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Common Personal Insurance Policies

By: Matt Larsen

Owner of Capstone Insurance Group & Auto Insurance Advisor

763-242-1668

Understanding auto insurance in Minnesota is crucial for every driver in the state. This guide will provide you with comprehensive information on the subject, helping you make informed decisions about your auto insurance needs. From the basics of auto insurance to the specific requirements in Minnesota, we've got you covered.

Understanding Auto Insurance Basics

Before we delve into the specifics of Minnesota auto insurance, it's important to understand the basics of auto insurance. Auto insurance is a contract between you and the insurance company, where you pay a premium, and in return, the insurance company promises to pay for specific car-related financial losses during the term of the policy.


Auto insurance policies are typically comprised of various types of coverage, each providing protection against different types of financial loss. Some of the common types of coverage include liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and medical payments coverage.


Liability Coverage



 is designed to cover the costs associated with injuries or property damage you cause to others in a car accident. It's important to note that liability coverage does not cover your own injuries or vehicle damage.


Most states, including Minnesota, require drivers to have a minimum amount of liability coverage. However, considering the high costs associated with car accidents, it's often recommended to opt for more than the minimum required coverage.


Collision Coverage


Collision coverage pays for the repair or replacement of your vehicle if it's damaged in an accident with another vehicle or object, regardless of who is at fault. This type of coverage is typically required if you're leasing or financing your vehicle.


While collision coverage can significantly increase your premium, it can provide peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is protected in the event of an accident.


Minnesota Auto Insurance Requirements

Now that we've covered the basics of auto insurance, let's move on to the specific auto insurance requirements in Minnesota. Minnesota is a no-fault state, which means that regardless of who is at fault in an accident, each driver's own insurance pays for their medical expenses and lost wages.


In addition to the no-fault coverage, Minnesota law requires drivers to carry liability, uninsured motorist, and underinsured motorist coverage.


No-Fault Coverage


In Minnesota, the no-fault coverage is also known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP). PIP coverage pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other non-medical costs, regardless of who caused the accident.


The minimum PIP coverage required in Minnesota is $40,000 per person per accident. This includes $20,000 for medical expenses and $20,000 for non-medical expenses such as lost wages.


Liability Coverage


As mentioned earlier, liability coverage pays for the injuries or property damage you cause to others in an accident. In Minnesota, the minimum liability coverage limits are $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 for property damage.


While these are the minimum required limits, it's often recommended to carry higher limits to protect yourself from potential lawsuits.


Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage


Uninsured motorist coverage pays for your injuries if you're hit by a driver who doesn't have auto insurance. Underinsured motorist coverage, on the other hand, kicks in when the at-fault driver's liability coverage isn't enough to cover your medical expenses.


In Minnesota, the minimum required limits for both uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage are $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 for bodily injury per accident.

Choosing the Right Auto Insurance in Minnesota

Choosing the right auto insurance involves more than just meeting the minimum state requirements. It's about finding the right balance between coverage and cost. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your auto insurance in Minnesota.


Your Vehicle


The type of vehicle you drive can significantly impact your auto insurance premium. If your vehicle is expensive to repair or replace, you might want to consider higher collision and comprehensive coverage limits. On the other hand, if your vehicle is older and has a low market value, it might not be cost-effective to carry collision or comprehensive coverage.


Your Driving Record


Your driving record can also influence your auto insurance premium. If you have a history of accidents or traffic violations, you're likely to pay more for auto insurance. On the other hand, a clean driving record can help you qualify for lower rates.


Your Coverage Needs


Everyone's coverage needs are different. While some drivers might be comfortable with the minimum required coverage, others might want additional protection. Consider your personal circumstances and financial situation when determining your coverage needs.

Conclusion

Understanding auto insurance in Minnesota can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. By understanding the basics of auto insurance and the specific requirements in Minnesota, you can make informed decisions about your auto insurance needs. Remember, the right auto insurance policy is not just about cost, but also about having the right protection in place.

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