Study up on the pros, cons, and details of short-term car insurance in Arkansas.
If you are seeking a creative approach to car insurance, you could consider a short-term auto insurance policy. Truth is, short-term car insurance is rare for a few reasons.
Some many insurers do not draw up contract terms for fewer than six months. Since car insurance coverage is mandated by law in most states, swapping policies by the month can be risky. You also risk having gaps in your insurance history by changing policies frequently, which could lead to higher rates down the road.
There's some good news: car insurance policy terms typically run for only six months. This hasty turnaround allows car insurance companies to “re-rate” — or re-price — your costs with your updated driving record and personal info.
The six-month mark also serves as the perfect opportunity to assess your insurance and shopping other car insurance companies. Finding quotes on the Internet is free, and there is no penalty for trading insurance companies between policy terms — or even in the middle of your policy period, as long as your coverage doesn't lapse.
The flexible nature of car insurance makes it relatively simple to acquire on short notice. If you need a policy to drive your new vehicle off of the lot, looking for insurance for a relatively long-term auto rental or searching for coverage on a car you don't own but regularly drive, think about purchasing a six-month policy and cutting the term short as needed.
See below normal auto insurance costs in Arkansas, ordered by major underwriters and major cities. If your bills exceed the rates below, think about shopping around.
| Insurance Company | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Arkansas State Average — All Companies | $849 | $141 |
| USAA | $577 | $96 |
| State Farm | $681 | $114 |
| Southern Farm Bureau | $692 | $115 |
| State Auto | $768 | $128 |
| Automobile Club of Missouri | $781 | $130 |
The cheapest option for temporary car insurance in Arkansas is USAA, which can save you $17 per month, compared to the second-cheapest option, State Farm. In Arkansas, the average monthly cost of auto insurance is $141, or $849 over a six-month term.
Where you live can have just as large an effect on your auto insurance premiums as the insurance company you choose. Auto insurers take into account the number of local insurance claims when rating policies by ZIP code. Check out insurance prices in Arkansas's most populous cities and compare them to the amount you’re paying.
| Location | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Little Rock | $973 | $162 |
| Fort Smith | $788 | $131 |
| Fayetteville | $792 | $132 |
| Springdale | $1,007 | $128 |
| Jonesboro | $829 | $138 |
Because so many factors are involved in setting insurance rates, your quotes may not match the totals displayed above. If your current costs don’t align with those listed above, take some time to compare rates. The short-term nature of a car insurance policy adds to the importance of staying informed and willing to shop.
Learn more about temporary auto insurance or use The Zebra to compare policies for free online.
