Minnesota is a no-fault state, which makes getting car insurance a little overwhelming. We have compiled this guide that lists what you need to know so that you can easily get the car insurance policy that fits your personal needs - at the lowest rate.
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Minimum Requirements
As we said before, Minnesota is a no-fault state, meaning regardless of fault all drivers file claims with their own personal injury protection. If limits are exceeded, then you can visit the option of filing a claim against the at-fault party. Here we have listed the minimum car insurance requirements in Minnesota:
Minimum Bodily Injury Liability | $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident. |
Minimum Property Damage Liability | $10,000 per accident. |
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury | $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. |
Personal Injury Protection | $40,000 per accident. |
Is Minimum Coverage the Best Protection?
This is a good question because the answer is almost always yes. The minimum car insurance requirements are just that, minimum requirements. There are many additional coverages to add to the minimum required car insurance policy that will give you more security and peace of mind. We always encourage you to purchase the most insurance you can afford.
Additional Coverages Available
Here is a list of additional coverages that can add a layer of protection to the minimum required car insurance in Minnesota:
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Collision Coverage- Collision insurance will cover repairs to your vehicle in an accident you are at fault for.
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Comprehensive Coverage- Comprehensive insurance covers you for other situations than a car accident; if you hit an animal, vandalism, fire, hail, flooding, or of your car is stolen.
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Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists- Optional coverage that protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or too little insurance to cover the accident.
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Medical Coverage- Optional coverage that will pay for medical bills when health insurance exceeds coverage amounts and covers medical expenses for you and your passengers. Do you walk or bike? This policy offers additional coverage if you are struck by a car in those instances.
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Gap Insurance- Optional coverage that will pay if you don’t own your car outright and have an accident. Gap insurance will pay the difference between the cash value of your car and the current balance on your loan or lease. This policy is best for newer non-owned cars.
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Personal Injury Protection- Depending on your state this type of insurance can be a requirement or an add on. Regardless of fault personal injury protection will cover medical expenses and loss of wages for you and your passengers (up to your limit). It also includes up to $5,000 for funeral expenses.
Teen Driver’s in Minnesota
Minnesota employs a graduated driver’s licensing system to ensure the experience and safety of young drivers on the road. At 15 teens can begin the program by earning their permit. When this happens it is time to start looking into car insurance. Insuring a teen is going to be expensive regardless if they are added to an existing policy or they get their own. But it must be done, teens are held to the same standards to adult drivers. There is a silver lining; discounts are offered for teens if they meet the criteria. Check with your agent to see what is available.
Multiple Drivers in Minnesota
If you have multiple drivers in your house, you need to disclose this information to your car insurance agent. Any driver who is of legal driving age needs to be listed on your policy for maximum protection. By adding the drivers in your home, it can save you from out-of-pocket expenses and losing insurance coverage altogether.
If you have a driver in your home you want to exclude from your policy you can do so. But it is not smart to let them drive your vehicle because they are not covered by your insurance. Any damages would be your responsibility and result in out-of-pocket costs.
Penalties for Driving Without Car Insurance
If you decide not to comply with the state car insurance laws in Minnesota, it will cost you a significant amount of money and probably a headache. Choosing not to be in compliance could mean jail time and losing your driving priveledges. Here is a list of the penalties:
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First and Second Offenses- You will pay a $200-$1,000 fine. Your driver's license, registration, and license plates will be suspended for up to 30 days. You may be able to complete community service in lieu of paying the fines. You will need to pay a $30 reinstatement fee and file an SR-22 certificate.
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Third and Subsequent Offenses- You will pay $200-$3,000 fine. Your driver's license, registration, and license plates will be suspended for up to one-year. You may be able to complete community service in lieu of paying the fines. You could be sentenced to no more than 90 days in jail. You will pay a $30 reinstatement fee and file an SR-22 certificate.
Car Insurance Discounts for Minnesota
Having to purchase car insurance is a must, so if you can get a discount that is a bonus! There are many options to get a discount on car insurance in Minnesota. We always recommend asking for a full list of discounts from your car insurance providers so you can get the most for your money. Here is a short list of common discounts in Minnesota:
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Good Driver- Maintain a good driving record free of accidents, tickets, and any moving violations.
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Multiple Policy- Most insurance companies will offer a discount for having multiple policies such as car insurance, renters insurance, homeowners insurance, or motorcycle insurance.
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Good Student- If you are a student enrolled in high school or college curriculum and maintaining a B average most companies offer a discount.
Getting a Car Insurance Quote in Minnesota
Let BuyCarInsurance.com help you get car insurance coverage that meets your needs. We are dedicated to providing an affordable quote from top car insurance companies in Minnesota. No more hours of research or waiting for a response. We provide you a quote within minutes. Just follow these three easy steps and you will have a quote in no time.