Car Insurance Requirements in Connecticut

Have questions about the auto insurance requirements in Connecticut? Don’t worry. We’ve combed through the laws and regulations to compile the information you need to keep in mind so you can make smarter auto insurance decisions. 

We know the process can be confusing whether you just want minimum liability insurance or more extensive coverage. You may not even be sure what coverage you need. Insurance agents can answer questions and generate quotes for you. You can also get auto insurance quotes online to compare your options in minutes.

What Are The State Requirements for Auto Insurance in Connecticut?

No matter the type of car you drive, you will need to make sure it has both liability coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Connecticut is unique in this way as most states only require minimums for property and bodily injury coverage. Here are the requirements.

• $10,000 of property damage liability (PDL) per accident
• $20,000 of person injury protection (PIP) per person, per accident
• $40,00 of personal injury protection (PIP) per accident
• $20,000 per person in uninsured/underinsured coverage
• $40,000 per accident in uninsured/underinsured coverage

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage will cover some of your damages if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have the right insurance. In general, the minimum without optional coverage in Connecticut is only meant to cover your liability. So it covers the other parties you might injure in an at-fault accident.

Still unclear with what is required? Call [mapi-phone /] to hear about what you need from a licensed agent. 

Read more: Connecticut Cheapest Car Insurance

Are Additional Coverages Right for Your Auto Insurance Needs?

Adding more coverage to your auto insurance policy is your call. The state minimums will keep you legal, but they won’t necessarily cover all the cost if you’re in an accident. From bodily injury to a seriously damaged or totaled car, minimum liability on an auto insurance policy leaves a lot out. Here are types of coverage you can add on to your policy to give you peace of mind:

Comprehensive Coverage – Comprehensive coverage can save the day if you hit an animal on the road, fall victim to vandalism, have a tree fall on your car, or something else. It covers everything that isn’t directly related to a traditional collision up to your coverage limits.

Collision Coverage – If you hit another car or object, collision coverage can help pay for repairs. If you’re found to not be the at fault driver, your deductible would be repaid to you, and insurance companies repay each other. If you’re at fault, your deductible would apply.

Medical and Funeral Services Coverage – Sometimes car accidents result in death or injury. If that happens to you, this type of coverage can help pay for hospital bills and final expenses. This could be for yourself or someone else under your policy. If you’re making the claim, you’d need to prove your relationship to the deceased.

Rental Car Coverage – If your car isn’t drivable after an accident, you can buy this type of coverage so your insurance company will pay for a rental car. Otherwise, you could spend hundreds on a rental while your car is in the shop. Generally, coverage lasts for up to 30 days, and it’s a very affordable add-on for auto insurance coverage.

Towing and Labor Coverage – If you need roadside assistance or a tow, this policy add-on can help cover the cost. Some plans include it automatically while others charge just a few dollars.

How Much Do Connecticut Drivers Spend On Car Insurance?

Insurance rates can differ from person to person depending on the amount of coverage you need and your personal details. Different companies can also look at the same information and come up with different premiums. This is true even for someone with a clean driving record looking to fulfill the minimum requirements only.

We analyzed insurance rates across the state of Connecticut and below is what we found the average person pays a little over $1,500 for car insurance. That doesn’t mean you have to pay that much. According to our research, here are the five cheapest auto insurance companies in Connecticut, on average:

How Can You Save More on Your Auto Insurance?

If you feel you’re paying too much for car insurance, make sure you are asking your agent about these common discounts. Even if you only qualify for a few you’d be surprised how big of an impact they can have on your premium.

• Good Driver Discount
• Good Student Discount
• Safety Device Discount
• Multi-Car Discount
• Driver Education Discount
• Multi-Policy Discount
• Defensive Driving Discount
• E-Pay Discount
• Claims-Free Discount

Read more: How To Handle Auto Insurance When Moving: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Do You Pay What You Do For Auto Insurance?

If you’ve ever gone through an insurance quote you know you have to answer a lot of questions. The reason insurance companies ask so many questions is because insurance rates are based on risk and insurance companies build risk profiles based on the questions asked. The less risky an insurance company feels you are, the cheaper your premium will typically be. Expect to be asked about your:

• Type of car you own
• Address
• Driving record
• Credit history
• Age
• Gender
• Types of anti-theft devices installed on vehicle

Want a better rate? Let an insurance agent find you the best option out there. (For more information, read our “Insurance Agent vs. Online: Where Should You Go to Shop for Coverage?“). Call [mapi-phone /] to talk to one now. 

What Happens If You Aren’t Insured

If you don’t have proof of insurance if you’re pulled over or are in an accident, here are some of the penalties that can occur:

• First offense: A fine up to $1,000 and one month license suspension
• Second offense: A fine up to $1,000 and a six month license suspension. If your license is taken away, you’ll need to provide proof of insurance to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles to get it back.

Top Stolen Cars In Connecticut

Insurance companies base your premiums on risk. Driving a car that’s stolen more frequently than others may raise that risk and cause you to pay more for your premium. Here is a list of the most stolen cars in Connecticut:

• Honda Accord
• Honda Civic
• Nissan Maxima
• Acura Integra
• Dodge Caravan
• Nissan Altima
• Toyota Corolla
• Toyota Camry
• Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee
• Ford Pickup (Full Size)

*According to www.nicb.org

Still Have Questions? 

With years of experience navigating Connecticut insurance policies, licensed insurance agents have the answers and suggestions you need to find the best policy to meet your needs. Call [mapi-phone /] to talk to one today.

Additional Resources:

• Connecticut Insurance Department
• Department of Transportation