Find out more about short-term car insurance and decide whether it's right for you.
If you are looking for flexibility, you could consider a temporary auto insurance policy. But short-term auto insurance contracts are uncommon for multiple reasons.
Some large auto insurance companies will not offer policies for periods shorter than six months. Since car coverage is a legal requirement in most places in the US, swapping policies by the month can be risky. You also run the risk of having gaps in your car insurance history by changing policies frequently, which could lead to more expensive rates in the long run.
There's some good news: car insurance agreements typically run for just a half-year. This short policy period allows auto insurance companies to “re-rate” — or re-price — your premiums based on your updated driving record and personal info.
The six-month mark is also a perfect opportunity for you to reset your situation by shopping for a policy with other auto insurance companies. Getting quotes online costs nothing, and there isn't a penalty for moving between insurance companies when your policy expires — or even mid-policy, as long as you don't let your insurance lapse.
The short-term nature of auto insurance makes it relatively easy to acquire with almost no notice. If you're asked to purchase an insurance policy to take a new vehicle off the lot, shopping for a policy for a relatively long-term rental or searching for insurance for a car you don't own but regularly drive, think about purchasing a standard policy and curtailing the agreement as needed.
See below normal auto insurance premiums in the state of Rhode Island, ordered by major car insurance companies and major cities. If you're paying more than the rates listed below, think about shopping around.
| Insurance Company | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Rhode Island State Average — All Companies | $1,051 | $175 |
| State Farm | $486 | $81 |
| USAA | $820 | $137 |
| Quincy Mutual | $1,105 | $184 |
| Amica | $1,245 | $207 |
| Progressive | $1,265 | $211 |
The most affordable option for short-term car insurance in Rhode Island is State Farm, which can save you $56 monthly, compared to the next-best choice, USAA. In Rhode Island, the average monthly cost of auto insurance is $175, or $1,051 over a six-month period.
Where you live can have an effect on your auto insurance premiums. Auto insurance companies weigh the number of local insurance claims when rating policies by ZIP code. See below insurance premiums in major Rhode Island cities and compare them to the amount you’re paying.
| Location | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Providence | $1,410 | $235 |
| Warwick | $1,094 | $182 |
| Cranston | $1,321 | $220 |
| Pawtucket | $1,243 | $207 |
| East Providence | $1,180 | $197 |
Because of the myriad factors involved in setting insurance rates, your quotes may not match the totals displayed above. If your current costs exceed those listed above, think about taking a moment to shop around. The temporary timetable of a car insurance contract increases the importance of remaining in-the-know and ready to shop.
Find out more about temporary auto insurance or use The Zebra to compare rates for free today.
