How Much Auto Insurance Do You Need in Wisconsin?
Auto insurance laws require drivers to carry minimum liability coverages for injuries and property damage. Drivers must also add uninsured motorist insurance coverage to their policies.
Buying more than the minimum auto insurance requirements coverage can help you cover any extensive damages for you and your vehicle in an accident claim. However, the insurance company may refuse to pay your claim or deny it altogether. You can work with your lawyer to negotiate for the maximum claim value with the insurer.
Minimum Auto Insurance Liability Coverage Available in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s Safety Responsibility Law requires drivers to cover the damages associated with car accidents they cause. The minimum auto insurance coverage limits under Wisconsin law only cover damage to other vehicles and injuries to others when you are driving.
- $25,000 for personal injury or death to one person
- $50,000 for injury or death for more than two people
- $10,000 for property damage
The law also protects drivers from those who lack auto insurance or who don’t have enough coverage. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help you cover the costs. A Wisconsin auto insurance policy must have the following limits for UM coverage:
- $25,000 for personal injuries per person
- $50,000 for injury or death for two or more people
Getting the Types of Auto Insurance Coverages
Other auto insurance options are available to help cover any additional damages to you and your vehicle in case of an accident.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Drivers in Wisconsin can have the option of adding underinsured motorist coverage (UIM). It isn’t required, but you can use it to cover the difference if the at-fault driver’s injury coverage is lower than yours. UIM requires these limits in your auto insurance policy:
- $50,000 per person
- $100,000 per accident
Medical Payments
These payments cover medical bills and burial costs if you or someone else is injured or killed in an accident. Insurance companies have to offer this coverage, but you have the option to accept or reject it. A minimum of $1,000 is required for medical payments if you add them to your auto insurance policy.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage can pay for visible vehicle damage if it overturns or hits another object, like a motor vehicle, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. It can also cover your vehicle’s repair up to the value of your car before the accident.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage pays for repairs in non-collision incidents. These incidents may include flooding, theft, vandalism, fire, civil commotion, or hitting an animal like a deer.
Should You Buy More Than the Minimum Auto Insurance Limits?
You must assess the potential losses that could result from only carrying minimum coverage in your auto insurance policy. For instance, you may incur more significant financial damages if you are involved in a severe accident. In addition, you may end up paying for damages out of pocket if accident victims pursue claims beyond your policy limits.
Buying more than minimum coverage ensures complete protection. Paying over the minimum liability limits offers better financial assistance if a driver suffers severe injuries and their car sustains physical damage. Insurance coverages such as UIM, medical payments, collision, and comprehensive can cover all potential losses in the event of an accident.
When You Need a Lawyer for an Insurance Claim
Whether you file a claim with your auto insurance company or against the at-fault driver, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. However, the insurance company may offer a lowball settlement or deny your claim in an attempt not to pay you the total amount you deserve.
An experienced Green Bay car accident attorney can fight for your legal rights to compensation and calculate the value of your claim. They may review your medical records, repair bills, and photos and videos from the accident. Upon determining your claim, they can negotiate with your insurance company for a larger settlement or, if necessary, represent your interests in court.
Work With the Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers
A full coverage auto insurance policy can protect your financial interests if you, your vehicle, or another person are injured or damaged during an accident. However, if the insurance company doesn’t offer the total value of your claim, contact Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers to advocate for your rights to compensation. Call our law office today to schedule a free consultation.