What types of vehicles are covered by antique car insurance?

The III says you may be able to purchase antique or classic car insurance for the following types of vehicles:

• Hot rods
• Modified vehicles
• Exotic and luxury vehicles
• Muscle cars
• Classic trucks
• Vintage military vehicles
• Classic motorcycles
• Antique tractors

To qualify for antique or classic car insurance, generally you cannot use the vehicle for everyday purposes, and there may be mileage restrictions on your policy. You may also need to provide proof that you properly store the vehicle. For instance, your insurer may ask whether your vehicle is stored in a secure, enclosed structure (such as a private garage or storage unit) or if you plan to keep it in a carport or your driveway. Your insurer can explain any storage requirements for vehicles protected by classic car insurance.

You may also be able to add coverage to your antique or classic car insurance policy to help protect other related items. For instance, protection may be available for:

• Automotive tools and accessories
• Memorabilia like antique gas pump displays, hood ornaments and old license plates
• Vehicles under construction
• Reimbursement for hotel, food or rental car costs if your classic car breaks down during a trip

Classic or antique car insurance provides specialized coverage options beyond what standard auto insurance offers. Regular auto insurance typically does not adequately protect classic or antique vehicles because these cars have unique value and restoration needs. Antique car policies include coverages such as:

• Agreed value coverage: Sets a predetermined value for your car.
• Original parts coverage: Helps pay for authentic or rare parts.
• Event coverage: Covers your vehicle at car shows, parades, and exhibitions.
• Restoration coverage: Protects your car while it’s being restored.
• Specialized roadside assistance: Includes flatbed towing to prevent damage during transport.

Classic car insurance typically offers liability, comprehensive and collision coverage, similar to what you'd be able to select with a standard car insurance policy. However, rather than coverage limits based on the "book value" of a certain vehicle model, coverage for classic cars is based on a value agreed upon by you and the insurer. Another difference is that regular car insurance typically takes depreciation into account when determining the current value of your vehicle, while classic car insurance does not.

If your vehicle is damaged in a covered incident, classic car insurance helps pay to replace valuable and hard-to-find spare parts. You may need repairs completed by a specialist whose work is more expensive than that of a standard auto repairer. Classic car insurance can help pay those increased costs, which would not be covered by a standard car insurance policy. And, if your covered vehicle requires special towing needs, such as transportation on a flatbed, classic car insurance may help pay for that cost, as well.

Classic cars are unique, whether they’re rare collectibles, fully restored showpieces, or modified with modern technology. Because of their individuality, these cars need personalized coverage. With a tailored policy, your protection is designed specifically for your vehicle and your needs. Some factors that may impact your personalized coverage include:

• How often you drive your vehicle
• The vehicle’s agreed value
• Coverage limits you select
• Discounts you may qualify for

Different vehicles come with different insurance needs. If you have an antique, modified or luxury vehicle, contact an insurance provider to discuss whether classic car insurance is an option for you.