Navigating auto insurance can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out the specific rules and coverages that apply to your state. In Connecticut, you have to meet certain minimum insurance requirements to ensure financial responsibility in the event of an accident.
From minimum insurance requirements to added coverages for extra protection, read on to learn about Connecticut auto insurance.
Connecticut’s Mandatory Auto Insurance Requirements
Connecticut follows a “fault” system when it comes to determining financial responsibility for car accidents. In a nutshell, the person who caused the car accident has to cover the resulting damages and injuries. To ensure that drivers can fulfill this financial obligation, the state requires all registered vehicles to carry a minimum amount of liability car insurance coverage.
Mandatory Auto Insurance Coverages in Connecticut
In Connecticut, you are required to carry the following minimum amounts of liability auto insurance coverage.
Bodily Injury Liability
Bodily injury liability protects you against claims filed by others for injuries they sustain in an accident that you cause. In Connecticut, you must have coverage of at least $25,000 per person injured in the accident and $50,000 for the entire accident.
Property Damage Liability
When you have property damage liability, you will be protected against claims other people file for any property damage resulting from an accident that you cause. The minimum required coverage is $25,000 per accident.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is essential in protecting you and your passengers when involved in an accident with a driver who is either uninsured or lacks sufficient coverage to pay for the injuries you sustain. Connecticut law mandates that drivers carry the same minimum UM/UIM coverage as body liability, so $25,000 for an injured person and $50,000 for the accident.
The Consequences of Driving Without Insurance
If you drive without insurance in Connecticut and are caught, you’ll face a minimum fine of $100, and your driver’s license and registration will be suspended for a month. Then, if you do it again, the suspension increases to six months. You might also find it difficult to get auto insurance in the future. So, it’s crucial to make sure you’re covered.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Auto Insurance Coverages to Consider
While the mandatory coverages mentioned above are the bare minimum, it’s wise to consider additional coverages to further protect yourself and your assets. Here are some recommended options.
Comprehensive Insurance
A comprehensive insurance policy protects your vehicle from damages that aren’t the result of a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Comprehensive insurance is not required by Connecticut law, but it may be a requirement by your lender or leasing company.
Collision Insurance
Collision coverage compensates you for damages to your own vehicle in the event of an accident, regardless of fault. As with comprehensive insurance, it is not mandatory under Connecticut law but may be required by your lender or leasing company.
Gap Insurance
If you owe more on your car loan than the vehicle is worth, gap insurance can help. With this policy, you’ll still be able to replace your car if it’s a total loss because it covers the difference between your car’s value and the amount you still owe.
Rental Reimbursement
This coverage helps offset the cost of renting a car while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced following an accident.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance provides support and services such as towing, battery jump-starts, and flat tire changes in case of a breakdown.
Personal Umbrella
A personal umbrella policy offers an additional layer of liability protection beyond your auto and home insurance limits, safeguarding your assets and future earnings in case of a significant claim.
Choosing the Right Auto Insurance Limits and Deductibles
When selecting your auto insurance coverage, it’s crucial to choose limits that adequately protect your assets and future earnings.
Standard limits are often available, but you may have the option to increase these limits for added protection. It’s essential to consider the potential costs associated with a severe accident and weigh them against the increased premium for higher coverage limits.
Another aspect to consider when selecting your auto insurance policy is the deductible. A deductible is how much you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Deductibles range anywhere from $500 to $1,000, though lower or higher options may be available. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium.
When deciding on the deductible, don’t immediately jump for the option that gets you the cheapest premium. Instead, think about what you can realistically afford if you need to make a claim.
For instance, if you’ve got a good emergency fund set aside, a higher deductible might be the best choice to lower your premiums. But, if you’re living paycheck to paycheck, a lower deductible might be wiser so you don’t end up having to deal with an unexpected major expense.
Secure Your Future on the Road in Connecticut with Auto Insurance from JMG Insurance Corp
Understanding the auto insurance requirements in Connecticut and the various coverages available is the first step toward making an informed decision about your policy. Now, it’s time to review your current policy, explore additional coverage options, and shop around for the best deal.
For personalized assistance and expert guidance on auto insurance, reach out to JMG Insurance Corp. Our experienced agents can help you get the best coverage for your specific situation. Contact JMG Insurance Corp today at 1-844-304-7332 or online for all your auto insurance needs and take the guesswork out of protecting yourself and your vehicle.
