STATE TABLE

Notes: States in Alphabetical sequence. Page down to find your state then click on the link to learn all motor laws and rules for the chosen state

Alabama

AL has security-type law in place that covers accidents resulting in property damage in excess of $250, as well as personal injury or death. The following limits apply:

• Minimum coverage required is $25,000 for bodily injury or death of 1 person in 1 accident or,
• $50,000 for 2 or more persons in any 1 accident; and $25,000 for injury or destruction of property in 1 accident

Note: Alabama operates a non-resident service of process law and guest suit law. 

Alaska

AK has mandatory insurance law applying to all accidents involving injury, death, or more than $500 damage to property of any 1 person. These minimum financial responsibility limits apply:   

1.  $25,000 due to injury to or destruction of property of others in 1 accident   
2.  $50,000 due to bodily injury or death of 1 person in 1 accident
3.  $100,000 due to bodily injury or death of 2 or more persons in 1 accident  

Note: Alaska operates a non-resident service of process law. 

Arizona

AZ has a minimum $25,000 financial responsibility for any 1 person in 1 accident, $50,000 for any 2 people in 1 accident; $15,000 for property destruction in any 1 accident.

Note: Arizona has non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law. 

Arkansas

AR operates non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Security-type law is applicable in event of accident causing property damage in excess of $1,000 or personal injury or death. Minimum financial responsibility limits are the following: $25,000 for bodily injury or death of 1 person in 1 accident; $50,000 for bodily injury or death of 2 or more persons in 1 accident; and $25,000 for injury to or destruction of property of others in 1 accident.

• AR has “add-on” no-fault insurance law
• Sale is mandatory, but purchase is optional
• Benefits, medical, and hospital, $5,000
• Wage loss, 70%; up to $140/week (8-day waiting period, maximum 52 weeks)
• Essential services up to $70/week (8-day waiting period, maximum 52 weeks)
• Accidental death, $5,000

California

Financial responsibility rules dictate that each driver/motor vehicle owner remains adequately covered without fail. Moreover, owner low cost auto policies are available in each county for qualified low-income persons, with costs differing according to the county.

Each driver / owner of a vehicle should evidence proof of financial responsibility with them while traveling, and be ready to present such proof at the demand of a peace officer. Noncompliance carries a fine between $100 and $200, in addition to assessment penalties, for a first infringement of between $200 and $500. Further additional assessment penalties may apply for subsequent infractions occurring within 3 years of the first offence.

Note that minimum liability insurance coverage must be at least $15,000 for bodily injury or death of each person as a result of any 1 accident and $30,000 for bodily or injury or death of all persons as a result of any 1 accident and at least $5,000 for damage to property as a result of any 1 accident.

Note that CA has non-resident service of process law, and guest may sue driver.

Colorado

CO operates a fault-based, so-called ‘tort system’ of insurance. Sale and purchase mandatory. Motorists need to have with them acceptable evidence of insurance at all times. The following minimum amount of coverage should be in place:

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $15,000 per accident for property.

Connecticut

Driver's should note that compulsory liability insurance applies in CT.

Moreover, owners of any motor propelled vehicle may operate said vehicle without automobile insurance.

Minimum insurance coverage:

• $25,000 for injury to 1 person,
• $50,000 for injuries to more than 1 person, and...
• $25,000 for property damage.

Motorcycle users need to maintain similar levels of insurance coverage.

This state has non-resident service of process law; guest suit law does not apply.

Delaware

DE follows security-type law. This means that all vehicles registered in this state need to have the minimum liability insurance coverage as follows:

• $25,000 for any 1 person injured in an accident,
• $50,000 for all persons injured in any 1 accident, or...
• $10,000 for damage to property, which may be done by any 1 accident, or a combined single limit of $60,000.

DE has add-on, no-fault insurance law. Sale mandatory. Benefits, $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident; covers medical, loss of income, loss of services, and funeral ($3,000 limit).

No limit on so-called 'tort actions' applies, except benefits received cannot be used as evidence in suits for general damages. Cover extends to non-residents as pedestrians or guest passengers in insured vehicles.

DE acknowledges non-resident service of process law.

District of Columbia

Compulsory motor vehicle insurance is required in DC.

Minimum insurance coverage required is:

• $25,000 for injury to any 1 person,
• $50,000 for injury to more than 1 person, and,
• $10,000 for personal property damage.

DC has a non-resident service of process law, which allows a person to serve papers against a non-resident with the District for any action that arises out of the non-resident’s use of a vehicle while in DC.

Florida

FL is easy to read with its state minimum liability insurance requirements. The no fault law in place requires anyone who owns or has registered a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels to hold the following coverage - excluding taxis and limos:

• Drivers are required to have insurance policies of at least $10,000 for an individual’s bodily injury,
• $20,000 for injury to multiple persons,
• $10,000 for property damage, and,
• $30,000 minimum per accident.

Georgia

GA opted for compulsory liability insurance law. Motor vehicle owners need to provide proof of liability insurance at the time they apply for registration. Insurers need to send appropriate proof of coverage electronically to the Georgia Department of Revenue. These exceptions apply:

1. Vehicles covered under a commercial vehicle policy may continue to use an insurance card,
2. If a policy was underwritten in the last 30 days a written binder agreement is sufficient,
3. A valid a rental car agreement provides proof of insurance, and,
4. If a driver can prove that they bought the car within the last 30 days, a written declaration of coverage for another motor vehicle is sufficient proof of insurance.

GA requires drivers to hold proof of minimum insurance coverage in vehicle. Moreover, motor vehicle insurance policies issued in the state must provide coverage for damage for liability to cover accidents of not less than:

• $25,000 because of bodily injury or death of 1 person in any 1 accident,
• A limit of not less than $50,000 because of bodily injury or death to 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and,
• $25,000 because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any 1 accident.

GA also operates a non-resident service process of law and limit on liability to injured guests.

Hawaii

The island state of HI deems it unlawful to operate a motor vehicle, motorcycle, or motor scooter unless insured at all times.

A no-fault insurance law operates, and the minimum liability policy coverage is:

• $20,000 per person with an aggregate limit of $40,000 per accident, and
• $10,000 for all damages to or destruction of property.

Drivers should be in possession of valid motor vehicle or liability insurance identification card at all times. Said card must be available on demand when requested by a peace officer.

HI does not recognize non-resident service of process law, but non-residents may be served when in state; guest suit law does not apply.

Idaho

Security-type law applies in the event of accident causing property damage in excess of $500 or personal injury or death; no judgment minimum prevails in ID. Applicants need to certify that vehicle is covered by automobile liability insurance at the time of registration and said certificate of liability insurance must be carried, and ready to show.

ID operates non-resident service of process law, while guest suit law remains outlawed as unconstitutional. Release of liability statements are onerous to the owner of a motor vehicle upon sale of the vehicle to another party. Mail statements to the Department of Transportation, remembering to include a $3.50 filing fee.

Minimum required coverage applying:

• $25,000 for bodily injury or death of 1 person in 1 accident,
• $50,000 for 2 or more persons in 1 accident, and,
• $15,000 for injury or destruction of property in 1 accident.

Motor vehicle owners may opt to post an indemnity bond in lieu of a liability insurance policy. Said bond must guarantee payment of no less than $50,000 for any 1 accident, of which $15,000 is for property damage, for each vehicle registered, up to a maximum of $120,000 for 5 or more registered vehicles.

Illinois

IL applies security-type law in event of accident causing damage to property of 1 person in excess of $500 or personal injury or death; no judgment minimum. Drivers should note that proof of financial responsibility is required at all times, with a fine for driving without such proof a definite threat.

The minimum policy of $25,000 is required for bodily injury or death to any 1 person in 1 accident. Moreover, the following rules apply:

• A minimum of $50,000 for any 2 or more people in 1 accident,
• A minimum of $20,000 for injury to or destruction of property of others in 1 accident,

This state has non-resident service of process law and guest suit law - this applies exclusively to hitchhikers,

Specifically, no person shall operate a motor vehicle registered in another state upon the highways of IL, unless the vehicle has cover via a liability insurance policy. The operator of the vehicle shall carry within the vehicle acceptable proof of insurance.

Indiana

IN requires each driver and every owner of a motor vehicle to have evidence of continuous financial responsibility. Failure to comply may result in the suspension of the offender’s current license or vehicle registration, or both.

Indiana requires the following minimum amounts of financial responsibility:

• $25,000 for bodily injury to or the death of 1 individual,
• $50,000 for bodily injury to or the death of 2 or more individuals in any 1 accident and,
• $25,000 for damage to property in 1 accident.

IN operates a non-resident service of process law.

Iowa

IA uses security-type law applicable in event of accident causing property damage in excess of $1,000 or personal injury, or death. A person may not drive a motor vehicle on the highways of the state unless the driver has proof of financial liability coverage for the vehicle.

The Liability coverage required is:

• $20,000 minimum for bodily injury or death of 1 person in any 1 accident,
• $40,000 for bodily injury or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident,
• $15,000 for damage to or destruction of property in 1 accident.

IA State operates non-resident service of process law.

Kansas

KS opts for a non-resident service of process law and invokes no-fault insurance law.

The minimum insurance coverage required in KS is:

• $25,000 for injury to any 1 person,
• $50,000 for injury to more than 1 person, and
• $25,000 for personal property damage.

Kentucky

KY operates a no-fault and mandatory liability insurance law.

Drivers must know that evidence of liability insurance should be in the vehicle for on-demand inspection.

KY’s minimum liability policy coverage is:

• $25,000 per person with an aggregate limit of $50,000 per accident and $10,000 for all damages to or destruction of property.

KY State has non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Louisiana

LA State requires drivers to carry a motor vehicle liability policy in their vehicle at all times.

The following minimum liability insurance coverage applies:

• At least $15,000 for bodily injury or death of 1 person,
• $30,000 for the bodily injury to 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• At least $25,000 for damage to property resulting from any 1 accident.

LA operates non-resident service of process law, but does not recognize guest suit law. Drivers should know that a personal injury protection card issued from an insurer in another state or jurisdiction without a bodily injury endorsement does not amount to sufficient proof of liability security.

Maine

A more complicated scenario operates in ME, in that vehicle insurance or a bond covering the vehicle is a requirement.

The following minimum insurance requirements for passenger vehicles apply:

• $50,000 for injury to or death of any 1 person,
• $100,000 for 1 accident resulting in injury to or death of more than 1 person, and
• $25,000 for property damage.

This is where matters become daunting, if not confusing:

The minimum insurance requirements for other vehicles are:

• $350,000 combined single limit for rental vehicles, emergency vehicles and for-hire vehicles transporting freight or merchandise but not passengers;
• For vehicles for hire used to transport passengers within the state, but not defined as school buses, there is a combined single limit of:
  • (a) $125,000, or split limits of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per occurrence for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage for vehicles not under contract with the state, a municipality, or a school district for the transportation of students that are designed to carry no more than 3 passengers behind the driver’s seat;
  • (b) $300,000 for vehicles that are designed to carry 4-7 passengers behind the driver’s seat, including vehicles under contract with the state, a municipality, or a school district for the transportation of students;
  • (c) $750,000 for vehicles that are designed to carry 8-15 passengers behind the driver’s seat;
  • (d) $1,500,000 for vehicles that are designed to carry 16-30 passengers behind the driver’s seat; and
  • (e) $2,000,000 for vehicles that are designed to carry 31 or more passengers behind the driver’s seat;
• For vehicles for hire used to transport passengers between points in the state, but not defined as school buses, under contract with the state, municipality, or school district, or for transportation of students, there is a combined single limit of:
  • (a) $1,500,000 for vehicles with 15 or fewer passengers, and
  • (b) $5,000,000 for vehicles with 16 or more passengers - for school buses there is a combined single limit of:
  • $500,000 for buses with up to 30 passengers, and
  • (b) $1,000,000 for buses with 31 or more passengers;
  • For rental trucks with registered gross weight of 26,000 lbs. or less, rented or leased for fewer than 30 days:
  • There is a combined single limit of $125,000; or
  • (b) There’s a split limit of $50,000 per person or $100,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
    ME State operates non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Maryland

MD operates compulsory liability minimum $30k/60k/15k and uninsured motorist coverage in similar amounts.

Unless waived by insured (unwise), policy shall provide no-fault coverage for medical, hospital, and disability benefits up to $2,500. No limit applies for general damages.

Liability insurance coverage is a necessity in this state at all times. Vehicle owners should note that registration plates must be returned to the MVA immediately after cancellation of insurance or transfer of ownership of the vehicle. Moreover, MVA monitors vehicle insurance status through several enforcement programs, which should not be taken lightly by vehicle owners.

When a vehicle owner is involved in an enforcement program, they must submit verification of their liability insurance to MVA upon request. Failure to do so may result in suspension of current and future registration privileges. On a serious note, penalties up to $2,500 per year may apply if vehicle has no insurance coverage.

MD operates a non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Massachusetts

While driving in MA, vehicle operators are required to have:

• Insurance policies of at least $20,000 for an individual’s bodily injury,
• $40,000 for injury to multiple persons, and
• $5,000 for property damage.

Note: The policy must cover any persons operating vehicle with owner’s express or implied consent.

MA State uses non-resident service of process law, and has no-fault, personal injury insurance law. Sale and purchase mandatory. Benefits: medical, funeral, wage loss, and substitute service up to $8,000; wage loss limited to 75% of actual loss. General damages: recover if medical costs exceed $2,000 or in case of death, loss of all or part of body member, permanent and serious disfigurement, loss of sight or hearing, or a fracture.

Michigan

MI has no-fault insurance law. In addition, sale and purchase insurance coverage are mandatory. Motorist need have proof of insurance at request of a law enforcement officer.

Benefits:

• Medical and hospital, unlimited,
• Funeral up to $2,500,
• Wage loss $4,070 per month for maximum of 36 months,
• Replacement services $20/day payable to victim or survivor.

In terms of general damages:

Victim cannot recover from an insured motorist unless injuries result in death, serious impairment of body function, permanent serious disfigurement. Significantly, benefits available to non-residents may depend on whether insurer of non-resident vehicle has filed certificate of no-fault protection.

Insurance is compulsory for non-resident vehicle if in state for an aggregate of more than 30 days in any calendar year.

MI State Minimum Liability Insurance requirements are:

• $20,000 for bodily injury to or death of 1 person in any 1 accident,
• $40,000 for bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• $10,000 for injury to or destruction of property of others in any 1 accident.

Note: Proof of financial responsibility must be furnished by filing with the Secretary of State a written certificate of any insurance carrier duly authorized to do business in this state, certifying that there is in effect a motor vehicle liability policy for the benefit of the registration applicant.

Minnesota

MN operates compulsory/mandatory state minimum liability and no-fault insurance proof. This state has non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Each driver and every owner of a motor vehicle must carry evidence of financial responsibility in his or her motor vehicle at all times and be ready to present such evidence at the demand from law enforcement officials.

Minimum liability insurance requirements in MN are:

• At least $30,000 for bodily injury or death of 1 person as a result of any 1 accident,
• $60,000 as a result of injury to 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• $10,000 if the accident has resulted in injury to or destruction of property, or
• $70,000 single incident.

Mississippi

MS State uses security and future-proof type law. Minimum required coverage is:

• $25,000 for bodily injury or death of 1 person in 1 accident,
• $50,000 for 2 or more persons in 1 accident, and
• $25,000 for injury or destruction of property in 1 accident.

Note: Vehicle owners may choose to post an indemnity bond in lieu of a liability insurance policy. The bond must guarantee payments in amounts and under the same circumstances as required in a motor vehicle liability policy.

Moreover, a vehicle owner may choose in lieu of a liability policy or posting a bond, to deposit cash or securities in the amount $15,000 to the State Treasurer to satisfy proof of financial responsibility.

MS uses non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Missouri

Motor vehicle owners registered in this state, or required to be registered in MO State, may not operate, register, maintain registration of a motor vehicle, or permit another person to operate the vehicle, unless the owner maintains the required state minimum liability insurance.

An insurance identification card is essential in the insured motor vehicle at all times. Alternately, a motor vehicle liability insurance policy, a motor vehicle liability insurance binder, or receipt, which contains the policy information, is satisfactory evidence of insurance in the absence of an insurance identification card.

A motor vehicle liability policy must insure the person named in the policy and any other person using the vehicle or vehicles with the express or implied permission of the named insured against liability for damages arising from the ownership or use of the vehicle. Following applies:

• $25,000 because of bodily injury to or death of 1 person in any 1 accident and, subject to the limit for 1 person,
• $50,000 because of bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• $25,000 because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any 1 accident.

Montana

Vehicle owners should ensure that their vehicle is registered and operated in MT by the owner, or with the owner’s permission. Moreover, they should continuously provide insurance against loss resulting from liability imposed by law.

The policy must provide the following minimum coverage:

• $25,000 because of bodily injury to or death of 1 person in any 1 accident and subject to that limit for 1 person,
• $50,000 because of bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• $20,000 because of injury to or destruction of property to others in any 1 accident.

MT State operates non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Nebraska

NE State operates future proof law. Drivers should note that proof of coverage required at all times. Violators may face a class II misdemeanor.

Persons operating a motor vehicle must have liability insurance with the following minimum coverage:

• $25,000 for bodily injury to or death of 1 person in 1 accident,
• $50,000 for bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• $25,000 for injury to or destruction of property in any 1 accident.

NE has non-resident service of process law, but does not have a guest suit law.

Nevada

NV State operates both mandatory public liability and property insurance law. Drivers to note that driving without liability insurance is potentially punishable as a misdemeanor. Evidence of insurance should reside in the motor vehicle.

Every owner of a motor vehicle registered in NV should have the following insurance coverage for as long as the vehicle is registered:

• $25,000 for bodily injury to or the death of 1 person in any 1 accident,
• $50,000 for bodily injury to or the death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• $20,000 for injury to or destruction of property of others in any 1 accident.

NV State operates future proof-type law applicable in event of an accident causing property damage in excess of $750, or personal injury or death.

NV State has non-resident service of process law.

Finally, Nevada endorses no grace period for liability coverage. A one-day lapse in your insurance coverage may result in a possible suspension of your registration. The minimum penalty is a $250 reinstatement fee.

New Jersey

Drivers should note that when in NJ, all vehicles registered in this state must be covered by an automobile liability insurance policy that insures against loss resulting from:

Liability for bodily injury, death, and property damage where coverage amounts shall be at least:

$15,000 for injury or death of 1 person in any 1 accident,
$30,000 on account of injury to or death of more than 1 person in any 1 accident, and
$5,000 from property damage in any 1 accident.

A person with an automobile registered in NJ may apply for a basic automobile insurance policy, as opposed to alternative mandatory coverage The latter provides the following coverage: 

Personal injury protection coverage that includes the payment of medical expense benefits for reasonable and necessary treatment of bodily injury. The amount not to exceed $15,000 per person per accident, with the exception that medical expense benefits shall cover an amount not to exceed $250,000 for all medically necessary treatment of permanent or significant as follows:

Brain injury, spinal cord injury or disfigurement, or for medically necessary treatment of other permanent or significant injuries rendered at a trauma center or acute care hospital:

• $5,000 for property damage in any 1 accident, and
• The option of $10,000 for injury to or death of 1 or more persons in any 1 accident.

Each standard automobile liability insurance policy issued or renewed should contain personal injury protection benefits for the payment of benefits without regard to negligence, liability, or fault to the insured.

Importantly, this includes members of his family residing in the house who sustain bodily injury as a result of an accident, or as a pedestrian, caused by an automobile or an object propelled by or from an automobile, to other persons sustaining injury while occupying the automobile with permission of the insured, and to pedestrians sustaining bodily injury caused by the insured’s vehicle or by an object propelled by or from that vehicle.

NJ State operates non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

This state has no-fault insurance law.

New Mexico

Evidence of financial responsibility is required in the motor vehicle with application thereof the responsibility of the owner or operator’s insurer/surety, or the New Mexico State Treasurer.

In addition, evidence of currently valid financial responsibility in meeting the requirements of the laws of NM applies. Moreover, the MVD will not issue or renew registration for any motor vehicle not covered by a motor vehicle insurance policy.

NM operates compulsory/mandatory liability law applicable in event of accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500, resulting in a judgment. Driver loses license in the event of an unsatisfactory judgment. Proof of coverage is required at all times, and noncompliance may result in $300 fine.

Minimum liability:

• $25,000 bodily injury or death to any 1 person,
• $50,000 bodily injury or death to any 2 persons, and
• $10,000 for injury or destruction of property.

New Hampshire

NH State operates security-type law applicable in the event of accident causing property damage in excess of $1,000 or personal injury death.

This state also deploys future proof law requiring motorists to show financial responsibility after conviction of certain serious traffic offenses.

NH uses non-resident service of process law but does not have guest suit law.

Vehicle drivers should note that they should have insurance liability policies, as follows:

• $25,000 (minimum) for bodily injury or death to any 1 person,
• $50,000 for bodily injury or death to 2 or more persons, and
• $25,000 for injury to and destruction of property in any 1 accident.

New York

NY State operates compulsory no-fault insurance law. Sale and purchase are mandatory. NY provides benefits up to a limit of $50,000 per person to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians injured in a motor vehicle accident occurring in this state. Benefits include all reasonable and necessary medical and rehabilitation expenses. Wage loss up to 80% of lost earnings, to a maximum $2,000 per month for 3 years is also provided as is substitute service up to $25 per day up to one year.

Proof of financial security is mandatory for every motor vehicle registered.

The following minimum amounts of financial security required are:

• $25,000 because of bodily injury to, or
• $50,000 because of the death of any 1 person in an accident,
• $50,000 because of bodily damage to, or
• $100,000 because of the death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• $10,000 because of injury to or destruction of property in any 1 accident.

NY State uses non-resident service of process law but does not have guest suit law.

Note: Proof of insurance coverage for New York registered vehicles is required. Insurance ID card must be kept with the vehicle to which it applies and it must be produced on demand at the request of any police officer or to any person involved in the accident. Failure to produce an ID card when required could lead to a charge of uninsured operation, which in turn could result in revocation of license and registration privileges.

North Carolina

NC State operates minimum liability insurance coverage for a vehicle, with the following amounts applying:

• $30,000 for bodily injury to or death of 1 person,
• $60,000 for bodily injury to or death of 1 or more persons, and
• $25,000 for injury to or destruction of property of others in any 1 accident.

Note: Drivers and vehicle owners are also required to maintain insurance for the protection of persons entitled to recover damages from owners or operators of uninsured drivers. Moreover, hit-and-run accidents add an amount equal to the highest limits of property damage liability coverage, not to exceed $1,000,000 per person and per accident.

NC uses non-resident service of process law but does not have guest suit law.

A special concession dictates waivers for civil penalties and restoration fees for deployed military personnel whose motor vehicle liability insurance lapsed during the period of deployment or within 90 days after the military member returned to the state.

Said military member must certify to the DMV that the motor vehicle was not driven on the highway by other persons during the period in which the motor vehicle was uninsured and that the owner now has liability insurance on the motor vehicle.

North Dakota

ND State operates security-type law which applies in event of an accident causing property damage in excess of $1,000 or personal injury or death, on judgment minimum basis. Unsatisfied Judgment Fund Law applies to uncollectible judgments in excess of $300.

This state uses no-fault insurance law, which is compulsory. Benefits applicable include economic loss up to $20,000. Moreover, uninsured motorists’ coverage applies between the following rates:

• $25,000/$50,000.

Proof of coverage is required at all times.

• ND State operates non-resident service of process law. Persons may not drive or operate a motor vehicle that does not have a valid policy of liability insurance.
  
  The following State Liability Insurance applies:
  
  $25,000 for bodily injury to or death of 1 person in any 1 accident,
  
  $50,000 for bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
  
  $25,000 for injury to or destruction of property in any 1 accident.
  
  Persons should provide a bond or certificate of deposit of money or securities as proof of financial responsibility in lieu of an insurance policy.
  
  $50,000 for bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
  
  $25,000 for injury to or destruction of property in any 1 accident.

Persons should provide a bond or certificate of deposit of money or securities as proof of financial responsibility in lieu of an insurance policy.

Ohio

OH has compulsory/mandatory liability laws in place, which prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle unless financial responsibility is in place. Applicant for a motor vehicle registration or driver’s license is required to sign a statement that the aspirant driver can prove financial responsibility.

Driving in OH requires all drivers to hold proof of financial responsibility. This is be provided whenever a police officer issues a traffic ticket, at all vehicle inspection stops, upon every traffic court appearance upon written request by the BMV, as well as for every motor vehicle crash causing property damage in excess of $400, or personal injury, or death.

Moreover, OH requires proof of ability to respond in damages for liability, arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle is required in the amounts of:

• $25,000 because of bodily injury to or death of 1 person in any 1 accident,
• $50,000 because of bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and
• $25,000 because of injury to others or damage to property of others in any single accident.

OH State uses non-resident service of process law.

Oklahoma

OK State operates security-type law, which applies in event of accident causing property damage in excess of $300 or personal injury or death.

The following minimum liability coverage limits apply:

$25,000 for a motor vehicle are for bodily injury to or death of 1 person in any 1 accident,

$50,000 for bodily injury to, or death of more than 1 person in any 1 accident, and

$25,000 for injury to or destruction of property of others in any 1 accident.

Applicants for license plates in OK must certify that liability insurance is in effect or deposit a bond of $75,000 or cash of $75,000. Moreover, failure to maintain liability insurance bond or security on currently licensed vehicles will cause suspension of license plates and vehicle registration.

OK State uses non-resident service of process law but does not use guest suit law.

Oregon

OR State employs future-proof law for uninsured accidents.

Moreover, antique motor vehicles that have been issued a permanent registration, farm trailers, farm tractors, Class I, III, and IV all-terrain vehicles. The provision extends to special interest vehicles, while implements of husbandry are exempt from the provisions.

OR uses the following minimum liability policy:

$25,000 coverage per person with an aggregate limit of $50,000 per accident and $20,000 for all damages to or destruction of property. OR requires equal liability coverage for each family member of the insured in the same household.

If a driver indicates convictions for driving under the influence, the minimum insurance coverage is elevated to $50,000 per person with an aggregate limit of $100,000 per accident and $10,000 for all damages to or destruction of property.

OR State uses non-resident service of process law and guest suit law. Mandatory one-year license suspension applies for involvement in an uninsured accident.

OR State has “add-on,” no-fault insurance law. Sale and purchase are mandatory.

Benefits:

Medical $10,000,

70% of wage loss up to $1,250 monthly (maximum 52 weeks),

$30 per day loss of services (14-day retroactive waiting period and maximum 52 weeks).

Owners are required to certify liability insurance when initially registering, and provide insurance information when renewing.

Pennsylvania

PA has compulsory liability insurance under state law, but purchase and sale coverage remain optional.

State minimum liability insurance coverage must be at least:

$15,000 for injury or death of 1 person in an accident, or

$30,000 for the injury or death of more than 1 person in an accident, and

$5,000 for damage to the property of another person.

PA requires that proof of financial responsibility must be furnished by filing evidence satisfactory to the Transport Department. Moreover, all motor vehicles registered in a person’s name are held covered by motor vehicle liability insurance or by a program of self-insurance as provided by the relevant Department. These could also take the form of other reliable financial arrangements, deposits, resources, or commitments acceptable to the Department.

Note: Drivers must carry proof of coverage in the vehicle at all times.

PA State has non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Rhode Island

RI State is quite straightforward, operating security-type law, which apply in event of accident causing property damage in excess of $500 or personal injury or death.

Motor vehicle insurance is required in the amounts of:

$25,000 because of bodily injury to or death of 1 person in any 1 accident, or

$50,000 because of bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and

$25,000 because of injury to or destruction of property in any one accident (or $75,000 combined single limit).

RI State operates non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

South Carolina

SC State requires compulsory vehicle insurance. After driver’s license issuance and renewal, applicants need to certify that they hold the necessary coverage.  Motor vehicle owners must certify when they register the vehicle, and each year upon re-registration that they possess and will continue to maintain the required coverage.

All motor vehicles must have liability insurance as follows:

$25,000 for bodily injury to 1 person in any 1 accident, or

$50,000 for bodily injury to 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and

$25,000 for injury to or destruction of the property of others.

Owners are required to maintain proof of financial responsibility in the motor vehicle at all times, which should be available on demand by a police officer or other persons duly authorized by law.

Uninsured motorists may be eligible to apply for a $550.00 "Uninsured Motorist Fee" that enables them to drive and operate an uninsured motor vehicle on South Carolina road system.

SC State has non-resident service of process law, but no guest suit law.

South Dakota

SD State requires that each person who drives or owns a motor vehicle must be registered in South Dakota. Moreover, they shall maintain financial responsibility and must provide proof if requested by law enforcement. Proof of financial responsibility, in form of SR-22 filing, must be filed with the state following conviction for certain vehicle offenses.

All vehicle operators must have motor vehicle insurance in place as follows:

$25,000 for bodily injury to or the death of 1 person in any 1 accident, or

$50,000 for bodily injury to or the death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident, and

$25,000 for injury to or destruction of property of other in 1 accident.

SD State operates non-resident service of process law, and this state has mandatory uninsured and under-insured motorist coverage.

South Dakota has “add-on” supplemental insurance law as follows:

# Sale mandatory,

# Purchase optional,

# Benefits to include:

• Medical, $2,000,
• Wage loss, $60/week (14-day waiting period, 52-week maximum),
• Death, $10,000,

General damages.

Tennessee

In TN State, the Commissioner of Safety is required to must revoke the license and registration of all operators of motor vehicles involved in an accident unless proof of financial responsibility is evidenced. The amount required is not less than $500 as presented to the Commissioner. Acceptable forms of proof include the filing of written proof of insurance coverage, a cash deposit, or the filing of a bond.

Drivers need not provide proof of financial responsibility to the Commissioner after an accident, if the driver had in effect at the time an automobile liability policy or bond with respect to the vehicle involved in the accident.

Minimum permissible insurance coverage consists of either:

$60,000 single-limit coverage for any 1 accident,

$25,000 split-limit coverage for injury or death of any 1 person, and

$50,000 for injury or death of any 2 persons.

Note: not less than $25,000 for damage to property is required in any 1 accident.

A cash deposit with the Commissioner for $40,000 is required, else filing of a bond in the amount of $40,000 with the Commissioner is mandatory.

TN State operates non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law.

Texas

In TX State, the minimum amounts of motor vehicle liability insurance coverage required is as follows:

$30,000 for bodily injury to or death of single person in one accident,

$60,000 for bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in one accident, and

$25,000 for damage to or destruction of property of another in one accident.

This State has future-proof-type law applying in the event of an accident causing property damage of $1,000 or more to any vehicle or personal injury, or death. Owners must show financial responsibility if in accident with more than $1,000 property damage and there is a reasonable probability of judgment against the driver.

In TX, uninsured motorist coverage should at least equal the minimum financial responsibility limits issued on all insurance policies unless insured rejects coverage.

TX State Liability insurance is mandatory.

Drivers should note that current proof of liability insurance required upon request of law enforcement officer and to renew or receive vehicle safety inspection, or new motor vehicle registration. Proof of liability insurance is required only of original driver’s license applicants.

Utah

UT State uses security-type law applicable in the event of accident causing property damage in excess of $1,000 or personal injury or death, with a no-judgment minimum applying.

Utah requires each driver of a motor vehicle to hold the following minimum insurance coverage:

$25,000 for injury or death to any one person in an accident,

$65,000 for injury or death involving two or more people in any accident, and

$15,000 for damage to any property in one accident.

Moreover, proof of financial responsibility will be called for on driver’s license suspension or revocation, or when department is notified that an uninsured owner or operator has been involved in an accident. Failure to show proof may lead to suspension or revocation of driver’s license.

UT State applies non-resident service of process law.

In addition, UT State has uninsured insurance law. Sale and purchase are mandatory.

The following minimum benefits apply in UT:

# Medical and hospital up to $3,000,

# Wage loss, 85% of gross income up to $250/week for 52 weeks,

# Substitute service, $20/day, maximum 365 days,

# Funeral, $1,500,

# Survivors, $3,000,

Note: A 3-day waiting period for wage and service loss applies where total disability is less than 2 weeks.

UT State uses no fault insurance law.

Vermont

Short and sweet in VT State - vehicle owners/operators of a licensed motor vehicle "shall operate or permit the operation of the vehicle upon the highways of the state without having in effect an automobile liability policy or bond in the amount of at least $25,000 for 1 per-son killed or injured in an accident; $50,000 for 2 or more persons killed or injured in any 1 accident; and $10,000 for damages to property in any 1 accident."

VT State uses Non-resident Service of Process Law.

Virginia

VA uses security-type law applicable in event of accident causing property damage of $1,000 or more or personal injury or death.

In Virginia, vehicle owners should submit a $500 Uninsured Motor Vehicle (UMV) fee if registering they plan to drive an uninsured motor vehicle. Policies should indicate “uninsured motorist” coverage.

In VA, each vehicle owners policy must insure the insured or other person/s against loss from any liability imposed by law for damages. This should include damages for care and loss of services, because of bodily injury to or death of any person, and injury to or destruction of property caused by accident and arising out of the ownership. Moreover, coverage should extend to use or operation of said motor vehicle or motor vehicles within the Commonwealth, any other state in the United States (or Canada).

VA State minimum insurance in respect to each motor vehicle, are

$25,000 because of bodily injury to or death of one person in any single accident and, subject to the limit for one person
$50,000 because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any one incident, and
$20,000 because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident.

Virginia uses both non-resident service of process law and guest suit law.

Washington

WA State operates mandatory State liability insurance law, and has security and applies future-proof type law in the event of an accident. This kicks in with a claim resulting from damage to property for any amount above $700, or to a person’s property or personal injury requiring attention of doctor or causing death.

In Washington State, no person may operate a motor vehicle subject to registration in this state unless the person holds insured under a motor vehicle liability policy with a liability limit of:

Not less than $25,000 because of bodily injury to or death of one person in any single accident and, subject to that limit for 1 person, a limit of not less than,

$50,000 because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any single accident, and

Not less than $10,000 because of damage to property of others in any one incident.

Note: Motorists should have proof of auto insurance or financial responsibility in the vehicle. Law prescribes a $450 fine for non-compliance and applies to out-of-state motorists with similar proof-of-insurance cards.

WA State operates non-resident service of process law.

West Virginia

WV operates security-type law, which applies in the event of accident causing property damage in excess of $500, or personal injury or death.

This State’s minimum liability coverage is:

$25,000 for bodily injury or death to one person in a single accident,

$50,000 for bodily injury or death to two or more persons in a single accident, and

$25,000 because of injury or destruction of property of others in any single accident.

Compulsory State liability insurance is required, with proof of coverage a requirement at all times. Non-compliance could result in fine, jail, and license suspension.

WV State uses both non-resident service of process law and guest suit law.

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, State liability insurance is mandatory. WI State operates security-type law, which applies in the event of an accident causing property damage in excess of $1,000 or personal injury or death.

Minimum financial responsibility limits are straightforward:

$25,000 for bodily injury or death to one person in one accident,

$50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons in a single event, and

$10,000 due to injury or destruction of property of others in a single incident.

Noncompliance could result in revocation of operating/registration privileges.

WI State uses non-resident service of process law, but does not have guest suit law in place.

Wyoming

WY State uses security-type law applicable in the event of an accident causing property damage in excess of $1,000 or personal injury, or death.

In Wyoming, a vehicle owner’s policy of liability insurance must insure the person named, except for persons specifically excluded. Moreover, it must include any other person, as insured, using any covered motor vehicle with the express or implied permission of the named insured against loss from the liability for damages as follows:

$25,000 because of bodily injury to or death of one person in any single incident, subject to the limit for one person,

$50,000 because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any single accident, and

$20,000 because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any single incident.

WY State uses non-resident service of process law as well as guest suit law.

Updated January 24, 2024