What You Should Know About Car Insurance in Tucson, AZ

The Hohokam people thrived in Tucson from AD 450-1450 with the help of the irrigation canals they constructed. Researchers have surmised — to explain their disappearance from the archaeological record — that, at some point, drought and flooding destroyed their ability to provide water to their crops. Over time, a number of explorers visited the area, from a group of Spanish explorers known as the Coronado Expedition to Father Kino, who found Pima Indians inhabiting an area today known as the Mission Garden. The United States bought Arizona from Mexico in 1885 as part of the Gadsden Purchase, and Arizona became a state in 1912. Tucson was incorporated as a city in 1877. Modern-day Tucson covers 238 square miles.

This city is a sun-lover’s paradise, and with the area’s large number of parks, you have your choice of places where you can hike, bike, rock climb, camp, or even explore caves, such as at the nearby Colossal Cave Mountain Park. Learn about the area by visiting one of the local museums, like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a mix of art gallery, botanical garden, natural history museum, zoo, and aquarium. You can also take in the local natural plant life at the Tucson Botanical Gardens.

Before you head out for your excursion, be sure you have the best car insurance in Arizona to protect you. Expert agents will help you find customized insurance plans and cost savings to meet your specific needs, so you can get back to doing what you love.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Tucson, Arizona?

On average, Arizona drivers pay about $587 a year for minimum liability and $1,810 for full coverage auto insurance premiums. This total is less than the national average of $622 for liability and $2,014 for full coverage. Keep in mind that rates may vary depending on a number of factors that differ from person to person, so you may pay a little less or more than these numbers.

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Why Is Insurance So Cheap in Arizona?

In 2023, Arizona had 2,239,177 registered drivers (as a comparison, California had 13,189,308) and ranked 14th out of the 50 states for the number of drivers. This means there is a moderate number of cars on the road, posing a risk of traffic accidents. Property crimes have also fallen in recent years, with statistics showing a 20-year low.

The risk of costly natural disasters is relatively low in Arizona compared to other states. Over a 44-year period (between 1980 and 2024), the state experienced 34 such events, including 16 droughts, three floods, one severe storm, and 14 wildfires. This means low risk for roadways — and your car — to be affected by such calamities.

Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Arizona

One factor that helps determine your insurance rate is your zip code due to variations in traffic and accident statistics. The chart below shows cost comparisons between Tucson and some other Arizona cities:

City Full Coverage Insurance Liability Insurance Coverage
Tucson $140 $43
Phoenix $176 $56
Bullhead City $111 $34
Flagstaff $118 $34
Glendale $170 $54

How Bundling Your Car and Homeowners Insurance Can Save You Money in Tucson

If you are in the market for another type of coverage, like homeowners insurance, along with your auto policy, ask your insurance agent about bundling your policies. Buying both from one company — known as bundling — can save you up to 25% off your bill. Plus, it saves you the hassle of dealing with multiple sets of paperwork and having to pay two bills.

Your InsureOne agent is ready to help you with top-tier service by doing all the work to find you the best plans for auto, homeowners, or any kind of coverage to fit your unique requirements.

What Types of Car Insurance Discounts Are Available in Tucson?

After you discuss bundling, ask your agent about other ways to save. There are a number of discounts from which you may benefit. Here are some examples:

  • Military
  • Loyalty (sticking with your insurer)
  • Anti-theft
  • Green/hybrid vehicle
  • Clean driving record
  • Good student
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Notable Car Insurance Laws in Tucson

Drivers must purchase auto insurance to operate their motor vehicles in the state. It is the law.

The Grand Canyon state also has some driving laws, including:

  • Drivers must stay to the right except in certain circumstances (see ARS 28-721 for details).
  • Drivers may not cut through a parking lot to bypass road signals.
  • Drivers must follow “flooded roadway” warning signs. If you fail to do so and need rescuing, you may be liable for rescue costs.
  • Drivers may not hang anything from the rearview mirror, windshield, or side or rear windows that may obstruct visibility. There are exceptions, such as emissions inspection stickers.

What Are the Mandatory Car Insurance Requirements in Tucson?

Arizona’s minimum car insurance coverage requirements are as follows:

  • Bodily injury liability for one person: $25,000
  • Bodily injury liability per accident: $50,000
  • Property damage liability: $15,000

You may want to up your coverage limits, though, to protect yourself from paying out of pocket in a serious accident where these minimums are insufficient. Your insurance agent can help you determine the right amount of coverage for you.

What Is the Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Tucson?

It is against the law to drive uninsured in Tucson or anywhere else in Arizona.

But you might be wondering, What if I let my car insurance lapse? Even if you skip your payment for a month or two, if a police officer catches you driving uninsured, you may be subject to the following:

  • Fines of up to $1,000
  • Suspended driver’s license
  • Suspended vehicle registration
  • Impounded vehicle
  • Potential legal trouble in the case of an auto accident

You will also likely pay higher rates when you do buy your coverage, and you may be required to have your insurer file a certificate of insurance (also called an SR-22) with the state on your behalf, proving you have insurance.

What Factors Go into My Car Insurance Cost in Tucson?

Besides your zip code’s crime and accident rates, insurers review the following details when figuring out your insurance cost:

  • Your age (and number of years you have been driving)
  • Vehicle make, model, and age
  • Claims history
  • Credit rating
  • Car safety features
  • Anticipated mileage

Typical Driving Conditions in Tucson

Many of Tucson’s side streets show cracking with some minor potholes, while busier roads have patched cracks. Street signs are easy to see, and medians separate opposing traffic in some areas, aiding in the safety of drivers.

High temperatures may cause impatient motor vehicle operators. Tucson’s Complete Streets program aims to reduce air pollution and make streets safer for pedestrians and bicyclists by maintaining sidewalks, enhancing crosswalks, and planting shade trees, all of which also benefit drivers.

The area experiences occasional flash floods, resulting in hazardous road conditions, with certain areas, such as Overton Road at CDO Wash and the intersection of Tanque Verde Creek and Wentworth, being more prone to this during heavy rains.

How Many Car Accidents Happen in Tucson Per Year?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Arizona had 1,195 fatal accidents in 2023. In the chart below, you can find the number of fatal car accidents in Tucson and a handful of other Arizona cities:

City Annual Average Number of Fatal Car Crashes
Tucson 138
Phoenix 299
Bullhead City 12
Flagstaff 17
Glendale 44

How Many Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists Are in Tucson?

In 2023, just over 10% of the state’s drivers lacked insurance. This may not sound like a lot, but that percentage means about one in every 10 drivers. Ask your agent about uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage — it is a little extra protection you can add to your existing policy to protect you from costs incurred by an encounter with one of these drivers.

University of Arizona main campus aerial view including University Mall and Old Main Building in city of Tucson, Arizona AZ, USA.

Get Covered by the Best Car Insurance in Tucson, Arizona, Today

Life is far from boring in Tucson. When you are looking for something to do, try your hand at golfing or take in a hot air balloon ride. Whatever activity you decide on, get there with peace of mind knowing you are protected on your drive by having first-rate auto coverage at competitive prices.

You will find this at InsureOne, where our expert agents provide concierge service to find you the personalized plans for the high-quality insurance you deserve. Think of us as a one-stop shop offering white-glove service. It is easy to start — you can get an online quote, visit us at your local Arizona office, or call us at (800) 836-2240 for a quote.