Author: Kate Bosworth
When driving on Wisconsin roads, it’s crucial to understand the state’s minimum insurance requirements. Ensuring you meet these requirements is not only a legal obligation but also a vital step in protecting yourself and others on the road. In this blog, we’ll explore Wisconsin’s minimum insurance requirements, what they mean for you as a driver, and why it might be wise to consider coverage beyond the minimum.
Wisconsin’s Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements
Wisconsin is a “fault” state when it comes to auto insurance. This means that the driver who is found to be at fault in an accident is responsible for compensating the other party for damages. To ensure that drivers can meet these obligations, Wisconsin law requires that all drivers carry a minimum level of liability insurance. As of now, the minimum insurance coverage requirements in Wisconsin are:
- Bodily Injury Liability:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death per accident
- Property Damage Liability:
- $10,000 for property damage per accident
These minimums are often referred to as 25/50/10 coverage.
What Do These Requirements Mean?
- Bodily Injury Liability covers costs associated with injuries or death that you or another driver cause while driving your car. The $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident limits mean that if you are at fault in an accident, your insurance will cover up to $25,000 for each person injured and up to $50,000 total for all injuries in the accident.
- Property Damage Liability covers damage that you or another driver operating your vehicle causes to another person’s property, such as their vehicle, fence, or building. The $10,000 limit is the maximum amount your insurance will pay for all property damage resulting from an accident you caused.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
In addition to liability coverage, Wisconsin law also requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage (UM) with the following minimum limits:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
Uninsured motorist coverage protects you and your passengers if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance. It is important to note that this coverage does not cover damage to your vehicle or property.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Optional but Recommended
While not required by law, underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) is an optional coverage you can purchase. This type of insurance provides coverage when an at-fault driver does not have sufficient insurance to cover your medical expenses and other damages. Given the relatively low minimum liability limits in Wisconsin, this coverage can provide an extra layer of protection.
Why Consider Coverage Beyond the Minimum?
While carrying the minimum required coverage is enough to comply with Wisconsin law, it may not be sufficient in the event of a serious accident. Medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage can quickly exceed the minimum coverage limits. In such cases, you would be personally responsible for any costs beyond what your insurance covers.
Here are a few reasons to consider increasing your coverage limits:
- Medical Costs: With rising medical costs, the minimum bodily injury coverage may not be sufficient to cover all expenses if someone is injured.
- Legal Fees: If you are sued as a result of an accident, having higher liability coverage can help cover legal fees.
- Property Damage: Modern vehicles, especially luxury cars, can be costly to repair or replace, potentially exceeding the $10,000 minimum for property damage.
- Peace of Mind: Higher coverage limits can provide peace of mind knowing that you are better protected in case of a serious accident.
Understanding Wisconsin’s minimum insurance requirements is essential for all drivers. While these minimums provide a baseline level of protection, they may not be enough in the event of a major accident. Considering additional coverage options can provide greater financial security and peace of mind. At Doar Drill and Skow, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of auto insurance and ensure that you and your loved ones are adequately protected. If you have questions about your coverage or need legal assistance following an accident, contact us today. We’re here to help.
To learn more about minimum insurance requirements in Wisconsin, visit https://wisconsindot.gov/pages/dmv/license-drvs/rcd-crsh-rpt/auto-insurance.aspx and https://oci.wi.gov/Documents/Consumers/PI-233.pdf