Can Red Cars Raise Your Premium? Separating Fact from Fiction
Can Red Cars Raise Your Premium? Separating Fact from Fiction
When shopping for a new car, many drivers worry about more than just make, model, and mileage — they also worry about color. One persistent belief is that red cars are magnets for higher insurance premiums. But is there any truth to this colorful claim, or is it just another automotive urban legend?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of the red car myth, explain how auto insurance companies actually calculate rates, and debunk some popular misconceptions — especially for drivers in California.
The Origin of the Red Car Myth
The idea that red cars are more expensive to insure likely stems from their eye-catching appearance. Red is often associated with speed, danger, and even aggression — qualities that might imply a higher risk on the road. Over the years, these assumptions have snowballed into a widely accepted myth: if you drive a red car, your insurance will be higher.
But here's the truth — insurance companies don’t care what color your car is.
What Factors Really Affect Your Auto Insurance Rate?
Insurance providers use a wide range of data points to determine your premium. None of them include the color of your car. Here are the major factors that actually influence your auto insurance rate:
- Vehicle Make and Model: High-performance sports cars generally have higher rates than sedans.
- Driver’s Age and Gender: Younger and male drivers statistically file more claims.
- Driving Record: Past accidents, tickets, and violations play a huge role.
- Location: Urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco often see higher rates due to traffic and theft.
- Mileage: The more you drive, the higher your chances of an accident.
- Credit History: In most states, including California (with some exceptions), your credit can impact your premium.
Color? Nowhere on the list.
Special Considerations in California
California has unique regulations when it comes to auto insurance underwriting. For example, California law prohibits insurers from using credit scores as a factor. The state emphasizes fairness in rate-setting, focusing more on driving history, miles driven annually, and years of experience.
This means that whether you’re cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway in a cherry-red convertible or a beige SUV, your car's paint job won’t affect your insurance costs.
Why the Myth Persists
So why does the myth stick around? Possibly because:
- Red cars stand out, making them seem more frequently pulled over by police.
- Sports cars are often red, and it’s the performance specs — not the hue — that raise rates.
- Confirmation bias: If someone believes red cars get more tickets or higher premiums, they’re more likely to notice examples that confirm their belief.
Conclusion: Don't Let Color Cloud Your Judgment
The next time someone warns you about buying a red car because “you’ll pay more for insurance,” you can confidently separate fact from fiction. Car color does not impact your insurance premium — in California or anywhere else.
Instead, focus on maintaining a clean driving record, comparing quotes, and understanding the real factors insurers consider. After all, you should pick your car color based on personal preference — not financial fear.
So go ahead — paint the town red (or drive it)!
Have questions about your auto insurance? Contact a licensed agent to get personalized advice for your situation.
