Ohio Auto Insurance Requirements: What Drivers Need to Know
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If you're a resident of Ohio and drive a vehicle, you must obtain car insurance that meets state requirements. Driving without insurance can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and driver's license suspension.
Here's what you need to know about Ohio auto insurance requirements, including minimum coverage limitations, optional coverages, and what insurers consider when deciding your rate.
Understanding Ohio's Auto Insurance Landscape
Is auto insurance required in Ohio? Yes. As in almost every U.S. state, all drivers must carry insurance before operating a vehicle.
Ohio is considered a fault state. This means if you cause an accident, your insurance company pays for the other party's medical expenses and vehicle repairs from the wreck.
The state of Ohio minimum auto insurance requirements include bodily injury and property damage coverage. Other coverages are optional unless you finance a vehicle and your lender requires them.
Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements
Ohio minimum auto insurance requirements include:
- $25,000 for bodily injuries for one individual in a single accident
- $50,000 for bodily injuries for all parties in one collision
- $25,000 for property damage in any one accident
You can always increase your coverage amounts, but you must have a policy that at least meets the minimum insurance requirements.
Standard Liability vs. Full Coverage
Purchasing a liability-only policy covers other people if you cause an accident, but what about your vehicle? That's where having a full coverage policy can help.
Full coverage typically includes collision and comprehensive insurance. Collision coverage pays for vehicle repairs if you're at fault in an accident. You set a deductible on your policy, and once you pay it, the insurer will cover the remainder of your repair bill.
Comprehensive coverage pays for vehicle repairs if your car sustains damage due to factors outside your control, including theft, vandalism, weather-related events, natural disasters, and fire. It may also protect against damage caused by falling objects.
Additional medical payments coverage pays health-related expenses from an accident. It may also cover the medical bills for any passengers in the vehicle with you.
Fault Designation in Ohio
States generally fall into two categories when it comes to car accidents: fault and no-fault. As a fault state, Ohio considers each driver's actions when determining accident liability. The at-fault driver's insurance coverage reimburses other parties for their damages in an accident, but only to the extent of their Ohio car insurance policy limits.
If you're responsible for the accident and only have liability coverage, you must pay your medical expenses and vehicle repairs out of pocket. If you have health insurance, it may pay for some of your health-related costs.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
Ohio takes driving without insurance very seriously. If you're caught operating a vehicle without it, the state may impound your car's license plates and suspend your driver's license. You may also be on the hook for fines and reinstatement fees. Ohio may reinstate your driving privileges once you provide proof of insurance and pay any penalties.
Drivers who cause an accident and don't have insurance coverage may face legal proceedings from affected parties. Courts may order them to pay damages from their assets, including their home, or through a wage garnishment.
Affordability of Car Insurance in Ohio
As an Ohio resident, you may find your insurance costs are cheaper than in other states. Ohio ranks as the sixth most affordable state for car insurance.
On average, drivers pay $511 annually for liability coverage and $1,660 annually for a full coverage policy. Because car insurance is so affordable, there's no reason to ever be without it in Ohio.
Optional Coverages To Consider
Some drivers choose to purchase uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. This type of auto insurance in Ohio pays for your medical expenses and vehicle repairs if you're hit by someone who doesn't have insurance or whose insurance doesn't cover the full extent of your losses. While it's not required in Ohio, it's something to consider to maximize your protection.
Factors Influencing Insurance Rates
Insurers consider several factors when setting your insurance premium rates:
- Driving history: If you have any recent traffic violations or insurance claims, you may pay more for insurance.
- Location: Living in an area with high accident rates or vehicle theft may increase your rates.
- Age: Younger, inexperienced drivers typically pay more for coverage. After age 25, you may find it easier to find cheap car insurance.
- Extent of coverage: You'll pay more for full coverage than a liability-only policy.
Tips for Selecting the Right Insurance Policy
While you must purchase coverage that meets state of Ohio auto insurance requirements, you may prefer a policy with additional coverage to mitigate personal risk. If you finance or lease a vehicle, your creditor may require you to purchase additional coverages that exceed state requirements.
Before buying a policy, comparing quotes from several providers is smart. That way you can find the best rate. EverQuote makes the shopping process easy. When you complete our online form, we'll provide a free custom comparison from multiple Ohio car insurance companies. It only takes a few minutes, and it can save you money. Start today with EverQuote!