A temporary auto policy can be tough to find. Explore how to get short-term coverage the right way in Maryland.
If you are looking for some flexibility as far as your car insurance is concerned, you could be interested in a short-term car insurance contract. Unfortunately, short-term car insurance contracts are rare for several reasons.
Most major companies won't offer policy terms for fewer than six months. Since auto insurance is required in every state but one, it can be risky to hop between policies. You also run the risk of having holes in your auto insurance record by making abrupt moves between policies, resulting in more expensive rates down the road.
Thankfully, car insurance policies commonly run just six months. This quick turnaround allows car insurance companies to “re-rate” — or re-price — your policy with your updated driving record and personal info.
The six-month mark also provides a timely opportunity for you to reevaluate your insurance by shopping for a policy with other insurers. Retrieving prices online is quick, and there isn't a penalty for swapping car insurance companies at the end of your policy — or even mid-term, assuming you never let your coverage lapse.
The short-term nature of auto insurance makes it easy to acquire on short notice. If you're in need of a policy before you can drive your new car off of the lot, shopping for a policy for a long-term car rental or searching for insurance for a car you don't own but regularly drive, consider purchasing a standard policy and cutting the agreement short as needed.
See below typical auto insurance costs in the state of Maryland, ordered by popular car insurance companies and cities. If your costs exceed the rates below, consider other options.
| Insurance Company | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland State Average — All Companies | $708 | $118 |
| Penn National | $747 | $125 |
| Erie | $782 | $130 |
| USAA | $866 | $144 |
| State Farm | $1,047 | $174 |
| Allstate | $1,072 | $179 |
The most budget-friendly option for temporary auto insurance in Maryland is Penn National, which can save you $6 monthly, compared to the next-cheapest company, Erie. In Maryland, the average monthly cost of car insurance is $118, or $708 over a six-month period.
Where you reside can have as large an effect on your auto insurance rates as the insurance company you choose. Auto insurers take into account the density and likelihood of a claim being filed when rating policies by ZIP code. See below insurance rates in the biggest cities in Maryland and compare how much you’re paying.
| Location | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | $1,036 | $173 |
| Columbia | $737 | $123 |
| Germantown | $1,066 | $178 |
| Silver Spring | $770 | $174 |
| Waldorf | $784 | $131 |
Because of the myriad factors involved in setting insurance rates, your quotes may not match those displayed above. If your current rates don't match those listed above, weigh your options. The short-term duration of a car insurance agreement adds to the importance of remaining informed and ready to shop.
Find out more about temporary auto insurance or use The Zebra to compare policies today.
