Shopping for car insurance in Montana might be a little confusing. We put together this guide that lists what you need to know so you can easily get the car insurance policy that fits your personal needs - at the lowest rate.

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Minimum Requirements

Purchasing minimum car insurance requirements in Montana is a necessity. The required limits are about the same as the national average. However, citizens of Montana have the option to obtain a surety bond or self-insurance certificate in place of a car insurance policy. We have a list of the minimum required coverage and their limits:

Is the Minimum Car Insurance Enough Coverage?

In short, no. The minimum car insurance requirements in Montana are not very high. If you find yourself as the at-fault driver in an accident with a new car $20,000 will more than likely not cover the damages. We always suggest purchasing the most car insurance you can afford. There are many additional coverages available to add to the minimum required car insurance. 

Additional Coverages Available

We have put together a list of additional coverages and how they protect you:

• Collision Coverage- Collision insurance will cover repairs to your vehicle in an accident you are at fault for. 

• 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. 

• 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. 

• 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. 

• 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. 

• 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 Drivers in Montana 

At 16 years old a teen can start the graduated driver licensing program in Montana. This means it is time to start getting car insurance policies in place. A teen is an inexperienced driver just learning the ropes, so insuring a teen is going to be expensive. Adding a teen driver to your existing policy is cheaper than if they get their own. Just to clarify, cheaper does not mean cheap. If your teen makes good grades or takes a drivers education course they may be eligible for a discount, but it will not drastically change your premiums.

Multiple Drivers in Montana 

Do you live in a home with multiple drivers? If so, it is best to add them to your car insurance policy. This will ensure you are covered if you let someone else use your car. It can also save you from any potential out-of-pocket costs in the future. 

If you have a driver in your home you wish 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 in Montana 

Montana uses an escalated penalty system for driving without car insurance. In comparison to other states, Montana’s penalties are not as harsh. We put together a list of offenses and penalties for driving without car insurance:

• First Offense- You will pay a $250 to $500 fine. 

• Second Offense-You will pay a $350 fine. You could spend up to 10 days in jail, or both imprisonment and fine. Your registration will be suspended for 90 days. You will be required to file an SR-22 for three years and pay a $35 court fee.

• Third Offense- You will pay a $500 fine. You could spend up to 10 days in jail, or both imprisonment and fine. You could spend up to six months in jail, or both imprisonment and fine. Your registration will be suspended for 180 days. You will be required to file an SR-22 for three years and pay a $35 court fee.

• Fourth and Subsequent Offenses-You will pay a $500 fine. You could spend up to six months in jail, or both imprisonment and fine. Your registration and driver’s license will be suspended until proof of insurance is submitted. You will be required to file an SR-22 for three years and pay a $35 court fee.

Car Insurance Discounts in Montana 

Getting a discount is always a great thing. Getting a discount on an adult purchase like car insurance is amazing. Ask your car insurance company for a complete list of discounts they offer. This will ensure you are getting the best discounts possible. We have compiled a short list of discounts available in Montana to get you started:

• Good Driver- Maintain a good driving record free of accidents, tickets, and any moving violations. 

• Multiple Policy- Most insurance companies will offer a discount for having multiple policies such as car insurance, renters insurance, homeowners insurance, or motorcycle insurance. 

• Good Student- If you are a student enrolled in high school or college curriculum and maintaining a B average most companies offer a discount.

Get a Quote for Montana Car Insurance Today

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