Best Auto Insurance for Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles in 2024
Finding the best auto insurance for wheelchair-accessible vehicles can be an expensive venture, but our guide helps make the process easier. Geico, Progressive, and State Farm are our top three picks with rates starting at $40 a month. Read more to find the best car insurance for wheelchair accessible vehicles.
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Tim Bain
Licensed Insurance Agent
Tim Bain is a licensed insurance agent with 23 years of experience helping people protect their families and businesses with the best insurance coverage to meet their needs. His insurance expertise has been featured in several publications, including Investopedia and eFinancial. He also does digital marking and analysis for KPS/3, a communications and marking firm located in Nevada.
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UPDATED: Jun 7, 2024
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Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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.
UPDATED: Jun 7, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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19,116 reviews
Company Facts
Full Coverage for Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
19,116 reviews
13,128 reviews
Company Facts
Full Coverage for Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
13,128 reviews
17,757 reviews
Company Facts
Full Coverage for Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
17,757 reviews
Geico, Progressive, and State Farm are our top picks for the best insurance companies for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, with a competitive rate of $102/mo.
Geico stands out as the preferred option, offering a senior discount that results in affordable rates for eligible drivers.
Company | Rank | Adaptive Equipment Discount | A.M. Best | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | 5% - 8% | A++ | Senior Discounts | Geico | |
#2 | 4% - 7% | A+ | UBI Discount | Progressive | |
#3 | 6% - 12% | B | High-Risk Drivers | State Farm | |
#4 | 3% - 9% | A+ | Drivewise Programs | Allstate | |
#5 | 5% - 11% | A+ | Commercial Insurance | Nationwide | |
#6 | 4% - 10% | A | Great Add-ons | Farmers | |
#7 | 6% - 9% | A | Policy Options | Liberty Mutual | |
#8 | 3% - 7% | A | Customer Service | American Family | |
#9 | 4% - 8% | A++ | Unique Coverage | Travelers | |
#10 | 5% - 10% | A | Roadside Assistance | AAA |
Purchasing a brand new handicapped vehicle is approximately $80,000, and insurers employ different criteria to determine monthly auto insurance rates for wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
What should you take into account before you buy auto insurance for wheelchair-accessible vehicles? Enter your ZIP code above in our free tool to start seeing quotes today. Continue reading and consider the following ideas as you shop for affordable insurance quotes for your wheelchair-accessible car or van.
- Rates are based on level of risk and modifications
- Be transparent about your disability and any changes you’ve made to your car
- Most wheelchair-accessible vehicles have average insurance rates
#1 – Geico: Top Pick Overall
Pros
- Senior Discounts: Geico’s senior discounts may apply to wheelchair-accessible vehicles for senior policyholders. (Learn more by reading our Geico insurance review)
- Easy and Accessible Processes: Geico makes it easy to manage policies and claims by streamlining the process on their app.
- Always Reachable: The company provides 24/7 customer service, which can be helpful in case of emergencies.
Cons
- Limited Coverage with Minimum Coverage: Not all coverage options are available with a minimum coverage policy.
- Location-Based Discounts: The availability of discounts can vary based on location and individual circumstances.
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#2 – Progressive: Best for UBI Discount
Pros
- Safe Driver Discount: Progressive’s range of discounts, including safe driving, could be beneficial for wheelchair-accessible vehicle owners.
- UBI Discount: Their Name Your Price® tool allows customers to find a policy that fits their budget. Our complete Progressive review goes over this in more detail.
- Accessible App: Progressive’s user-friendly mobile app allows for managing policies and claims easily.
Cons
- Limits with Minimal Coverage: Minimum coverage may not include specialized coverage needed for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, like modifications and adaptive equipment.
- Pricing Variables: Rates can vary widely depending on different factors, which can affect the affordability of policies.
#3 – State Farm: Best for High-Risk Drivers
Pros
- Personalization: Local State Farm agents help personalize coverage to match individual needs, which you can read more about in our State Farm review.
- High-Risk Drivers: The Drive Safe & Save™ program could lead to discounts for safe driving habits tracked by the company.
- Customer Satisfaction: State Farm’s track record for customer care has been referenced in many customer reviews.
- Drive Safe & Save™: This program offers discounts for safe driving habits, which has the potential to lower overall costs for those who own accessible automobiles.
Cons
- Coverage Differences: Minimum coverage policies may not include coverage options related to wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
- Financial Rating Could be Better: In 2024, A.M. Best downgraded State Farm’s financial strength rating to a B, or fair. However, most other top providers have higher scores.
- Less Discounts: State Farm may not offer as many discounts specifically geared towards wheelchair-accessible vehicles compared to other insurers.
#4 – Allstate: Best for Drivewise Program
Pros
- Many Discount Options: Allstate offers a range of discounts, including ones for vehicle safety features and safe driving, which could benefit wheelchair-accessible vehicle owners.
- Drivewise Program: Their Drivewise® program offers potential savings for safe driving habits.
- Local Agents: Personalized service is offered through local Allstate agents (read more: Allstate Auto Insurance Company Review ).
Cons
- Limits Based on Coverage Type: Coverage options are based on plan type and are not available for all coverage plans.
- Location-Based Rates: Allstate’s rates depend on geographic location, meaning some areas are more expensive than others.
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#5 – Nationwide: Best for Peace of Mind
Pros
- Multitude of Discounts: Additional discounts are offered for vehicle safety features, which may apply to wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Peace of Mind: Strong financial stability provides policyholders with reassurance regarding their claims being paid out. - Convenient Communication: Claims and policies can be handled at any time on the Nationwide mobile app.
Cons
- Limited Coverage: Minimum Coverage may not be available for drivers with specific needs. Learn about Nationwide’s coverage in our Nationwide auto insurance review.
- Zip Code Based Pricing: Customers in certain regions end up paying higher monthly rates, according to customer reviews.
#6 – Farmers: Best for Local Support
Pros
- Competitive Rates: Farmers is known for their competitive pricing, benefiting those wanting to take advantage of lower rates (find out more in our review of Farmers car insurance).
- Great Add-ons: Farmers’ online tools and mobile app make it easy to manage policies and claims.
- Local Support: Policies are handled by local agents, who also help customize policies while they’re being created.
Cons
- Limits Under Minimum Coverage: Modifications or special equipment on wheelchair-accessible vehicles may not be eligible for minimum coverage insurance policies with Farmer’s Insurance.
- Diverse Range of Prices: Rates are based on many factors, like driving history, location, and vehicle. This may make minimum coverage insurance pricier for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
#7 – Liberty Mutual: Best for 24/7 Care
Pros
- Policy Options: Liberty Mutual offers a range of coverage options, allowing policyholders to customize based on their needs.
- Online Access: Liberty Mutual’s mobile app and website make it easy to access policy information. Find more details in our Liberty Mutual insurance review .
24/7 Care: The company provides 24/7 customer service, which can be helpful in emergencies.
Cons
- Less Discount Options: Liberty Mutual doesn’t have as many applicable discounts as their competitors.
- Higher Rates: Liberty Mutual offers competitive rates, but rates are also based on location, which can vary among potential customers.
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#8 – American Family: Best for Mobile App Access
Pros
- Wide-Range of Discounts: A variety of discounts are offered, including many that could benefit wheelchair-accessible vehicle owners.
- Mobile App Access: American Family’s mobile app makes managing claims a seamless process.
- Customer Service: The company provides personalized customer service with local agents who help customers customize their plans.
Cons
- Less Discounts Comparatively: Compared to other insurers, American Family offers less discounts that pertain to wheel-chair accessible vehicles.
- Higher Monthly Rates: Rates for minimum and full coverage vary based on the ZIP code of the policy holder (read more: AmFam Insurance Review).
#9 – Travelers: Best for Unique Coverage
Pros
- Variety of Discounts: Travelers offers a variety of discounts that may apply to wheelchair-accessible vehicles, such as vehicle safety features or affinity discounts.
- Unique Coverage: Clients can tailor their policies to meet their own unique needs. Learn more by reading our review of Travelers.
- Ease of Use: The company provides 24/7 customer service via their mobile app or website, providing convenience for their customers.
Cons:
- Inadequate Options: Minimum coverage insurance typically does not cover specialized modifications or adaptive equipment, impacting some with wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
- Lack of Discounts: Discounts related to wheelchair-accessible vehicles are not offered at the same rate with Travelers as they are with other companies.
#10 – AAA: Best for Roadside Assistance
Pros
- Various Discounts: A variety of discounts are offered by AAA, so wheelchair-accessible vehicle owners can pick based on personal preference.
Coverage Options: AAA allows policyholders to customize their plans. - Roadside Assistance: 24/7 customer service on the mobile app helps assist drivers during emergencies. Learn more about AAA roadside assistance in our review of AAA insurance.
Cons
- Less Discounts: AAA has less wheelchair specific discounts that are available.
- Membership Required: Individual circumstances can raise rates for policyholders, however all are required to be AAA members– an extra expense compared to other insurers.
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What to Look For When Buying Auto Insurance for Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles
As long as your impairment does not significantly impact your ability to drive safely, you can get auto insurance with a disability.
People who are physically disabled are equally protected by the law. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), insurance companies are not discriminating when deciding whether to provide coverage based on vehicle modifications, a severe impairment that raises your risk factor, or other circumstances that enhance your risk level.
To get the cheapest car insurance rates, you must be honest about your handicap and shop for quotes from multiple companies to see which can offer you the lowest rates.Schimri YoYo Licensed Agent & Financial Advisor
Keep in mind that you are still entirely responsible for driving safely and following all traffic laws, and your disability does not give you a pass from the law. Speak with insurers, ask questions, and compare rates. There’s no reason you can’t get the right insurance for accessible cars if you provide the right information about your disability.
Questions to Ask About Wheelchair-Accessible Auto Insurance
Here are some inquiries you might want to make as you shop around for quotes and compare auto insurance for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Asking these questions in advance can make it easier for you to compare and shop for the best disability car insurance coverage:
- What does the company regard as a vehicle modification?
- What are the average rates for a disabled motorist or a driver with a particular disability?
- How can I lower my insurance rates?
- Can I get a discount for my disability?
- Do you provide full coverage for any handicapped equipment I may have outside my car?
These queries will all help to clarify your policy options with various insurance companies. If the quotes you get are too expensive, you might want to look at other insurers in your area who offer car insurance for wheelchair adapted vehicles.
How to Get Auto Insurance for Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles
Follow these recommendations while searching for auto insurance on a wheelchair-accessible vehicle to get a better bargain and protect you on the road.
- Be Honest: Declare all modifications made to the van when applying for an insurance policy.
- Buy Equipment Coverage or Van Conversion Add-Ons: Make sure your insurance will cover any equipment for those with disabilities, including wheelchairs. If not, ask for insurance add-ons that cover equipment and conversions.
- Describe Your Disability: To ensure that there are no questions regarding your level of danger when driving, disclose your exact disability.
- Get All the Information: Don’t be afraid to ask too many questions. Having complete knowledge enables you to make the best possible choice for coverage and can help you properly compare various insurance options.
To find out whether an insurer can provide supplementary coverage for something not specifically protected by your primary policy, consider shopping with at least three different companies. Finding a workable alternative shouldn’t be too difficult because most of the big auto insurance providers also provide van conversion insurance.
Rules for Disability Vehicle Insurance
Auto insurance coverage for wheelchair-accessible cars and vans requires full transparency and disclosure between you and the insurance company. Insurance companies expect policyholders to be honest and open with them about anything that may impact insurance policy or rates.
Be sure to fully reveal all of your vehicle’s changes while looking into how to insure a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Your rates may be affected differently by various adjustments.
Other rules for disability car insurance are:
- Disclose All Modifications: Is your handicapped vehicle’s hand controls covered by insurance? Yes, as long as you tell your insurer about this alteration. Your insurance company must be informed of all alterations made to the vehicle, including amputee rings, pedal extenders, siren detectors, wheelchair ramps, and wheelchair-adjustable seats and seatbelts.
- Certified Modifications Only: It’s crucial that these modifications are correctly installed by a certified technician. It would be awful if you were in a car accident and later learned that your equipment wasn’t insured because it wasn’t installed properly.
- Ask About Equipment Coverage: Verify that your insurance policy covers any special equipment for the disabled, such as wheelchairs. Any equipment you bring with you, including wheelchairs that will be set up outside your car, needs to be protected.
Don’t be afraid to request more information about a policy if you have a wheelchair accessible car. When applying for insurance, it’s important to ask the necessary questions so that you can properly compare the various types of coverage and choose your policy.
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The Basics of Wheelchair Van Insurance
There is no denying that many disabled persons drive today thanks to cutting-edge technology that keeps improving. Although there are increasingly more options available, such as SUVs and pickup trucks, most wheelchair-accessible vehicles are minivans.
Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
---|---|---|
AAA | $50 | $133 |
Allstate | $87 | $225 |
American Family | $66 | $176 |
Farmers | $76 | $198 |
Geico | $50 | $132 |
Liberty Mutual | $91 | $234 |
Nationwide | $61 | $161 |
Progressive | $69 | $186 |
State Farm | $40 | $102 |
Travelers | $53 | $139 |
However, it’s a common misconception that car insurance for wheelchair vans is handled differently than auto insurance for other types of wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Whether you have a disability or not, accidents and claims history are what auto insurance companies look at most.
For instance, even if your auto insurance is unlikely to cover the cost of your vehicle’s initial modifications, it will still pay for conversion repair or replacement if the vehicle is totaled or harmed by a natural catastrophe if you carry the right policy.
Ultimately, the amount of collision insurance and comprehensive coverage you choose will determine the level of protection that wheelchair van insurance can offer. For example, if you don’t carry a comprehensive policy, it’s unlikely that circumstances other than accidents will be covered.
It is advisable to discuss your situation with the insurance company to determine exactly what kind of coverage is offered. Depending on where you live, you will have different options. So, it’s important to shop around with as many local companies as possible to get the best policy for a wheelchair van or another type of wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
The Bottom Line on Auto Insurance for Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles
You may pay higher rates for auto insurance if you have a disability that will influence your ability to drive or if you use a wheelchair. Keep in mind that your age, gender, location, marital status, credit score, and driving history all affect how much you pay for auto insurance on wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Ask about any discounts you may qualify for if your rates are too high. Numerous auto insurance discounts are typically available from companies, which can greatly reduce your auto insurance price.
Look around for the best deals on auto insurance until you find the plan that best suits your needs and protects your interests. One of the easiest ways to make sure you don’t overpay for auto insurance is to compare quotes online. Enter your ZIP code below to see rates and policy options from multiple companies in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vehicle accessibility?
Accessible vehicles are modified to assist those with disabilities, such as wheelchair ramps and docks and hand controls. Adapted vehicles can be crucial to those with disabilities who rely on themselves for transportation.
What’s the difference between handicap-accessible and wheelchair-accessible vehicles?
Handicap accessible cars do not automatically refer to cars you can drive in a wheelchair. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles will come with ramps and locking docks specifically designed for wheelchairs, while handicap-accessible cars may or may not have these features.
Does Medicare cover wheelchair-accessible vehicles?
Coverage will vary by state, but typically, handicap accessible vehicles are not eligible for Medicare coverage. However, SSI recipients on Medicare may be able to find coverage for modifications if declared medically necessary by a medical professional.
Does Medicare cover handicap vans?
Medicare often does not cover the cost of vans. To qualify, a doctor must prescribe the modifications. Medicare coverage can vary based on individual circumstances and specific plans. We recommend checking with Medicare or a healthcare provider for more information regarding obtaining an accessible car.
Is auto insurance for disabled drivers free?
There are several programs to assist low-income families in paying for low-income auto insurance, even if it’s unlikely that you’ll discover free disability auto insurance. Some organizations can also provide disabled drivers and passengers with a wheelchair van as a donation. It’s recommended to look into other discount options and usage-based auto insurance. Make sure to type your ZIP code into our free tool below to look into your options.
Will auto insurance pay for hand controls?
As long as you tell your insurance company in advance, they are protected. However, it depends on your particular circumstances, including where you live and your insurance company. For additional information, contact the insurance office in your area.
What makes a car wheelchair accessible?
A wheelchair-accessible vehicle will be modified with ramps, docking locks, and more to safely secure the wheelchair for passengers or the driver.
Is auto insurance for wheelchair-accessible vehicles the same as standard policies?
Insurance policies for cars that are wheelchair accessible can differ from standard car insurance policies. Coverage for wheelchair-accessible vehicles needs to take into account their unique modifications and features. It’s important to inform the insurance provider about the specific details of the vehicle to ensure proper coverage. Some insurers who offer specialized coverage options may also offer discounts for disabled drivers to cover modifications and assistive devices.
Are there any specialized providers of auto insurance for wheelchair-accessible vehicles?
While there are no specific insurance providers exclusively for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, many regular auto insurance companies are experienced in insuring these vehicles. It’s recommended to research and compare insurance providers, considering their expertise in handling wheelchair-accessible vehicle coverage and their understanding of the unique needs of the policyholder.
Does insurance cover wheelchair ramps?
Why are wheelchair-accessible vehicles so expensive?
Modified vehicles are always more expensive to insure due to the higher price of repairs and replacement parts. This may result in a higher-than-average bill for auto insurance on a vehicle that can accommodate wheelchairs. Make sure you have the appropriate coverage if you need disability auto insurance, and compare quotes from the best auto insurance companies for modified cars if you’ve made changes to your vehicle to make it wheelchair accessible.
How many people drive wheelchair-accessible vehicles?
Driving is a habit for 60.4% of persons with impairments, compared to the 91.7% of drivers without disabilities. Those with disabilities who are working are three times more likely to live without a car. Additionally, even if a vehicle is present in their household, they are less likely to drive it.
What is the best wheelchair-accessible SUV?
The modified Chevy Traverse is one of the most popular models because its ramp is bigger than other SUVs (read more: Chevrolet Traverse Auto Insurance). The Chevy Suburban, GM Yukon XL, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Cadillac Escalade ESV are also popular wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Is a handicap accessible SUV better than a wheelchair accessible van?
Vans and SUVs both come with high safety ratings that can keep car insurance rates low, but auto insurance for wheelchair-accessible vans will cost slightly less than SUV insurance. The best cars for wheelchair users will depend on lifestyle needs, personal preferences, budget, and connivence.
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Tim Bain
Licensed Insurance Agent
Tim Bain is a licensed insurance agent with 23 years of experience helping people protect their families and businesses with the best insurance coverage to meet their needs. His insurance expertise has been featured in several publications, including Investopedia and eFinancial. He also does digital marking and analysis for KPS/3, a communications and marking firm located in Nevada.
Licensed Insurance Agent
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.