecting this information beforehand, you can streamline the process of obtaining free car insurance quotes in Hawaii, making it easier to find the best rate and coverage for your needs.
Saving Money on Car Insurance in Hawaii: Additional Tips
Finding affordable car insurance in Hawaii can be easier with a few strategic moves. Here are some additional tips to help you save money on your car insurance premiums:
Bundling Policies: Combining your car insurance with other policies such as home or renters insurance can lead to significant savings. Most insurance providers offer discounts when you bundle multiple policies, making this a smart way to reduce your overall insurance costs.
Regularly Review and Adjust Coverage: As your life circumstances change, so do your insurance needs. Make it a habit to review your coverage annually or after major life events like buying a new car or moving to a new home. Adjusting your coverage to fit your current needs can prevent you from overpaying for insurance you no longer need.
Enhance Vehicle Security: Installing anti-theft devices in your vehicle can not only provide peace of mind but also lower your insurance premiums. Many insurers offer discounts for cars equipped with security systems, tracking devices, or immobilizers. By improving your vehicle’s security, you not only protect your investment but also make it less of a risk to insure.
Implementing these strategies can lead to substantial savings on your car insurance in Hawaii, helping you keep more money in your pocket while staying adequately protected.
Legal Considerations and Minimum Coverage Requirements
In Hawaii, all drivers are legally required to carry a minimum level of auto insurance to ensure they can cover costs associated with vehicle accidents. Hawaii is a “no-fault” state, meaning that your insurance will cover your medical expenses and other damages up to the policy limit, regardless of who caused the accident.
The minimum coverage requirements in Hawaii are as follows:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): You must carry at least $10,000 in PIP coverage. This coverage helps pay for medical expenses for you and your passengers regardless of fault.
- Bodily Injury Liability: This coverage is required if you are at fault in an accident that injures another person. The minimum limits are $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident.
- Property Damage Liability: This helps cover damage you might cause to another person’s property. The minimum requirement is $10,000.
These coverages are essential to meet the state’s legal requirements, but drivers are encouraged to consider higher limits and additional types of coverage, such as collision and comprehensive insurance, to fully protect their vehicles and financial wellbeing.
Consequences of Driving Without Adequate Insurance in Hawaii
Driving without insurance in Hawaii is a serious offense and can lead to severe consequences. If you are caught driving without the proper coverage, you face:
- Fines: Initial fines for driving without insurance can be hefty, often exceeding $500.
- License Suspension: Your driver’s license can be suspended for up to a year. Reinstating your license requires proof of insurance and the payment of reinstatement fees.
- Vehicle Registration Suspension: Your vehicle’s registration may also be suspended, which means you cannot legally drive the car until the registration is reinstated, which also requires proof of insurance.
- Legal Liabilities: If you’re at fault in an accident without adequate insurance, you are personally liable for bodily injuries and property damage, which can lead to financial ruin if you are unable to cover the costs.
It’s essential to adhere to Hawaii’s insurance requirements not only to comply with the law but also to protect yourself from the significant financial and legal repercussions of accidents and insurance violations.
FAQs about Cheap Car Insurance in Hawaii
1. What factors influence the cost of car insurance in Hawaii?
The cost of car insurance in Hawaii is influenced by several factors including the driver’s age, driving record, type of vehicle, and the level of coverage selected. Additionally, Hawaii’s unique geographical and climatic conditions can also affect insurance rates.
2. Is car insurance required in Hawaii?
Yes, car insurance is mandatory in Hawaii. Drivers must have a minimum of personal injury protection (PIP) and liability insurance to legally operate a vehicle on the state’s roads.
3. How can I find the cheapest car insurance in Hawaii?
To find the cheapest car insurance, compare quotes from multiple insurers, consider increasing your deductible, and check for any discounts you may qualify for, such as multi-car discounts, good driver discounts, or discounts for safety features on your vehicle.
4. Are there any discounts specific to Hawaii for car insurance?
Yes, many insurers offer discounts for being a good driver, having multiple cars on one policy, or for vehicles equipped with safety features. Additionally, Hawaii residents might receive discounts for taking defensive driving courses or for having low annual mileage.
5. What is the minimum coverage required in Hawaii?
Hawaii requires drivers to carry a minimum of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage, and $10,000 in property damage liability coverage.
6. Does Hawaii offer any programs to help with affordable car insurance?
While Hawaii does not offer specific programs to assist with car insurance payments, low-income drivers can benefit from shopping around and utilizing various discounts offered by insurers.
Conclusion
Finding affordable car insurance in Hawaii is crucial for both new and experienced drivers. It not only ensures compliance with local laws but also provides financial protection against accidents and theft.
To ensure you are getting the most cost-effective coverage, it’s essential to compare quotes from multiple providers. Each company has unique offerings and discounts, so taking the time to explore your options can lead to significant savings.
Start your search today and choose a car insurance plan that offers the best balance of coverage and affordability in Hawaii. Remember, the right insurance is not just a requirement; it’s a crucial investment in your safety and financial well-being.
References
For those looking to delve deeper into securing affordable car insurance in Hawaii, the following resources provide extensive information and validate the insights shared in our discussion:
- Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs – Their official website offers comprehensive details on insurance regulations and consumer rights in Hawaii. Visit their site.
- Insurance Information Institute – A reliable source for a variety of insurance topics, including tips on how to reduce car insurance premiums. Learn more here.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – NAIC provides up-to-date information on insurance providers in Hawaii, helping you compare and make informed decisions. Check their resources.
- Consumer Reports – Known for its unbiased reviews and advice, Consumer Reports offers guidance on choosing the best car insurance in Hawaii based on current market analysis. Read their recommendations.
Each of these resources will support your journey toward finding the most cost-effective car insurance options available in the Aloha State.
