The Value of Classic Car Insurance: How to Determine Eligibility

For car enthusiasts, vintage automobiles are a treasure, and securing one adds significant value to their collection. However, safeguarding a classic car from damage or theft can pose unique challenges. At Bartal Insurance in Scranton, PA, we offer insights into the process of qualifying a vehicle for classic car insurance.

The Need for Classic Car Insurance

Investing in classic car insurance is indeed worthwhile as it protects your valuable asset from potential disasters. Even if your primary use of the vehicle is limited to an occasional parade, maintaining some form of insurance coverage is prudent. Classic car owners typically opt for policies providing minimal liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. Documented insurance protection often serves to maintain or even increase your car’s value over time.

Qualifying for Classic Car Insurance

To qualify for classic car insurance, a vehicle must meet several requirements. Firstly, the car must maintain its original design and conform to factory specifications. This implies that all restoration work carried out on the vehicle must reflect the car’s original factory condition. Modern additions to the car can result in its declassification as a classic.

Insurance providers often stipulate that your classic car needs to be stored in a private, enclosed garage or storage unit, providing protection from the elements. An insurance representative may inspect the proposed storage site before approving your classic car insurance policy.

Classic cars should not be used for daily commuting. In support of eligibility for classic car insurance, you might need to provide evidence of separate auto insurance coverage for a different vehicle used for daily transportation.

Finally, it’s vital to agree on a market value price for your vintage car with your insurance provider. Most classic cars appreciate in value over time, and reaching an agreed value typically follows a professional appraisal. This ensures all parties have documented proof of the car’s worth in the current market.

Thinking of Insuring Your Vintage Car? Contact Bartal Insurance in Scranton, PA.

If you own a vintage vehicle and are considering classic car insurance, Bartal Insurance in Scranton, PA, can help you determine your vehicle’s eligibility for coverage. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about protecting your treasured classic car.

Classic car insurance is often misunderstood by many. Not every car is eligible for this specialized insurance. However, there are general guidelines that typically distinguish an old car from a classic car. Our team at Bartal Insurance understands that understanding classic car insurance can be confusing. We’re dedicated to helping Scranton, PA residents understand classic car insurance.  

What is classic car insurance?

Classic car insurance is designed for cars that are fifteen years or older, not driven daily, and in near-mint condition. Obviously, not every car fits the description. This is why not every old car is eligible for classic car insurance. Classic car insurance works similarly to conventional car insurance in that it provides liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.

However, the similarities end there. Unlike conventional car insurance, classic car insurance covers your older car at a monetary value that’s agreed upon by both the car owner and the insurance company, whereas conventional car insurance assesses the actual value of your car according to age and condition. For example, if you’re in a wreck and the damage exceeds the actual value of your car, your insurance company will not pay for the repair of your car, hence the term "totaled."

Also, classic car insurance offers other specialized benefits unique to classic cars.  Conversely, classic cars actually increase in value or actually maintain their value. Also, classic car insurance is not designed for cars that are driven daily or used as a primary form of transportation. This is one reason why classic car insurance is often cheaper than conventional car insurance. 

Is my old beat-up Volkswagen Beetle eligible for classic car insurance?

Probably not. If you have an old car that’s driven daily or frequently, and not in good condition. Many classic car insurance companies will likely deem it ineligible for classic car insurance. It should also be noted that every classic car insurance company has its own criteria for what is classified as a classic car. Although there are a few general guidelines that determine if a car can be considered a classic, the real determination lies in the hands of the specific classic car insurance company.

Consult With Us

If you have questions about classic car insurance, call our Scranton, PA team at Bartal Insurance. We’d be happy to answer all of your questions. 

A classic car is so much more than just an automobile. With a classic car, you capture the best part of bygone days and make yourself open to fulfilling and unique social connections. However, a classic car in Scranton, PA is also an investment, and Bartal Insurance can help you to make sure that your investment is protected.

How Classic Car Insurance Is Different

Regular car insurance is designed for people who drive every day. Most people use their regular cars to go to work, school, stores, entertainment, and even just to drive around. Classic car insurance is designed for cars that aren’t on the road as much. That is why you will find that, even though your classic car is special, insurance is surprisingly affordable.

An insurance company that offers specialized insurance for classic cars can help you find an affordable policy that will still protect you in case anything happens.

What If the Car Can’t Run at All?

Even if the car can’t run, it could be damaged in several ways. The most common ways your inoperable car might be damaged are because of vandalism, weather, or fire.

Those are just some of the events you have no control over that could cause damage to your vehicle. Even if you are not planning on driving your vehicle until you can get it into roadworthy shape, your car is still vulnerable. If you don’t have protection, you will be responsible for any damages.

We Are Here To Help

If you have a classic car that you want to protect in the greater Scranton, PA community, call Bartal Insurance so we can help you find a policy that suits your needs.