Canceling your auto policy (and what to consider first)

A quick legal reminder: car insurance is usually required

In almost all states, drivers are legally required to maintain a car insurance policy. Penalties for driving uninsured include steep fines and the loss of driving privileges. So if you still plan on driving after you cancel your policy, make sure you're covered elsewhere before you get behind the wheel.

The importance of liability protection

Accidents happen, which is why you have car insurance in the first place. On top of the legal requirements, liability insurance offers financial protection in case you're found at fault in an accident. Imagine a fender bender with a shiny new Lexus that causes whiplash for the Lexus' passengers — post-accident expenses add up in a hurry.

Moral of the story is, if you plan on going without car insurance, make sure you're really, really not planning on driving.

When you might consider canceling your car insurance

There are a few common reasons why drivers think they should drop their auto policy. We want to help you avoid unforeseen trouble with this sort of transition and — in some cases — show you why you might not need to halt your coverage at all.

You're moving to a new state

You might be heading to a state where Esurance doesn't currently operate, meaning you'll need to switch to a new provider.

But that doesn't mean we're going to leave you high and dry. Give our customer service reps a call at 1-800-ESURANCE (1-800-378-7262). They can recommend one of our many trusted partners to pick up where we leave off.

You're not driving

Maybe you're spending a year abroad or you're moving to an apartment in the city where owning a car isn't easy. If that's the case, you could be tempted to drop your auto coverage temporarily.

This might save you money initially, but probably not in the long run. Because your prior insurance history is a factor that impacts your premium, a gap in coverage can lead to higher premiums when you do decide to drive again. And the longer the gap in coverage, the more it can affect your car insurance rate in the future.

You're selling a car

If you're selling a vehicle and don't plan on driving in the near future, don't cancel your policy until the ride is officially out of your possession (i.e., you no longer own the title).

You're switching to a new insurer

If you're moving on to another insurer, we can help you make a smooth transition and ensure you don't have a gap in coverage.

How to cancel your auto policy

We work every day to make all your car insurance activities as convenient as possible — even cancellation. We understand that sometimes it's not possible to maintain your coverage. If that's the case, just give us a ring at 1-800-ESURANCE (1-800-378-7262). Our team will give you all the guidance you need.