Wisconsin Minimum Coverage Car Insurance: Requirements and Costs (October 2024)

Wisconsin requires drivers to have minimum car insurance coverage, safeguarding against the financial consequences of a mishap. Specifically, state minimum auto insurance necessitates $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage. State minimum coverage also includes uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. As an at-fault state, Wisconsin holds the responsible party liable for damages in an accident.

The cost of state minimum car insurance in Wisconsin is quite reasonable for drivers looking to satisfy legal requirements, at around $36 per month for a typical 40-year-old driver. Explore the cheapest car insurance in Wisconsin to find affordable plans that meet state-mandated requirements.

In Wisconsin, you are required to carry minimum coverage auto insurance to operate a vehicle legally. The amounts for the required coverage in Wisconsin are:

• $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
• $10,000 for property damage liability per accident
• $25,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per person
• $50,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident

The cost of your premium can be affected by whether the state operates on a fault or no-fault basis. Wisconsin is a fault state, which means that the at-fault driver's insurance typically must cover the costs of bodily injury and property damage resulting from an accident.

*The table reflects Wisconsin's state minimum car insurance requirements, including bodily injury and property damage coverage. Remember, individual policy terms and conditions define exact coverage details.

age group with the highest premiums is those 22 to 29, primarily because younger drivers are perceived as higher risk due to less driving experience and a higher likelihood of accidents.

The table below shows the average minimum coverage cost in Wisconsin per age group. This data helps you understand how premiums vary by age, ensuring you find the most affordable plan for your needs.

In Wisconsin, the two most budget-friendly options for state minimum coverage auto insurance are as follows:

• AAA: $243 per year; $20 per month
• GEICO: $268 per year; $22 per month

It's important to weigh affordability against your individual needs and circumstances when finding the best car insurance.

In Wisconsin, you may opt for various add-on coverages, such as comprehensive, collision, uninsured/underinsured motorist, medical payments and rental reimbursement coverage. Though not required by law, these optional protections can safeguard you financially. For a thorough understanding of how much car insurance you need, consider your personal circumstances and the value of your assets.

The cost of a ticket for driving without insurance in Wisconsin varies based on whether it's your first offense or a repeat violation. Generally, a first offense will result in lighter penalties than repeated offenses, which can carry much heftier consequences, including larger fines. If you're caught driving without minimum coverage auto insurance in Wisconsin, you could face several consequences:

• License suspension: Your driving privileges may be taken away for a period of time.
• Vehicle registration suspension: The registration of your vehicle can be suspended, meaning you cannot legally drive the car.
• SR-22 requirement: You may have to file an SR-22 form, which is proof of financial responsibility. — doing so usually results in higher insurance premiums.
• Fines: There will be monetary penalties for driving uninsured.
• Vehicle impoundment: Your car could be taken away with you paying for the associated costs.
• Reinstatement fees: You might need to pay fees to get your license and vehicle registration back.
• Increased future insurance premiums: Not carrying auto insurance can lead to higher insurance costs.

Remember that driving with at least the state minimum coverage auto insurance is a legal requirement.

After a car insurance policy is canceled in Wisconsin, drivers must secure a new policy immediately, as Wisconsin law requires motorists to always have minimum coverage auto insurance. Driving without insurance is illegal, and you can face severe penalties. Drivers should reach out to their insurance agent to explore options for new coverage or to resolve misunderstandings.

The Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will be notified of the lapse in coverage. Continuously maintaining auto insurance is crucial because the DMV tracks insured status through various systems —similar to the TexasSure program in Texas — and can impose fines or suspend driving privileges if you’re caught without valid insurance.

Wisconsin doesn't have a specific state program for individuals struggling to obtain insurance. However, drivers can shop around with different insurance providers or contact the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance for guidance on obtaining the necessary coverage.

Here, you'll find answers to all your questions about legally mandated coverage to remain compliant with Wisconsin law.