Cheap Arkansas Auto Insurance Rates – Free Quotes And Lowest Prices

Instantly get  free Arkansas car insurance quotes and compare the cheapest prices. Affordable rates are available from the largest top-rated companies that can save you between $500 and $1,500 per year. Both high-risk and preferred policies are offered with low down-payments, same-day coverage, and easy online enrollment. Discounts for Seniors and new drivers help lower premiums. Minimum liability and full coverage prices are discounted. The average cost of policies in The Natural State is typically cheaper than most other states.

By finding the cheapest AR car insurance offers, you, the consumer, save time, research, and a lot of frustration. Low down-payments and flexible billing options are offered. Our customized online quotes show you which carriers and policies best match your coverage and budget needs. Whether you have new or old vehicles, or you're leasing or buying, we handle all of the shopping so you pay much less. The average savings for each driver will vary, depending on type of vehicle, age, and the number of recent tickets and at-fault accidents. If your coverage has lapsed, we can help you reinstate your policy, or find the cheapest available option.

 

Arkansas Auto Insurance Requirements And Regulations

 

Liability coverage is required on all registered vehicles. The current minimum requirements are $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 of property damage. Higher limits are available with all companies. The next level of coverage is $50,000/$100,000/$50,000. Leased vehicles often require limits of $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident, and $50,000 of property damage. Personal excess liability coverage may also require higher limits. Any applicant must be offered three additional optional benefits. They are:

PIP -- Personal Injury Protection, which is optional, allows you to recover lost wages, medical payments, and a death benefit, regardless if you or the other party was at fault. You may select one, two, or all three benefits. If you decline PIP, your signature is required. This benefit also provides coverage for passengers, along with other persons (even if they were riding a bicycle or motorcycle). However, it does not pay to fix vehicle physical damages. The medical payments portion covers x-rays, office visits (primary-care physician and specialist), and many other expenses. Regardless if you have Group or private healthcare coverage, this option should be considered.

Uninsured Motorist -- Since there are many drivers without coverage (approximately 15%-18% of all drivers), this benefit should always be selected. If the other uninsured person was at-fault and/or received a citation (negligent), you can recover damages up to your policy limits. Code 23-89-403(A) is the legislation requiring that this coverage must be offered. As the number of drivers without coverage decreases, the cost of uninsured motorist protection should also reduce. Uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) and uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) (see below) are offered. Unless you request to reject the coverage, it is included in your policy. A $200 deductible applies when submitting a claim.

Underinsured Motorist -- Many drivers also have coverage but it's not enough to pay for a judgment or ruling against them. UMBI and UMPD are the two components of this coverage. UMBI may be purchased without UMPD, but not vice versa. A $200 deductible also applies. Often, drivers that secure only the minimum-required liability limits, cause more damage (bodily injury) than their policy covers. Unless you want to risk being unprotected, adding this benefit is recommended.

Optional Coverage includes collision (protection against physical damage), comprehensive (fire, theft, vandalism, glass-breakage etc...) towing, and substitute transportation. Generally, if your vehicle is leased or financed, you are required to include collision, comprehensive, and perhaps higher liability limits (some leases). Gap riders (loan/lease payoff) protect against rapid depreciation of the vehicle and should always be considered when you purchase a car or truck. During periods of vehicle shortages, it is possible that the market value of a leased vehicle is higher than the residual value when the lease period has ended.

SR-22 Bonds may be required for high risk auto policies. After three years, generally, they are no longer needed. However, during that 36-month period, if you receive multiple violations, and/or involved in several at-fault accidents, obtaining a "preferred" rate will be difficult. Driving 12-24 months without a moving violation or at-fault accident will help lower premiums.

NOTE: The Department of Motor Vehicles administers registration, title and licensing issues.  The Driver Services Division handles insurance verification, safety responsibility, driving records, facial recognition, CDL assistance and several other tasks. They are located in Little Rock. Also, commercial vehicles and motorcycles must also meet the state minimum limits required for passenger vehicles. Companies that non-renew your policy must provide a 30-day advanced notice (in writing). Ample time can then be provided to apply for alternative coverage.

Also, all drivers operating their vehicle while conducing state-related business, or driving a state-owned vehicle, must adhere to the State Vehicle Safety Program (VSP). Typically, the state has a large number of fleet vehicles operating. Any driver that receives a violation for DWI, DUI, or driving without a license, shall have their driving privileges suspended. Furthermore, a "Defensive Driving" course must be completed within 60 days. Reinstatement of driving privileges of state vehicles will be subject to approval by the State Insurance Commissioner.

 

Most Recent Legislative Changes

 

Act 2202 -- Administration of specialty license plates and decals is now handled by the Department of Finance and Administration. Included categories of plates are military service and veterans, federal, state and local public use vehicles, general assembly members, nominal fee plates, universities and colleges, constitutional officers, special interest organizations, game and fish commission, sororities and fraternities, and agricultural education.

Act 1929 -- When consumers purchase a vehicle, temporary short-term tags are provided by the dealership. Separately, usage of motor vehicle master license plates are to be used only on cars and trucks for sale. Persons allowed to operate vehicle are a salesperson, sales manager, manager, or dealer.

Act 165 -- VIN identification is no longer required with the exception of selected out-of-state vehicles with bonded or salvage titles. Temporary tags are provided by the dealer after the vehicle is purchased. consumers with questions can call (501) 682-4692.

 

Cheap car Insurance Little Rock

Little Rock Features Very Affordable Car Insurance Rates

 

Where Are Arkansas Car Insurance Rates The Cheapest And Most Expensive?

 

Although prices frequently change, below, we have listed the least and most expensive counties in the state to insure an automobile. Our research is based on 2020 premium and claim information. Since there are multiple zip codes in each county, it is possible that prices may be different, despite identical vehicles and driver ages. Counties located in opposite sides of the state can especially have larger differences in premiums. Carriers may also offer identical rates in multiple areas of the state.

Of course, many underwriting guidelines and factors determine rates, such as age of vehicles and persons to be covered, available discounts, liability limits and deductibles, number of tickets and at-fault accidents, and make/model year of vehicles. Not having prior in-force coverage, or a recent license suspension will also impact the price. Excellent credit can also lower the cost of coverage, depending upon the carrier. An annual free credit check is available from reliable resources.

Another factor that affects premiums is insurance fraud. Some of the most common schemes in the Natural State are export fraud, creation of phantom vehicles, staged accidents, and reported stolen vehicles that are never located. Each year, about $200 million is lost because of fraudulent activities. Naturally, areas that have the highest incidences of theft and crime, will typically have the highest auto insurance rates. Carriers that often provide the most competitive prices are Farmers, Safeco, Nationwide, USAA, Horace Mann, American National General, Columbia Mutual, State Farm, Hartford, United Home, and Cameron National.

 

Cheapest Counties:

Benton

Sebastian

Washington

Franklin

Logan

Baxter

Marion

Most Expensive Counties:

Phillips

Bradley

Pulaski

Lincoln

Drew

Ashley

Union

Miller

 

Several cities with the least expensive auto insurance rates in Arkansas include: Harrison, Bella Vista, Springdale, Rogers, Mountain Home, Fayetteville, Russellville, Van Buren, and Siloam Springs.

 

How Often Can Rates Change?

 

Typically, carriers can request premium changes every 6-12 months. However, after formally submitting the increase (or decrease), the Arkansas Department of Insurance determines whether to accept (partially or fully) or reject the request. If approved, the changes are usually effective within 120 days. Price changes for homeowners, renters, rental dwelling, dwelling, and mobile home policies are also published and made available for viewing and printing. The most recent rate increases were submitted by State Farm, Allstate, Trinity Universal, and American National Property And Casualty.

Note: Physical damage prices often reduce, since the value of the vehicle is depreciating. Depending on the on the original cost (new) of the vehicle, the savings of removing collision and comprehensive coverage can be hundreds of dollars every six months.

Listed below are the most recent rate-change requests from Arkansas private passenger auto insurance companies:

Shelter Mutual -- 4.60% decrease

Southern Farm Bureau Casualty -- 4.50% decrease.

Farmers -- No change.

United Security Health And Casualty -- 4.60% increase.

State Farm Mutual -- 7.80% decrease.

State Farm Fire And Casualty -- 7.60% increase.

LM General -- No change.

Progressive Casualty -- 5.00% decrease.

Progressive Classic -- 5.00% decrease.

Progressive Northwestern -- 5.00% decrease.

Progressive Specialty -- 5.00% decrease.

Progressive Direct -- 2.50% decrease.

Imperial Fire And Casualty -- 3.4% increase.

Root Insurance -- 6.4% increase.

Allstate Property And Casualty -- No change.

 

What Are Some Possible Discounts I May Not Know About?

 

Find low auto insurance rates for college students

Students With Good Grades Receive Lower Car Insurance Rates

 

College Graduate -- Do smarter drivers make better drivers? Apparently so! If you graduated from an accredited university, you're entitled to this discount. Advanced degrees sometimes result in bigger discounts. Recent college graduates will especially enjoy the savings since premiums for drivers under age 25 are always higher.

Student Away --  A relatively obscure discount, but a big potential savings if you qualify. If your college student attends school all year and does not have a vehicle on campus, with select carriers, they are "non-rated." That means they are covered when they drive your vehicles, but there is little or no charge. Vacation (Christmas and Easter) driving is allowed for several holidays, but the assumption is the student stays at school during the summer.

AAA -- The American Automobile Association (AAA) membership often results in a small discount. Although typically, it's only about 5%, every reduction helps. AARP members also occasionally qualify. Other retirement associations may qualify in the future. Although AAA provides towing and labor benefits, many insurers include the benefit for vehicles with collision and comprehensive coverage. Many credit cards also include this type of benefit to cardholders.

Online Quote -- A few carriers reduce your premium when you are provided with a quote (always free) about 7-10 days before your policy is effective. We don't understand the rationale behind the discount, but it's available. The entire process of viewing a quote and obtaining coverage for your vehicle can often take less than 30 minutes. Applying for a policy is a quick process and ID cards and declarations pages can be downloaded or printed.

Electronic Monitoring -- Progressive's "Snapshot" program was the first electronic monitoring program, and has since been duplicated by several companies. These types of devices allow the carrier to view real-time data about your driving habits. Some of the information they can view, includes how fast you drive, how many miles you drive, and how quickly you approach a stop sign.

Job-Related Reduction -- A few carriers offer discounts based on your type of employment. If it isn't hazardous and does not involve driving, you may have a chance to qualify. Typically, a  complete list of qualifying jobs can be furnished. However, most carriers do not offer this discount.

Senior Defensive Driving --  There are many approved courses and programs that are offered. The nominal cost will be quickly covered by the savings in premium each year. The courses, however, are not required to be repeated so it's a very cost-effective way to lower premiums. You also may be able to have a moving violation removed or the number of points reduced. The AAA Defensive Driving course in Arkansas is a popular option, and is offered through many offices. AAA memberships are also offered, although there are several other alternatives.

 

Average Arkansas Car Insurance Rates

 

We have created multiple scenarios and compared prices from 12 selected carriers below. Rates are based on the most recent State filings (which often change). Figures shown are current estimates. Utilizing the "free quote" box at the top of the web page will provide more specific data. 2011 and 2010 vehicles were used. We can also provide results for newer makes and models.

 

Situation 1 -- 45 year old residing in Little Rock. 2011 Toyota Camry with minimum liability limits:

$220 -- Farmers

$231 -- Safeco

$252 -- Geico Advantage

$256 -- USAA Casualty

$332 -- Automobile Club

$342 -- State Farm Mutual

$352 -- Auto Owners

$511 -- Viking Insurance

$534 -- Travelers

$585 -- Cincinnati

$963 -- The General

$972 -- Amica

 

Situation 2 -- 50 year old residing in Pine Bluff. 2011 Cadillac CTS  with minimum liability limits:

$172 -- Farmers

$235 -- Safeco

$249 -- Geico Advantage

$338 -- State Farm Mutual

$358 -- Nationwide Mutual

$360 -- Auto Owners

$378 -- Esurance Property & Casualty

$411 -- Sentry

$425 -- Progressive Direct

$615 -- Amica Mutual

$707 -- 21st Century

$743 -- The General

 

Situation 3 -- 40 year old residing in Fayetteville. 2010 Honda Odyssey with $100,000/$300,000/$50,000 limits:

$288 -- Geico

$325 -- Safeco

$368 -- American National

$374 -- Horace Mann

$390 -- American General

$395 -- Farmers

$470 -- USAA

$475 -- Nationwide

$540 -- Progressive

$560 -- Columbia Mutual

$561 -- Esurance

$622 -- State Farm Mutual

 

Situation 4 -- 18 year-old female residing in Lake Village. 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe with minimum liability limits:

$330 -- 1st Auto & Casualty

$358 -- Cornerstone National

$419 -- Horace Mann

$440 -- Sentry

$480 -- Cameron National

$503 -- IDS

$539 -- USAA

$583 -- Auto-Owners

$625 -- State Farm Mutual

$643 -- Farmers

$725 -- Hartford Casualty

$726 -- Nationwide

 

Most Recent Arkansas Rate Changes

 

Auto-Owners Dwelling -- 1.00% increase

United Home Insurance Auto -- 1.41% decrease

Stillwater Property And Casualty Dwelling -- 2.60% increase

Farmers Insurance Exchange Homeowners -- 7.40% increase

Farmers Insurance Company Homeowners -- 6.5% increase

Progressive Renters -- 1.10% increase

American Strategic Renters -- 0.50% decrease

Shelter Mutual Homeowners -- 4.80% decrease

Cornerstone National Auto -- 9.0% increase

 

Internet Services And Forms Provided By The Arkansas Department Of Finance And Administration

 

Vanity Arkansas License Plates

Personalized Arkansas License Plates Are Very Popular

 

Personalized License Plates

Easily apply for a customized license plate for your car, truck, van, or motorcycle. Most specialty plates can be personalized. Inappropriate or offensive plate request will not be approved. A non-specialty plate costs $25. Converting a personalized plate will cost an additional $25.

 

Several popular specialized plates and placards are listed below:

 

Amateur Radio
Ambulance
Antique Motorcycle
Antique Vehicle
Arkansas Sheriffs' Association
Arkansas State Parks
Boy Scouts Of America
Civil Air Patrol
Congressional Medal Of Honor
Disabled Veteran
Ducks Unlimited
Fire Fighter
Freemason
Game And Fish Bird Dog
Game And Fish Deer
Gold Star Family
In God We Trust
Korean Veteran
National Guard
Organ Donor Awareness
Persons With Disabilities
Purple Heart Motorcycle
Realtor
School Vehicle
Support Our Troops
Taxi Cab
University Of Arkansas
Veterans Of Foreign Wars

 

Reporting Accidents

Form SR-121 may be utilized if the accident took place less than 30 days ago, and either $1,000 of property damage or bodily injury/death occurred. Copies of the police officer's investigative report will provide additional needed information to complete the form. If more than one vehicle is involved in the accident, separate reports are required. A security deposit of $25,000 is required if there is bodily injury or death to a single person, and $50,000 if two persons are involved.

 

Vehicle Assessment

Online assessment assistance is provided online by most counties between January 1 and May 31. An interactive county map helps consumers find their appropriate office and contact information.

 

Renewal Of License Plates

Easily renew the license, change your address, create an online reminder, and several other tasks. A verification code is provided to renew online. If a notice is not received, the license number, VIN number and zip code can be used to purchase the plates. Typically, the process takes about five days. STAR (Streamlined Auto Renewal) is available 24/7.

 

DMV Services

You can transact business online, instead of personally visiting an office. Several available services include registering a new vehicle, checking status of title, viewing and ordering personalized license plates, determining amount of sales tax owed,transferring ownership of a vehicle, requesting duplicate ID cards, change address, and obtaining documentation of status of driving privilege.

 

Calculation Of State Sales Tax

A free sales tax calculator tool is provided. Cars and trucks that are used for private transportation can be used. The calculation takes about 30 seconds. The six fields of information that must be provided are gross purchase price, trade allowance, 45-day tax credit, extended warranty, county, and city (if applicable).

 

Transfer Ownership Of Vehicle

If you sell your vehicle, you are required to notify the BMV. The process is easily handled online. The required information is date of transfer, VIN, year, make, and model of the vehicle.

 

New Vehicle Registration

A confirmation code is provided that allows you to pay the vehicle sales tax at the DMV while registering the vehicle.

 

Additional Information

A "Steer Clear" alert was issued to warn drivers about potential wildlife collisions. The chances of hitting a deer (or a deer hitting you!) are the highest in November and December. A collision with an animal this large can cause major damage (including a total loss), along with possible injuries to occupants of the vehicle. Cows, bears, and  raccoons also tend to venture on or near roads late in the year.

The mating and rutting season, along with the migration of many animals creates hazards that are typically not present.  Often if you see one of these animals in the area or along the road, slow down. Others may be close by or about to cross the road. Also, if no other drivers are in the vicinity, utilize high beams to help spot these types of risks.