Car insurance for first responders

The best car insurance for first responders

As a first responder, you understand how quickly an ordinary day can turn dangerous. Fortunately, your employer handles the cost of insuring the risks you face on the job — but insuring your personal vehicle is still your responsibility. 

First responder car insurance needs may not be significantly different from any other driver's. However, you may be eligible for special offers or better rates from certain providers, which may make it worth shopping around and comparing rates and coverage from a number of different carriers. Keep in mind that your car insurance rates still depend on a wide range of personal factors, many of which have nothing to do with your occupation.

Discounts for first responders

Because of your occupation, you may qualify for special discounts as a first responder. Below are three examples of companies that offer special car insurance savings for first responders.

Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list. Other insurance providers may also offer car insurance with a first responder discount, especially if you're a member of a professional organization such as the Fraternal Order of Police. However, these discounts may not be advertised online, so you may want to work with an independent agent or broker who knows the industry well to find the best car insurance for first responders in your area.

Is car insurance more expensive for first responders?

First responders typically pay the same rates for car insurance as other drivers, unless they've received an occupational discount. The amount the first responder saves varies on a lot of factors in addition to his or her occupation. These may include things such as:

• Age (except in HI and MA)
• Car make and model
• Gender (except in CA, HI, MA, MI, MO, NC and PA)
• Driving history
• Deductible
• Coverage level
• Insurance company
• Discounts
• Credit history (except in CA, HI and MA)

Any of the above factors could greatly increase or decrease one’s car insurance premium, whether or not they are a first responder. First responders may be more likely to exhibit safe driving habits, or opt for safer model vehicles, which could result in lower insurance costs overall. However, some first responders may also be ineligible for certain types of discounts, such as telematics discounts, which are based on how you drive. Because most of these programs consider late-night driving unsafe, it may not be advisable to use these programs if you work a night shift.

How can first responders save on car insurance?

One of the best ways to save on auto insurance for first responders is to find a company that offers special discounts and benefits to members of your profession. Working with an agent or broker, or looking into insurance benefits through a professional association, may help you locate an insurance carrier with perks for first responders. 

Keep in mind, though, that the carrier offering first responder discounts may not automatically be the best fit for your needs and budget. It's worth comparing quotes from a range of well-regarded companies to find the best rates from an insurance provider you trust. 

After you have shopped around and compared quotes, there are still a few things you can do to lower your car insurance. These include:

• Driving a modest vehicle: Older cars may cost less to insure because they do not cost as much to replace. A basic sedan or SUV can often be cheaper to insure than a sports car or luxury model due to the more affordable cost of repairs. Driving a vehicle with a high safety rating may also result in extra savings or lower premiums.
• Increase your deductible: A higher deductible will lower your monthly costs, particularly with collision coverage. Just remember that you are assuming more financial responsibility in the event of a claim. Most companies offer a variety of deductible options, so discuss options with an agent to see what works best for your budget and coverage needs.
• Take advantage of multiple discounts: Aside from occupational discounts, you may be eligible for additional savings opportunities, such as discounts for completing a defensive driving course or bundling your home and auto coverage. Keep in mind that your insurance company may not automatically apply these discounts, so be sure to ask your agent what's available to you.
• Reduce your annual mileage: Many car insurance companies offer significant discounts to drivers who drive less than a certain number of miles every year. If you can bike, carpool or take public transportation to work, you may be able to reduce your annual mileage on your personal vehicle, while also avoiding the risk of accidents while driving after a draining shift.
• Avoid drowsy driving: Working as a first responder could leave you with a sleep deficit, especially if you work the night shift. Practice good sleep hygiene and take breaks as appropriate to avoid driving while drowsy, which significantly raises the risk of an accident. 

Frequently asked questions