Missouri Car Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

Car insurance is a must-have for every car owner. It protects you financially in case of any accidents, theft, or damages to your vehicle. When it comes to car insurance in Missouri, there are a few things that you should know. In this article, we will discuss everything that you need to know about Missouri car insurance.

What is Missouri Car Insurance?

Missouri car insurance is a legal requirement for drivers in the state of Missouri. The state requires that all drivers carry a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover any damages caused by an accident. Liability insurance covers damages to other peoples’ property and any injuries sustained by them in the event of an accident that you are responsible for.

There are different types of car insurance coverage that you can choose to add to your liability insurance policy. These include:

Types of Car Insurance Coverage
Description
Collision Coverage
Covers damages to your car in case of an accident.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers damages to your car that are not caused by an accident, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Covers damages to your car and any injuries sustained by you or your passengers in case of an accident caused by a driver who does not have enough insurance.

What is the Minimum Car Insurance Coverage Required in Missouri?

Missouri requires that all drivers carry liability insurance with minimum coverage limits of:

Insurance Coverage
Minimum Coverage Limits
Bodily Injury Liability
$25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
Property Damage Liability
$10,000 per accident

This means that if you are responsible for an accident that causes injury to another person or damages their property, your insurance company will pay up to $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability, and up to $10,000 for property damage liability.

What Happens if You Don’t Have Car Insurance in Missouri?

If you are caught driving without car insurance in Missouri, you may face penalties such as fines, suspension of your driver’s license, and even imprisonment. The penalties for driving without car insurance in Missouri are:

Offense
Penalties
First Offense
Fine of up to $300, suspension of driver’s license until proof of insurance is provided, and possible impoundment of vehicle
Second Offense
Fine of up to $1,000, suspension of driver’s license for up to one year, and possible impoundment of vehicle
Third or Subsequent Offense
Fine of up to $2,000, suspension of driver’s license for up to three years, and possible impoundment of vehicle

How to Get Car Insurance in Missouri

Getting car insurance in Missouri is a simple process. You can get a car insurance policy through any licensed insurance agent or broker in Missouri. You can also purchase car insurance online or over the phone. When choosing a car insurance policy, make sure to compare different insurance providers and their coverage options to find the best policy for your needs and budget.

FAQ

What factors affect the cost of car insurance in Missouri?

The cost of car insurance in Missouri depends on several factors, including your age, gender, driving record, the type of car you drive, where you live, and the coverage options you choose. Generally, younger drivers and drivers with a poor driving record will pay higher premiums than older drivers with a clean driving record.

Can I use my car insurance policy to cover damages caused by someone else?

No, your car insurance policy only covers damages caused by you or someone driving your car with your permission. If someone else causes damages to your car, their liability insurance should cover the damages.

What should I do if I get into a car accident in Missouri?

If you get into a car accident in Missouri, you should follow these steps:

  1. Check for injuries and call for medical help if needed.
  2. Call the police to report the accident.
  3. Exchange information with the other driver, including name, address, phone number, insurance information, and license plate number.
  4. Take photos of the accident scene and any damages to your car and the other car.
  5. Contact your insurance company to report the accident.

Can I drive without car insurance if I only use my car occasionally?

No, you cannot drive without car insurance in Missouri even if you only use your car occasionally. The state requires that all drivers carry a minimum amount of liability insurance at all times.

What should I do if my car insurance policy is canceled or expired?

If your car insurance policy is canceled or expired, you should contact your insurance company to renew your policy or purchase a new policy. Driving without car insurance in Missouri is illegal and can result in penalties.

Now that you know everything there is to know about Missouri car insurance, make sure to purchase a policy that meets your needs and protects you financially in case of any accidents or damages to your vehicle.