Should I Buy More Insurance than my State Requires?

State laws may not reflect the coverage that’s right for you, which is why state required minimum limits could leave you less protected than you want to be.

As a licensed driver, you’re required by state law to carry auto insurance. The minimum amount of coverage a driver is required to carry by law is what’s known as the “Financial Responsibility Limit” for your state. But this may not be the best way to gauge the amount of coverage that’s right for you.

To learn more about what’s required in your state, click here.

Protection for Others Only

State laws and state requirements can vary widely. However, there are certain similarities. For instance, all states require that you carry a certain level of "third party" liability insurance. Third party liability coverage means accident-related bodily injury and/or property damage costs will be paid for victims other than yourself. Third party liability will not cover any of your own medical or repair costs.

Protecting your Family and Assets

Each person's individual situation is different. State required minimum limits may not provide enough insurance to protect all that you need and want to protect with an auto insurance policy. Therefore, you should carefully consider whether these minimum limits are enough for you. In the event of an accident-related lawsuit, your home, income, savings, and Investments could be at risk. In worst-case scenarios, if you're found to be at fault in an accident, state required minimum limits might also leave you exposed to costs related to an accident-related death. 

Going Beyond the Minimum

Carrying a policy that adheres only to state minimums will keep you in compliance with the law, but it may expose you to risks greater than your comfort-level. For that reason, you might want to use your state minimums as a guide — one that can help you build a policy that best suits your needs, your income, and the things and people you want to protect.

You can get a Ballpark Estimate right away, without even having to give your name or other personal information. Or, get a free personal auto-insurance quote right now from a licensed insurance professional — it’s quick and easy. Just call 1-866-621-6900. Either way, you'll see how affordable Allstate quality can be.