Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

Mile Auto or regular insurance?

I work from home now and barely drive — maybe 3,000 miles a year. I got a quote from Mile Auto and it’s way lower than what I pay now. But I’m nervous: do companies like this really hold up if I need to make a claim? Is there a trade-off?

Mar 19, 2026 Fort Myers, FL

Answer
Author profile picture
Beth Swanson
Insurance Analyst

Beth joined The Zebra in 2022 as an Associate Content Strategist. A licensed insurance agent, she specializes in creating clear, accessible content t…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • Associate in Insurance (AINS)
  • Professional Risk Consultant (PRC)
  • Associate in Insurance Services (AIS)

Mile Auto is still "real" car insurance, just billed differently. Instead of paying a flat premium like you do with traditional insurance, you pay a base monthly rate plus a per-mile fee. That’s why it can be such a good deal for low-mileage drivers.

With regular insurance, you pay the same amount each month (or every six months), no matter how much you drive. Coverage like liability, collision, and comprehensive works the same with both — so if you’re in an accident, you’re protected either way.

The trade-offs? Some customers report slower claims service compared to bigger national insurers, and admin fees can cut into savings if you don’t read the fine print. And if you end up driving more than you planned — say you start commuting again or take long trips — your Mile Auto bill can add up quickly, sometimes making a traditional flat-rate policy the more affordable choice in the long run.

If you truly drive as little as you say, Mile Auto could be a smart fit. But if your mileage changes or you value predictable pricing and faster claims support, sticking with a traditional policy might feel safer.

If you aren't sure what coverage might be right for your situation, give our agents a call or compare online, and we can help you figure out your next move.

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Pin
Shield checkmark No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

Can I file a claim if my insurance policy is canceled but was active at the time of an accident?

You may still file a claim if your policy was active at the time of the accidentIt will depend on how long ago the accident happened. You can use our chart on time limits for filing claims by state and see if you still have time to file a claim. If the accident happened in Florida, you have 4 years…
Mar 2, 2026 Miami, FL

Should I look at my coverage ahead of El Nino?

Yes, it is a smart idea to review your policies ahead of time, but you probably don't need to completely overhaul your coverage or break the bank to protect your family. Instead of buying every add-on available out of fear, you should focus on a few key areas where major storms cause the most damag…
May 27, 2026 Macon, GA

Does State Farm match auto insurance quotes with other companies?

In truth, no. Car insurance companies determine their rates based on their previous years' filings (loss to revenue ratio) in addition to other factors. State Farm and GEICO have different loss histories and net profits, and therefore will have different quotes (with no reason or incentive to match…
Mar 26, 2026 Bentonville, AR

Will my down payment be refunded if I cancel my insurance during the first month?

There is no guarantee of a refund, so you would have to contact your insurance provider to find out if you are eligible for a refund as each company operates a bit differently with policy cancellations in the first month of coverage. The same thing goes for whether or not they will notify your lien…
Jul 28, 2021 Dace City, FL