Haha, insurers definitely know their stats, but sometimes I wonder if they're just secretly traumatized by their own college days—projecting much? 😅 Seriously though, proximity to campuses can spike premiums mainly due to increased foot traffic, late-night shenanigans, and the occasional... questionable decision-making. I've seen some pretty wild claims involving pizza delivery mishaps and rogue frisbees. Glad you found something reasonable; navigating insurance in CA can feel like a full-time job!
Yeah, campus areas are rough on premiums. I lived near UCLA for a year and my rates were brutal—too many close calls with distracted students crossing streets at midnight. Switched to a smaller insurer recently and saved a decent chunk. Still not cheap (high-risk driver here), but every bit helps. Glad you found something manageable; insurance shopping in CA is no joke...
Campus areas are definitely tricky, but honestly, I've seen worse rates near touristy spots—think Hollywood or downtown SF. Curious though, did your smaller insurer give you grief about being high-risk, or were they pretty chill about it?
My smaller insurer was surprisingly chill about it, actually. I mean, they did mention campus areas being a bit riskier, but nothing dramatic or wallet-draining. Honestly, compared to the horror stories I've heard from friends insuring cars near tourist traps (Hollywood rates are just criminal...), campus life seems pretty tame. Plus, smaller companies seem more willing to work with you if you're upfront and have a decent driving record. Saved me a good chunk of change, anyway.
Totally agree, smaller insurers tend to be more flexible, especially if you've got a clean record. Campus areas do bump premiums slightly—mostly due to higher pedestrian traffic and occasional vandalism—but it's nothing compared to tourist-heavy spots. Hollywood's rates are nuts because theft and accident claims spike there...seen it firsthand. Smaller companies often price risk more individually rather than lumping everyone into broad categories, which can really pay off if you're responsible behind the wheel. Glad you found a decent deal!
