Those who live in Rhode Island are required to have auto insurance for their vehicles. However, you can't just purchase anything, because there are mandatory requirements that must be met in order to receive a registration. Today we want to go over some of the most important areas that will keep you from having your privileges revoked. It can also save you tons of money that would normally be paid out in reinstatement fees.
What is required by Law for Rhode Island Auto Insurance?
Owning Rhode Island auto insurance means you have to sign a statement. The state requires you to provide your signature on a document that states you will always have coverage during the registration process. If you get pulled over or find yourself in an accident and don't have insurance; your license is going to get suspended until you obtain a new policy. This can create all kinds of problems, so don't let it get to this point!
Different states have certain specifications when it comes to liability coverage. If you own Rhode Island auto insurance then you need to have:
* $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury liability
* $25,000 for property damage
Some states require you to have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, but in Rhode Island it is not mandatory. This part of the policy covers costs if someone else is at fault and does not have the appropriate insurance to take care of everything. Since this state utilizes a Tort system it would be a good idea to have this in your Rhode Island Auto Insurance policy.
What is a Tort System?
Depending on the state you live in there are certain rules surrounding who is at fault. Some states will have a "no-fault" system in place so providers must cover the damages no matter who is at fault. If you want to purchase Rhode Island auto insurance the situation is a little different. They utilize a Tort system, which means that when an accident occurs; either you or the other driver has to be at-fault. When the authorities write up the report, the person at-fault must cover everything.
While it might not sound that important since there is usually one person at fault during an accident, it's going to be the key to how much coverage you hold in your policy. In fact, most of the citizens in Rhode Island opt for higher amounts when it comes to bodily injury, property damage, and underinsured amounts. So it's possible that you will pay a bit more for your premium, but it will keep you well protected if a situation occurs.
If you look back about 5 years ago, Rhode Island auto insurance was the 7th most expensive in the United States. The good news is; there are ways to cut down on the overall costs.
Slashing Prices
We never recommend cutting corners in the policy just to save a few bucks each month, so make sure you get a good quality Rhode Island auto insurance plan first. Once this is in place you can start looking for ways to save money. There are several discounts out there that are based on; marriage, military service, government member, your age, raising your deductible, multiple vehicle discounts, and various other factors that will help slash the overall price.
If you can afford it we recommend paying your premium in full instead of taking the monthly payments option. This could save you a couple hundred bucks all by itself. In the end, it is a good idea to read up on the state laws covering Rhode Island auto insurance. If you then add to that some practical research by quickly getting some Rhode Island Auto Insurance Quotes so that you can see how different companies compare for the coverage they offer, then it is very possible to get a satisyingly good deal.
If you do the research we know you will find the best protection and at an affordable price.