The Ultimate Alabama Car Insurance Guide (Costs + Coverage)

Alabama car insurance rates can be as low as $61/mo with liability requirements of 25/50/25 for bodily injury and property damage coverage. Alabamans paid an average of $817.95 for car insurance in 2015, but we will show you how to get the best rate for Alabama car insurance.

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Dani Best

Licensed Insurance Producer

Dani Best has been a licensed insurance producer for nearly 10 years. Dani began her insurance career in a sales role with State Farm in 2014. During her time in sales, she graduated with her Bachelors in Psychology from Capella University and is currently earning her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Since 2014, Dani has held and maintains licenses in Life, Disability, Property, and Casualt...

Licensed Insurance Producer

Brandon Frady

Licensed Insurance Agent

Brandon Frady has been a licensed insurance agent and insurance office manager since 2018. He has experience in ventures from retail to finance, working positions from cashier to management, but it wasn’t until Brandon started working in the insurance industry that he truly felt at home in his career. In his day-to-day interactions, he aims to live out his business philosophy in how he treats hi...

Licensed Insurance Agent

UPDATED: Feb 16, 2024

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It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.

Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We partner with top insurance providers. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.

Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.

Alabama Statistics Summary
Road Miles
Total in State: 102,018
Vehicle Miles Driven: 65,667 Million
Vehicles Registered: 5,251,076
Total Stolen: 10,141
State Population4,887,871
Most Popular VehicleF150
Percentage of Motorists Uninsured18.40%
State Rank: 6th
Driving Deaths Speeding (2008-2017) Total: 2,957
Drunk Driving Total: 1,038
Average Premiums (Annual)Liability: $394.21
Collision: $317.96
Comprehensive: $146.28
Combined Premium: $817.95
Cheapest Provider USAA

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Car insurance rates got you down?

Whether it’s monthly, quarterly, or biannually, finding a letter in your mailbox or inbox from your insurance company is never a good thing. Alabamans paid an average of $817.95 for car insurance in 2015.

Were you one of them?

Or did you pay a lot more? No one likes to pay too much for anything, let alone, paying too much for car insurance. But where do you start? What if you could find all of the information you need in one spot? Would you invest the time? What if it would save you money? A LOT of money. I bet you would.

Find affordable Alabama automobile insurance coverage online. Whether you live in Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile, Huntsville, or Tuscaloosa, or whether you live in Hoover, Dothan, or Decatur, with so many companies offering car insurance in your state, how do you know what auto insurance is right for you?

Find affordable auto insurance policies and optional insurance coverages available in the state of Alabama.

Enter your zip code above in our FREE online tool.

Table of Contents

Alabama Car Insurance Coverage And Rates

The median household income in Alabama in 2016 was over $46,000. In 2015, drivers, on average paid over $819 for car insurance. Now, we’re not a math genius or anything, but however you work it out, consumers in Alabama are paying nearly 2 percent of their income on car insurance.

There has to be a better way.

There is a better way and we’re going to show you how.  Get started now by clicking here and entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

Below, we have provided information and helpful advice so you can get the best coverage options for your needs.

– Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Alabama

Insurance RequiredMinimum Limits: 25/50/25
Body Injury Liability Coverage$25,000 per one person
$50,000 per accident
Property Damage Liability Coverage$25,000 minimum

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Okay, you’ve read the numbers, but what do they mean?

What is 25/50/25?

Bodily injury?

Accidents?

We hope you never have to deal with any of these situations or end up in one of these:

But if you do, the basic minimum requirements in Alabama that all motorists must have for liability insurance are:

  • $25,000 to cover the death or injury of one person
  • $50,000 to cover the death or injury of more than one person
  • $25,000 to cover property damage

Liability insurance pays all individuals — drivers, passengers, pedestrians, etc. — who are owed compensation for property damage and/or injuries resulting from a car accident that you or anyone under your policy causes. If you cause a wreck, liability insurance pays everyone affected by the accident.

These required amounts are only for the minimum amounts. You may want to carry additional coverage because in the event of an accident your payout to injured victims could quickly run out.

Further below, we will show you additional coverage options to help you make the best decision.

Required Forms of Financial Responsibility in Alabama

What exactly is financial responsibility? In Alabama, financial responsibility is proof that you have the state’s minimum liability insurance requirement. Alabama state law requires all motor vehicle owners and every driver to have proof of financial security at all times.

Here are four acceptable forms of proof of financial security in Alabama:

  1. Copy of your current car’s insurance policy
  2. Valid insurance binder (a temporary form of car insurance)
  3. Valid liability insurance ID cards
  4. Picture of proof of insurance on your smartphone

Important: Alabama state law requires proof of insurance and registration to be accessible at all times by hard copy documents or electronically via a smartphone. If you’re one who consistently loses papers or has a messy glovebox, make sure to keep a picture of your required paperwork readily accessible on your smartphone.

You can face fines and/or go to jail in Alabama if you don’t have the state minimum requirements.

Driving without the state minimum insurance requirements in Alabama may result in the following:

  • A fine of $500 for your first violation
  • A fine of $1,000 for your second or subsequent violation
  • Suspension of your driver’s license
  • Suspension of your car registration

If law enforcement suspends your registration, you’ll have to pay $200 to have it reinstated for the first offense. And $400 for second or subsequent offenses.

Don’t risk it! Don’t let that happen to you, get started now by clicking here and entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

Premiums as Percentage of Income in Alabama

Alabama’s annual per capita disposable income is $33,535. 

Disposable personal income (DIP) is the total amount of money individuals have available to spend or save after their taxes have been paid. This means residents of Alabama have only $2,794 to spend a month, and that amount can be eaten up quickly when you are paying for food, clothing, and shelter.

When you add in car insurance, which residents in Alabama pay on average $837 for annually, the monthly budget shrinks to even less!

Monthly, Alabama consumers spend $67 dollars on minimum car insurance. Add in additional coverage, and that monthly amount grows even higher.

Everyone wants to save money each month, make sure you’re not paying too much on car insurance. Get started saving now by clicking here and entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

Core Car Insurance Coverage in Alabama

Coverage TypeAnnual Costs (2015)
Liability$394.21
Collision$317.96
Comprehensive$146.28
Combined$868.48

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The above table shows the most recent data provided by the leading source on the matter, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Expect car insurance rates in Alabama to be significantly higher for 2019 and on.

The nationwide average for car insurance is $954.99, so the Cotton State falls slightly below the national average of insurance costs.

One thing to consider: While Alabama’s minimum coverage requirements are important, experts recommend purchasing more than what state law requires. In the case of an accident, you’ll be glad for extra coverage.

Up next, we’ve got the main types of coverage options which you can add to a basic insurance plan.

Additional Liability Coverage in Alabama

Loss Ratio201320142015
Medical Payments (Med Pay)68%67%70%
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UUM)74%76%83%

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Med Pay, Uninsured, and Underinsured Motorist coverages are not required in Alabama. It may be tempting to skip out on these coverages because they are optional, but you should still have them.

Why?

Because they’re some of the most important coverages in case of an accident. Uninsured drivers will likely go bankrupt before being able to pay the exorbitant costs racked up in an accident.

Don’t be underinsured, get started now by clicking here and entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

If you view the table for Alabama’s loss ratios, you’ll see that Med Pay and Uninsured/Underinsured’s loss ratios have increased slightly. What does this mean?

It’s good news! In 2015, top insurance companies in the U.S. had loss ratios that ranged from 94-112 percent. While Alabama is under these numbers, companies with high loss ratios (over 100 percent) are losing money. Alabama also avoids having a low loss ratio — companies with low loss ratios are not paying out claims.

What to remember — avoid companies with high or low loss ratios.

– Add-ons, Endorsements, and Riders in Alabama

Have you considered adding extra coverages to your policy? Do you even know what is available?  Choosing from a list of options can be daunting, and we know you want the best options for your family at the best price.

To help you decide, we’ve made a list of affordable options to add to your policy. Click on the selections below to learn more about them.

  • Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP)
  • Personal Umbrella Policy (PUP)
  • Rental Reimbursement
  • Emergency Roadside Assistance
  • Mechanical Breakdown Insurance
  • Non-Owner Car Insurance
  • Modified Car Insurance Coverage
  • Classic Car Insurance
  • Low-Mileage Discount

Any of the above options are great choices to add to your policy. Choose what works best for you and your family.

Get started on selecting the best insurance for your family by entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

Male vs. Female Annual Car Insurance Rates in Alabama

CompanyMarried 35-year-old femaleMarried 35-year-old maleMarried 60-year-old femaleMarried 60-year-old maleSingle 17-year-old femaleSingle 17-year-old maleSingle 25-year-old femaleSingle 25-year-old male
Allstate P&C$2,003.19$1,911.71$1,810.29$1,845.47$6,912.73$7,426.75$2,248.40$2,300.90
Geico Cas$2,056.10$2,040.76$1,948.49$2,007.68$5,383.66$5,284.58$2,171.19$2,018.96
Mid-Century Ins Co$2,391.72$2,374.46$2,137.64$2,269.18$9,212.40$9,480.84$2,718.78$2,828.88
Nationwide Mutual Fire$1,739.15$1,761.83$1,583.95$1,641.07$4,558.03$5,880.92$1,929.78$2,158.89
Progressive Specialty$2,413.50$2,264.79$1,979.19$2,112.90$9,878.37$11,026.64$2,824.87$3,005.15
Safeco Ins Co of IL$3,086.86$3,335.34$2,530.47$2,830.81$11,250.27$12,511.44$3,289.13$3,504.83
State Farm Mutual Auto$2,934.88$2,934.88$2,651.27$2,651.27$8,835.43$11,068.85$3,314.66$3,821.44
Travelers Home & Marine Ins Co$1,501.32$1,524.86$1,407.98$1,403.64$8,037.20$12,641.31$1,422.13$1,631.77
USAA$1,323.02$1,343.67$1,235.40$1,211.80$3,938.27$4,367.32$1,723.56$1,861.50

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The above data from our researchers shows that females and males’ rates vary from provider to provider. It’s a common misconception that males always pay more than females for car insurance. In general, females pay more than males.

It is clear in Alabama, though, that the scale tips from age to age. With providers like State Farm Mutual, young teenage drivers pay more than older drivers for insurance. This makes sense when you consider younger drivers are usually less experienced on the road.

Important: Your driving record and coverage plan will play a larger part than gender in determining your insurance costs.

Highest and Lowest Alabama Car Insurance Rates by ZIP Code

Let’s take a look at how location affects your car insurance rates.

Most Expensive ZIP Codes in Alabama CityAverage by ZIP CodeMost Expensive CompanyMost Expensive Rate2nd Most Expensive Company2nd Most Expensive RateCheapest CompanyCheapest Rate2nd Cheapest Company2nd Cheapest Rate
35218BIRMINGHAM$4,428.60State Farm$6,719.51Liberty Mutual$6,257.81USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,873.57
35214BIRMINGHAM$4,352.20State Farm$6,009.25Liberty Mutual$5,972.65USAA$2,269.43Nationwide$2,856.39
35208BIRMINGHAM$4,327.78State Farm$6,749.79Liberty Mutual$6,119.17USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,873.57
35217BIRMINGHAM$4,326.48State Farm$6,910.35Liberty Mutual$6,000.76USAA$2,224.19Nationwide$2,860.41
35207BIRMINGHAM$4,325.57State Farm$6,491.25Liberty Mutual$6,153.00USAA$2,224.19Nationwide$2,856.39
35204BIRMINGHAM$4,313.01State Farm$6,444.99Liberty Mutual$6,212.13USAA$2,231.20Nationwide$2,850.02
35211BIRMINGHAM$4,304.80State Farm$6,506.10Liberty Mutual$6,212.13USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,905.60
35206BIRMINGHAM$4,301.59State Farm$6,519.64Liberty Mutual$6,181.77USAA$2,155.97Nationwide$2,860.41
35249BIRMINGHAM$4,288.30Progressive$6,888.87Liberty Mutual$6,096.21USAA$2,122.64Nationwide$2,850.02
35228BIRMINGHAM$4,281.12Liberty Mutual$6,119.17State Farm$5,832.84USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,873.57
35020BESSEMER$4,276.93Liberty Mutual$6,229.71State Farm$5,801.95USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,905.60
35064FAIRFIELD$4,264.44Liberty Mutual$6,147.30State Farm$6,063.58USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,873.57
35224BIRMINGHAM$4,249.02Liberty Mutual$5,834.03State Farm$5,831.78USAA$2,269.43Nationwide$2,856.39
35221BIRMINGHAM$4,226.77Liberty Mutual$6,257.81Progressive$5,602.74USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,873.57
35203BIRMINGHAM$4,223.99State Farm$6,357.26Liberty Mutual$6,096.21USAA$2,231.20Nationwide$2,850.02
35215BIRMINGHAM$4,220.08State Farm$6,226.47Liberty Mutual$5,919.67USAA$2,274.46Nationwide$2,851.73
35234BIRMINGHAM$4,217.90Liberty Mutual$6,257.81State Farm$6,219.94USAA$2,155.97Nationwide$2,850.02
36615MOBILE$4,216.38Liberty Mutual$5,975.78State Farm$5,597.24USAA$2,362.45Nationwide$2,892.99
36568SAINT ELMO$4,216.23Liberty Mutual$5,707.92Progressive$5,418.79USAA$2,456.32Nationwide$2,892.99
35061DOLOMITE$4,215.19State Farm$5,786.74Progressive$5,647.51USAA$2,269.43Nationwide$2,873.57
35118MULGA$4,207.95State Farm$5,719.65Progressive$5,695.97USAA$2,175.10Nationwide$2,854.65
35254BIRMINGHAM$4,202.26Liberty Mutual$6,212.13State Farm$5,833.15USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,850.02
36587WILMER$4,201.84Liberty Mutual$5,849.24State Farm$5,451.50USAA$2,456.32Nationwide$2,892.99
35212BIRMINGHAM$4,190.95Liberty Mutual$6,212.13State Farm$5,977.25USAA$2,155.97Nationwide$2,860.41
36605MOBILE$4,190.04Liberty Mutual$5,991.29State Farm$5,573.78USAA$2,362.45Nationwide$2,892.99

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According to our researchers’ data, Birmingham zip codes are the most expensive places to purchase car insurance.

Cheapest ZIP Codes in Alabama CityAverage by ZIP CodesMost Expensive CompanyMost Expensive Rate2nd Most Expensive Company2nd Most Expensive RateCheapest CompanyCheapest Rate2nd Cheapest Company2nd Cheapest Rate
36360OZARK$3,310.05Liberty Mutual$4,955.21State Farm$4,086.51USAA$1,826.53Nationwide$2,547.96
36322DALEVILLE$3,310.67Liberty Mutual$4,981.81State Farm$3,979.43USAA$1,843.52Nationwide$2,547.96
36316CHANCELLOR$3,330.06Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,072.52USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
36303DOTHAN$3,337.79Liberty Mutual$4,927.08State Farm$4,349.12USAA$1,794.84Nationwide$2,453.69
36318COFFEE SPRINGS$3,338.62Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,149.63USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
36467OPP$3,345.93Liberty Mutual$5,257.07State Farm$3,843.23USAA$1,944.34Nationwide$2,547.96
36312ASHFORD$3,349.21Liberty Mutual$4,842.63State Farm$4,350.89USAA$1,895.52Nationwide$2,453.69
36374SKIPPERVILLE$3,354.03Liberty Mutual$5,080.35State Farm$4,141.65USAA$1,968.02Nationwide$2,547.96
35661MUSCLE SHOALS$3,354.44Liberty Mutual$4,837.56State Farm$4,287.95USAA$1,997.99Nationwide$2,352.67
36477SAMSON$3,356.68Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,019.48USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
36362FORT RUCKER$3,359.23Liberty Mutual$4,981.81State Farm$4,002.07USAA$1,773.67Nationwide$2,547.96
36343GORDON$3,362.40Liberty Mutual$4,842.63State Farm$4,289.77USAA$1,895.52Nationwide$2,453.69
36370PANSEY$3,365.75Liberty Mutual$4,842.63State Farm$4,353.63USAA$1,895.52Nationwide$2,453.69
36330ENTERPRISE$3,368.24Liberty Mutual$4,981.81State Farm$4,267.32USAA$1,843.52Nationwide$2,547.96
36352NEWTON$3,369.81Liberty Mutual$4,927.08State Farm$3,967.13USAA$1,968.02Nationwide$2,547.96
35616CHEROKEE$3,370.38Liberty Mutual$4,938.03State Farm$4,161.05USAA$1,997.99Nationwide$2,352.67
36319COLUMBIA$3,371.40Liberty Mutual$4,842.63State Farm$4,705.91USAA$1,794.84Nationwide$2,453.69
36320COTTONWOOD$3,375.53Liberty Mutual$4,927.08State Farm$4,357.19USAA$1,895.52Nationwide$2,453.69
36314BLACK$3,376.28Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,092.44USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
36321COWARTS$3,381.81Liberty Mutual$4,927.08State Farm$4,520.17USAA$1,895.52Nationwide$2,453.69
35674TUSCUMBIA$3,383.56Liberty Mutual$4,837.56State Farm$4,368.92USAA$1,997.99Nationwide$2,352.67
35660SHEFFIELD$3,384.35Liberty Mutual$4,837.56State Farm$4,345.68USAA$1,997.99Nationwide$2,352.67
36344HARTFORD$3,384.67Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,090.04USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
36453KINSTON$3,384.75Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$3,985.85USAA$1,970.91Nationwide$2,547.96
36305DOTHAN$3,384.78Liberty Mutual$4,927.08State Farm$4,498.87USAA$1,794.84Nationwide$2,453.69

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Clearly, where you live does matter in relation to car insurance costs.

Highest and Lowest Alabama Car Insurance Rates by City

We have also collected data on the most and least expensive cities in Alabama. Look at the tables below to discover if your city is on them.

Most Expensive Cities in Alabama Average by CityMost Expensive CompanyMost Expensive Rate2nd Most Expensive Company2nd Most Expensive RateCheapest CompanyCheapest Rate2nd Cheapest Company2nd Cheapest Rate
Fairfield$4,264.43Liberty Mutual$6,147.30State Farm$6,063.58USAA$2,197.21Nationwide$2,873.57
Saint Elmo$4,216.23Liberty Mutual$5,707.92Progressive$5,418.79USAA$2,456.32Nationwide$2,892.99
Dolomite$4,215.19State Farm$5,786.74Progressive$5,647.51USAA$2,269.43Nationwide$2,873.57
Mulga$4,207.95State Farm$5,719.65Progressive$5,695.97USAA$2,175.10Nationwide$2,854.65
Wilmer$4,201.84Liberty Mutual$5,849.24State Farm$5,451.50USAA$2,456.32Nationwide$2,892.99
Birmingham$4,190.23State Farm$6,007.49Liberty Mutual$5,911.96USAA$2,189.12Nationwide$2,858.28
Docena$4,185.44State Farm$5,902.61Liberty Mutual$5,618.17USAA$2,269.43Nationwide$2,856.39
Belle Fontaine$4,176.36Progressive$5,698.79Liberty Mutual$5,689.68USAA$2,271.38Nationwide$2,892.99
Irvington$4,168.74Liberty Mutual$5,689.68Progressive$5,418.79USAA$2,271.38Nationwide$2,892.99
Mobile$4,150.99Liberty Mutual$5,839.86State Farm$5,385.47USAA$2,313.95Nationwide$2,934.05
Pleasant Grove$4,149.20State Farm$6,096.92Liberty Mutual$5,645.78USAA$2,269.43Nationwide$2,854.65
Coden$4,143.95Progressive$5,698.79Liberty Mutual$5,499.30USAA$2,271.38Nationwide$2,892.99
Bayou La Batre$4,140.91Liberty Mutual$5,699.74Progressive$5,698.79USAA$2,271.38Nationwide$2,892.99
Brookside$4,137.24State Farm$5,941.80Liberty Mutual$5,618.17USAA$2,175.10Nationwide$2,932.70
Adamsville$4,132.10State Farm$5,887.35Liberty Mutual$5,618.17USAA$2,175.10Nationwide$2,856.39
New Castle$4,131.09State Farm$5,642.79Liberty Mutual$5,610.66USAA$2,175.10Nationwide$2,864.25
Grand Bay$4,129.30Liberty Mutual$5,689.68Progressive$5,542.78USAA$2,271.38Nationwide$2,892.99
Homewood$4,120.43Liberty Mutual$5,640.09State Farm$5,442.31USAA$2,136.84Nationwide$2,857.91
Shannon$4,115.23Liberty Mutual$5,926.94State Farm$5,642.79USAA$2,122.64Nationwide$2,905.60
Chunchula$4,104.58Liberty Mutual$5,756.28State Farm$5,230.84USAA$2,456.32Nationwide$2,892.99
Fultondale$4,101.89State Farm$5,807.06Liberty Mutual$5,619.12USAA$2,224.19Nationwide$2,864.25
Bessemer$4,094.60Liberty Mutual$5,903.18State Farm$5,594.29USAA$2,215.44Nationwide$2,888.62
Prichard$4,093.80Liberty Mutual$6,008.88State Farm$4,858.67USAA$2,456.32Nationwide$2,892.99
Dora$4,089.71Liberty Mutual$5,814.99State Farm$5,642.79USAA$2,175.10Nationwide$2,932.70
Eight Mile$4,080.85Liberty Mutual$5,640.36State Farm$5,075.54USAA$2,445.27Nationwide$2,892.99

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The largest city in Alabama, Birmingham, made it onto the list of most expensive cities.

Cheapest Cities in Alabama Average by CityMost Expensive CompanyMost Expensive Rate2nd Most Expensive Company2nd Most Expensive RateCheapest CompanyCheapest Rate2nd Cheapest Company2nd Cheapest Rate
Ozark$3,310.05Liberty Mutual$4,955.21State Farm$4,086.51USAA$1,826.53Nationwide$2,547.96
Daleville$3,310.66Liberty Mutual$4,981.81State Farm$3,979.43USAA$1,843.52Nationwide$2,547.96
Chancellor$3,330.05Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,072.52USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
Coffee Springs$3,338.62Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,149.63USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
Opp$3,345.94Liberty Mutual$5,257.07State Farm$3,843.23USAA$1,944.34Nationwide$2,547.96
Ashford$3,349.21Liberty Mutual$4,842.63State Farm$4,350.89USAA$1,895.52Nationwide$2,453.69
Skipperville$3,354.03Liberty Mutual$5,080.35State Farm$4,141.65USAA$1,968.02Nationwide$2,547.96
Muscle Shoals$3,354.44Liberty Mutual$4,837.56State Farm$4,287.95USAA$1,997.99Nationwide$2,352.67
Samson$3,356.68Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,019.48USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
Fort Rucker$3,359.23Liberty Mutual$4,981.81State Farm$4,002.07USAA$1,773.67Nationwide$2,547.96
Pansey$3,365.75Liberty Mutual$4,842.63State Farm$4,353.63USAA$1,895.52Nationwide$2,453.69
Enterprise$3,368.24Liberty Mutual$4,981.81State Farm$4,267.32USAA$1,843.52Nationwide$2,547.96
Newton$3,369.81Liberty Mutual$4,927.08State Farm$3,967.13USAA$1,968.02Nationwide$2,547.96
Cherokee$3,370.38Liberty Mutual$4,938.03State Farm$4,161.05USAA$1,997.99Nationwide$2,352.67
Columbia$3,371.40Liberty Mutual$4,842.63State Farm$4,705.91USAA$1,794.84Nationwide$2,453.69
Black$3,376.27Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,092.44USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
Cowarts$3,381.81Liberty Mutual$4,927.08State Farm$4,520.17USAA$1,895.52Nationwide$2,453.69
Dothan$3,382.47Liberty Mutual$4,905.97State Farm$4,474.03USAA$1,878.79Nationwide$2,477.26
Tuscumbia$3,383.56Liberty Mutual$4,837.56State Farm$4,368.92USAA$1,997.99Nationwide$2,352.67
Sheffield$3,384.35Liberty Mutual$4,837.56State Farm$4,345.68USAA$1,997.99Nationwide$2,352.67
Hartford$3,384.66Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,090.04USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
Kinston$3,384.75Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$3,985.85USAA$1,970.91Nationwide$2,547.96
Geneva$3,389.89Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,057.17USAA$1,980.54Nationwide$2,547.96
Pinckard$3,394.50Liberty Mutual$4,927.08State Farm$4,076.33USAA$1,968.02Nationwide$2,547.96
New Brockton$3,395.84Liberty Mutual$4,880.47State Farm$4,367.30USAA$1,970.91Nationwide$2,547.96

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Now that we’ve covered area rates, let’s start looking at the best and worst insurance companies in Alabama.

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Alabama Car Insurance Companies

You’ve seen the commercials. You’ve seen the ads. But what’s really behind the curtain of most insurance companies? Can you really save money with a 10-minute phone call?

But who wants to spend time doing all of that searching? That’s why we’ve researched the best providers in Alabama, so you can make the best choice for your situation. We’ve looked at companies’ financial ratings, AM’s best ratings, and which companies have the most complaints.

Get started on your own search by entering your zip code into our FREE online tool.

Keep reading to learn about Alabama’s insurance providers.

Ratings of the Largest Car Insurance Companies in Alabama

ProvidersAM RatingDirect Premiums WrittenMarket ShareLoss Ratio
Allstate Insurance GroupA+$345,60310.40%49.83%
GeicoA++$334,83510.07%74.78%
Progressive Group A+$237,4407.14%59.82%
USAA Group A++$232,3346.99%79.17%
Nationwide Corp GroupA+$92,6282.79%67.33%
Amtrust NGH GroupA-$82,9402.50%65.13%
Liberty Mutual Group A$82,1402.47%68.13%
Farmer's Insurance Group NR$79,9812.41%53.33%

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The companies listed above are some of the top-rated in Alabama. The table shows the companies’ AM ratings, which judges the companies’ financial strength.

As mentioned previously, a company shouldn’t have a high (over 100 percent) or a low loss ratio. Some companies are a little low on their loss ratio, but a few, like Geico, have a good loss ratio. Furthermore, none of the companies are in danger of bankruptcy because of a high loss ratio.

Alabama’s Car Insurance Companies with the BEST Ratings

Customer service is an important part of any company, from restaurants to car insurance providers. That’s why we have looked at companies with the best customer satisfaction ratings.

JD Power Auto Insurance Study Southeast

 

Geico ranks near the top of the list — showing that Geico is great at customer satisfaction. One thing to consider, cost shouldn’t be your only concern when searching for car insurance. You should also be looking at how the insurance provider treats its customers and resolves claims and complaints.

Companies with the MOST Complaints in Alabama

 

Below, you will see the number of complaints collected by the NAIC for the biggest insurance providers in Alabama.

Top Providers of Car Insurance in AlabamaCompany Complaint Ratio 2017Total Complaints 2017
Liberty Mutual Group 5.95222
Allstate Insurance Group 0.5163
Progressive Group 0.75120
Nationwide Corp Group0.2825
Geico.0076
USSA Group 02
Amtrust NGH Group02
Farmers Insurance Group 00

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While some of the numbers may be troubling, complaints don’t necessarily mean you should avoid a company. For example, Geico made it onto the list for best customer ratings and the list for most complaints. Obviously, the insurance giant is good at resolving customers’ issues, proving that complaints don’t necessarily mean a company is bad.

Want to get started on your own seearch for new car insurance? Enter your zip code in our FREE online search tool to get started

Alabama Car Insurance Rates by Company

CompanyAverage
Compared to State Average
Percentage Compared to State Average
Safeco Ins Co of IL$5,292.39$1,588.6430.02%
State Farm Mutual Auto$4,776.58$1,072.8322.46%
Progressive Specialty$4,438.18$734.4216.55%
Mid-Century Ins Co$4,176.74$472.9811.32%
Travelers Home & Marine Ins Co$3,696.27-$7.48-0.20%
Allstate P&C$3,307.43-$396.32-11.98%
Geico $2,863.93-$839.83-29.32%
Nationwide Mutual Fire$2,656.70-$1,047.05-39.41%
USAA$2,125.57-$1,578.19-74.25%

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According to the data above, companies like Allstate and Nationwide have rates lower than the national average. Companies like SAFECO, though, have higher rates than the national average. These rates could contribute to why SAFECO and other companies aren’t on the popular Alabama insurance providers list.

Cost of Different Annual Commutes by Alabama Companies

Company Commute and Annual Mileage Annual Average Cost
Liberty Mutual10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$5,292.39
Liberty Mutual25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$5,292.39
State Farm25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$4,891.76
State Farm10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$4,661.41
Progressive10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$4,438.18
Progressive25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$4,438.18
Farmers10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$4,176.74
Farmers25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$4,176.74
Travelers10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$3,696.27
Travelers25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$3,696.27
Allstate10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$3,307.43
Allstate25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$3,307.43
Geico25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$2,916.19
Geico10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$2,811.66
Nationwide10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$2,656.70
Nationwide25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$2,656.70
USAA25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$2,222.84
USAA10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$2,028.29

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Most company rates don’t change when the commute is shortened to a 10-mile commute, except for Geico and USAA, both of whom have rate reductions over a $100.

Up next, a break-down of coverage level rates in Alabama.

Coverage Level Rates

GroupCoverage TypeAnnual Average
Liberty MutualHigh$5,558.30
Liberty MutualMedium$5,267.49
Liberty MutualLow$5,051.39
State FarmHigh$5,039.03
ProgressiveHigh$4,915.73
State FarmMedium$4,770.51
State FarmLow$4,520.21
FarmersHigh$4,459.72
ProgressiveMedium$4,414.44
FarmersMedium$4,123.31
ProgressiveLow$3,984.36
FarmersLow$3,947.19
TravelersHigh$3,804.37
TravelersMedium$3,769.91
TravelersLow$3,514.54
AllstateHigh$3,426.86
AllstateMedium$3,301.93
AllstateLow$3,193.49
GeicoHigh$3,096.97
GeicoMedium$2,851.46
NationwideHigh$2,693.25
NationwideLow$2,643.86
GeicoLow$2,643.35
NationwideMedium$2,633.00
USAAHigh$2,213.25
USAAMedium$2,114.13
USAALow$2,049.32

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USAA has the lowest rates listed for all levels of coverage. This is great news if you or a family member is in the military. If not, many companies are separated by less than a hundred dollars, so select the provider who best meets your insurance needs.

Alabama Credit History Rates

GroupCredit HistoryAnnual Average
State FarmPoor$7,745.72
Liberty MutualPoor$7,579.54
ProgressivePoor$5,010.88
FarmersPoor$4,682.41
Liberty MutualFair$4,648.39
ProgressiveFair$4,294.18
AllstatePoor$4,087.50
TravelersPoor$4,030.96
FarmersFair$4,029.11
ProgressiveGood$4,009.47
State FarmFair$3,920.59
FarmersGood$3,818.70
Liberty MutualGood$3,649.25
GeicoPoor$3,643.23
TravelersGood$3,562.21
TravelersFair$3,495.65
AllstateFair$3,209.78
NationwidePoor$3,206.13
USAAPoor$2,856.60
State FarmGood$2,663.44
AllstateGood$2,625.01
GeicoFair$2,598.14
NationwideFair$2,501.40
GeicoGood$2,350.42
NationwideGood$2,262.59
USAAFair$1,859.65
USAAGood$1,660.45

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In Alabama, the average credit score is 654. Unfortunately, this number places Alabama on the list of the top 10 states with the lowest credit scores.

As you can see from the table above, poor credit scores can add thousands to your annual cost. A bad credit score at Progressive changes your annual average from $4009-$5011!

That’s an extra $1002 a year!

Clearly, your credit score plays an important role in determining your car insurance rates.

Below, we’ve covered the other huge factor in determining rates — your driving record.

Alabama Driving Record Rates

GroupDriving RecordAnnual AverageGroup Driving Record Annual Average
Liberty MutualWith 1 accident$5,778.33TravelersWith 1 speeding violation$3,749.72
Liberty MutualWith 1 DUI$5,650.89FarmersClean record$3,514.01
Liberty MutualWith 1 speeding violation$5,590.03NationwideWith 1 DUI$3,384.37
State FarmWith 1 accident$5,341.26AllstateWith 1 accident$3,315.55
ProgressiveWith 1 accident$5,037.78TravelersWith 1 accident$3,230.82
TravelersWith 1 DUI$4,725.83AllstateWith 1 speeding violation$3,177.32
State FarmWith 1 DUI$4,725.25GeicoWith 1 accident$3,108.04
State FarmWith 1 speeding violation$4,725.25TravelersClean record$3,078.73
FarmersWith 1 accident$4,545.66USAAWith 1 DUI$3,047.46
FarmersWith 1 DUI$4,434.02AllstateClean record$2,816.35
ProgressiveWith 1 speeding violation$4,399.76NationwideWith 1 speeding violation$2,594.63
State FarmClean record$4,314.58GeicoWith 1 speeding violation$2,583.05
ProgressiveWith 1 DUI$4,305.95NationwideClean record$2,323.90
FarmersWith 1 speeding violation$4,213.26NationwideWith 1 accident$2,323.90
Liberty MutualClean record$4,150.32USAAWith 1 accident$2,051.34
ProgressiveClean record$4,009.21GeicoClean record$1,935.00
AllstateWith 1 DUI$3,920.50USAAWith 1 speeding violation$1,768.57
GeicoWith 1 DUI$3,829.62USAAClean record$1,634.90

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According to the data above, any infraction on your driving record can increase your car insurance costs. That’s why you should obey all traffic laws and never drink and drive.

Number of Insurers in Alabama

Number of Licensed Insurers in Alabama
DomesticForeignTotal Number of Licensed Insurers
18858876

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There are many more foreign insurers than domestic. Domestic insurance is formed under the laws of Alabama, though foreign insurance is formed under the laws of any state in the country.

Find the Cheapest Insurance in Alabama Cities

This section provides a direct comparison of insurance rates in Alabama cities: Birmingham, Huntsville, Decatur, Mobile, Dothan, Montgomery, Hoover, and Tuscaloosa. Finding affordable insurance is crucial for residents seeking optimal coverage. Whether in urban centers or smaller cities, drivers can use this data to secure the cheapest insurance options available, ensuring suitable coverage at the best rates.

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Get started now by entering your zip code into our FREE online search tool.

Alabama State Laws

Celebrating a University of Alabama Football National Championship usually means large celebrations, excited fans, and excessive amounts of thrown confetti.

Usually. But not in Mobile, where it is against Alabama law to throw confetti.

There are more unusual state laws in Alabama where throwing salt on railroad tracks is prohibited, and wearing a fake mustache which causes laughter in a church is also a no-no.

Well, nobody should have to worry about any of those outdated laws, and the same thing goes for Alabama driving laws. We’ve done the work for you, scroll down to read our roundup of Alabama’s state driving laws.

Car Insurance Laws in Alabama

Alabama state law requires drivers to have car insurance. The Mandatory Liability Insurance Law of 2013 requires Alabama drivers to have auto insurance for all registered vehicles.

If you are a high-risk driver, car insurance companies may refuse to give you car insurance (even though insurance is required by law). If this happens to you, the DMV tells high-risk drivers to turn to Alabama’s Auto Insurance Plan (AAIP). Talk to your insurance provider about what options are available.

High-Risk Insurance Alabama

Had an accident? Sometimes, accidents sometimes despite our best efforts. If an accident happens to you and affects your driving record, you are required to fill out an SR-22 form for high-risk insurance.

Reasons why you may need to fill out an SR-22 form:

  • Driving while uninsured
  • A traffic violation that results in a fatality or serious injury
  • A high number of points on your driving record
  • Conviction of DUI/DWI
  • A high-risk car (sports cars, etc.)
  • Being over 70 years old

Remember — insurance providers may refuse to cover you. If this happens, apply to AAIP.

Low-Cost Insurance in Alabama

Alabama does not have a government-sponsored car insurance program for low-income drivers. But don’t give up, because shopping around for low rates in Alabama is easy.

Get started now by entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

Other discounts which you may be eligible for include:

Windshield Coverage in Alabama

Unfortunately, in the state of Alabama, insurance companies are not required by law to replace a damaged windshield. While Alabama law doesn’t require insurers to replace windshields, some insurance companies may offer windshield replacement or repair with a comprehensive insurance plan.

Insurers who offer replacement or repair must use replacement parts that are similar quality so that your car is as good as it was before. If you decline the insurer’s replacement offer, however, you will have to pay the cost of windshield repairs yourself.

Automobile Insurance Fraud in Alabama

Alabama has four insurance fraud agencies in the United States who investigate fraudulent activities. Here are the two main ways to commit fraud according to the ALDOI:

  1. Intentially faking an accident or making a false claim
  2. Adding “extra” onto a legitimate claim

In 2017, there were 223 investigations of possible fraud investigated in Alabama. The easiest way to avoid being investigated? Don’t commit fraud on your claims.

Read more: Automobile Liability Coverage

The Statute of Limitations in Alabama

Have you been involved in an accident? Do you want to file a claim? If so, you only have a certain amount of time to file a claim to receive the money you are owed.

The statute of limitations in Alabama is:

  • Personal Injury: Two years
  • Property Damage: Two years

This ticking time clock starts on the day you are injured or your property is damaged. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident, don’t wait too long before beginning the claims process.

Alabama State Specific Laws

In Alabama, an insurance provider must submit in writing at least 20 days before doing so, a notice that cancellation of policy will be issued. However, a policy cannot be terminated without due cause.

According to the ALDOI, the following are all ways your policy may be canceled:

  • Nonpayment of premium
  • Policy was obtained through a material misrepresentation
  • Insured violated any of the terms and conditions of the policy
  • Named insured failed to disclose motor vehicle accidents and moving traffic violations for the preceding 36 months if asked in the application
  • Named insured failed to disclose on written application information necessary for acceptance or property rating risk
  • Insured made a false or fraudulent claim or aided another in presentation of such a claim
  • Failure to maintain membership in any group or organization when this is a prerequisite to purchase of insurance
  • Named insured or any other operator who resides in same household or customarily operates an auto insured under the policy:
    • Has had a driver’s license suspended or revoked within 36 months prior to cancellation notice
    • Is subject to epilepsy or heart attacks
    • Has an accident record or conviction record; a physical, mental, or other condition which would endanger public safety
    • Has been addicted to the use of narcotics or other drugs within 36 months prior to the cancellation notice
    • Uses alcoholic beverages to excess
  • Has been convicted or forfeited bail during the preceding 36 months for:
    • Any felony
    • Criminal negligence resulting in death, homicide, or assault arising out of the operation of a motor vehicle
    • Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs
    • Being intoxicated while in an automobile or while having custody of an auto
    • Leaving the scene of an accident without stopping to report
    • Making false statements in a driver’s license application
  • The insured automobile is:
    • Mechanically defective, and operation might endanger public safety
    • Used in carrying passengers for hire or compensation
    • Used in the business of transportation of flammables or explosives
    • An authorized emergency vehicle
    • Changed in shape or condition during the policy period which increases the risk
    • Subject to an inspection law, and has not been inspected, or if inspected, failed to qualify

Now that you’ve learned all of the reasons insurance providers can cancel your policy, let’s get started searching for a company that will provide you with excellent customer service while saving your money.

Get started today, by entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

Alabama’s Vehicle Licensing Laws

We all love the feeling of driving down the open road with the windows down and the smell of the Alabama Coast wafting in on an ocean breeze. But if you’re not careful, that bright light you see in your rearview mirror won’t be the sun, but a highway patrol officer pulling you over for speeding, or worse, driving while uninsured.

Here are the penalties for driving without insurance in Alabama:

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Alabama
1st Offense- Fine up to $500
- Registration suspension with $200 reinstatement fee
2nd Offense- Fine up to $1,000 and/or six-month license suspension
- $400 reinstatement fee with four-month registration suspension

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Authorities may suspend or revoke your license if caught while driving uninsured.

Let’s review what types of documents are acceptable for proving financial security in the state of Alabama.

Acceptable proof of insurance forms in Alabama:

  1. Valid liability insurance ID cards
  2. Copy of your current car’s insurance policy
  3. Valid insurance binder (a temporary form of car insurance)
  4. Picture of proof of insurance on your smartphone

Whenever an officer of the law pulls you over, you must provide proof of registration, insurance, and a driver’s license.

Since 2013, the State of Alabama Online Insurance Verification System has been in place. Basically, the system helps law enforcement immediately check the insurance status on your vehicle.

If you violate car insurance laws, Alabama has the right to suspend your vehicle registration. You will be notified if authorities are suspending your registration. Below are reasons authorities may suspend your vehicle registration according to the Alabama Department of Revenue.

  • “The Department did not receive a timely response to a questionnaire that was sent to verify the MLI coverage on the vehicle.”
  • “The insurer identified in the response to the questionnaire has failed to confirm or has denied coverage on the vehicle for the insurance verification date as requested.”

Our point of showing you this information is this — purchase car insurance so you can keep your keys and driving wherever you need to go.

Get started now by entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

Teen Driver Laws in Alabama

In Alabama, teens can get a learner’s permit at age 15. While teens still have to wait until they are 16 years old to apply for a restricted license, they can get a year of driving experience before they drive solo. Teens must also fulfill the requirements listed below before receiving a license or restricted license.

Requirements for Getting a License in Alabama
Mandatory Holding Period 6 months
Minimum Supervised Driving Time 50 hours (none with driver education)
Minimum Age 16 years old

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There are also limitations in place for teen drivers with restricted licenses.

Restrictions for Restricted Licenses in Alabama
Nighttime restrictionsMidnight to 6 a.m.
Passenger restrictions (family members excepted unless noted otherwise)no more than 1 passenger
Minimum age at which restrictions may be lifted
Nighttime restrictions 17 and licensed for 6 months (minimum age: 17)
Passenger restrictions 17 and licensed for 6 months (minimum age: 17)

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Older Driver License Renewal Procedures in Alabama

Alabama law requires older drivers to renew their licenses every four years, the same as the general population. One perk of being an older driver:

Proof of adequate vision is NOT required at the time of renewal, and older drivers (and general population) are allowed to renew their licenses online every other renewal.

New Residents in Alabama

If you move to Alabama you have 30 days to acquire an Alabama driver’s license. Also, there is now an Alabama Mandatory Liability Insurance Act that requires everyone to have liability insurance. You may remember that Alabama requires vehicle owners to have the following liability insurance:

  • $25,000 to cover the death or injury of one person
  • $50,000 to cover the death or injury of more than one person
  • $25,000 to cover property damage

You will also need to contact your current provider, as your provider may need to change rates and coverages to meet Alabama’s requirements of minimum liability coverage.

Alabama Rules of the Road

Everyone has to follow the rules, but if you’re new to Alabama, there may be laws you’re unfamiliar with. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of several important laws to keep you in good standing and on the road.

Fault vs. No-Fault

Alabama is an at-fault state. This means that if you are at-fault in an accident, you may be held liable for injury and property damage costs. The at-fault driver will have to pay all medical expenses, damages, and other costs that occurred from the accident.

This means that if you don’t have insurance OR the right coverage, your resources will quickly be drained. The last thing you want is to go bankrupt due to an accident.

Keep Right and Move Over Laws

Here’s how to keep right in the state of Alabama. If driving SLOWER than the average speed of traffic around you, you must keep to the RIGHT. However, there are certain occasions where you are allowed to pass on the right.

Findlaw.com explains these circumstances as the following:

  • If the vehicle you are passing is making or about to make a left turn
  • If the roadway is wide enough for two or more lines of vehicles moving in the same direction as the vehicle you are passing.

If you do pass on the right make sure you can do so safely and without driving off the roadway.

Alabama has also passed a new anti-road rage bill that prohibits drivers from staying in the left lane for more than a mile and a half (unless passing other vehicles).

Alabama residents are also required to move over one or more lanes for stopped vehicles.

These vehicles include:

  • Police and emergency vehicles
  • Car crashes with flashing  lights
  • Utility service vehicle with rotating or flashing lights
  • Garbage vehicles when actively on duty

Respect others and move over as soon as you can.

Alabama Speed Limits

Below are the speed limits across the state of Alabama. Make sure to also pay attention to speed limit signs while driving, as the speed limits posted below are the maximum speeds in Alabama.

Alabama Speed Limits
Type of RoadwaySpeed Limit
Rural Interstates70 mph
Urban Interstates65 mph
Other Limited Access Roads65 mph
Other Roads65 mph

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Alabama Seat Belt and Car Seat Laws

Do you know Alabama’s seat belt laws? Different states have different laws, and knowing Alabama’s laws will help you avoid a fine.

Safety Belt Laws in Alabama
Effective SinceJune 18, 1991
Primary EnforcementYes; effective since December 9, 1999
Age/Seats Applicable15+ years old in front seat
1st Offense Max Fine$25 plus fees

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On September 1, 2019, Alabama also put into effect a new seat belt law. All backseat passengers must buckle up now, not just drivers and front-seat passengers.

In addition to keeping you safe, Alabama has laws protecting children in the car. Being familiar with Alabama’s car seat laws will help you keep your little ones safe in the car.

Alabama Car Seat Requirements
Type of Car Seat RequiredAge
Rear-Facing Child Restraint Younger than one year old or less than 20 pounds
Forward-Facing Child Restraint One to four years old or 20 - 40 pounds
Child Booster SeatFive (but under six years old)
Adult Belt Permissible Six through 14 years

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The fine for breaking car seat laws is the same as seat belt laws — $25 plus fees.

As for riding in cargo areas (such as pickup trucks), there are no laws in Alabama restricting this. Make sure to use common sense when riding in a cargo area to ensure your own and other’s safety.

Ridesharing in Alabama

You may be familiar with ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft. If you want to rideshare, you must purchase ridesharing insurance from one of the following providers in Alabama:

  • Farmers
  • Geico
  • State Farm
  • USAA

These insurers offer ridesharing insurance, but each one has different coverages and requirements, so make sure to choose one that best fits your needs. Most ridesharing companies will also require you to undergo vehicle safety checks to make sure your car is safe for passengers.

Automation on the Road in Alabama

What is automation? IIHS defines it as the following:

“Automation is the use of a machine or technology to perform a task or function that was previously carried out by a human. One example is adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set speed.”

In Alabama, automated vehicle drivers have to follow the laws listed below.

Automation Vehicle Laws in Alabama
Driving AllowedDeployment
Operator License RequiredYes
Operator Required to be in the VehicleDepends on level of vehicle automation
Liability Insurance RequiredYes

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Start your search for insurance by entering your zip code in our FREE online search tool.

DUI Laws in Alabama

Alcohol-related accidents account for 28.3 percent of all driving fatalities in Alabama. Drunk driving has catastrophic results for everyone involved, that’s why strict laws are in place to prevent such occurrences.

DUI Law in Alabama
Name for Offense Driving under the influence (DUI)
BAC Limit0.08
High BAC Limit 0.15
Criminal Status1st to 3rd offenses are misdemeanors; 4th+ in 5 years is a class C felony
Look Back Period 5 years

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There are varying degrees of charges based on the number of offenses. Below, you’ll see the penalties for first time and consecutive offenses.

DUI - 1st Offense
License RevokedMandatory 90 days
Jail TimeUp to one year in a municipal or county jail (no time minimum)
Fine$500 to $2,000
+$100 for Impaired Drivers Trust Fund
Other Mandatory DUI school

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DUI - 2nd Offense
License Revoked1 year
Jail Time48 consecutive hours at least (up to 1 year) OR no less than 20 days of community service
Fine$1,000 to $5,000
+$100 for Impaired Drivers Trust Fund
Other NA

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DUI - 3rd Offense
License Revoked3 years
Jail Time60 days to 1 year in a municipal or county jail
Fine$2,000 to $10,000
+$100 for Impaired Drivers Trust Fund
Other NA

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DUI - 4th Offense
License Revoked5 years
Jail Time1 to 10 years
Fine$4,000 to $10,000
Other NA

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A 5th offense is treated the same as the 4th offense in Alabama. These laws may seem harsh, but in 2017, 268 people died in Alabama from alcohol-related accidents.

Please don’t drink and drive!

As for marijuana-impaired driving in the state of Alabama, there are no specific laws in place. This does NOT mean you can get away with using marijuana and driving.

Law enforcement can still charge you with impaired driving, even though there isn’t a specific law in Alabama against marijuana-impaired driving.

Distracted Driving Laws in Alabama

Below are Alabama’s laws about cellphone use while driving.

Below, are Alabama’s laws about cellphone uses while driving.

Laws on Cellphones while Driving in Alabama
Hand-held ban16-year-old drivers; 17-year-old drivers who have held an intermediate license for fewer than 6 months
Text ban All drivers
Enforcement Primary

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Alabama Can’t-Miss Facts

Now that you have a good understanding of the laws in Alabama, let’s jump into Alabama’s can’t-miss facts.

You now know the rules of the road, but do you know the risks of owning and operating a vehicle in Alabama?

It’s difficult to remember all of the risks associated when driving your favorite sports car, and really, who wants to? While insurance is important, it’s also crucial to know what to keep your eyes out for on the road.

We’ve laid out everything you need to know about the risk factors in Alabama, from vehicle theft to crash reports, so that you can be aware of what’s around you and get home safely.

Vehicle Theft in Alabama

The table below will let you know if your vehicle is on Alabama’s most-stolen list. If your car is stolen, a comprehensive coverage plan will usually cover your costs.

Top 10 Stolen Vehicles in Alabama

Vehicle Make and Model

Vehicle Year

Total Thefts
Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size)2005499
Ford Pickup (Full Size)2006357
Toyota Camry2014205
Nissan Altima2014191
Chevrolet Impala2004191
Honda Accord1998180
GMC Pickup (Full Size)1999152
Dodge Pickup (Full Size)1998138
Ford Mustang2002122
Ford Explorer2002119

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Ford has the most stolen vehicles of any brand. Where you live is also import. Below, the FBI’s data on the 10 worst cities for vehicle theft.

Top Ten Worst Cities in Alabama for Vehicle TheftTotal Thefts
Birmingham1,478
Huntsville703
Mobile681
Phenix City270
Prichard213
Bessemer209
Gadsden200
Decatur153
Tuscaloosa151
Dothan109

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If you live in Birmingham, you might want to keep a closer eye on your vehicle. Is your city not listed above? Keep reading to see if it makes the list for best cities with a lack of vehicle theft.

Top Ten Cities in Alabama with the LEAST Vehicle TheftTotal Thefts
Ashford0
Bridgeport0
Eclectic0
Greenville0
McIntosh0
Pine Hill0
Ragland0
Sulligent0
Thorsby0
Ardmore1

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These numbers are not typos — the average number of thefts in these cities is ZERO. (You should still probably lock up your vehicle!)

Alabama’s Crash Report

Although, vehicle thefts are significant, risky and harmful behavior when driving in Alabama is more alarming. In the years 2015-2017, there were 2881 traffic fatalities in the state of Alabama.

According to data collected by the NHTSA, three of Alabama’s cities made it onto the list of traffic fatalities by cities.

Fatality Rates by City 2016
CityTotal KilledPedestrians KilledPercent of Total Killed2016 City PopulationFatality Rate Per 100,000 Population
Birmingham441022.7212,15720.74
Montgomery27622.2200,02213.50
Mobile35925.7192,90418.14

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More fatal accidents happen on rural roads than in the city, due to less congestion and higher speed limits.

Alabama Traffic Fatalities by Road Type2008200920102011201220132014201520162017
Total9698488628958658538208501,083948
Rural608512527515510562544590803596
Urban359335327378351285274260280352
Unknown2182462000

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While road type plays a significant role in accidents, vehicle type is also important.

Alabama Traffic Deaths by Person Type
20132014201520162017
Passenger Car Occupants357337355416395
Light Pickup Truck Occupants 151150156169145
Light Utility Truck Occupants137116111166143
Van Occupants2015232427
Light Truck (Other) Occupants10391
Large Truck Occupants2515163520
Bus Occupants30100
Other/Unknown Occupants121510259
Motorcyclists80656711279
Pedestrians599698120119
Bicyclists and Other Cyclists 69937
Other/Unknown Non-occupants22143
State Total8538208501,083948

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But what type of accidents cause fatalities you may be wondering?


Alabama Fatalities by Crash Type

Crash Type
- (1) Single Vehicle512 508482639564
- (2) Involving a Large Truck109 8410114499
- (3) Involving Speeding253 237236329257
- (4) Involving a Rollover278 249269331290
- (5) Involving a Roadway Departure580 492540663605
- (6) Involving an Intersection (or Intersection Related)123125158208145
Total Fatalities (All Crashes)853 8208501083948

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Speeding is a major cause of accidents in Alabama, especially when you consider that speeding can also lead to leaving the roadway, another major cause of accidents. Up next, we’re going to look at the top-10 counties in Alabama where accidents involving fatalities occurred.

10 Counties in Alabama with the Most Traffic Fatalities
20132014201520162017
Jefferson County9277809083
Mobile County6576727775
Madison County3333244537
Tuscaloosa County2738415037
Baldwin County3827323726
Talladega County2715193026
Etowah County1315143125
Cullman County1419252524
Shelby County1620192624
Blount County13651723
Top 10 County Total377361368465380
State Total (Includes All Counties)8538208501,083948

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Speeding-Related Fatalities in Alabama

Because speeding is one of the major culprits of fatal accidents, the NHTSA reported on fatalities involving speeding by county.

County Name2013 Deaths2014 Deaths2015 Deaths2016 Deaths2017 Deaths
Autauga County41235
Baldwin County657107
Barbour County31013
Bibb County10040
Blount County33194
Bullock County51213
Butler County13425
Calhoun County41592
Chambers County51451
Cherokee County86341
Chilton County55953
Choctaw County13223
Clarke County25221
Clay County10120
Cleburne County31040
Coffee County14142
Colbert County445411
Conecuh County12324
Coosa County26062
Covington County07102
Crenshaw County00202
Cullman County7661210
Dale County33240
Dallas County13252
Dekalb County115599
Elmore County712994
Escambia County47726
Etowah County44186
Fayette County00103
Franklin County03212
Geneva County11401
Greene County52502
Hale County43022
Henry County02023
Houston County453103
Jackson County33484
Jefferson County2112172012
Lamar County10211
Lauderdale County42343
Lawrence County20054
Lee County23227
Limestone County5312143
Lowndes County34017
Macon County65182
Madison County1832149
Marengo County03041
Marion County41201
Marshall County34774
Mobile County1522161914
Monroe County10352
Montgomery County42262
Morgan County62325
Perry County12111
Pickens County30330
Pike County22114
Randolph County32111
Russell County14625
Shelby County52275
St. Clair County26624
Sumter County01333
Talladega County107101110
Tallapoosa County23171
Tuscaloosa County311131411
Walker County76447
Washington County12134
Wilcox County25312
Winston County20464

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Drunk Driving Fatalities in Alabama

Another major culprit in fatal accidents is drunk driving. Below are the number of fatal crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers by county.

County Name2013 Deaths2014 Deaths2015 Deaths2016 Deaths2017 Deaths
Autauga County61343
Baldwin County9101097
Barbour County22213
Bibb County20132
Blount County33144
Bullock County43441
Butler County12236
Calhoun County23563
Chambers County51371
Cherokee County40250
Chilton County54332
Choctaw County31144
Clarke County33211
Clay County10101
Cleburne County31130
Coffee County13284
Colbert County42228
Conecuh County04231
Coosa County04121
Covington County14014
Crenshaw County11131
Cullman County25788
Dale County94433
Dallas County58464
Dekalb County83387
Elmore County48593
Escambia County46635
Etowah County46434
Fayette County13002
Franklin County01100
Geneva County12403
Greene County22213
Hale County30033
Henry County00010
Houston County54191
Jackson County22334
Jefferson County2724212726
Lamar County20010
Lauderdale County35573
Lawrence County24123
Lee County23266
Limestone County54755
Lowndes County42125
Macon County54266
Madison County111051416
Marengo County26113
Marion County21101
Marshall County42365
Mobile County2324232321
Monroe County12312
Montgomery County12111185
Morgan County42534
Perry County10122
Pickens County42120
Pike County02724
Randolph County22021
Russell County16343
Shelby County27674
St. Clair County43154
Sumter County23314
Talladega County844118
Tallapoosa County21351
Tuscaloosa County71319108
Walker County56556
Washington County04211
Wilcox County44312
Winston County10103

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Cullman and Jefferson counties once again ranked in the top number of fatalities for both speeding and drunk driving fatalities.

Another sobering side of drunk driving is alcohol-impaired deaths among teenage drivers.

https://youtu.be/3LcKP2ko6LI

Teenage drivers often lack experience and adding alcohol into the mix often makes for a deadly concoction.

Drunk driving at any age is dangerous, but we want to draw focus onto the lives that are too often cut tragically short. The national average for underage drunk driving deaths is 1.2 per 100,000 population. This is one of the highest in the nation. Please don’t drink and drive.

Underage Drinking & Driving in Alabama (2016)
Number of Under 18 DWI Arrests:Total Per One Million People (DUI Under 18 Arrests):Rank:
2825.5348

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The good thing about these numbers is that Alabama ranks 48th in the U.S. This means Alabama has a LOW number of arrests compared to other states — meaning Alabama doesn’t have as many underage drunk drivers on its streets. Unfortunately, the underage drunk drivers who do drive contribute to one of the highest fatality rates in the U.S.

Involved in an accident in Alabama? Next up, we look at how long it takes for help to arrive after a crash.

EMS Response Time in Alabama

If you or someone you know is in an accident, you want help to arrive as FAST as possible.

Location of IncidentTime of Crash to EMS NotificationEMS Notification to EMS ArrivalEMS Arrival at Scene to Hospital ArrivalTime of Crash to Hospital ArrivalTotal Fatalities in Crashes
Rural9.45 min13.32 min35.28 min56.82 min715
Urban6.25 min6.83 min27.03 min39.50 min264

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As you can see from the table, help arrives faster if you live in an urban area.

Transportation in Alabama

When you drive down your neighborhood, do you ever take note of how many cars are sitting in your neighbors’ driveways? Usually, we can tell if someone is visiting by that extra car parked outside the house.

In Alabama, the average amount of cars owned is two.

Car Ownership in Alabama

 

Does it take you forever to get to work? Have you ever wondered how others’ commute times in Alabama are compared to yours? In Alabama, the average commute time is 23.9 minutes, which is less than the national average.

 

 

Up next, the most common methods of commuting in Alabama.

Commuter Transportation

 

Top Alabama Cities for Traffic Congestion

Good news! None of Alabama’s cities made it onto INRIX’s list of worst cities for traffic. While this doesn’t mean you won’t sit in traffic, at least you can feel better about the fact that other states have it way worse than Alabama.

According to the Business Council of Alabama, drivers in Birmingham spend 34 hours yearly in traffic, and drivers in Huntsville spend 23 hours yearly.

Now that you have read through this comprehensive guide, you are ready to hit the roads in Alabama! Start comparing car insurance today by entering your zip code below in our FREE online tool!

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

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