Many hybrid car drivers choose greener cars over a gasoline-powered car for lifestyle reasons rather than economics. Driver should however, keep in mind that choosing one of the hybrid vehicles could have an impact on car insurance quotes. The cost of insuring a hybrid car is generally higher than that of insuring a gasoline-fueled car. This is according to a study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the year 2008. However, in most cases, the difference was small. A key reason noted for the difference in question is the fact that the cost of repairing and replacing a hybrid vehicle is higher than that of conventional gasoline-powered cars.

The national Highway Traffic Safety Administration conducted a study in 2009, whose findings indicated that hybrid cars had a high likelihood of getting into accidents that involve pedestrians and bicycles. This is presumably because such cars are quieter in comparison to other conventional vehicles. Furthermore, hybrid cars are smaller in size and for this reason, the damage resulting from accidents tend to be extensive and therefore have a high cost of repair. These and several other factors influence the amount of money that drivers need to pay for insurance of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Availability of discounts is another aspect to take note of when it comes to insurance of electric and hybrid cars. Lower rates are usually given by a few auto insurance giants to green car drivers. For instance, hybrid and other alternative-fuel cars are given a 10% discount by Travelers and Farmers. Additionally, other common discounts such as multicar and good driver are also given. It is however, essential to take note of the fact that only a few states offer Farmers discount. Safety matters also play a role in insurance costs. Although electric and hybrid vehicles have a tendency of getting into more pedestrian accidents, such accidents occur at minimal speeds. A new study has shown that hybrid car models are safer compared to conventional car models. This is because hybrid and electric cars are heavier. The safer the vehicle, the lower the vehicle’s insurance quote.

It all boils down to the fact that electric and hybrid vehicles are an excellent way of minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and saving money on gasoline. However, the high costs of repairing them, as well as some safety issues may slightly increase the cost of insuring such cars. There are several advantages of choosing an electric or hybrid vehicle over conventional gasoline cars. Drivers should just remember to consider the insurance costs.