Cheap Car Insurance in Columbus, Georgia
In order to legally drive a car in Georgia, drivers must carry insurance. While state law mandates minimum liability coverage, additional coverage can provide significant financial protection in the event of an accident or other event that causes damage to your vehicle. At Southern Harvest, we know accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. We strive to find Columbus residents the insurance they need at affordable costs.
Everything You Need to Know About Auto Insurance in Georgia
Life in Columbus offers plenty of new and exciting things to do every day, from the longest urban whitewater course in the world to the Chattahoochee Riverwalk, Fort Moore, and the Coca-Cola Space Science Center. With so many things to do, it’s little wonder that residents spend plenty of time out on the road. Fortunately, the infrastructure in Columbus can handle most of its residents’ needs, and highway traffic typically flows smoothly throughout the day.
Of course, even though it may be easy to get around, there are still hazards out on the roads, particularly on snowy days, which residents note can be particularly problematic. Since the area doesn’t get frequent snowfall, many drivers struggle to navigate safely. Whether you’re out in the snow or braving rush hour traffic, having car insurance is a must. Your car insurance isn’t just legally mandated. It’s also essential for peace of mind.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Columbus, Georgia?
In Columbus, the average cost of minimum liability insurance is $43 per month, while full coverage averages around $148 per month. This is lower than the average rate of $84 per month for minimum liability insurance and $243 per month for full coverage Georgia insurance, in part because Georgia’s average goes up due to the inclusion of Atlanta drivers.
Nationwide, the average annual cost of minimum auto insurance is around $67 per month, while full coverage averages around $224 per month. Additional types of coverage, including collision and comprehensive insurance, can change your monthly costs.
What Types of Coverage Are Recommended for Georgia Drivers Beyond the Minimum?
While many Georgia drivers will choose minimum coverage in order to save on costs, there are several other types of coverage they may want to consider.
- Underinsured auto insurance provides coverage when a covered driver gets into an accident with someone who does not carry adequate insurance.
- Uninsured motorist coverage offers compensation after an accident with a driver who does not carry auto insurance.
- Comprehensive coverage covers non-accident damage, including theft or vandalism.
- Collision coverage covers repairs or replacement of the covered driver’s vehicle when they get into an accident.
Carrying adequate car insurance to protect your investment is essential since you want to make sure you do not end up without a vehicle as a result of an accident.
Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Georgia
Are you looking into car insurance rates across Georgia? Check out our breakdown for other cities and how they compare to Columbus.
| City | Full Coverage Insurance | Liability Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus | $148 | $43 |
| Macon | $152 | $54 |
| Atlanta | $192 | $71 |
| Athens | $131 | $44 |
| Savannah | $152 | $53 |
Affordable Columbus Car Insurance Rates by Zip Code
Exactly where in Columbus you’re located can have a significant impact on your car insurance rates. The zip code can have even more impact than the town you live and drive in. Underwriters consider how even neighboring zip codes have different road conditions, collision statistics, and driver trends.
Take a look at the breakdown by common zip codes in the area.
| Zip Code | Full Coverage Insurance | Liability Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| 31801 | $148 | $43 |
| 31808 | $147 | $44 |
| 31820 | $140 | $46 |
| 31903 | $139 | $47 |
| 31908 | $147 | $49 |
Low-Cost Car Insurance Rates by Age in Columbus
In addition to other factors that can influence car insurance rates, age can have a substantial impact. Many car insurance companies will reduce their rates as drivers get older, particularly as they develop a better driving record. Teen drivers, on the other hand, can pay much more for car insurance.
Use this breakdown to see what people are paying on average:
| Age | Full Coverage Insurance | Liability Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Teenagers | $540 | $197 |
| 20s | $180 | $52 |
| 30s | $148 | $43 |
| 40s | $136 | $40 |
| 50s | $127 | $38 |
| 60s | $123 | $38 |
| 70s | $137 | $44 |
*We use the following methodology to arrive at our average cost: male, age 30, state minimum liability, and full coverage of 100/300/100
Driving Conditions in Columbus
In Columbus, drivers will generally have a safe experience out on the road. On sunny, clear days, drivers can expect a smooth highway experience. However, Columbus does have some hazards, particularly when snow and ice are present. Road construction in Columbus is ongoing, so drivers can feel confident that the city will continue to deliver a safe driving experience.
How Many Accidents Happen in Columbus?
Each year, Columbus sees more than 7,000 accidents. An average of 28 fatalities occur annually. Crashes are more likely to occur after dark or during periods of poor visibility. While Columbus does not typically experience a high level of congestion, it does have a lot of people out on the roads, which may increase accident risk.
How Are the Road Infrastructure and Bridges in Columbus?
Columbus is currently undertaking several projects that aim to relieve traffic congestion and create higher levels of safety in intersections, including putting in more roundabouts to streamline traffic flow. There is also a major bridge project underway to create bridges over train tracks on Saint Mary’s Road, Buena Vista Road, and Morris Road. Furthermore, Columbus is taking on several road-widening projects aimed to improve the movement of vehicles through those key areas. As these projects continue, many drivers find that the area is growing safer and easier to navigate.
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Columbus
Drivers in Columbus must carry minimum auto insurance in order to operate their vehicles legally. According to Georgia state minimums, that means all drivers must have the following liability coverage:
- $25,000 in bodily injury protection per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury protection per accident
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
Many drivers find that carrying more than the minimum auto insurance offers an additional layer of protection in the event of a collision.
What Are the Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Columbus, GA?
Driving without insurance can carry significant penalties, including both financial and legal consequences. Getting into an accident without insurance can further increase those penalties.
Penalties for driving with no or insufficient insurance include:
- Fines between $200 and $1,000
- Jail time of up to 12 months
- License suspension between 60 and 90 days
- Reinstatement fees to get your license back, which may cost $60 or $160
- Vehicle impoundment
- The requirement to carry SR-22 insurance, which can substantially increase costs
Carrying at least the minimum auto insurance can help prevent those potential penalties.
Factors Allowed in Georgia Car Insurance Rates
Georgia law allows insurance providers to base auto insurance rates on a wide range of factors, which means that each individual’s insurance costs could look different. Common factors include:
- Age: Many insurers will have higher rates for younger drivers
- Driving record and past claims: A driver with a clean record may pay less for car insurance
- Marital status: Married individuals may have lower car insurance costs
- Gender: Some insurers will charge less for female drivers than male
- Type of vehicle: The vehicle type and its value can significantly impact full coverage insurance costs
Talking to your car insurance provider can help you better determine which factors may have influenced your car insurance rates.
Find an office near you
Insurance That Helps You Prepare for the Future
Getting into an accident can have a significant impact on your finances, especially if you do not carry adequate insurance. Choosing the right car insurance for your needs, however, can provide several benefits. It can help you:
- Take care of vehicle repairs or replacement after an accident
- Cover needed medical treatment after an accident
- Ensure that you can manage vehicle repairs after theft or vandalism
Carefully consider your lifestyle, the value of your vehicle, and your long-term needs when selecting your auto insurance coverage.
What are the Best Discounts for Car Insurance in Columbus, GA?
Many insurers offer discounts on car insurance that can make it easier to manage your overall car insurance costs while still ensuring that you get the coverage you need. Talking to your insurance agent about available discounts can make it easier for you to determine what discounts you’re eligible for.
There are several discounts that many insurance providers offer, including:
Because insurers set their own policies, working with an agent is the best way to know what discounts you’re eligible for and which ones are available.
Get an Online Quote for Car Insurance in Columbus Today!
Do you need car insurance in Columbus, Georgia? At Southern Harvest, we understand the importance of finding affordable auto insurance that will provide you with the protection you need. Get started with a quote online, visit us at our Columbus South office, or call us at 877-831-4677 for a quote.
