Missouri Car Insurance: Coverage, Cost & More

According to historical records, the name Missouri may have originally meant “town of the large canoes.” Naturally, we have progressed beyond boats, and much of our travel in the Show Me State now takes place in cars. Missouri requires car insurance for visits to Mark Twain’s childhood home and Busch Stadium for hot dogs and baseball. Fortunately, you may acquire an AAA quote for Missouri car insurance coverage at your convenience. Keep reading to learn the necessary requirements for car insurance in Missouri, claim laws, and insurance costs.

What Is Missouri Car Insurance Coverage?

Missouri car insurance coverage typically includes several types of protection required by law and additional options for added security. The state mandates liability insurance, which covers costs if you’re at fault in an accident, including medical expenses and property damage for others involved. Missouri’s minimum liability coverage includes $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 for property damage.

Additionally, uninsured motorist coverage is also mandatory in Missouri. This protects you if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance. The minimum uninsured motorist coverage required is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.

While these are the legal minimums, many Missourians opt for higher coverage limits and additional policies such as comprehensive coverage, which covers non-collision-related damages like theft or natural disasters, and collision coverage, which pays for repairs to your car after an accident, regardless of fault.

Understanding your specific insurance needs is crucial, and it’s advisable to consult with insurance providers to determine the most suitable coverage for your circumstances.

What’s Required of All Missouri Drivers?

A valid driver’s license, insurance, and registration are essential requirements for traveling on Missouri roadways. An official driver’s license from the state of Missouri is a prerequisite. This is required by law in every state, but it’s especially critical in Missouri to make sure you know how to drive safely and legally.

In Missouri, you need to be 16 years old to apply for a driver’s license. If you are under the age of 18, you must also have completed a driver’s education program and had a learner’s permit for at least six months. You’ll also need to put in at least 40 hours of supervised driving time, half of which must be at night.

Once you’ve met these requirements, you’ll need to:

You’ll need to ace a written quiz and a vision test.
Show that you have what it takes to drive safely in Missouri by passing a written exam and a road test.

Keep in mind that having a license is only one requirement for operating a motor vehicle legally and responsibly in Missouri. All state and local traffic rules must be understood, and your car must be properly registered and insured. You and other drivers will be safer if you adhere to these rules.

What Are the Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Missouri?

In the state of Missouri, drivers are mandated to carry liability insurance. In Missouri, these are the bare minimum requirements for car insurance coverage:

$25,000 for bodily injury liability or death of one person in an accident
$50,000 for bodily injury liability or death of two or more people in an accident
$25,000 for property damage liability in an accident

25/50/25 coverage is the bare minimum requirement by law in the United States. Uninsured motorist (UM) injury insurance with the same minimum limits is also a requirement in Missouri, in addition to the minimum limits listed above for personal liability coverage. This coverage can help prevent you from having to pay for your medical bills out of pocket if you are injured in an accident with an uninsured motorist.

Keep in mind that the state of Missouri only mandates minimal coverage for car insurance. You should think about getting more insurance to protect yourself in case of an accident.

Also, you should ask an insurance agent about the kind of protection that makes the most sense for your budget.

Types of Car Insurance in Missouri

In Missouri, car insurance typically includes several types of coverage to provide financial protection in various situations:

Liability Insurance: This coverage is mandatory and pays for injuries and property damage that you cause to others in an accident.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This is also necessary and protects you in the event that another driver causes an accident and either doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage to cover your damages.
Collision Coverage: This optional coverage pays for repairs to your car after a collision, regardless of who is at fault.
Comprehensive Coverage: Also optional, comprehensive insurance covers non-collision-related damages to your car, such as theft, vandalism, natural disasters, or hitting an animal.
Medical Payments Coverage: Optional coverage that helps pay medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Rental Reimbursement: Rental car reimbursement is optional coverage for when a covered claim necessitates the repair of your vehicle.
Roadside Assistance: Optional coverage that provides assistance if your car breaks down, including services like towing, battery jump-start, or fuel delivery.

Remember, while liability insurance and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage are mandatory in Missouri, other coverages are optional but can provide valuable protection depending on your needs and budget.

Missouri Car Insurance Costs

In Missouri, the average annual cost of full-coverage car insurance is $1,943, while the average annual cost of minimum coverage is $490. These figures are significantly lower than the national averages of $2,014 and $622, respectively. The amount you pay depends on a variety of variables, such as where you reside, your age, your driving history, your credit, and the make and model of your car.

Average minimum coverage premium in Missouri	Average annual full coverage premium in Missouri
$490	$1,943

How Much Is Minimum Coverage for Car Insurance in Missouri?

All car drivers in Missouri must adhere to the state’s minimal liability insurance requirements. The annual cost of minimum coverage in Missouri is $1,988 on average. USAA’s basic coverage policy costs $782 less per year on average than Travellers’ policy does ($1,245). Our research shows that the General offers the highest sample rate, at $3,744 annually on average.

Company	Low Coverage
AAA	$2,362
Allstate	$2,462
Farmers	$3,551
Geico	$1,915
Missouri Farm Bureau	$1,271

How Much Is High-Coverage Car Insurance in Missouri?

A higher level of protection comes at a higher price. In Missouri, insurance with high levels of coverage will cost you around $2,169 per year on average. In Missouri, USAA offers the most affordable premiums for comprehensive plans, at an average of $843 per year. If you don’t meet USAA’s requirements, the Missouri Farm Bureau may be worth the $1,368 per year it costs. The General’s sample rate was the highest we discovered at $4,651 per year.

Company	High Coverage
AAA	$2,604
Allstate	$2,674
Farmers	$3,313
Geico	$2,200
Missouri Farm Bureau	$1,368

What Is Full Coverage Insurance in Missouri?

“Full coverage” insurance in Missouri typically refers to a comprehensive car insurance policy that provides a wide range of protections. This often includes the state’s mandatory liability coverage, which pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. It also encompasses uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, safeguarding you if you’re in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Additionally, full coverage commonly includes collision insurance, which covers the cost of repairs to your car after a collision, regardless of fault.

Comprehensive coverage, another component of full coverage, protects your car from non-collision events such as theft, vandalism, natural disasters, or collisions with animals. While full-coverage policies offer extensive protection, they may still have deductibles and limitations. It’s essential to carefully review your policy to understand the extent of your coverage.

Moreover, the term “full coverage” doesn’t have a precise definition and can vary between insurance providers. To ensure you have comprehensive protection tailored to your needs, it’s advisable to consult with insurance professionals who can customize a policy considering Missouri’s specific regulations and your individual requirements.

Why Is Car Insurance So Expensive in Missouri?

The unusually high cost of car insurance in Missouri can be attributed to a number of variables. The high rate of car crashes and thefts in the state is a major contributing factor. Insurance premiums are typically more expensive in regions with a higher incidence of crime.

Moreover, hailstorms and floods are common in Missouri, which can lead to a higher number of insurance claims and increase the overall costs for insurance companies.

In addition, cities like St. Louis and Kansas City typically have higher insurance premiums than outlying places because of the greater traffic congestion and accident frequency.

Rising medical and auto maintenance costs also have an impact on insurance premiums. Insurance premiums typically increase in correlation with the cost of medical care and vehicle maintenance in a given region.

In addition, rising expenses may result from the large number of drivers who are either uninsured or have inadequate coverage. There may be a correlation between the number of uninsured motorists on the road and the cost of car insurance for those who do carry coverage.

Maintaining a spotless driving record, shopping around for the best insurance rates, and making use of any discounts drivers may qualify for can all go a long way toward offsetting these costs.

Missouri Car Insurance Claim Laws

There are a number of laws and rules in Missouri that affect car insurance claims. Because of the state’s “at-fault” or “tort” status, the party at fault in an accident must pay for all losses incurred as a result of the collision. Important Missouri laws and rules pertaining to car insurance claims are detailed below:

Liability Insurance: Liability insurance, which pays for other people’s medical bills and repairs to their vehicle if they cause an accident, is mandatory in Missouri. Bodily injury per person limits of $25,000, accident limits of $50,000, and property damage limits of $10,000 are required minimums for liability insurance.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is a mandated product in Missouri. It protects you if you hit a driver without insurance or enough insurance.
Prompt Payment of Claims: Missouri law mandates that insurance companies must promptly investigate and settle claims. If an insurance company unreasonably delays payment of a valid claim, they may be subject to penalties.
Comparative Fault: Missouri follows a comparative fault system, which means that if you’re found partially at fault for an accident, your compensation may be reduced proportionately. However, as long as you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages.
Statute of Limitations: In Missouri, there’s a time limit, typically five years, within which you must file a lawsuit after a car accident if a resolution cannot be reached through insurance claims.

If you want to make sure your rights are protected in the event of an accident, you should get to know these laws and regulations and speak with your insurance company and, if required, a lawyer.

Is It Illegal to Drive Without Insurance in MO?

Yes, it is illegal to drive without car insurance in Missouri. Furthermore, driving without the necessary insurance in Missouri might result in harsh penalties, depending on the circumstances. In addition to a $500 fine and/or 15 days in jail, a repeat offender may have their driver’s license suspended for a whole year and be required to pay a $400 reinstatement fee. Also, a “no insurance” ticket in Missouri will remain on your driving record forever.

AAA Missouri Car Insurance Overview

AAA (American Automobile Association) Missouri offers car insurance coverage known for its reliable service and extensive member benefits. Members often appreciate AAA’s roadside assistance, which provides help in various situations, including flat tires, dead batteries, and towing services, ensuring peace of mind during emergencies.

AAA Missouri’s car insurance policies typically offer competitive rates and customizable coverage options to suit individual needs. Claims processing and policy inquiries are two areas where members frequently express their satisfaction with the organization’s customer service.

One notable aspect of AAA car insurance is the availability of discounts for members, which can significantly lower premiums. Discounts may apply for safe driving, bundling policies, or installing safety features in your vehicle.

AAA’s reputation for excellent customer service and the convenience of accessing a range of services, including insurance, roadside assistance, and travel benefits, make it a preferred choice for many drivers in Missouri. However, as with any insurance provider, it’s important for individuals to review policy details, coverage limits, and premiums carefully to ensure they are getting the best value for their specific needs and circumstances.

How Much Is It for No Insurance in Missouri?

The repercussions of a conviction for driving without insurance in the state of Missouri are severe. In addition to possible jail time and penalties, you may also lose your driving privileges.

Some courts can dismiss a ticket if you can prove that you were insured at the time of the infraction. A small court administration fee will be assessed for this service nonetheless.

#1. Fines

A significant fine awaits anyone who is caught driving without insurance in the state of Missouri. You could lose your driving privileges or go to jail if the violation is particularly serious.

Hiring a lawyer is an important first step if you are pulled over for driving without insurance. Having an experienced legal team on your side can help you avoid or significantly lessen the penalties associated with a no-insurance citation, as well as expedite the judicial process.

In Missouri, there are a few options for reducing or avoiding the consequences of a no-insurance ticket. First, before your court date, you must show the court clerk evidence of insurance.

Missouri court clerks require your insurance identity card (sometimes a certificate) before your court date to resolve a ticket. The ticket will probably be dismissed, whether you do it on your own or with an attorney’s help.

A payment plan is another alternative to paying your fines and penalties all at once. If you pay up the negative item in full within six months, it will be removed from your credit report. Make sure you understand the plan’s details before committing to it to avoid overspending.

Finally, remember that your driving record in Missouri will be penalized by four points for each conviction for driving without insurance. With eight points in 18 months, your license is suspended for 30 days or revoked for a year.

The financial consequences of driving without insurance in Missouri can be severe. Time away from work could add thousands of dollars to the cost of fines and other penalties. However, there are circumstances in which you may be eligible for a hardship license or restricted driving permit.

#2. Jail Time

Driving without insurance is extremely risky. In an accident, you will be financially accountable for damages and may lose your driving license or go to jail.

Missouri law mandates that all motorists have either the state-mandated minimum level of liability insurance or an authorized bond or cash deposit. Missouri Department of Revenue traffic citations for “failure to provide proof” or “no insurance” are possible without insurance proof.

Driving without insurance carries a maximum penalty of $500 and/or 15 days in prison for a first conviction. Your license will be reinstated once you pay a $20 reinstatement fee and agree to a period of monitoring.

If you are caught driving without insurance for the second time within two years of your first conviction, you will face a 90-day license suspension and four points on your driving record. In Missouri, you must wait a year, pay $200, and show proof of insurance before driving again.

A driver’s license will be suspended for a year and the motorist will have to pay $400 to have it reinstated if they are arrested for driving without insurance for the third time within two years of their initial violation. Car insurance premiums are only one example of an additional cost that may arise in addition to those already stated.

If you have been charged with driving without insurance in Missouri, you should speak with a knowledgeable attorney immediately. Get in touch with MRD attorneys right now to discuss your case. With over 25 years of experience, our attorneys can help make sense of this traffic ticket.

#3. Driver’s License Suspension

Missouri law mandates that all motorists, whether operating their own vehicle or a borrowed one, carry proof of financial responsibility at all times. If you don’t, you can get a ticket for driving illegally.

Besides receiving four points for driving without insurance, offenders face penalties and maybe jail time. Furthermore, your license may be suspended if you rack up 8 points within 18 months.

If your license has been suspended or revoked, driving could badly impact your life for years to come. The good news is that driving privileges can be reinstated after an infraction.

Payment of a reinstatement fee and proof of insurance may be required to regain driving privileges. Applying for limited driving permission lets you travel to select places while your license is suspended or revoked. You must, however, provide evidence that no severe infractions have been committed during this time.

A certificate of financial responsibility (SR-22 form) can also be submitted to the Department of Revenue. The insurance company will then file this with your policy.

If you have received a no-insurance ticket in Missouri, you must act quickly to have your driving privileges reinstated. Because expunging a criminal record is complicated and time-consuming, it’s wise to have an attorney on your side.

You may have problems finding work or making ends meet if you lose your ability to drive. Because of this, you and your loved ones won’t be able to buy a new automobile or pay for everyone’s health insurance premiums, which will have a significant influence on your financial stability.

After a long license suspension, you may be unable to renew your insurance and face a substantial cost increase.

Is Missouri a Free Fire State?

No, Missouri is not a “free fire” state. The term “free fire” usually refers to a state where individuals are allowed to use deadly force in self-defense without a duty to retreat, even if there is an opportunity to do so safely. In the context of self-defense laws, Missouri follows the “stand your ground” principle, which means that individuals have the right to defend themselves or others without the obligation to retreat first.

However, it’s important to note that even in “stand your ground” states like Missouri, the use of deadly force is generally justifiable only under specific circumstances, such as when an individual reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm.

Laws related to self-defense and the use of force can vary, so it’s crucial for individuals to familiarize themselves with their state’s specific laws and consult legal professionals if they have questions about self-defense rights in Missouri.

Is Car Insurance Worth It in Missouri?: Bottom Line

Yes, car insurance is definitely worth it in Missouri. Having car insurance provides essential financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your vehicle. Missouri law requires drivers to have liability insurance, which covers injuries and property damage to others in an accident. Without insurance, you could face legal penalties, fines, and out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a collision.

Additionally, car insurance offers peace of mind while driving, knowing that you are financially protected against unexpected accidents and their associated costs. It also covers medical and legal costs, protecting you from financial devastation in a major accident. Buying auto insurance is a smart move for your safety and legal compliance on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Missouri a no fault state?

No, Missouri is an “at-fault” state, meaning the driver at fault pays for car accident losses.

Do I need uninsured motorist coverage in Missouri?

Uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory in Missouri. Missouri drivers must carry $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident bodily injury coverage.