Everything You Need to Know About Car Insurance in Wisconsin

Car insurance is a state requirement for drivers in Wisconsin, but choosing the right policy can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s important to understand the basics of car insurance so you can make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget.

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Wisconsin

Wisconsin law requires drivers to have liability insurance that covers damages and injuries to others in the event of an accident. The minimum coverage requirements in Wisconsin are:

Type of Coverage	Minimum Coverage Amount
Bodily injury liability	$25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
Property damage liability	$10,000 per accident

While these are the minimum coverage amounts required by law, it’s recommended that drivers opt for higher coverage limits to protect themselves from financial loss in the event of a serious accident.

What happens if I don’t have car insurance?

Driving without car insurance in Wisconsin is illegal and can result in hefty fines and even license suspension. In addition, if you are found at fault in an accident without insurance, you could be held personally responsible for any damages or injuries that occur.

Can I file a claim with my insurance company if I’m not at fault?

Yes, you can file a claim with your own insurance company even if you are not at fault for an accident. However, if you have liability-only coverage and are not at fault, you may need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company instead.

Types of Car Insurance Coverage in Wisconsin

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage is the minimum requirement for car insurance in Wisconsin and covers damages and injuries that you may cause to other drivers in an accident. This coverage does not apply to damages to your own vehicle.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is optional in Wisconsin and covers damages to your own vehicle in the event of an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is also optional and covers damages to your vehicle from events such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage is optional in Wisconsin and protects you in the event that you are in an accident with a driver who does not have adequate insurance coverage to pay for damages.

Factors that Affect Your Car Insurance Rates in Wisconsin

Driving Record

Your driving record is one of the biggest factors that insurance companies consider when determining your car insurance rates. If you have a clean driving record, you can expect to pay lower rates than someone with a history of accidents or traffic violations.

Age and Gender

Younger drivers and male drivers tend to be involved in more accidents, which means they may face higher insurance rates.

Vehicle Type and Age

Newer and more expensive vehicles tend to cost more to insure than older or less expensive vehicles.

Credit Score

Your credit score can also affect your car insurance rates. Drivers with good credit are usually offered lower rates than those with poor credit.

How to Save Money on Car Insurance in Wisconsin

Shop around for quotes

Comparing rates from multiple insurance companies can help you find the best deal on car insurance.

Bundle your policies

If you have multiple insurance policies, such as home and auto insurance, bundling them with the same provider can often lead to discounts on both policies.

Take advantage of discounts

Most insurance companies offer discounts for things like good driving habits, safety features on your vehicle, and completing a defensive driving course.

Choose a higher deductible

Choosing a higher deductible on your policy can lower your overall insurance rates, but it also means you will be responsible for paying more out-of-pocket in the event of an accident.

FAQs About Car Insurance in Wisconsin

How do I file a claim with my insurance company?

To file a claim with your insurance company, you will need to contact your provider and provide information about the accident or damage. Your insurance company will then investigate the claim and determine if it is covered under your policy.

What if I can’t afford car insurance?

If you are unable to afford car insurance, you may qualify for state-sponsored insurance programs or reduced rates based on your income level.

What happens if I lend my car to someone and they get into an accident?

If you lend your car to someone and they get into an accident, your insurance policy will typically cover the damages and injuries that occur.

Do I need to buy rental car insurance?

If you have comprehensive and collision coverage on your regular auto insurance policy, you may not need to purchase additional rental car insurance. However, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to confirm whether or not rental car coverage is included in your policy.

What should I do if I’m in an accident?

If you are involved in an accident, you should call the police and seek medical attention if necessary. You should also exchange insurance information with the other driver and take photos of any damage or injuries that occur.

By understanding the basics of car insurance in Wisconsin, you can make an informed decision when choosing a policy that works for you. Be sure to consider your coverage needs and shop around for quotes to find the best deal on car insurance.