Does the Batmobile Need Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

There have been many Batmobiles over the years — probably the most iconic roadster of all time (sorry, KITT) and every generation redefines it to their own understanding of “awesome”.  Nevertheless, it raises significant questions. What octane fuel does it take? What’s in those tires? Are they solid rubber?

You’ve probably at some point seen the incredible damage that the Batmobile either dishes out, takes, or both depending on the specific version you’re watching, and thought “Man…it’s a good thing he’s Bruce Wayne, because those premiums must beastronomical.”

As it turns out, one of the original Batmobiles —  auctioned at the recent Barrett Jackson auction for more than $4 million —does need comprehensive coverage. The irony of it is — it’s most likely just sitting in the living room of Phoenix executive Rick Champagne. At least, that’s what he claimed he was going to do with it.

Fortunately, Arizona law has a cute little thing called “de-insurance” that allows you to suspend the insurance on a vehicle that isn’t going to be driven. It’s intended to be for short-term use, such as for a vehicle that’s being remodeled and so won’t be driven for a couple of months, but it’s the only way that Arizona law has to deal with the “drivable car as living room art” phenomenon.

So Champagne will have to get the car insured just like normal — trying to imagine how the company will calculate that first premium is overwhelming — and upon paying that first premium, file for a certificate of de-insurance.  Presuming he never drives the car on public property again, that’s all there is to it.

If he does decide to take it for a cruise, however, he will have to provide proof of insurance to the State, do his cruising, and then probably put it right back on de-insurance until he decides to rev up his crime-fighting machine for another adventure.

One important fact is that homeowners insurance excludes coverage for vehicles so this is another reason why comprehensive is needed. However, it could be negotiated to add some kind of collectibles floater given the size of the premiums involved. Moreover, the biggest risk of having a vehicle in your living room is the possibility of fire.

If you are a New Jersey local and have questions about insuring your classic or collector car, give us a call at (201) 493-9002. Brian (the boss) is a car guy and loves talking cars!