A hybrid vehicle is one that uses more than one source of fuel to operate it. This type of car – such as one with a gas engine and battery system – may be a more valuable vehicle. It is also a bit harder and more expensive to repair. For this reason, you need car insurance representative of the value and the cost to repair it. Before you buy a hybrid vehicle, there are a few key things you should know about them. Here’s where to start.

Protect the Value of the Car

The first step in purchasing auto insurance for a hybrid vehicle is to know the worth of it. If you have a loan, you may wish to buy gap insurance to cover any difference between the value and the amount owed. Your insurer can help give you an estimate of the vehicle’s value. Several things are important to consider here about this value:

• Hybrid cars may cost more to insure because finding repair technicians or parts for them can be hard to do.
• If your vehicle has any type of added feature or valuable system on it, be sure the policy represents this, too.
• Talk to your insurer about how frequently you use the vehicle. If you do not drive it often, you may be able to lower your coverage.

Consider Liability Concerns

Almost every auto insurance policy needs liability insurance. Like most cars, there is a risk of doing damage to another person’s vehicle or property. Proper general liability insurance is important here.

Hybrid vehicles are not necessarily driven faster. They are also generally not a higher risk car. But, your insurer can offer more guidance on how much liability insurance is best for it. Simply based on the value attached to your operations, you might need more coverage.

Other Considerations

Most vehicles benefit from other types of insurance protection. This may include:

• Comprehensive car insurance to protect against theft, vandalism, storm damage, and fires. It protects the value of your car from unexpected and unpreventable incidents.
• Collision insurance cuts the financial loss you suffer when your car collides with an object (like another vehicle). It covers the damage to your car.
• Medical payments may help cover some of the medical costs that you or your passengers suffer.

Work with your auto insurance agent to determine the right policy for your specific needs. As a valuable vehicle, it is important to have ample coverage to protect your hybrid.