Montana Auto Insurance Requirements
Montana has very strict auto insurance laws for both private and commercial vehicle owners. Minimum auto insurance coverage requirements in Montana are mandated by state law and the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance. The following minimum coverage is required on every registered vehicle, except as noted below:
(Source: Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance)
Driving without the mandatory liability insurance in Montana will result in fines of $250 to $500, five points on your driver’s license, and potential jail time. Subsequent offenses are subject to higher fines, loss of driving privileges, reinstatement fees, and jail time.
The Montana 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 Montana
Getting a quote for cheap car insurance in Montana requires some research and rate comparisons between different insurance companies. Montana ranks as one of the highest states in the nation for car insurance costs. Some factors that impact insurance rates in Montana include:
• Montana is not a “no-fault” state, and does not require PIP insurance
• Vehicle repair costs are generally more expensive in Montana than elsewhere
• Overall accident fatality rates are well above national averages
• A percentage of uninsured drivers that is near national averages
• Auto insurance fraud
• Vehicle theft rates near national averages
The average auto insurance premium for residents in Montana is $2,190 in 2011; the national average is $1,790.
Tips for Obtaining Cheap Car Insurance in Montana
• 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 Montana
• 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
Montana Statistics
• Auto Theft: Montana has a relatively high vehicle theft rate, 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 Montana has remained fairly consistent in recent years, but vehicle accident fatality rates have declined somewhat. Still, Montana is well above the national average in numbers of deaths in car crashes.
(Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
Enter your Zip Code below to find Cheap Car Insurance in Montana.