Car Insurance in Wisconsin
For all drivers and vehicle owners in Wisconsin, car insurance is required to legally operate a vehicle. Purchasing a policy from an authorized carrier is the only way to fulfill this responsibility, and you must meet a state minimum requirement in terms of the coverage you purchase. The penalties for not carrying car insurance are quite harsh, so you are better off getting insurance than facing any of these.
Purchasing liability insurance is a means of proving financial responsibility. If you don’t purchase insurance, then you may place a cash deposit of $60,000 with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) to fulfill the state’s financial obligation. The state has set a minimum threshold of coverage you require in order to legally own and operate a vehicle in Wisconsin. These amounts are:
- $25,000 of coverage for injuries or death occurring to one person in a single accident.
- $50,000 of coverage for injuries or deaths occurring to more than one person in a single accident.
- $10,000 of property damage coverage.
While these may be enough to help you meet the state’s minimum legal requirements, these amounts may not meet all drivers’ needs. Individuals with high-value assets to protect are advised to consult with an insurance agent and thoroughly browse through all available options. It is possible to find or develop a customized policy that can offer you more specific protection. Investing the time now can save you a lot of stress and avoid the cost of medical bills and automobile repairs in case of an accident. Carrying insurance proves your financial commitment to creating a safer driving environment for all motorists, including yourself.
If you fail to provide proof of insurance, Wisconsin car insurance laws state that you could be cited and it could cost you quite a lot of money. First time offenders can be fined up to $500. Additionally, your license may be suspended and a bar may be placed on your vehicle’s registration renewal. Reinstating these privileges will cost you additional fees, and the process can be rather time consuming because you will be required to obtain an insurance policy before you can begin the process. Avoid these hassles by obtaining car insurance as early as possible and maintaining coverage.