The Show-Me State car insurance rates are fairly cheap for state required minimum liability only coverage. However, drivers have to pay almost four times more to buy a full coverage policy, which costs slightly below the national average. The state isn’t heavily populated in most parts to cause congestion, accidents, and high vehicle related crimes. However, auto thefts are pretty high here as well as the ratio of uninsured drivers at 16.4%. So, motorists are advised to buy full coverage auto insurance that comes with Liability, Collision and Comprehensive. Comprehensive coverage pays for auto thefts and Collision pays for damages to your vehicle no matter whose fault it is and it may well be an uninsured driver at those rates.
Missouri Auto Liability Laws
Here are the minimum Liability coverage you need to be able to drive legally in this state;
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person.
- $50,000 total for bodily injury or death per accident.
- $25,000 for property damage.
In terms of Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury coverage, drivers must have;
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person.
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
You can check these details and more on the very helpful state website.
This state has Graduated Licensing. You can apply for a learner permit at 15. Learners between 15 and 18 must complete a period of supervised and restricted driving before they can apply for a full license.
Average Auto Insurance Costs in Missouri
The average premium for state required minimum coverage is $490, which is $132 cheaper than the US average. On the other hand, full coverage car insurance is $1,943 on average and only slightly lower than the US average.
Considering the notable average premium difference between liability only and full coverage vehicle insurance policies, drivers might be enticed to choose the more affordable option. However, it’s important to note that a liability-only policy doesn’t cover damages to your own vehicle. If your car still holds value, it’s advisable to think about including Collision and Comprehensive coverage to your policy.
Competitive Car Insurers in Missouri
Finding the cheapest company in your state is a sure way of getting good rates. The carriers below offer the lowest rates in this state so you should start with getting quotes from these names and work your way through with a few more providers. Every applicant comes with unique details and every insurer has their own pricing structure. That is why it isn’t easy to say that these companies will be able to offer you the lowest prices. That is why you should check with several other companies too.
- State Farm
- Travelers
- Farm Bureau
- Shelter Insurance
- American Family
There aren’t huge variations in premiums among the cities. Most fall nicely inline with the median figures, except Kansas City and St. Louis.
Automobile Insurance in Kansas City and St. Louis, MO
These are the two largest cities by far with $475,000 and $315,000 population. However, they are not cosmopolitan and this may save drivers living in these cities from higher premiums. Nevertheless, rates in Kansas City 12% and St. Louis 34% higher than the rest.
Important Missouri Vehicle Insurance and Driving Facts
- In Missouri, the “no pay, no play” law prevents uninsured motorists from fully recovering non-economic damages for injuries in accidents, even if the other driver is entirely at fault. An uninsured driver retains the ability to seek compensation for property damage, medical expenses, and lost wages from the at-fault party. However, they are generally prohibited from claiming damages for pain and suffering. Borrowing an uninsured vehicle also limits recovery. Exceptions include cases involving intoxicated drivers.
- In Missouri, driving without liability automobile insurance is illegal. Proof of insurance must be shown to law enforcement upon request, or a ticket can be issued. Failing to show proof can result in convictions, points on the driver’s record, supervision orders, or license suspension. Missouri law mandates motor vehicle owners to maintain insurance, show proof during registration, and carry proof in their vehicles. Failure to comply can lead to both driver and owner receiving tickets or even license suspension.
- Eight points within 18 months can lead to losing driving privileges in Missouri.
- Car Insurers commonly provide a modest discount to married drivers. In Missouri, married drivers, on average, experience a 10% reduction in the cost of full coverage compared to their unmarried counterparts, as reported by valuepenguin.com.
- Forbes reports that, on average, a speeding ticket increases vehicle insurance rates by 16%, an at-fault accident by 31%, and a DUI by 33%. These percentages are comparatively lower than the premium hikes seen in most other states.
- Missourians drive an average of 18,521 miles annually, significantly surpassing the national average. More time on the road increases the risk of accidents and vehicle damage, underscoring the need for adequate car insurance coverage.
- Missouri has 4.3 million licensed drivers and 6.6 million registered vehicles.
- Seat belt use is 88.9% in Missouri against the national average of 91.6%. But it reduces to 71.8% among teenagers.
When automobile insurers calculate your quotes, they take into consideration factors such as your age, credit score, driving record, and geographical location. Your location holds particular significance, as typically densely populated urban areas tend to experience more accidents and car thefts, resulting in a higher likelihood of residents filing claims. Irrespective of your situation, it’s essential to compare car insurance quotes to guarantee you only pay a fair premium in your zip code.