Massachusetts Car Insurance
What mandatory auto insurance laws exist in the state of Massachusetts?
Every state within the US has different laws regarding auto insurance. Massachusetts requires that when you register a vehicle under your name, you must purchase at least the minimum amount of insurance the law states.
Minimum Liability Coverage
- $20,000 bodily injury coverage for 1 person for any single accident
- $40,000 bodily injury coverage for 2 or more people in any single accident
- $5,000 for property damage
- $8,000 for personal injury protection (PIP)
While these are the minimum coverage amounts, most auto insurance companies recommend that you increase the protection amount because the State of Massachusetts follows a No Fault System. A No Fault System defines that your insurance company makes all the payments for any damages resulted from a car accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Unlike most states where Uninsured Motorist and Underinsured Motorist coverage are mandatory, the Massachusetts law does not require you to buy additional coverage, but they do highly recommend it. Purchasing any additional coverage is always suggested because the more prepared you are, the better prepared you’ll be in unexpected accidents.
Because additional coverage options are advised by your provider, you should look into all the popular car insurance companies within Massachusetts. Certain auto insurers will adjust your monthly premiums based on your driving history, by setting surcharges and credits as part of their “Safe Driver Insurance Plan”. Note that they cannot increase your premium for at-fault accidents or traffic violations you have been accumulated for more than 5 years.
Proof of Insurance and Financial Responsibility
Once you’ve officially purchased car insurance in Massachusetts, the insurance company will provide you with proof of insurance. The details on this slip will include:
- The effective date of coverage
- The expiration date of coverage
- The vehicle’s detailed description including the identification number
- The limits of liability that you’ve purchased under the auto insurer
If you currently carry expired auto insurance or have no proof of insurance in Massachusetts, then that could result in a traffic citation. This could increase your monthly premium rates and possible auto insurance plan by adjusting your driving record, the number and severity of at-fault accidents you were involved in, and other traffic violations.
If you were involved in an at-fault incident, your provider must report it to the Merit Rating Board, to be added onto your driving record. These situations may include:
- You colliding with a parked vehicle
- You rear-ended another vehicle
- You did not signal
- You drove on the wrong side of the road
- You collided while backing out
- You caused damage when opening a car door
- You fail to obey Massachusetts driving rules and regulations
- You are involved in a single-car accident
Now that you have a better understanding of what Massachusetts auto insurance entails, you can utilize this information and start researching for a better coverage plan. Many companies offer a variety of discounts and a selection of savings, and by exploring other options, you could save up to hundreds every month on your premium. It’s easy and straightforward. Enter your zip code below to get started, and within a matter of minutes, compare all the different insurance quotes and switch to one that best fits your needs.
