For a quick quote, you can contact our quote department directly at (504) 441-RATE (7283) or complete the Online Quote Request form

Owning an antique or classic vehicle is about more than getting from point A to point B. It’s about preserving history, reliving memories, and, in many cases, investing in something that holds both sentimental and financial value. Whether it’s a perfectly restored muscle car from the 60s, a vintage truck passed down through the family, or a head-turning convertible spotted at a local car show, these vehicles deserve more than just a standard insurance policy.

That’s where antique vehicle coverage comes in—a specialized form of protection designed to safeguard classics, collectibles, and restored rides in ways that regular auto policies simply don’t.

What Makes Antique Vehicle Insurance Different?

Antique vehicles aren’t daily drivers. Most owners take them out for special occasions, car shows, or weekend cruises. Because of that, they don’t fit the mold of regular auto insurance. Antique vehicle coverage accounts for the unique risks and realities of owning a classic:

Agreed Value Coverage: Unlike standard cars that depreciate over time, antique vehicles can hold or even increase in value. With an agreed value policy, the insurance reflects what the car is actually worth—not what a book says.

Limited Usage: Policies often account for the fact that antique cars aren’t driven daily, which can result in lower premiums.

Specialized Repairs: Restoring or repairing a classic isn’t the same as fixing a modern sedan. Coverage often includes access to specialized shops and authentic parts.

Event Protection: From parades to car shows, coverage can extend to events where classic cars are most often showcased.

Common Misconceptions About Insuring Classics

One of the biggest myths is that a standard auto policy is enough to cover an antique. The problem is that standard policies typically rely on “actual cash value,” which takes depreciation into account. That might make sense for a 2015 commuter car, but not for a 1965 Mustang in mint condition.

Another misconception is that insuring a classic vehicle is prohibitively expensive. In reality, because antique cars are usually driven less, the cost of insuring them can often be surprisingly reasonable—especially when the right policy structure is in place.

For a quick quote, you can contact our quote department directly at (504) 441-RATE (7283) or complete the Online Quote Request form

Factors That Affect Coverage

Not every antique or collector car qualifies for the same type of policy. A few factors that typically matter include:

Age of the Vehicle: Most insurers classify vehicles older than 20–25 years as antiques or classics, but some may set different requirements.

Condition: A car in good condition—or fully restored—has different coverage needs than one still under restoration.

Storage: Many antique policies require the vehicle to be stored in a locked garage or secure facility.

Usage: Limited annual mileage is common. These policies are designed for cars that aren’t driven daily.

Why Location Matters

After 40 years, the Dan Burghardt Insurance Agency has grown to be licensed in both Louisiana and Mississippi while focusing heavily in cities including New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, St. Bernard, Slidell, Mandeville, Covington, Baton Rouge, Hammond, Houma, Thibodeau, LaPlace, Lake Charles, Bossier City, Central, Lafayette, Monroe, Shreveport, and Alexandria.

Why does that matter? Because antique car ownership—and the risks tied to it—can vary by location. A classic car parked in a suburban garage faces different risks than one frequently displayed at downtown events. Coastal communities deal with unique weather challenges, while urban areas might raise concerns about theft or vandalism. Having a policy structured around local realities ensures that protection is more than just a piece of paper.

The Value of Protecting Memories

For many, classic vehicles aren’t just investments—they’re stories on wheels. They remind people of their youth, family members, or milestones. Protecting these vehicles isn’t just about money; it’s about preserving something irreplaceable.

Insurance won’t prevent a storm or stop an accident from happening, but it does provide peace of mind that when the unexpected occurs, the vehicle—and the memories tied to it—are not lost forever.

Getting Started with Antique Vehicle Coverage

The process usually begins with determining the vehicle’s value. This might involve appraisals, photographs, or restoration receipts. Once the value is established, the policy is built around that number rather than relying on a depreciated figure.

Next comes tailoring the policy to specific needs. Some owners want event coverage, others want restoration coverage, and some simply want to know that their garage-kept classic is fully protected. The point is flexibility. Antique vehicle coverage should reflect the way the car is actually used and stored.

For a quick quote, you can contact our quote department directly at (504) 441-RATE (7283) or complete the Online Quote Request form.
Final Thought

Antique vehicles deserve protection that matches their value and uniqueness. They aren’t just cars; they’re living history. A proper insurance policy ensures that when the keys are turned and the engine roars, owners can focus on the joy of driving rather than the fear of loss.

After decades of serving Louisiana and Mississippi, the importance of specialized coverage has only become clearer. Every classic is different, but the need to protect them is universal.

For a quick quote, you can contact our quote department directly at (504) 441-RATE (7283) or complete the Online Quote Request form