Auto Insurance in North Carolina

Everything you need to know about car insurance in the "Tar Heel" state.

Whether you’re navigating the Blue Ridge Parkway or commuting through downtown Raleigh, having the right auto insurance in North Carolina is essential. From legal minimums to smart add-ons, here’s what every NC driver should understand before hitting the road.

Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements in North Carolina

North Carolina is an at-fault state, which means if you’re found responsible for an accident, you’re liable for the resulting damages. To legally drive, you must carry at least:

  • $30,000 bodily injury liability per person
  • $60,000 bodily injury liability per accident
  • $25,000 property damage liability
  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM): Required and included in most NC policies
  • Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM): Required for policies above minimum limits

These requirements are often referred to as 30/60/25, and they’re designed to cover other people’s injuries or damages if you cause an accident. Many drivers, however, choose to increase their limits or add optional coverage to better protect themselves and their vehicles.

North Carolina’s minimum insurance requirements and city-based premium data are based on publicly available sources, including the North Carolina Department of Insurance. Always verify the most current information.

5 Ways to Save on Auto Insurance in North Carolina

  1. Use the Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP): NC’s unique SDIP rewards good driving with lower premiums and penalizes traffic violations or at-fault accidents.
  2. Bundle Insurance Policies: Combine auto, home, or renters insurance for multi-policy discounts.
  3. Increase Your Deductible: A higher deductible can reduce your monthly premium—just be sure you can cover it in a claim.
  4. Consider Usage-Based Insurance: Some NC insurers offer programs that track your driving habits and reward safe drivers with lower rates.
  5. Ask About Teen Driver Discounts: North Carolina has special programs to help reduce costs for young drivers who maintain good grades or complete driver education courses.
best car insurance in maryland - kind insurance

Cities in NC with the Most Expensive Car Insurance

Where you live affects what you’ll pay. In North Carolina, rates can vary dramatically depending on factors like local accident statistics, traffic congestion, and theft rates. Some of the priciest cities include:

  1. Charlotte: Large population, high traffic volume, and accident frequency all contribute to elevated rates.
  2. Durham: Urban density and claims history make insurance more expensive here.
  3. Fayetteville: Home to a transient military population and higher-than-average claims.

Cities in NC with the Cheapest Car Insurance

On the flip side, smaller towns and suburban areas generally see lower premiums. These places tend to have fewer claims and less traffic:

  1. Cary: Known for safety and low accident rates.
  2. Chapel Hill: A college town with relatively mild driving risks.
  3. Asheboro: More affordable due to smaller population and lower traffic density.

Optional Coverage

While not required, these add-ons can provide extra protection:

Collision & Comprehensive

Protects your vehicle from accidents, theft, vandalism, and weather damage.

MedPay

Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.

Towing Coverage

Handy if you break down in a rural area or during severe weather.

Rental Reimbursement

Covers the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is in the shop.

Find Affordable Auto Insurance in NC

Whether you’re a student at UNC or a family commuting in the Triangle, make sure your policy matches your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

At The Kind Insurance, we pride ourselves on leading with kindness. That means educating our clients and never suggesting more coverage than they actually need.

Reach out to The Kind Insurance to discuss your current coverage & how you might be able to save money. We are an independent insurance agency. That means we are not tied down to any specific selection of insurers. Our agents work with you to understand your needs and budget and then find a plan that suits you the best.

Get in touch today for more expert insurance advice.

The Advantage of an Independent Insurance Agency Working for You

What makes our independent agency different?
  • Personalized insurance solutions.
  • Friendly, knowledgeable service.
  • Building trusted relationships.
Find Out How

Find Our Office in Harrisburg, PA

875 Market St, Suite 100
Lemoyne, PA 17043
Call Now Button