Best Car Insurance in Missouri: Car insurance is more than just a legal requirement in Missouri; it’s a smart way to protect yourself financially in case of an accident.
Whether you’re a new driver or just shopping for better rates, finding the best car insurance in Missouri can save you both money and hassle.
In this article, we’ll dive into what you need to know about car insurance in Missouri, what factors affect your rates, how to save money, and how to get a free quote today.
Understanding Car Insurance in Missouri
Before diving into the best providers or savings tips, it’s essential to understand Missouri’s specific car insurance requirements. Every driver in Missouri must carry certain types of coverage, and knowing these helps you make informed decisions.
Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements
Missouri law mandates a minimum liability coverage that includes:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
These numbers are the minimum required by law, but many drivers opt for higher coverage to better protect themselves in case of an accident.
Liability Coverage Explained
Liability coverage helps pay for damages to other people or their property when you are at fault in an accident. It doesn’t cover your own vehicle or medical expenses. While Missouri’s minimum liability coverage may seem like enough, it’s often recommended to increase these limits to ensure you’re fully protected.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Missouri also requires drivers to have Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM) of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This protects you if you’re hit by a driver without insurance or with insufficient insurance.
Why You Need Car Insurance in Missouri
While some people see car insurance as just another bill, it’s actually an essential form of financial protection. Here’s why:
Legal Obligations
Missouri requires all drivers to have car insurance. Driving without it can result in steep fines, license suspension, and higher future premiums.
Financial Protection Against Accidents
Car accidents can be incredibly costly. Without insurance, you’d be paying out of pocket for repairs, medical expenses, and even legal fees.
Peace of Mind
Car insurance gives you the peace of mind knowing that if something unexpected happens, you’re covered. You can drive with confidence, knowing you’re protected against the financial impact of accidents.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates in Missouri
Several factors influence your car insurance premium, and being aware of these can help you understand your rates and find ways to lower them.
Driving History and Accident Record
Your driving record plays a big role in determining your premiums. A clean record can mean lower rates, while accidents or violations can lead to higher costs.
Age and Gender of the Driver
Statistically, younger drivers and males tend to pay more for insurance due to their higher likelihood of being involved in accidents. Older drivers often benefit from lower rates.
Vehicle Type and Usage
The type of car you drive impacts your premium. Sports cars and luxury vehicles typically cost more to insure, while family sedans or SUVs tend to have lower rates.
Location and Zip Code
Where you live can also affect your insurance. Urban areas with higher traffic and crime rates often have higher premiums compared to rural locations.
Credit Score Impact on Insurance Rates
In Missouri, your credit score can affect your car insurance rates. Insurers see people with higher credit scores as less risky, so improving your credit can lead to better rates.
Types of Car Insurance Coverage
Understanding the types of coverage available can help you tailor a policy to meet your specific needs.
Liability Insurance
Covers damages you cause to others in an accident. This is the basic, required coverage.
Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your car resulting from a collision, whether with another vehicle or an object.
Comprehensive Insurance
Covers non-collision-related damages like theft, vandalism, or weather-related incidents.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
This coverage takes care of medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who was at fault.
Medical Payments (MedPay)
Similar to PIP but typically with fewer benefits. It covers medical costs regardless of fault.
Top Car Insurance Companies in Missouri
There are several well-established car insurance companies that offer great options in Missouri. Among the top-rated providers are:
- State Farm
- GEICO
- Progressive
- Allstate
- USAA (for military families)
Each company offers unique features, discounts, and coverage options, so it’s worth comparing to find the best fit.
Cheap full coverage in Missouri
Full coverage in costs $1611 for Missouri drivers. 55% of The Zebra’s Missouri customers get quotes for a full coverage policy.
While this is a lot higher than liability-only coverage, Missourians looking for the peace of mind that full coverage can bring should start their search with a company such as Travelers, USAA or GEICO.Cheapest auto insurance companies in Missouri
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $624 | $104 |
| USAA | $671 | $112 |
| GEICO | $1,024 | $171 |
| Shelter | $1,031 | $172 |
| Progressive | $1,128 | $188 |
| State Farm | $1,350 | $225 |
| Nationwide | $1,513 | $252 |
| Allstate | $1,649 | $275 |
Cheap Liability Insurance in Missouri
Liability insurance costs an average of $498 for a 6-month policy, significantly cheaper than the average full coverage policy.
The Zebra’s average driver profile found that USAA was the cheapest liability insurance company in Missouri. For those who are not eligible for USAA, Travelers and Progress could be great, affordable options as well.
Liability insurance quotes in MO
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $183 | $30 |
| Travelers | $235 | $39 |
| Progressive | $262 | $44 |
| GEICO | $299 | $50 |
| Shelter | $377 | $63 |
| State Farm | $414 | $69 |
| Allstate | $537 | $90 |
| Nationwide | $603 | $101 |
Cheap auto insurance for young drivers in Missouri
Finding affordable car insurance is a challenge for young drivers in Missouri. Teens in Missouri face six-month premiums of $5,326 — that’s well above the national average and more than three times the cost for a 30-year-old driver in the state.
Cheap auto insurance for young drivers in Missouri
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $1,542 | $257 |
| USAA | $1,938 | $323 |
| Shelter | $2,046 | $341 |
| GEICO | $2,663 | $444 |
| Progressive | $4,048 | $675 |
| Allstate | $4,120 | $687 |
| State Farm | $4,365 | $727 |
| Nationwide | $4,614 | $769 |
Tip: Ways to save on car insurance for young drivers
- Stay on a parent’s policy: Being added to a parent’s insurance policy is almost always more affordable than getting your own separate coverage.
- Good student discounts: Numerous insurers provide discounts to students who maintain a “B” average or are enrolled in school away from home.
- Opt for a budget-friendly, safe vehicle: Insuring high-performance sports cars and luxury vehicles is typically more expensive, especially for younger drivers.
What are the best car insurance companies in Missouri?
The Zebra conducted an expert analysis to find the “best” car insurance companies in Missouri. We used customer satisfaction ratings, average cost, coverage options, and the availability of additional benefits to provide these scores.
Overall best car insurance company in Missouri — Shelter Insurance
The Zebra considers Shelter the best car insurance company for most people in Missouri due to its strong customer satisfaction and claims handling. While it may not always be the cheapest option, Shelter consistently receives high ratings for customer service and claims satisfaction. This is supported by J.D. Power’s 2023 regional study, where Shelter outscored all competitors in customer satisfaction, making the slightly higher cost worth it for the peace of mind and reliable service.
Pros
- Numerous coverage options
- Great customer satisfaction scores
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- May be expensive for younger drivers or those with at-fault accidents
- Rates are climbing in recent years
- Mobile apps and online services receive mixed reviews
Best car insurance in Missouri — honorable mentions
Shelter is a great carrier, but it isn’t the sole reputable option for Missouri drivers. Here are a few other top-rated companies based on J.D. Power’s study and The Zebra’s survey of 2,722 drivers.
Best car insurance companies in Missouri
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $671 | $112 |
| American Family | $845 | $141 |
| GEICO | $1,024 | $171 |
| State Farm | $1,350 | $225 |
Missouri auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket
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 by as much as $915 per year.
Below is an idea of how much insurance companies in Missouri will charge you after an at-fault accident.
Auto insurance rates for drivers with at-fault accidents in Missouri
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $759 | $126 |
| USAA | $892 | $149 |
| Shelter | $1,285 | $214 |
| Progressive | $1,503 | $251 |
| State Farm | $1,596 | $266 |
| GEICO | $1,630 | $272 |
| Nationwide | $2,236 | $373 |
| Allstate | $2,427 | $405 |
Tip: Don’t forget about claims satisfaction
While it’s ideal to never use your insurance, having a hassle-free claims process is essential when needed. According to our Customer Satisfaction Survey, Auto-Owners Insurance stood out as a preferred option among claimants. If you’re a Missouri resident, Auto-Owners is certainly worth considering.
In Missouri, a poor driving record will lead to significantly higher insurance rates. If you get a ticket or citation, expect your auto insurance premiums to increase. The amount of the increase depends on the violation, your insurer’s pricing policies, and the local insurance regulations and risks. Consequently, tickets can affect insurance rates in Missouri differently than the national average.
Missouri auto insurance quotes by violation
| Accident/Violation | Avg. Annual Premium | $ Rate Increase |
|---|---|---|
| None | $3,222 | $0 |
| One Med/PIP claim | $3,222 | $0 |
| Not-at-fault accident | $3,325 | $102 |
| Two Med/PIP claims | $3,345 | $123 |
| One comp claim | $3,345 | $123 |
| Two comp claims | $3,561 | $338 |
| Failure to wear a seat belt | $3,659 | $436 |
| Failure to show documents | $3,673 | $451 |
| Child safety restraint | $3,733 | $510 |
| Driving without lights | $3,733 | $510 |
| Driving with expired registration | $3,761 | $538 |
| Following too closely | $3,778 | $556 |
| Speeding in school zone | $3,779 | $556 |
| Driving too slowly | $3,779 | $556 |
| Cell phone violation | $3,784 | $561 |
| Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over limit | $3,788 | $565 |
| Speeding 11 – 15 MPH over limit | $3,789 | $566 |
| Speeding 16 – 20 MPH over limit | $3,789 | $566 |
| Texting while driving | $3,789 | $567 |
| Failure to yield | $3,797 | $574 |
| Wrong way/wrong lane | $3,804 | $582 |
| Illegal turn | $3,807 | $584 |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $3,812 | $590 |
| Improper passing | $3,813 | $591 |
| Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over limit | $3,819 | $597 |
| In 65 MPH zone | $3,845 | $623 |
| Passing school bus | $3,914 | $692 |
| Open container | $4,027 | $804 |
| Operating a vehicle without permission | $4,129 | $906 |
| At-fault accident – less than $1000 | $4,465 | $1,243 |
| At-fault accident – $1000-$2000 | $4,710 | $1,488 |
| At-fault accident – greater than $2000 | $4,711 | $1,489 |
| Refusal to submit to a chemical test | $4,776 | $1,554 |
| DUI | $4,862 | $1,640 |
| Driving with a suspended license | $4,969 | $1,747 |
| Racing | $5,086 | $1,863 |
| Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run | $5,161 | $1,939 |
| Reckless driving | $5,225 | $2,002 |
Car insurance in popular Missouri 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 Taos, Missouri, and the most expensive in Pine Lawn, Missouri.
Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of Missouri’s biggest cities.
Auto insurance quotes in Missouri’s biggest cities
| City | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| St. Louis | $2,091 | $349 |
| Kansas City | $1,804 | $301 |
| Independence | $1,690 | $282 |
| Springfield | $1,496 | $249 |
| Columbia | $1,480 | $247 |
How have car insurance costs in Missouri changed?
In Missouri, average annual auto insurance costs increased by just $42 in the past year. A typical Missouri driver pays an average of $1611 per year.
The recent pricing trend in Missouri leans toward lower car insurance costs than the national average. The steepest decrease occurred from 2015 to 2016, while recent years have seen surges taking place post-pandemic. At the same time, car insurance rates across the United States have continued to increase due to inflation and increased numbers of claims.
Car insurance costs in Missouri since 2015
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Missouri | Yearly Change — Missouri |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $2,100 | $42 |
| 2023 | $2,058 | $141 |
| 2022 | $1,917 | $219 |
| 2021 | $1,698 | $11 |
| 2020 | $1,687 | -$42 |
| 2019 | $1,729 | $150 |
| 2018 | $1,579 | -$217 |
| 2017 | $1,796 | $234 |
| 2016 | $1,562 | -$323 |
| 2015 | $1,885 | $216 |
Comparing Car Insurance Rates in Missouri
Shopping around and comparing rates is one of the easiest ways to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Many online platforms allow you to compare multiple quotes with just a few clicks.
How to Get a Free Quote
Most insurance companies allow you to get a free quote either online, over the phone, or through an agent. Simply provide some basic information about your vehicle, driving history, and personal details, and you’ll receive an estimate.
The Benefits of Comparing Multiple Quotes
Different companies weigh factors differently, meaning you could save hundreds just by choosing the right insurer. Always compare at least three quotes to find the best rate.
How to Save on Car Insurance in Missouri
Saving on car insurance in Missouri is possible if you know where to look.
Discounts to Look For
Many insurers offer discounts for safe driving, bundling policies, and even for good students. Always ask about available discounts.
Safe Driving Programs
Some companies offer discounts if you allow them to track your driving habits via an app. If you’re a safe driver, this could significantly lower your premium.
Bundling Home and Auto Insurance
If you already have home or renter’s insurance, consider bundling it with your car insurance to unlock additional savings.
Tips for Choosing the Best Car Insurance in Missouri
When choosing an insurance provider, keep these tips in mind:
- Assess Your Needs: Make sure you’re getting the right coverage for your specific situation.
- Understand Policy Limits and Deductibles: Higher deductibles can lower your premium but could cost more out of pocket if you have a claim.
- Customer Service and Claims Process: Research reviews and ratings to see how responsive a company is during the claims process.
- Financial Stability of the Insurance Company: Check financial ratings from agencies like A.M. Best to ensure your provider can pay out claims when needed.
FAQs about Car Insurance in Missouri
1. What is the minimum car insurance required in Missouri?
In Missouri, drivers are required to carry minimum liability insurance coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
2. Are Missouri drivers required to have uninsured motorist coverage?
Yes, Missouri law requires drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage. This must include a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
3. What factors affect car insurance rates in Missouri?
Several factors can affect your car insurance rates in Missouri, including your driving record, age, the type of vehicle you drive, your credit history, and even your geographic location within the state.
4. Can my car insurance rates increase after an accident in Missouri?
Yes, it is possible for your car insurance rates to increase after an accident, especially if you are found at fault. However, some insurers offer accident forgiveness policies which might prevent your premiums from rising after your first accident.
5. How can I save on car insurance in Missouri?
You can save on car insurance by comparing quotes from different insurers, maintaining a clean driving record, qualifying for discounts (like multi-car, good driver, or student discounts), and increasing your deductibles.
6. What should I do if my car insurance claim is denied in Missouri?
If your car insurance claim is denied, you should first review the denial letter to understand the reason. You can then contact your insurance agent to discuss the details and possibly appeal the decision. If necessary, consulting with a legal advisor can also provide guidance on further steps.
Conclusion
In summary, securing car insurance in Missouri is not just a legal necessity but a critical component of financial protection for drivers. As we’ve explored, Missouri offers a range of insurance options tailored to meet diverse needs and budgets. Understanding the nuances of coverage, from liability to comprehensive plans, empowers drivers to make informed decisions.
The importance of obtaining a free quote cannot be overstated. A quote provides a personalized snapshot of what you can expect to pay based on your specific circumstances without any commitment. By comparing quotes, you can identify the most cost-effective policy that doesn’t compromise on coverage.
Therefore, we encourage all Missouri drivers to take advantage of free quotes today to ensure they receive the best possible deal tailored to their unique needs. This proactive approach not only saves money but also secures peace of mind on the road.
References
For more in-depth information and further validation of the insights shared in our guide to Car Insurance in Missouri, consider exploring these reputable sources:
- Missouri Department of Insurance – Stay updated with the latest regulations and consumer protection measures in the insurance sector directly from the state’s official department. Visit the Missouri Department of Insurance.
- Insurance Information Institute (III) – A comprehensive resource offering detailed insights on insurance coverage options, safety advice, and consumer reports. Explore the III’s extensive resources.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – Access consumer guides, insurance company reports, and compare industry standards across states. Check out the NAIC website.
- Consumer Reports – Find unbiased reviews and ratings for insurance providers in Missouri to make informed decisions based on reliability and customer satisfaction. Read Consumer Reports.
These resources can provide you with a deeper understanding and help you navigate the complexities of car insurance in Missouri.
