West Virginia

As a driver in West Virginia, state law requires that you purchase and maintain a minimum auto insurance policy. You may opt to purchase more than the required amount of coverage, but by law you have to meet minimum coverage requirements or face legal penalties. Whether relocating to the state or shopping for a more affordable policy, you will want to make sure your policy meets state minimum requirements.

There are many times when a driver in West Virginia may be asked to show proof of auto insurance coverage. A driver, for example, may be asked to provide proof of coverage after an accident, when registering a vehicle, when pulled over by police for a moving violations and more. Drivers are required to not just provide proof of coverage during such instances, but coverage must also meet minimum levels mandated by state law. These coverage levels include liability coverage that provides for $10,000 in property damage coverage, $20,000 coverage for injury or death, and $40,000 for injury or death of multiple people. It should be noted that most drivers in West Virginia purchase additional coverage. The state requirements are for liability coverage only, and this coverage will not pay for any expenses associated with repairing your own property or vehicle after an accident.

If you allow your coverage to lapse or do not have sufficient coverage in place to meet minimum requirements, you may face legal penalties. These penalties will vary depending on the circumstances, such as if you were involved in a car accident while uninsured. A fine may be imposed by the court if you do not meet these minimum coverage requirements. You should also be aware that any costs that others face because of your uninsured or under-insured status may be your responsibility to pay as well. If the accident was deemed to be your fault, the other motorists can sue you for damages in a civil lawsuit.

Understanding the state of West Virginia's laws regarding minimum auto insurance coverage may help prevent you from facing unnecessary fines and legal issues. However, even with the minimum liability coverage requirement met, you may consider purchasing additional coverage. Additional coverage can further minimize your risk of being sued by another motorist if you are at-fault in an accident. It may also minimize your out-of-pocket costs associated with repairing your own vehicle. The state's minimum insurance requirement may be viewed as a starting point for purchasing coverage, as additional coverage may be beneficial to you.