Minimum car insurance by state guide

Minimum Car Insurance By State: Understanding YOUR State Minimum for Car Insurance

Before hitting the road, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Minimum Car Insurance by State, ensuring you understand and comply with YOUR state’s specific minimum requirements for car insurance.

If you are looking for the lowest car insurance quotes possible, you can find that here with A Plus Insurance! Just be sure that at the very least, you have the liability limits required by your state.


Does the State Minimum for Car Insurance Require Liability Coverage?

Minimum Car Insurance By State
2024 Minimum car insurance by state guide

YES! Nearly ALL states require you to have a minimum amount of liability insurance.

The only state the does not require drivers to have auto insurance is New Hampshire. But even then, it is still recommended to carry some form of auto insurance.

In any other state, if you are caught driving without liability insurance, you can experience very serious and EXPENSIVE consequences. And on top of that, they must meet your state’s requirements. If you are not sure if your car insurance coverage meets the minimum car insurance by state, please call us now and we will help you.

Minimum Car Insurance By State: What to Ask Your Agent

When navigating the varying minimum car insurance requirements by state, it’s crucial to know what questions to ask your agent to ensure you have the right coverage for your needs.

If you aren’t sure what the minimum car insurance by state is, ask your agent for help.

Be sure to ask them specifically:

  • What is the state minimum liability?
  • Does my state require PIP/Personal Injury protection or medical payments?
  • Does my state require me to have uninsured motorist bodily injury and property damage coverage?
  • If it is not required to have uninsured motorist coverage in my state, is my state known for having a high number of uninsured drivers?

Minimum Car Insurance By State: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

When comparing minimum car insurance requirements by state, one essential component to consider is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage.

Uninsured Motorist coverage also known as UM, will provide coverage for you if you are in an accident with another person, who is at fault, and they DO NOT have insurance in place. Or if you were the victim of a hit and run.

Underinsured coverage, also known as UIM, protects you if the at fault driver does not have adequate liability limits on their insurance policy to cover your damages.

Many states will not require these to be on the policy, so you must ask for it to be added on. There are quite a few states who do require such coverage however, so be sure that it is on there!

Is Personal Injury Protection Part of the State Minimum for Car Insurance?

Sometimes personal injury protection (also known as PIP) is required. This is known as “no-fault insurance” and covers expenses like lost wages, medical bills, or even funeral costs.

It will pay out regardless of who is at fault.

Medical Payments and Minimum Car Insurance by State

Whether Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is part of the state minimum for car insurance depends on the specific regulations and requirements set forth by each state.

Similar to PIP, medical payments cover medical expenses for yourself and the passengers in your vehicle, no matter who was at fault.

This will pay up to a certain monetary limit, set by yourself, that will be indicated on the policy.

The Real Cost of Not Having Home and Auto Insurance

  • Paying Out-of-Pocket for Damage and Repairs: Without home or auto insurance, you’re responsible for covering the full cost of any damages to your property or vehicle. This could include anything from a minor fender-bender to major storm damage, leading to significant financial hardship. Call us to find affordable coverage that protects your assets.
  • Legal Consequences of Driving Without Auto Insurance: In most states, driving without auto insurance is illegal. If you’re caught without coverage, you could face fines, license suspension, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense. Text Us to learn about the legal requirements in your state and find coverage today.
  • Financial Risk in Case of a Natural Disaster: Homeowners without insurance risk losing their home in the event of a natural disaster like a flood, fire, or earthquake. Without insurance, rebuilding or repairing your home can be financially devastating. Call us to discuss how home insurance can safeguard your future.
  • Higher Medical Expenses After an Accident: Auto insurance helps cover medical expenses if you or your passengers are injured in an accident. Without coverage, you could be responsible for paying high medical bills out of pocket, potentially leading to financial strain. Text Us to explore insurance options that fit your budget.
  • Potential Loss of Personal Assets Due to Liability Claims: If you’re involved in an accident and found liable for damages, you may be sued for medical costs, property damage, or lost wages. Without liability insurance, your personal assets, such as your home or savings, could be at risk. Call us to ensure you have adequate liability coverage.

If this infographic was helpful, feel free to share with others. You can also download a PDF version…completely for free!

If you are curious for a more in depth look at why it’s important to know about auto insurance requirements for the state you live in…we have your answers here.

Get Your Free Auto Insurance Quote!

If you feel that you have all of your answers about insurance in your state…get started now by getting a free quote!

In summary, most States require different liability limits and coverages than others.

Some States that require lower liability limits, and do not require Uninsured Motorist, Medical payments, PIP, etc. overall average a cheaper cost of insurance in that State.

That is not to say that having those liability limits will be sufficient in the event of an accident.

Some of the State required limits are low, for example, 15/30/10. This only pays out $15,000 each person and $30,000 each accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage.

We all know, the majority of vehicles cost well over $10,000 so this limit is not enough to fully cover a vehicle if totaled. This may result in you being sued by the other party if your liability limits cannot properly cover the damages in an accident.

What can you do to protect yourself?

Look at increasing your liability limits a step or two above the minimum required. In most cases it is a matter of dollars and will make a huge difference.

Still unsure? Call our Insurance agents for free insurance quotes and advice. They are knowledgeable and want to make sure our customers understand their coverages and look at every possible scenario.

Frequently Asked Questions About Minimum Car Insurance by State

Q1: What are the minimum car insurance requirements in my state?

A1: The minimum car insurance requirements vary by state. To find out the specific requirements for your state, you can check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or visit their official website. It’s important to comply with your state’s minimum insurance requirements to legally drive.

Q2: Can I purchase additional coverage beyond the minimum requirements in my state?

A2: Yes, you can purchase additional coverage beyond the minimum requirements in your state. Many drivers choose to have more comprehensive coverage to protect themselves financially in case of accidents or damage to their vehicles. A licensed insurance agent can help you customize your policy to suit your needs.

Q3: What happens if I don’t meet the minimum car insurance requirements in my state?

A3: Failing to meet the minimum car insurance requirements in your state can result in penalties, fines, and even the suspension of your driver’s license. It’s essential to ensure you have the required coverage to avoid legal consequences and financial hardship in the event of an accident.

Last Updated on by Camron Moss

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