Learn more about California's new minimum auto insurance requirements.
Required Car Insurance Coverages
Auto insurance is required in every state. But depending on the state you live in, there are different coverage requirements and minimums. If you still have questions about your state's insurance requirements, an AIS agent is always happy to help.
This type of insurance covers costs related to any injury sustained by another person in an accident you are determined to be at fault. Depending on the policy limits selected, it may also cover legal expenses related to a covered loss. It does not, however, cover injuries you may sustain. In addition, there are other specific limitations on who may or may not file a BI claim, so we recommend you discuss this coverage in detail with an AIS agent or your insurance company directly.
Similar to Bodily Injury Liability, Property Damage Liability coverage covers damage to property for accidents where you are determined to be at fault, up to the limits you have purchased. This covers not only other vehicles but also other objects your car may damage, such as fences, mailboxes, and buildings.
Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, is a coverage that would compensate you for claims-related expenses such as medical expenses and lost wages. PIP claim payments are made regardless of fault up to the limits purchased.
PIP coverage is mandatory in 12 states, including Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, and Utah. However, it is important to note that PIP Insurance and what it may cover varies from state to state.
Recommended Car Insurance Coverages
The minimum car insurance requirements aren't always enough to cover all the damages incurred in an accident. Many drivers opt for additional coverage to protect themselves from any future mishaps. The coverages below are highly recommended and typically only cost a few extra bucks on your policy. Trust us, it's worth the peace of mind. If you're not sure what coverage or limits are right for you, speak with an AIS agent today.
Collision Insurance coverage takes care of damage to your covered vehicle in case of a collision with another vehicle or other property after your selected deductible
Comprehensive Insurance coverage covers non-collision types of damages to an insured vehicle. Covered events include wildfires, a vehicle crushed under a tree, a car submerged in a flood, vandalism, theft, and many other situations.
Uninsured Motorist Insurance coverage protects you if you are in an accident involving another driver without insurance who is determined to be at fault.
Underinsured Motorist Insurance coverage protects you if you are involved in an accident and the other driver is at fault and has coverage, but not enough to cover all the damages and injuries they may have caused. The at-fault driver's policy limits would be exhausted before your Underinsured Motorist coverage pays any claims.
Medical Payments Insurance coverage helps pay for any injuries sustained by covered drivers or your passengers in an accident, regardless of fault. MedPay may also cover you as a pedestrian or cyclist, depending on the policy. It's important to note that this is independent of your Health Insurance. Your Medical Payments coverage is designed to help fill common gaps in Health Insurance policies. In most states, Medical Payments is an elected coverage and not mandatory.
What Type of State Do You Live In?
At-Fault State
In an at-fault state, the driver who caused the accident is responsible for compensating the other party's medical bills and property damage. Your liability insurance will cover these payments up to your policy's limits after filing a claim. Should there be any overage, you'll need to pay for it out of pocket. Most states are considered at-fault states.
No-Fault State
In a no-fault state, each driver involved in an accident pays for their medical bills and wages lost using their PIP coverage. This means fault may not be needed to file a bodily injury claim. However, the driver found to be at fault will still be required to compensate the other party for any property damage, just as in an at-fault state. (No-fault states include Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Utah.)
We're Here to Help
The coverage types above are just examples of some of the most common types of auto insurance coverages. There are many other coverages available that can help protect you and your family.
Regardless of where you reside, our insurance specialists can help guide you through your state's requirements and any optional coverage options available.
Remember, each auto policy is different. To see what coverages are recommended in your state, begin your free online quote now.
Discover Auto Insurance Discounts
At AIS, we shop multiple trusted companies to find you great coverage at the best rate. There are also many common insurance discounts you may be eligible for, too. Our Insurance Specialists can help you determine which discounts you qualify for the most savings. Check out some of the discounts that our partners offer.
Our Trusted Insurance Partners
We've teamed up with several insurance companies to compare their rates to find you the best price and coverage for non-standard carriers, standard carriers and premium insurance companies all in one place. Finding you a great deal on any type of coverage from auto, home, commercial and anything in between that fits your lifestyle is what AIS does best.
