If you’re sending your child to college soon with a car, it's a good idea to review your current insurance policy to make sure it provides the protection they’ll need, whether living on campus or commuting.

Think about where the car will be parked. If it’s going to be parked outside in a school lot, you may wish to consider comprehensive coverage. It may help to replace the car if it's stolen or repair it if it's damaged by things like hail or vandalism.

Collision coverage may be a good idea if commuting to and from school. It may help pay to repair your car if it's damaged in an accident.

If you're leasing or financing the car, collision and comprehensive coverage are usually required by your lender. However, if the car has been fully paid, you may be able to drop one or both coverages from your car insurance policy to help save on premiums. Just remember, your policy won't pay to repair your vehicle.

Should your college student have their own auto insurance policy?

It depends on where they live and who owns the car.

Where will they be living?

If your parent's address is still considered your permanent address while you're attending college, you may be able to keep the vehicle you drive on their car insurance policy. If you're living on campus or renting an apartment temporarily during the school year, check with your agent to see if you can stay on your parent’s policy or if you'll need your own.

Whose name is on the car title?

Who owns the car is another consideration. If the car is titled in your parent's name and you're taking it to school with you, you may be able to stay on the family car insurance policy. However, if your name is on the title, you'll likely need to buy your own car insurance policy in your name.

College is expensive enough, but many insurance companies offer discounts to college students.

Resident student discount - If the car you typically drive is titled in your mom or dad's name and you're leaving it at their house while you live on campus, you may be able to save them a few extra dollars. If your college is at least 100 miles away from home, your parents may qualify for the "resident student" discount because you won't be driving the family car as frequently now that you're away at school.

Good grade discount - Good grade benefits on your car insurance policy don't stop when you graduate high school. Most insurance companies offer a good student discount for unmarried, full-time students up to age 25. Ask your agent whether you qualify for a discount on your car insurance bill if you continue to get good grades in your higher education studies.

Multiple policy discount - College students who are renting an apartment and have their own auto insurance policy may qualify for a discount for bundling their car insurance and renter’s insurance policies. Many insurers offer savings for customers who have multiple policies with the company.

Anti-theft device discount - It's a good idea to research local crime statistics before taking up temporary residence. This may help you select an apartment in a safer neighborhood and help you prepare for life in your new surroundings. If you're going away to college and bringing your car, it may be a good time to purchase an anti-theft device for your vehicle. Doing so may cut back on the likelihood of your stuff being stolen and also land you a discount on your car insurance.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all car insurance recommendation for college students. Each student has his or her own individual needs, which in turn may affect the amount of coverage needed and the dollar amount of the premium.

To create a policy that fits your needs, call CFC Insurance today at 309.243.1010 to discuss your insurance needs or request a free quote!