Can NC Insurers Use Credit Scores and ZIP Codes to Set Rates?

Illustration of a man holding a tablet and pointing at a TV news report about banning credit scores and ZIP codes in insurance pricing

Yes. North Carolina law lets insurers use credit-based insurance scores in auto and home pricing, and NC auto rates are built on ZIP-code territories. Georgia’s incoming commissioner wants to ban credit scores and ZIP codes there. A ban would shift cost between drivers rather than erase the underlying risk.

What Is the NC Safe Driver Incentive Plan?

Worried driver with a renewal notice and a bearded ALLCHOICE advisor: what is the NC Safe Driver Incentive Plan?

The North Carolina Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP) is a state-set system that adds insurance points for at-fault accidents and moving violations, then adds a set surcharge percentage to your premium based on the points. One point means a 40% increase; an impaired-driving conviction means 340%. Surcharges generally last three policy years, or five for many serious convictions.

Uninsured vs. Underinsured Motorist Coverage in NC

Two cars at a North Carolina intersection after a collision

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage pays when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage pays when their insurance is too low for your injuries. In North Carolina, policies issued or renewed since July 1, 2025 include both, and UIM is no longer reduced by the other driver’s limits.

Does Car Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer in NC?

Driver’s view through the windshield of a deer crossing a North Carolina road at dusk

Usually. Car insurance covers hitting a deer in North Carolina if you carry comprehensive coverage, minus your deductible. Liability-only policies won’t pay for your own car. If you swerve and hit something else instead, that’s typically a collision claim, so check your policy for both coverages.

What Is Contributory Negligence in North Carolina?

Two cars after a minor parking-lot collision in North Carolina

Contributory negligence means that in North Carolina, being even slightly at fault for a crash can bar you from recovering anything from the other driver. A few exceptions exist, but they are hard to prove. Your own collision or MedPay coverage, if you carry it, may be what gets you paid.

How To Get Auto Insurance

How To Get Auto Insurance To get auto insurance, start by understanding your needs and state requirements, then compare quotes from multiple insurers, considering factors like coverage options, premiums, discounts, and the insurer’s customer service reputation. Choose the policy that offers the best value for your specific circumstances. Seeking guidance on how to get auto […]

Do I Need Auto Insurance?

ALLCHOICE Insurance Blog Auto Do I Need Auto Insurance

Do I Need Auto Insurance? Yes, you need auto insurance not just because it’s legally mandated in most states but also as a crucial measure of financial protection against potential losses and liabilities arising from vehicle use and ownership. Auto insurance is more than just a legal requirement—it’s a critical financial safeguard. For anyone wondering, […]

How Much Is Auto Insurance?

ALLCHOICE Insurance Blog Auto How Much Is Auto Insurance

How Much Is Auto Insurance? The cost of auto insurance in North Carolina depends on a variety of factors. The average cost for “Full Coverage” auto insurance is $1,446 Per Year ($121 Per Month).  The average cost for liability-only (state minimum) coverage has a significantly lower premium of $432 Per Year ($36 Per Month).  However, […]

What Is Auto Insurance?

ALLCHOICE Insurance Blog Auto What Is Auto Insurance

What Is Auto Insurance? Auto insurance is a contractual agreement between you and an insurance company, where you pay premiums and, in return, receive financial protection against losses from vehicle-related incidents. This coverage is crucial not only for complying with legal requirements but also for mitigating the financial impact of unexpected events like accidents or […]

What Is Full Coverage Auto Insurance?

ALLCHOICE Insurance Blog Auto What Is Full Coverage Auto Insurance

Return To: Auto Insurance – The Ultimate Guide Full coverage auto insurance is the financial protection you need to pay for your car. When you get into accidents that injure other drivers or damage people’s properties, you need financial assistance to cover the expenses. This type of auto insurance combines individual liability policies with comprehensive […]