Find the Best Car Insurance Companies in Buffalo, NY

Why Buffalo residents need car insurance

New York State requires all drivers to carry auto insurance that covers injuries and property damage. With Buffalo’s population rising for the first time in many years, the roads will become more crowded and accidents may become more common. Ice and snow on the roads during Buffalo winters also cause both major crashes and minor fender benders. Be prepared with auto insurance.

Buffalo car insurance costs

The average cost for auto insurance in Buffalo is about $1,700 a year. The neighborhood or suburb where you live affects how much you pay for car insurance. Insurance companies use local data on theft and vandalism in the area, along with other statistics, to determine premiums.

The make, model and year of the car, plus the driver’s age, gender, driving record and number of years they’ve been licensed to drive also affect the price of car insurance. Auto insurance prices also depend on the buyer’s claims history, whether they’ve been covered continuously and whether they’re married or single. Higher coverage limits and lower deductibles result in increased premiums. Added features like collision coverage, comprehensive coverage and roadside assistance also raise the price of insurance premiums.

Driving in Buffalo

Car insurance is a necessity in Buffalo not only because it’s legally required, but also because it protects you financially in case of an accident. Dangerous winter road conditions and the accidents that result from ice and snow make it imperative to have auto insurance in Buffalo.

Crashes in Buffalo

There were 22,395 car crashes in Erie County in 2018, according to the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research. Over 3 in 10 crashes involved an injury or death, and about 70% led to property damage. Given the number of car accidents and injuries in the state, it’s important for Buffalo residents to have good auto insurance coverage.

Road conditions in Buffalo

Buffalo often gets over 100 inches of snow per year — making it one of the snowiest cities in the state and country. Ice and snow render road conditions extremely difficult during the winter, making crashes much more likely in Buffalo. Potholes also form when ice and snow damage road surfaces. Good car insurance covers vehicle damage from hazardous roads and accidents.

Vehicle theft in Buffalo

Buffalo saw 684 motor vehicle thefts in 2018, according to data from the City of Buffalo. The D’Youville College area has one of the city’s highest crime rates, along with Old First Ward and Larkinville. The Leroy neighborhood also has a higher crime rate than surrounding areas. Buffalo residents in all areas need car insurance policies that cover theft.

What is the minimum auto insurance coverage in Buffalo?

New York State requires drivers to carry a minimum of $25,000 liability coverage for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury to more than one person and $10,000 for property damage in any one accident. They must also carry no-fault insurance in the amount of at least $50,000 and uninsured motorists coverage. Buffalo residents who drive without the minimum amount of insurance can have their driver's license and registration revoked and be fined.

Buffalo car insurance FAQ

How much is car insurance in Buffalo?

The average price for car insurance in Buffalo is approximately $1,700 a year. Insurers use factors like age, driving history and gender to calculate the cost of car insurance in Buffalo.

What is liability insurance for cars?

Liability insurance for cars covers bodily injury and property damage when you cause an accident. This type of insurance covers your financial responsibility (up to the limit provided by your policy). It is required by law in New York.

How can I get car insurance in Buffalo?

Shop for and purchase car insurance online or by phone. Another option is to visit the office of an insurance agent or broker in Buffalo.

What is recommended for car insurance coverage in Buffalo?

New York State requires drivers to carry a minimum of $25,000 liability for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for injury to two or more people and $10,000 for property damage. It is recommended to upgrade to higher levels of coverage, like $50K/$100K/$50K, because many accidents incur damages that exceed the minimum levels. You are also required to carry no-fault coverage of at least $50,000 and uninsured motorists coverage for bodily injury.

How can I save on car insurance?

New York state has a mandatory car insurance discount for drivers who enroll in an approved defensive driving course. You also get discounts for having daytime running lamps, automatic seat belts or anti-lock brakes. Insurance providers also offer discounts for things like being accident-free or bundling auto insurance with homeowners insurance. Check company websites and shop around for savings that fit your situation.