Cheap Car Insurance in Wisconsin: Car insurance is a necessity, but that doesn’t mean you should overpay for it. If you’re in Wisconsin and searching for cheap car insurance, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re a new driver or just looking to save money, finding affordable coverage is easier than you might think.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about getting cheap car insurance in Wisconsin – from understanding the state’s requirements to leveraging discounts and getting free quotes. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Car Insurance Requirements in Wisconsin
Before shopping for car insurance, it’s important to know the minimum requirements in Wisconsin. The state mandates that all drivers carry liability insurance, which helps cover costs if you’re at fault in an accident. Here are the minimum liability coverage limits in Wisconsin:
- $25,000 for injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for injury or death of more than one person
- $10,000 for property damage
If you’re caught driving without insurance, you could face fines, license suspension, and the requirement to file an SR-22 form, which can make your future premiums even higher.
Types of Car Insurance Coverage in Wisconsin
While liability insurance is mandatory, there are other types of coverage you can consider, especially if you want to protect yourself from various risks:
- Liability Insurance: Covers damage to others if you’re at fault.
- Collision Insurance: Covers damage to your vehicle after an accident.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Covers non-collision-related damage, like theft or weather damage.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if you’re hit by someone without adequate insurance.
- Medical Payments Coverage: Helps cover medical expenses regardless of who’s at fault.
Why Cheap Car Insurance Doesn’t Mean Poor Coverage
A common misconception is that cheap insurance automatically equals poor coverage. However, by shopping smartly, you can find affordable plans that don’t sacrifice the coverage you need. Companies often offer customizable plans, so you can choose the coverage that fits your budget while meeting your specific needs.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates in Wisconsin
Car insurance rates in Wisconsin vary depending on several factors:
- Age and Driving Experience: Younger drivers and those with less experience often pay more.
- Vehicle Type and Age: Luxury cars or older vehicles may come with higher premiums.
- Driving History: Clean records lead to lower rates, while traffic violations or accidents will raise your premium.
- Location: Living in densely populated cities or areas with high accident rates may increase your cost.
- Credit Score: Insurers in Wisconsin can use credit scores to determine your rate, with better scores often leading to lower premiums.
Cheap Liability Insurance in Wisconsin
The average cost for a 6-month liability insurance policy in Wisconsin is $252. Based on our user data, GEICO, Erie and American Family tend to offer some of the most affordable liability options in the state.
Keep in mind, these quotes are much lower than full coverage since the level of coverage you choose directly impacts your premium. Below is a breakdown of monthly and 6-month liability insurance quotes from Wisconsin’s top insurers.
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $145 | $24 |
| GEICO | $147 | $25 |
| Erie | $164 | $27 |
| Progressive | $206 | $34 |
| American Family | $261 | $44 |
| State Farm | $272 | $45 |
| Farmers | $354 | $59 |
| Allstate | $377 | $63 |
Cheap full coverage insurance in Wisconsin
Full coverage insurance in Wisconsin averages $854 for a 6-month policy. A popular choice among drivers, 65% of The Zebra’s Wisconsin customers seek quotes for full coverage insurance.
While it costs more than liability-only policies, drivers searching for affordable full coverage in Wisconsin should consider starting with GEICO and American Family, both known for offering competitive rates in the state.
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $528 | $88 |
| GEICO | $613 | $102 |
| American Family | $626 | $104 |
| Erie | $702 | $117 |
| State Farm | $1,002 | $167 |
| Farmers | $1,059 | $176 |
| Progressive | $1,077 | $180 |
| Allstate | $1,244 | $207 |
Best car insurance in Wisconsin — honorable mentions
To identify the top insurers in Wisconsin, we reviewed J.D. Power Auto Insurance ratings and gathered consumer reviews from nearly 3,000 drivers across Wisconsin and the U.S. This data helped us evaluate which companies stand out in terms of customer satisfaction, claims handling, and overall value. Companies like American Family, Progressive, and State Farm consistently rank highly in Wisconsin due to their solid reputations for customer service and comprehensive coverage options best car insurance companies in WI
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $528 | $88 |
| GEICO | $613 | $102 |
| Erie | $702 | $117 |
| State Farm | $1,002 | $167 |
How have car insurance costs in Wisconsin changed?
Auto insurance rates in Wisconsin have seen a bit of a rollercoaster ride in recent years. After spiking by $180 in 2022, premiums in the state have leveled off with a slight decrease of $9 expected for 2024, bringing the average annual premium to $1,388. This follows a milder increase of $15 in 2023 and a significant jump of $122 back in 2021, reflecting broader market trends. The changes, while fluctuating, have moderated recently, making it a little easier on drivers’ wallets compared to the larger swings in previous years.
Car insurance costs in Wisconsin since 2015
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Wisconsin | Yearly Change — Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $1,388 | -$9 |
| 2023 | $1,397 | $15 |
| 2022 | $1,382 | $180 |
| 2021 | $1,202 | $122 |
| 2020 | $1,080 | -$85 |
| 2019 | $1,165 | $52 |
| 2018 | $1,113 | -$683 |
| 2017 | $1,796 | $234 |
| 2016 | $1,562 | -$323 |
| 2015 | $1,885 | $216 |
Car insurance in popular Wisconsin cities
Car insurance companies calculate your rate based on many factors, the location of the vehicle being an important one. The cheapest car insurance is found in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, and the most expensive in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of Wisconsin’s biggest cities.
Auto insurance quotes in Wisconsin’s biggest cities
| City | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Green Bay | $712 | $119 |
| Madison | $762 | $127 |
| Kenosha | $857 | $143 |
| Racine | $858 | $143 |
| Milwaukee | $1,108 | $185 |
Cheap auto insurance for teens and young drivers in Wisconsin
Young drivers between 16 and 25 face steep car insurance rates, with teens aged 16 to 19 seeing the highest premiums of all. Due to their inexperience, teen drivers can pay over three times the national average for coverage. In Wisconsin, this group gets hit especially hard, shelling out an average of $4,631 per year — a whopping 285% more than the typical driver in the state.
Cheapest car insurance quotes for young drivers in WI
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| American Family | $1,520 | $253 |
| USAA | $1,550 | $258 |
| Erie | $1,733 | $289 |
| GEICO | $1,838 | $306 |
| State Farm | $3,419 | $570 |
| Farmers | $3,867 | $645 |
| Allstate | $3,962 | $660 |
| Progressive | $4,575 | $763 |
Wisconsin auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket
Along with many other factors, your driving history plays a big part in how much you pay. Insurance companies look for previous accidents for which you have been at fault to gauge the level of risk you pose as a customer. An at-fault accident in recent years could see your car insurance rates increase to as much as $2,488 per year.
Best insurance companies in WI after an accident
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $730 | $122 |
| American Family | $884 | $147 |
| Erie | $919 | $153 |
| GEICO | $984 | $164 |
| State Farm | $1,228 | $205 |
| Farmers | $1,454 | $242 |
| Allstate | $1,761 | $293 |
| Progressive | $1,820 | $303 |
Tip: Don’t forget about claims satisfaction
While we all hope to avoid using our insurance, a hassle-free claims process is key if you need it. In our Customer Satisfaction Survey, Erie Insurance stood out as a top pick for Wisconsin drivers, delivering strong claims satisfaction. If you’re shopping for coverage in Wisconsin, Erie is definitely worth a look.
In Wisconsin, a bad driving record can send your insurance rates soaring. A ticket or citation will likely raise your premiums, but how much depends on the type of violation, your insurer’s pricing, and state-specific factors. For example, a DUI can push your rates up by as much as 78%, while a speeding ticket could result in a 40% increase. Insurance penalties vary, so the impact of a violation in Wisconsin might differ from the national average. Check out typical rate hikes after common citations in the state below.
Wisconsin auto insurance quotes by violation
| Accident/Violation | Avg. Annual Premium | % Rate Increase | $ Rate Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | $1,710 | 0% | $0 |
| One Med/PIP claim | $1,723 | 1% | $12 |
| Not-at-fault accident | $1,797 | 5% | $87 |
| One comp claim | $1,825 | 7% | $115 |
| Two Med/PIP claims | $1,845 | 8% | $135 |
| Failure to show documents | $1,876 | 10% | $166 |
| Driving with expired registration | $1,922 | 12% | $212 |
| Failure to wear a seat belt | $1,935 | 13% | $225 |
| Two comp claims | $1,973 | 15% | $263 |
| Driving without lights | $2,036 | 19% | $326 |
| Child safety restraint | $2,050 | 20% | $340 |
| Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over limit | $2,068 | 21% | $358 |
| At-fault accident – less than $1000 | $2,088 | 22% | $377 |
| Cell phone violation | $2,103 | 23% | $393 |
| Speeding in school zone | $2,106 | 23% | $396 |
| Driving too slowly | $2,106 | 23% | $396 |
| Failure to yield | $2,110 | 23% | $400 |
| Speeding 16 – 20 MPH over limit | $2,119 | 24% | $409 |
| Speeding 11 – 15 MPH over limit | $2,119 | 24% | $409 |
| Illegal turn | $2,120 | 24% | $409 |
| Wrong way/wrong lane | $2,122 | 24% | $412 |
| Texting while driving | $2,125 | 24% | $415 |
| Following too closely | $2,148 | 26% | $437 |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $2,153 | 26% | $443 |
| Improper passing | $2,209 | 29% | $499 |
| Passing school bus | $2,246 | 31% | $535 |
| In 65 MPH zone | $2,358 | 38% | $647 |
| At-fault accident – $1000-$2000 | $2,455 | 44% | $744 |
| Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over limit | $2,463 | 44% | $752 |
| Operating a vehicle without permission | $2,471 | 44% | $760 |
| At-fault accident – greater than $2000 | $2,488 | 45% | $778 |
| Open container | $2,504 | 46% | $794 |
| Reckless driving | $3,241 | 90% | $1,531 |
| Racing | $3,255 | 90% | $1,544 |
| Refusal to submit to a chemical test | $3,274 | 91% | $1,564 |
| Driving with a suspended license | $3,284 | 92% | $1,574 |
| Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run | $3,305 | 93% | $1,595 |
| DUI | $3,307 | 93% | $1,596 |
How to Get the Cheapest Car Insurance in Wisconsin
Getting the cheapest insurance isn’t just about choosing the lowest price. You’ll need to shop around and get quotes from different companies. Use comparison tools to easily assess multiple policies at once. It’s also helpful to time your search during promotional periods or when seasonal discounts are available.
Tips for Lowering Your Car Insurance Premiums
If your current premium seems too high, try these strategies to bring it down:
- Bundle Your Insurance: Combine auto and home insurance with the same provider for discounts.
- Install Safety Features: Cars equipped with airbags, anti-lock brakes, and alarms often qualify for lower rates.
- Keep a Clean Record: Avoid accidents and traffic violations to ensure lower premiums over time.
- Take Defensive Driving Courses: Many insurers offer discounts if you complete a certified driving course.
Discounts to Look For When Getting a Free Quote
When you request a quote, be sure to inquire about these discounts:
- Good Driver Discounts: For maintaining a clean driving record.
- Multi-Policy Discounts: For bundling different insurance policies.
- Safe Vehicle Discounts: For cars with advanced safety features.
- Student and Military Discounts: Available for specific groups.
Comparing Car Insurance Companies in Wisconsin
There are several key companies in Wisconsin that offer competitive rates, such as State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, and American Family. When comparing these providers, consider not just the price, but also customer reviews, claim satisfaction, and financial stability. A cheap plan won’t do much good if the company is difficult to deal with in the event of a claim.
How to Use a Free Quote to Get the Best Deal
Getting a free quote is one of the easiest ways to ensure you’re getting the best deal. You’ll want to provide accurate information about your vehicle, driving history, and coverage preferences to get an accurate quote. Once you have several quotes, compare not only the prices but also the coverage details to make sure you’re getting the best value.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Looking for Cheap Car Insurance
While the goal is to find cheap insurance, avoid these pitfalls:
- Skipping Coverage Details: Don’t choose a plan without understanding what’s included.
- Focusing Solely on Price: The cheapest option isn’t always the best; consider value and coverage limits.
- Ignoring Reputation: A low-cost provider with poor reviews might not be worth the headache.
Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers in Wisconsin
High-risk drivers, such as those with multiple violations or accidents, may struggle to find affordable insurance. However, there are still options available, such as high-risk insurance pools and specialized providers that cater to drivers with less-than-perfect records.
Why You Shouldn’t Drive Without Car Insurance in Wisconsin
Driving without insurance in Wisconsin isn’t just illegal; it’s financially risky. If you’re involved in an accident, you could be on the hook for thousands of dollars in repairs and medical bills. Plus, getting caught without insurance can lead to hefty fines and trouble finding affordable coverage in the future.
The Future of Car Insurance in Wisconsin
The world of car insurance is constantly evolving, with new technologies like telematics (which track driving behavior) offering more personalized rates. As these trends grow, drivers may find even more opportunities to save on their premiums by opting for usage-based insurance plans.
FAQs about Car Insurance in Wisconsin
What are the minimum car insurance requirements in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, drivers are required to have liability insurance with minimum limits of $25,000 for injury or death to one person, $50,000 for injury or death to more than one person, and $10,000 for property damage. These are often referred to as 25/50/10 coverage.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Wisconsin?
Yes, uninsured motorist coverage is required in Wisconsin. The minimum limits are $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury. This coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance.
Can I get car insurance in Wisconsin if I have a poor driving record?
Yes, you can still obtain car insurance in Wisconsin even if you have a poor driving record. However, you may be considered a high-risk driver and face higher premiums. It’s advisable to shop around and compare quotes from different insurers who specialize in high-risk coverage.
How does Wisconsin’s weather affect car insurance rates?
Wisconsin’s weather, particularly its harsh winters, can affect car insurance rates due to increased risks of accidents from icy roads and snow. It’s important to have comprehensive coverage that includes damages from natural elements and collisions with animals, common during the winter months.
What should I do if my car insurance claim is denied in Wisconsin?
If your car insurance claim is denied in Wisconsin, first review the denial letter for the specific reasons. You can appeal the decision by providing additional documentation or clarification that supports your case. If you’re unable to resolve the issue with your insurer, you can contact the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance for assistance.
Conclusion
In summary, finding the best car insurance in Wisconsin requires understanding the unique factors that affect rates in the state, including weather conditions, urban versus rural traffic, and state-specific regulations. We’ve explored the importance of comparing different providers to ensure you’re getting the most comprehensive coverage at the most competitive rates.
We encourage you to take the next step towards securing your peace of mind on the road by getting a free car insurance quote today. This simple action can help you see potential savings and better tailor your coverage to suit your specific needs. Don’t miss the opportunity to protect yourself and your vehicle with the right car insurance policy in Wisconsin. Get your free quote now and drive with confidence knowing you’re well-covered.
References
For those interested in exploring more about car insurance in Wisconsin, the following references provide additional reputable information to help validate and expand on the content discussed:
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation – This official site offers insights into the legal requirements and guidelines for car insurance in Wisconsin. Visit the Wisconsin DOT.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – The NAIC provides detailed statistics and consumer information related to insurance providers and regulations in Wisconsin. Explore NAIC Resources.
- Insurance Information Institute (III) – A comprehensive resource for various types of insurance, including auto insurance. The III site includes tips on choosing the right coverage and understanding your policy’s details. Read More at III.
Each of these resources offers reliable and detailed information that can assist you in making informed decisions about your car insurance needs in Wisconsin.
