Maryland Minimum Coverage Car Insurance: Requirements and Costs (September 2024)

Maryland drivers need to carry the state minimum car insurance requirements of $30,000 bodily injury liability per person, $60,000 per accident and $15,000 property damage liability, alongside uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage matching the liability limits. Maryland operates under an at-fault system, meaning that the driver who causes an accident is responsible for covering the damages.

The monthly cost for state minimum car insurance in Maryland averages $73. However, while minimum coverage meets legal requirements, it may not provide comprehensive financial protection in every situation. If you're looking to economize, it's essential to review the cheapest car insurance in Maryland. Remember, it’s important to consider the cost while ensuring your policy provides adequate protection.

In Maryland, drivers are legally required to have minimum coverage auto insurance to drive a vehicle. The state-mandated minimums are as follows:

• $30,000 for bodily injury liability per person
• $60,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
• $15,000 for property damage liability per accident
• $30,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per person
• $60,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident
• $15,000 uninsured/underinsured property damage coverage

Maryland is a fault state, so its auto insurance premiums are influenced by who is at fault in an accident. If you are found at fault for an accident, your insurance will be primarily responsible for covering damages. This can significantly impact your insurance costs, particularly if you are involved in a collision where you are deemed responsible.

The table above reflects Maryland's minimum car insurance requirements, including bodily injury and property damage coverage. Your policy's terms and conditions will outline the specific coverage details.

Drivers in the 22 to 29 age group and those over 60 face the highest premiums, likely due to their limited driving experience, higher accident risk and potential health issues. The table below presents the average cost for minimum coverage auto insurance in Maryland by age group, illustrating how rates vary for different demographic segments.

These are the most affordable annual rates for minimum coverage auto insurance in Maryland:

• State Farm: $703 per year; $59 per month
• Travelers: $765 per year; $64 per month

While finding a budget-friendly insurance plan is essential, you should select the best car insurance in Maryland that suits your needs and gives you more comprehensive protection.

In Maryland, optional add-on coverages include uninsured motorist protection, comprehensive, collision, personal injury protection (PIP) and roadside assistance, among others. While not required by law, these coverages can offer financial protection against various incidents, like accidents involving uninsured drivers, theft and natural disasters. Assessing how much car insurance you need can help determine the right level of protection for your circumstances.

The cost of a ticket for driving without insurance in Maryland can vary, depending on if it's your first time or if you've been caught before. The penalties escalate for repeat offenses. For a first-time offense, you might face a fine and have to pay a restoration fee. If you offend again, the penalties increase and you could also face a longer suspension of your registration and driving privileges.

Additional penalties for driving without minimum coverage insurance in Maryland include:

• Vehicle Impoundment: Your car may be impounded, and you'll need to pay to get it back.
• License Suspension: You could lose your driving privileges for a period.
• Vehicle Registration Suspension: Your car's registration can be suspended, making it illegal to drive.
• SR-22 Requirement: You might have to provide proof of high-risk insurance for a certain time.
• Jail Time: If you're uninsured and get into an accident, you might face up to six months in jail.

It's important to follow Maryland's laws and ensure you have the required car insurance. Driving without it can lead to severe consequences and is not worth the risk. Always carry at least the state minimum coverage to protect yourself and others on the road.

If your car insurance policy is canceled in Maryland, immediately seek a new provider — driving uninsured is illegal. You can discuss the situation with an insurance agent to explore your options for obtaining a new policy.

The DMV will be notified about the lapse in insurance coverage. If you are found driving without insurance, you may face penalties, including fines and the potential suspension of your vehicle registration. Act quickly and secure at least the state minimum coverage to ensure you adhere to state laws.

For those struggling to find insurance, Maryland offers the Maryland Auto Insurance Fund (MAIF) for drivers who are unable to obtain coverage through the private market. Remember, driving without at least minimum coverage in Maryland is against the law. Always make sure you are properly insured before getting behind the wheel.

We answer your questions about Maryland's state minimum car insurance requirements, ensuring you meet the legal coverage standards before hitting the road.