Rhode Island Car Insurance: What You Need to Know

As a driver in Rhode Island, it’s important to make sure you have the right car insurance coverage. Not only is it required by law, but it can also protect you financially in case of an accident. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of car insurance in Rhode Island, including coverage requirements, rates, and frequently asked questions.

Car Insurance Requirements in Rhode Island

Like most states, Rhode Island has minimum car insurance requirements that drivers must meet:

Coverage type
Minimum required amount
Bodily injury liability
$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
Property damage liability
$25,000 per accident
Uninsured motorist bodily injury
$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
Underinsured motorist bodily injury
$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident

Note that these are only minimum requirements, and you may want to consider getting additional coverage to better protect yourself and your assets.

It’s also important to note that Rhode Island is a “fault” state when it comes to car accidents. This means that the person who caused the accident is responsible for paying for any damages or injuries that resulted from the accident. Therefore, having insurance coverage can be especially important in case you are found to be at fault in an accident.

Rhode Island Car Insurance Rates

The cost of car insurance in Rhode Island can vary depending on a number of factors, such as your age, driving record, and the type of car you drive. However, according to a 2019 study by Insure.com, Rhode Island drivers pay an average of $1,636 per year for car insurance, which is higher than the national average of $1,517 per year.

It’s worth shopping around and comparing rates from different insurance companies to make sure you’re getting the best deal. You may also want to consider factors beyond just price, such as the level of customer service offered by the insurance company.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors can affect my car insurance rates?

Several factors can affect your car insurance rates in Rhode Island, including:

  • Your age and gender
  • Your driving record
  • The type of car you drive
  • Your credit score
  • The coverage levels you choose

Additionally, factors outside of your control, such as your location and the laws in your state, can also impact your rates.

What if I don’t have car insurance in Rhode Island?

Driving without car insurance in Rhode Island is illegal and can result in significant fines and penalties. You may also be held financially responsible for any damages or injuries that occur as a result of an accident you caused. In addition, being uninsured can make it harder for you to get car insurance in the future.

What if I get into an accident with someone who doesn’t have car insurance?

If you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have car insurance, your own uninsured motorist coverage can help cover your expenses. However, if your coverage limits are not high enough to cover all of your expenses, you may need to pursue legal action against the other driver to recover damages.

Can I get discounts on my car insurance in Rhode Island?

Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like safe driving, having multiple cars insured, and taking driver education courses. It’s worth asking your insurance company which discounts you may be eligible for.

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

If you’re in a car accident in Rhode Island, you should:

  1. Check for injuries
  2. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if there is significant damage to the vehicles
  3. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s)
  4. Take photos of the scene if possible
  5. Get a police report if the accident is significant or if there are injuries
  6. Contact your insurance company to report the accident

Conclusion

Having car insurance is not only mandatory in Rhode Island, but also a good idea for protecting yourself financially in case of an accident. By understanding the basics of car insurance requirements and rates in Rhode Island, as well as common questions and concerns, you can make informed decisions about your coverage.