Insurance New Hampshire: A Guide to Auto & Home Coverage
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New Hampshire insurance is not mandatory for most drivers. In fact, New Hampshire is one of the few states where car insurance isn't mandatory unless specific conditions are met. However, that doesn't mean it's a good idea to drive without car insurance. Learn more about New Hampshire car insurance and find the right auto insurance coverage for your needs.
Understanding New Hampshire's Insurance Laws
While you may not technically need car insurance in New Hampshire, an auto insurance policy is always a smart investment. If you get in a car accident and don't have insurance, you will be required to pay any bodily injury or property damage costs, and you could also face expensive lawsuits.
If you're wondering whether you are among those required to have car insurance in New Hampshire, the New Hampshire Department of Safety's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will notify you in writing if you are required to have auto insurance. This can happen after a DUI, an accident or failing to stop or report an accident, second offenses such as driving at an excessive rate of speed, or administrative action.
Auto Insurance Coverage in New Hampshire
Even though most forms of auto insurance are not required for drivers in New Hampshire, only about 8% of motorists are uninsured. The majority of drivers realize the importance of protecting their vehicle and financial liability and opt to purchase insurance.
When looking into car insurance, start by examining your current and future needs. First, make sure you find a New Hampshire insurance company that understands the state's unique auto insurance rules. You will want to find auto insurance that includes liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
You can also look into anti-theft devices, good driver discounts, and other deals to help you save money on car insurance. The competitive insurance marketplace makes it easier than ever to find custom options that meet your budget and your needs. Ultimately, you do not want to face the costs of an accident without car insurance.
Review the insurance requirements of your state:
New Hampshire Financial Responsibility Laws and Minimum Car Insurance Limits
New Hampshire's statewide financial responsibility laws require drivers to pay for damages when they are at fault in an accident. You can prove financial responsibility either by purchasing auto insurance or by getting a bond or making a deposit with the state treasurer.
The minimum liability insurance in the state is:
- $25,000 bodily injury per person
- $50,000 bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 property damage liability per accident
- $50,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident
Medical payments coverage of $1,000 is also required, and many motorists choose to add comprehensive and collision coverage as well as rental reimbursement.
Essential Considerations for Home Insurance in New Hampshire
Home insurance in New Hampshire averages a little more than $1,000 per year. This coverage can protect you in the case of serious events such as winter storms, hurricanes, and flooding, which are increasingly common in the Granite State. The price of homeowners' insurance in New Hampshire will vary based on factors such as the location and size of the house, your credit score, and your deductible.
The New Hampshire Insurance Department shares the latest information on home and rental insurance to help residents understand the value of insurance coverage and save money when it comes to annual premiums.
Tips for Comparing and Choosing Policies
When comparing and choosing auto insurance, consider the following tips:
- Determine the level of coverage you need. Sometimes you will need to spend more to get the best policy for all of the drivers in your household.
- Compare several options side by side so that you understand exactly what you are getting.
- Select your deductible to make sure you have enough coverage but aren't overpaying.
- Bundle car insurance with homeowners' insurance, family auto insurance policies, and other forms of insurance to enjoy discounts.
Recognize that auto insurance quotes can change over time. Do your due diligence and don't be afraid to get regular quotes to see if better rates are available.
Understanding New Hampshire's Financial Responsibility Requirements
It all comes down to this: You must be able to pay for the consequences of an at-fault accident, whether you have insurance or not. New Hampshire's financial responsibility requirements mean you have to prove this ability ahead of time, and the easiest way to do that is by purchasing and having proof of auto insurance. You can also opt for purchasing a bond or making a deposit with the state treasurer, if preferred.
If you can't meet the state's financial responsibility requirements, your driving privileges in the state may be suspended.
Helpful Resources for Learning More About Insurance in New Hampshire
The Granite State's insurance requirements can be confusing. Fortunately, there are several great resources for learning more about auto insurance laws in New Hampshire:
- The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles shares the latest updates to regulations and requirements for local drivers.
- The New Hampshire Insurance Department provides information on auto insurance in the state and also has more about auto insurance rates on its YouTube channel as well as a FAQ page.
- The National Association of Insurance Commissions has basic information on auto and rental car coverage.
- You can also look for cheap auto insurance by reviewing and comparing car insurance quotes online or connecting with a New Hampshire-based insurance agent.
Protect Yourself with the Right Car Insurance Today
Insurance rates vary by ZIP code and driver, so it's smart to review auto insurance costs to find the best deal. Get cheap car insurance in New Hampshire by comparing auto insurance company quotes online. Visit EverQuote for a free custom comparison today.