New Bern, NC, is a coastal gem with picturesque views, beautiful rivers, and a rich history. Living in this scenic area has plenty of benefits, but being near the coast also brings unique challenges—especially when it comes to car insurance. Coastal living means dealing with hurricanes, flooding, and other weather-related risks that can directly impact your vehicle and your insurance coverage.

In this article, we’ll explore how living near the coast affects your car insurance and what you can do to ensure you have the right coverage for these conditions.

1. Increased Risk of Hurricanes and Storms

One of the biggest challenges of living in a coastal town like New Bern is the increased risk of hurricanes and severe storms. These weather events can cause major damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles.

How Hurricanes and Storms Impact Your Car:

• Flooding: During a hurricane, heavy rainfall and storm surges can cause flooding in New Bern, submerging cars parked in driveways, streets, or parking lots.
• Wind Damage: High winds can blow debris, such as tree branches or outdoor furniture, into vehicles, causing dents, broken windows, or even total destruction.
• Falling Objects: Hurricanes can bring down trees, power lines, and other objects, which can land on or near your vehicle, causing serious damage.

Why You Need Comprehensive Coverage:

• Comprehensive Insurance: This type of insurance is crucial for coastal living, as it covers damage to your vehicle from events like flooding, windstorms, and falling objects—not just accidents.
• What It Covers: Comprehensive insurance typically covers repairs for water damage, shattered windows, and crushed roofs due to weather-related events.

Without comprehensive coverage, you could be left paying out of pocket for costly repairs after a storm.

2. Flood-Prone Areas and Water Damage

In a coastal town like New Bern, certain areas are more prone to flooding, especially during heavy rain or hurricanes. Floods can happen suddenly, and even a small amount of water can cause significant damage to your car.

How Flooding Affects Your Car:

• Engine Damage: If water gets into your car’s engine, it can cause severe mechanical issues, sometimes requiring a full engine replacement.
• Electrical Systems: Water can also damage your car’s electrical systems, including the battery, lights, and dashboard electronics.
• Interior Damage: Floodwaters can soak your car’s seats, carpeting, and interior panels, leading to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors.

Why You Need Comprehensive Insurance for Flood Damage:

• Flood Coverage: Comprehensive car insurance is the only way to ensure you’re protected from flood damage. Basic liability or collision insurance won’t cover this.

Because flooding is more common in coastal towns, it’s essential to have comprehensive coverage to guard against these risks.

3. Saltwater and Corrosion Risks

Another unique issue with coastal living is the exposure to saltwater. Salt from the ocean can travel through the air and mix with moisture, settling on your car’s surface. Over time, this can lead to rust and corrosion, which weakens your vehicle’s structure and causes long-term damage.

How Saltwater Affects Your Car:

• Rusting of Exterior: Salt can cause the metal parts of your car, like the body panels and undercarriage, to rust more quickly.
• Corrosion of Mechanical Parts: Salt can also corrode important mechanical components, such as the brake lines, fuel lines, and exhaust system.

Ways to Minimize Saltwater Damage:

• Regular Car Washes: Wash your car regularly to remove salt buildup, especially if you park near the coast.
• Rustproofing: Consider rustproofing your vehicle, which adds a protective coating to areas vulnerable to rust.
• Parking Indoors: Park your car in a garage or covered area to limit its exposure to salt air.

Why You Need Comprehensive Insurance:

• Long-Term Damage: While comprehensive insurance may not cover gradual rusting or corrosion, it will cover any sudden damage caused by mechanical failure related to rust or corrosion.

Taking care of your car with preventative measures is key, but having the right insurance can also protect you from unexpected issues caused by saltwater.

4. Higher Insurance Premiums Due to Coastal Risks

Because coastal living brings a higher risk of damage from hurricanes, storms, and flooding, insurance companies may charge higher premiums for those living near the coast. New Bern drivers may notice that their car insurance rates are higher compared to inland areas.

Factors That Can Raise Insurance Premiums:

• Risk of Weather-Related Damage: Insurance companies consider the likelihood of damage from storms, flooding, and saltwater when setting rates for coastal residents.
• Higher Claims Rates: Areas that experience frequent hurricanes or flooding often have more insurance claims, leading insurers to charge higher premiums to cover the increased risk.

How to Lower Your Insurance Premiums:

• Shop Around: Compare rates from different insurance companies to find the best deal.
• Bundling Discounts: If you have multiple types of insurance, such as homeowners or renters insurance, bundling them with the same company can lead to discounts.
• Safe Driving Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for safe driving records, installing anti-theft devices, or completing defensive driving courses.

While it’s true that living near the coast may raise your premiums, taking advantage of discounts and comparing options can help you find affordable coverage.

5. Tourist Traffic and Busy Roads

New Bern is a popular destination for tourists, thanks to its rich history, beautiful waterfront, and friendly atmosphere. With more tourists visiting the town, the roads can become busier, increasing the risk of accidents.

How Tourist Traffic Affects Drivers:

• Unfamiliar Drivers: Tourists may not be familiar with New Bern’s roads, which can lead to sudden stops, unexpected turns, or confusion at intersections.
• Heavier Traffic: During peak tourist seasons, roads may become congested, increasing the likelihood of fender benders or other minor accidents.

Why You Need Liability and Collision Coverage:

• Liability Insurance: North Carolina requires all drivers to have liability insurance, which covers costs if you’re responsible for an accident that injures someone or damages their property.
• Collision Insurance: Collision coverage helps pay for repairs to your car if you’re involved in an accident, regardless of who’s at fault.

Having liability and collision coverage is essential for protecting yourself and your finances when accidents happen, especially during the busy tourist season.

6. Parking Challenges Near the Waterfront

Living near the waterfront or downtown New Bern often means dealing with tight parking spaces or crowded lots. Parking-related accidents, like door dings or fender benders, can be more common in these areas.

Parking-Related Risks:

• Tight Parking Spaces: Limited parking near the water can lead to cramped spaces, increasing the risk of minor accidents like scraping another car or being hit while parked.
• Hit-and-Runs: Unfortunately, some drivers may accidentally hit your parked car and leave without taking responsibility.

Why You Need Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage:

• Hit-and-Run Protection: Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help pay for repairs if your car is damaged in a hit-and-run, where the driver responsible doesn’t have enough insurance or can’t be identified.

This type of coverage ensures you won’t be left paying for repairs when accidents happen in busy parking lots or tight spaces.

Protect Your Vehicle with Robinson & Stith Insurance

Coastal living in New Bern offers so much to enjoy, but it’s important to stay protected from the unique risks that come with it. Whether you’re concerned about hurricanes, flooding, or navigating busy tourist traffic, having the right car insurance can make all the difference. At Robinson & Stith Insurance, we understand the specific challenges of coastal living and are here to help you find the best coverage for your needs. Contact us today to get a personalized car insurance plan that keeps you and your vehicle safe, no matter what the coast throws your way.