Cheap Car Insurance Companies In Delaware

The average semiannual cost of car insurance in the state of Delaware is $998.00. An insured premiums are influenced by more variables than purely their place of residence. Car insurance underwriters calculate auto insurance rates after assessing a range of criteria such as the policyholder’s age, driving record, marital status, and credit rating. We examined typical car insurance costs in Delaware across each of the predominant rating factors. We aim to provide consumers insight to identify a car insurance policy that meets their needs and budget.

*Data Methodology – Updated 3/1/2024

The Delaware car insurance rates are based on a 35-year-old male with the most popular car (Honda Accord) living in DE. The Quote is for full coverage with comprehensive at $500 deductible and collision at $500 deductible.

Delaware Minimum Liability Coverage

Delaware requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance coverage. The minimum requirements are as follows:

• Bodily Injury Liability: $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident. This covers injuries and damages to other drivers and passengers in an accident you cause.
• Property Damage Liability: $10,000. This covers damages to other vehicles and property in an accident you cause.
• Personal Injury Protection: $15,000 per person. This covers your medical expenses and lost wages if you are injured in an accident, regardless of fault.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident. This covers injuries to you or your passengers if an at-fault uninsured or underinsured driver hits you.

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Delaware

Driving without auto insurance is illegal in Delaware and can result in serious penalties if you are caught. Delaware law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage. If you are caught driving without insurance, you will likely face the following penalties:

• A fine of up to $1,150 or up to 90 days in jail, or both. The fine amounts increase for repeat offenses, up to $2,300 for a third or subsequent offense within 3 years.
• A driver’s license suspension of up to one year for a first offense, and up to two years for subsequent offenses within 3 years. Your license will not be reinstated until you provide proof of insurance.
• Vehicle registration suspension. The registration of the vehicle you were driving will be suspended until you provide proof of insurance.
• Court fees and costs. In addition to the fine, you will likely have to pay court fees and other costs associated with your citation and court proceedings.

Auto Insurance Rates in Delaware

Auto insurance rates in Delaware vary based on several factors. The Delaware Insurance Department regulates auto insurance and sets minimum liability coverage amounts. However, insurance companies determine premiums based on risk assessments.

Several factors impact your auto insurance rates in Delaware. Your driving history and record affect rates the most. A clean driving record with no accidents, violations, or suspensions for several years qualifies you for lower premiums. In contrast, a recent DUI, at-fault accident, or speeding ticket may increase your rates by as much as 30-50%.

Your credit score also influences rates. Insurers view good credit as an indicator of lower risk and more financial responsibility. However, a poor credit score may increase your premiums by 10-30%.

The type of vehicle you drive also impacts rates. Sport utility vehicles, luxury vehicles, and high-performance cars tend to have higher insurance rates due to the higher costs of repairs and replacement parts. On the other hand, compact economical cars typically have lower rates.

Your age, gender, and marital status are underwriting factors. Younger drivers under 25 typically pay higher premiums due to less experience. Single drivers also pay more than married drivers. However, gender-based underwriting is now prohibited in Delaware.

Insurers also consider the area you live in. Drivers in high-risk zip codes with more accidents, claims, and thefts pay higher rates. Conversely, rural areas with fewer claims yield lower premiums.

Bundling policies can also reduce your costs. Purchasing homeowners, renters, or other insurance from the same company may qualify you for multi-policy discounts of 5-15% on auto premiums.

Low Cost Car Insurance Programs and Discounts in Delaware

Many drivers in Delaware struggle to find affordable car insurance rates. However, there are several programs and discounts that can help lower your premium costs.

Government-Sponsored Programs

The Delaware Automobile Insurance Plan offers high-risk drivers basic coverage at reduced rates. To qualify, you must be turned down for coverage by at least two insurers within the past 60 days. Coverage through this plan may be limited and premiums are still higher than average.

Good Student Discounts

Insurers typically offer discounts of 15% to 25% for students who maintain a B average or higher. Some companies also reward students with good attendance records or who graduate. To qualify, you’ll need to provide report cards or a letter from your school verifying your GPA and attendance.

Multiple Policy Discounts

Bundling your auto and homeowners insurance with the same company can save you 5% to 15% on both policies. Some companies also offer multi-vehicle discounts if you insure two or more cars with them. Ask your insurer about any multi-policy discounts available.

Defensive Driving and Safety Course Discounts

Completing a defensive driving or accident prevention course can earn you a discount of around 5%. Insurers recognize these courses help improve driving skills and reduce claims. Provide your insurer with a course completion certificate to claim the discount.

Certain groups and occupations may also qualify for discounts, so be sure to inquire with your insurer about any discounts for which you may be eligible.

Delaware Car Insurance Statistics

Delaware has a number of interesting statistics regarding car insurance. For starters, Delaware has one of the lowest average annual premiums in the country at $1,029. This is likely due to a number of factors including lower traffic congestion, less driving overall, and fewer accidents per capita.

Delaware also has a relatively high percentage of insured drivers at over 90%. This high rate of insured drivers helps keep premiums lower as insurance companies have less risk of paying out large claims for uninsured drivers.

In terms of accident rates, Delaware ranks as one of the safest states for drivers. In 2019, Delaware had 0.9 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, below the national average of 1.1. This low fatality rate also contributes to lower insurance costs.

Delaware does not require drivers to purchase personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This is optional coverage that pays for medical expenses after an accident regardless of fault. Not requiring PIP helps keep premiums lower compared to states that mandate this coverage.

However, Delaware does have some requirements that impact insurance rates. Delaware requires drivers to carry bodily injury liability limits of at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident. These mandatory minimum liability limits are higher than some other states and push premiums up slightly.

The 10 Largest Delaware Car Insurance Companies

Delaware residents have many options when shopping for car insurance. The following are the 10 largest car insurance companies in Delaware based on market share and premium volume:

1. State Farm – As the largest car insurance provider in the nation, State Farm also tops the list in Delaware. They offer a wide range of coverage options, discounts, and customer service.
2. Allstate – Allstate has a large market share in Delaware thanks to its reputation for reliable claims service and broad coverage options.
3. Farmers Insurance – Farmers Insurance has been offering auto insurance for over 80 years, and they provide 24/7 claims service and many discounts for Delaware drivers.
4. GEICO – GEICO is known for offering some of the most affordable rates in Delaware, though they have a slightly smaller market share. They offer many discounts and coverage options.
5. Nationwide – Nationwide has been providing auto insurance in Delaware for over 70 years. They offer several usage-based insurance programs and many discounts.
6. Progressive – Progressive has grown its presence in Delaware by focusing on simple coverage options, innovative technology, and affordable rates.
7. Erie Insurance – Erie Insurance is a smaller national carrier that focuses on providing exceptional customer service and specialized coverage options.
8. Travelers – Travelers provides a full spectrum of personal and commercial insurance products, including auto insurance for Delaware drivers.
9. Liberty Mutual – Liberty Mutual offers auto insurance policies tailored to the needs of Delaware drivers, along with multi-policy discounts and various coverage options.
10. MetLife – MetLife auto insurance is underwritten by a subsidiary called American MetLife. They provide standard coverage options for Delaware drivers.​