Have you recently moved to North Carolina or are you a long time resident, wondering whether auto insurance is required by the state for vehicle repair? Regardless of whether you’re a new driver or an experienced one, it’s important to understand the legal requirements for auto insurance in North Carolina.
In this blog post, we’ll go over what the law says about auto insurance in NC and answer some common questions about how much coverage is required, penalties for driving without insurance, and how to get insured. So buckle up and let’s dive in!
What North Carolina law says about auto insurance
North Carolina law requires all drivers to have auto insurance. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that drivers can cover the costs of damages or injuries they cause while driving. North Carolina uses a “fault” system, which means that if you are found at fault in an accident, you will be responsible for paying for damage and medical costs incurred by other parties involved.
The minimum amount of liability coverage required by North Carolina law is $30,000 per person injured in an accident, $60,000 total for multiple people injured in one accident and $25,000 for property damage. These are referred to as 30/60/25 limits.
It’s important to note that liability coverage only covers damages or injuries caused by you; it does not cover your own vehicle or your own medical expenses. If you want more comprehensive protection for yourself and your vehicle, consider additional coverage options such as collision and comprehensive insurance.
In addition to liability coverage requirements, North Carolina also requires uninsured motorist (UM) coverage with limits matching the policyholder’s liability limits unless specifically waived in writing. Uninsured Motorist Coverage provides protection when someone who doesn’t have auto insurance causes an accident involving you or someone on your policy.
How much auto insurance do you need in North Carolina?
When it comes to auto insurance in North Carolina, there are certain minimum requirements that drivers must meet. These requirements include liability coverage for both bodily injury and property damage. The minimum limits for bodily injury liability coverage are $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident, while the minimum limit for property damage liability coverage is $25,000.
It’s important to note that these are only the minimum requirements set by the state of North Carolina. Depending on your specific needs and circumstances, you may want to consider purchasing additional types of coverage or higher limits of liability coverage.
For example, if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle, you may want to consider collision and comprehensive coverage to protect against damages from accidents or other events such as theft or natural disasters.
Additionally, if you frequently drive in areas with high uninsured motorist rates or have significant assets that could be at risk in a lawsuit following an accident, you may also want to consider purchasing uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and increased liability limits respectively.
Ultimately, choosing the right amount of auto insurance depends on various factors unique to each driver’s situation. It’s important to consult with an experienced insurance agent who can help guide you through the process of selecting appropriate levels of protection.
What are the penalties for driving without auto insurance in North Carolina?
Driving without auto insurance in North Carolina is a serious offense that carries significant penalties. If you are caught driving without the required minimum insurance coverage, you can face fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
The first time you are caught driving uninsured in North Carolina, you will be fined between $50 and $150. However, if you are unable to provide proof of insurance within 10 days of your citation date or have been convicted of this offense before, the fine increases up to $500.
If you continue to drive uninsured after being cited once before, your driver’s license may be suspended for up to one year. You will also need to pay a reinstatement fee and maintain an SR-22 form for three years after the conviction.
Additionally, if you get into an accident while driving uninsured in North Carolina and it’s determined that it was your fault, then your driver’s license can be revoked for up to one year along with other civil liabilities such as paying damages & medical bills incurred by another party involved.
It is clear that having proper automobile insurance is crucial when operating a vehicle on public roads. Not only does it protect yourself from financial consequences but also ensures everyone’s safety around us while traveling on NC highways or any roads leading through cities/towns across America.
How to get auto insurance in North Carolina
If you’re looking to get auto insurance in North Carolina, there are a few things you need to consider. First and foremost, it’s important to shop around for the best rates and coverage options.
Start by researching different insurance companies and comparing their policies. Look for reviews online or ask friends and family members for recommendations.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, request quotes from each company. Be sure to provide accurate information about your driving history, vehicle make and model, and any other relevant details that may impact your premiums.
Once you’ve received quotes from multiple providers, take some time to compare them side by side. Look at not just the price but also the coverage limits and deductibles offered.
When you’ve made a decision on which provider is right for you, complete the application process either online or over the phone. You’ll likely need to provide additional documentation such as proof of residency or driver’s license information.
Getting auto insurance in North Carolina requires careful consideration of all available options before making a decision on which provider is right for you.
Conclusion
In summary, North Carolina state requires every vehicle owner to have car insurance. The minimum coverage mandated by the law is liability coverage, and it’s important to note that additional coverage options are available should you need them.
Driving without auto insurance in North Carolina attracts severe penalties such as fines, license suspension or revocation, and even imprisonment in some cases. It’s not worth risking these consequences when affordable auto insurance options are available from reputable providers.
If you’re looking for quality auto insurance in North Carolina, do your research before signing up with any provider. Compare quotes from different insurers and choose the one that offers the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable price.
Remember, driving without auto insurance puts you at risk of financial ruin if an accident occurs. So make sure you stay protected by complying with the minimum legal requirements for auto insurance in North Carolina!