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In the state, of Missouri auto Insurance is the Law. Simply put no person can operate a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is covered by a liability insurance policy of-at least-the required minimum limits. Missouri’s auto insurance requirements are different from most states in that Missouri requires uninsured motorist insurance in addition to liability insurance.
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance covers the damage to another individual or their property. The minimum level of liability coverage required by state law is:
- • $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- • $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- • $10,000 per accident for property
When you purchase liability insurance in Missouri you should consider getting more than the minimum coverage. If an accident is your fault, your cost could easily exceed the minimum liability coverage. Experts advise motorist to protect their assets by purchasing at least $500,000.00 worth of auto liability insurance.
Uninsured Motorist Insurance
Missouri law requires motorist to carry uninsured motorist insurance in addition to liability insurance. Uninsured motorist insurance protects drivers against losses incurred when they are in an accident with an uninsured driver. The minimum level of uninsured motorist insurance allowed by the state is:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- 50,000 for bodily injury per accident
In Missouri most, auto insurance agents will recommend that you purchase at least $50,000 in Uninsured motorists coverage.
Proof of Insurance
In Missouri, a driver must carry proof of insurance at all times. You must be able to provide proof of insurance in the following situations:
- When you register your vehicle
- When you are, involved in an accident
- When the Department of Motor Vehicles request proof of insurance
- When you are, stopped by a law enforcement officer
In most situations, a motorist can present an insurance identification card showing that the auto is insured. Your auto insurance company must provide you with an identification card when they issue or renew your auto insurance liability policy. The insurance identification card includes the name of the insurance company, the policy number, and the policy’s beggining and expiration dates. It also includes a description of the insured car and the name of the insured driver.
Penalties for Uninsured Drivers
If a driver is unable to provide proof of insurance, they can be ticketed and have their car registration and drivers license suspended.
Full Coverage Insurance Policies
Most drivers elect to get full coverage insurance. A full coverage policy includes collision and comprehensive insurance as well as liability and uninsured motorist coverage. Collision and Comprehensive insurance coverage are vital coverage’s for drivers who want to be protected if their car is damaged or destroyed.
Collision Coverage
The state of Missouri does not require drivers to carry collision auto insurance. However if, you have a loan on your car or lease your car the bank or lien holder may require you to buy it. Collision coverage pays for damage to your car when your vehicle is in an accident with another vehicle or object. Collision insurance coverage will pay for the cost of repairs to your car that are above your deductible limit. When purchasing collision insurance remember that the insurance company with not settle for more than the blue book value of your car. You therefore, do not want to carry collision coverage in excess of your cars blue book value.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive insurance like collision insurance is not required by the state of Missouri. However if, you have a loan on your car or lease your car ,the bank or lien holder may require you to buy it. Comprehensive auto insurance covers theft, fire, vandalism, storms and acts of god. If you purchase comprehensive insurance, remember that your insurance company will not settle for more than the cash value of the car. You should therefore, limit coverage to your cars blue book value.
Average Annual Cost of Insurance
The average annual premium for drivers who purchase auto insurance in Missouri, in 2011 is $1,563.00 which is somewhat higher than the national average of $1,561.00.
Missouri Department of Insurance
301 West High Street, P.O. Box 690
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0690 United States
Phone: 573-751-4126
FAX: 573-751-1165
