Written by Q: If I’m traveling out of the country do I need to maintain auto insurance on my vehicle if I’m not using it?
AIS Answer: Insurance companies and most of the states in the U.S. want you to maintain a certain minimum coverage on every vehicle you own, whether or not you’re driving the vehicle. Travelers are no exception.
It is never recommended that a person drop their car insurance policy, even if they are on vacation. The little bit of money you would save dropping your coverage would be offset by the high cost of reinsurance, the possibility of a suspended drivers license for not carrying auto insurance, or even worse – damage, theft, or total loss of the vehicle.
If like most people you carry comprehensive and collision, you can decide to drop the extra coverages and just carry the minimum auto insurance coverage your state requires, but keep in mind that liability only covers the damage that you do to another vehicle or property – it does not cover your vehicle against things like vandalism and theft, hit and runs, etc. So be VERY careful when dropping comp and collision from your current plan.
If you do decide you want to save money on your car insurance policy by dropping coverage to the minimum, then you need to speak to a licensed insurance agent about your options. Listen carefully to what they have to say about damages and claims, and make a thoughtful decision.
if you’re traveling I would suggest keeping your car insurance. I know people that just drop their comprehensive and collision, park it in their garage and pay just the minimum. There’s obviously still risk that your car can be damaged, but you can save hundreds of dollars if you’re on an extended vacation.
liability only would work
keep liability insruance on your car when you travel.