What is parked car insurance?

Asked by: Dr. Porter Lesch IV  |  Last update: November 19, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (70 votes)

Parked car insurance is comprehensive-only insurance coverage designed to protect your car against damage while parked or in storage. Written byAly J. Yale. Aly J.

Can you drive on parked car insurance?

Also called an in-storage policy, parked car insurance is comprehensive-only coverage for a car that's not being driven. It's important to note that insurance for a car that's in storage doesn't meet state requirements, and you can't legally drive the car on the road with this type of insurance policy.

What is parked car insurance called?

Car storage insurance is sometimes referred to as parked-car insurance. However, most insurance companies call it “comprehensive-only coverage,” according to Insurify.

Is parked car insurance cheaper?

The idea of storage coverage is to keep your vehicle parked in one place, ideally in a locked garage and off the street. Car storage insurance will drop your premium significantly — sometimes by as much as 80%.

Can you pause car insurance if not driving?

Yes you can, with many, if not most insurance companies. If the car will be parked and unused for a period of time you can cancel the liability coverage and collision coverage while keeping your comprehensive fire and theft coverage in force which will maintain your auto policy...

How Much Is Parked Car Insurance? - InsuranceGuide360.com

35 related questions found

Do I have to have my car insured if I don't drive it?

Do you need insurance for a car in storage? Legally, you don't need insurance coverage for a car that's not being driven and is in storage. However, if the vehicle gets stolen, vandalized, or damaged in an accident or weather-related event, you'll be responsible for any resulting expenses if you don't carry insurance.

Is it better to cancel or suspend car insurance?

You should have another policy in effect before canceling your existing coverage to avoid your future car insurance premiums increasing substantially due to a lapse in coverage. If you are recuperating from surgery or embarking on a long vacation, you may want to suspend your car insurance instead of canceling.

How long can I freeze my car insurance?

You can't legally freeze your car insurance policy if you're still driving your car, but you may be able to cancel your coverage indefinitely if you're not driving your vehicle for a long period of time.

Where is the safest place to park your car for insurance?

Your best bet to keep your car safe and your premiums down is to park in a private driveway or a locked garage. Wherever you opt to park it's important to always assess the lighting, visibility, and proximity to busy areas.

Does car insurance cover a car in the garage?

Your car would be covered under comprehensive coverage from your personal auto insurance coverage, which covers situations other than an accident such as vandalism, hail, fire and theft.

How do insurance companies know where you park your car?

One key question that you'll likely answer, no matter which insurer you choose, is, “What is your address?” The use of your address is an essential part of car insurance because it can show your insurance company where you live and where you'll park your car.

Does Geico let you pause car insurance?

Answer: When you need to put your car in storage and it won't be driven for an extended period, you may think about suspending your car insurance to save money. However, with companies like GEICO, suspending your insurance isn't an option, unless you're deployed on military service.

Are parking lots insured?

Separate and distinct parking garages and parking lots definitely still need commercial general liability insurance to cover the risk of bodily injury or property damage (excluding vehicles) to third parties. A common parking lot commercial general liability claim would be a slip and fall.

What happens if I hit a parked car and I don't have insurance?

Hitting a parked car is the same as any other kind of car accident when it comes to key issues like fault and insurance coverage. If no insurance covers the incident, the driver who hit the parked car will personally be on the financial hook for any resulting vehicle damage.

Does homeowners insurance cover parked car?

However, when it comes to protecting your car or truck, homeowners insurance typically does not provide vehicle coverage, even if parked inside your garage during a storm, fire, or other events.

Do I need insurance on a parked car?

Most states have minimum insurance requirements on all registered vehicles, even those that are parked and not being driven. Whether you park your car on the street, in your driveway or in a garage, having the right insurance coverage will protect your parked car.

Does it matter where I insure my car?

Although you don't have to change car insurance when moving states, it often makes sense for drivers to make the switch. Insurance agents are typically licensed only in a single state, and different states have different laws about insurance coverage.

How do you make sure your vehicle is parked safely?

The five golden rules to keep your vehicle safe
  1. Park in well-used and brighter locations. ...
  2. Hide your stuff away. ...
  3. Protect your windows. ...
  4. Pick your car park carefully. ...
  5. Make space.

Can you pause car insurance while on vacation?

Depending on your state's rules and insurer, you may be able to pause your car insurance if you won't be driving for an extended period. If putting a pause on your car insurance isn't possible, you can reduce your coverages or cancel your policy for the time you don't need it.

How long can your car be without insurance?

It is a crime to drive almost anywhere without car insurance coverage, even for a minute or just down the street. So, how long can you be without car insurance? If you're driving, you can't. Anytime you get behind the wheel as a licensed driver, you need insurance coverage or you'll risk incurring major consequences.

Can I leave my car insurance at any time?

Yes, you can kick your car insurance to the curb whenever your heart pleases. However, if you're switching companies, the best time to cancel is after you've found new insurance coverage. Ideally, you'd schedule your old policy to stop coverage on the same day your coverage at the new company starts.

Is there a fee for cancelling car insurance?

Generally, insurers will refund you the money for the unused portion of your policy, assuming you paid in advance. However, depending on your state, and when you cancel, your insurer may charge a cancellation fee.

Do you need insurance if you have a license but no car?

You should still have insurance coverage if you're a licensed driver who regularly borrows or rents vehicles. Not all companies offer non-owner insurance policies, so you'll have to shop around.

Is it bad to pause car insurance?

Pros of Pausing Your Car Insurance

Canceling your coverage could make you a riskier driver in the eyes of an insurer and might lead to higher insurance premiums. Cutting costs: Pausing your policy may save money if you aren't planning to drive for a while.