Minnesota Auto Insurance Requirements
Minnesota has very comprehensive auto insurance laws for both private and commercial vehicle owners. Minimum auto insurance coverage requirements in Minnesota are mandated by state law and the Minnesota Department of Commerce. The following minimum coverage is required on every registered vehicle, except as noted below:
(Source: Minnesota Department of Commerce)
Driving without the mandatory liability insurance in Minnesota can result in a $100 fine and court costs for first offense, and/or jail time up to 90 days, and suspension of driving privileges. Subsequent offenses are subject to higher fines, reinstatement fees, and jail time.
The Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan is available to drivers who are unable to obtain required coverage through the voluntary market. More information is available on the AIPSO website.
Factors Influencing Car Insurance Premiums in Minnesota
Getting a quote for cheap car insurance in Minnesota requires some research and rate comparisons between different insurance companies, even though Minnesota ranks below national averages for car insurance costs. Some factors that impact insurance rates in Minnesota include:
• Minnesota is a “no-fault” state, and requires PIP insurance
• Vehicle repair costs are generally less expensive in Minnesota than elsewhere
• Overall accident fatality rates are significantly lower than national averages
• A lower percentage of uninsured drivers compared to national averages
• Reduced instances of auto insurance fraud
• Vehicle theft rates near national averages
The average auto insurance premium for residents in Minnesota is $1,614 in 2011; the national average is $1,790.
Tips for Obtaining Cheap Car Insurance in Minnesota
• If you’re over 55, take a state-approved defensive driving course for a policy discount
• Several insurance companies offer “pay as you drive” car insurance for low mileage drivers in Minnesota
• Maintain a good driving record
• Bind multiple policies (homeowners, life, auto) with the same provider
• Maintain a good credit score
• Create a personal “emergency fund” of up to $1500 and increase deductibles accordingly
• Discuss affinity discounts with your insurance provider
• Drop comprehensive and collision insurance on older vehicles
Minnesota Statistics
• Auto Theft: Minnesota has a vehicle theft rate near the national average, but it has been decreasing (as is the case in most states) consistently over the past 10 years. This can be attributed primarily to anti-theft devices being standard on recent model cars, as well as public awareness of the issue:
(Source: Auto Thiefs)
• Automobile Accidents: The total vehicle miles traveled in Minnesota has remained almost constant in recent years. The vehicle accident fatality rate in Minnesota is among the lowest in the country.
(Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
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