Car Insurance in Connecticut: Car insurance in Connecticut is mandatory, providing financial protection in case of accidents.
The state requires minimum coverage for liability, property damage, and uninsured motorist protection. Having insurance ensures legal compliance and safeguards your assets.
Getting a free quote helps you compare rates and find affordable options that suit your needs while staying protected.
Connecticut Car Insurance Requirements
Below is a detailed breakdown of the legal minimum insurance requirements in Connecticut, covering liability, property damage, and uninsured motorist coverage.
Legal Minimum Insurance Requirements in Connecticut
1. Bodily Injury Liability Coverage:
- $25,000 per person injured in an accident.
- $50,000 total per accident involving multiple people.
2. Property Damage Liability Coverage:
- $25,000 per accident for damage to other vehicles or property.
3. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage:
- $25,000 per person for injuries caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- $50,000 per accident involving multiple people injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Breakdown of Liability Coverage
1. Bodily Injury Liability: This coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs if you are at fault in an accident that causes injury to others. Connecticut mandates a minimum of $25,000 per injured person and $50,000 per accident involving multiple people.
2. Property Damage Liability: This covers damages you cause to someone else’s property, such as their car, building, or fences. The state requires a minimum of $25,000 per accident for property damage.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is designed to protect you if you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have sufficient insurance. In Connecticut, you’re required to carry at least $25,000 in coverage for injuries per person and $50,000 for injuries per accident.
By following these legal requirements, drivers in Connecticut ensure they are financially protected and comply with state laws. Always consider purchasing higher coverage limits for better protection.
Cheap auto insurance in Connecticut for minimum coverage
If you choose liability-only coverage at the state minimum level rather than full coverage, your premium will be much lower but it can leave you at risk. In Connecticut, the average cost for minimum coverage is $61 per month, or $728 yearly — a savings of $849 compared to full coverage.
Cheapest insurance companies in Connecticut for minimum coverage
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $530 |
| Amica Mutual | $627 |
| GEICO | $688 |
| State Farm | $741 |
| Nationwide | $869 |
| Allstate | $870 |
| Progressive | $1,105 |
Cheap auto insurance in Connecticut with bad credit
Except for a select few states that have banned the practice, your credit score is used as a rating factor. This is because insurance companies view credit history as an indicator of risk — past data inform insurers that there is a correlation between having bad credit and an increased propensity for filing claims.
In Connecticut, drivers with poor credit pay an additional $1,323 yearly compared to drivers with excellent credit. Consult average rates from different insurance companies below and use this information as a jumping-off point in your search for affordable insurance with bad credit.
Cheapest insurance companies in Connecticut for bad credit
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $1,997 |
| Nationwide | $2,311 |
| GEICO | $2,402 |
| Amica Mutual | $2,787 |
| Progressive | $3,019 |
| State Farm | $3,142 |
| Allstate | $4,216 |
Cheap auto insurance in Connecticut with an at-fault accident
It’s well-known that an at-fault accident on your record will drive up your car insurance rate. Insurance companies view you as a riskier client if you’ve caused accidents in the past. In Connecticut, an at-fault accident can raise your rate by as much as $674 yearly.
Safe driver discounts
In addition to having a cheaper premium, some companies offer a safe driving discount. While the amount varies based on your company, it can range between 5 and 10%.
Cheapest insurance companies in Connecticut after at-fault accident
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $1,837 |
| State Farm | $1,864 |
| Amica Mutual | $1,979 |
| GEICO | $2,426 |
| Nationwide | $2,577 |
| Progressive | $3,358 |
| Allstate | $4,477 |
Cheap auto insurance for young drivers in Connecticut
Car insurance for teens and drivers in their 20s can be gratuitously pricey because of young adults’ relative driving inexperience compared to older age groups. Insurers account for this elevated risk by charging higher premiums the younger you are. In Connecticut, teen drivers pay $6,046 per year, which is over $4,500 more than the national average and 290% more than what a 30-year-old Connecticut driver would pay.Cheapest insurance companies in Connecticut for teen drivers
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $4,336 |
| GEICO | $4,725 |
| State Farm | $5,684 |
| Nationwide | $6,950 |
| Amica Mutual | $7,148 |
| Allstate | $7,195 |
| Progressive | $10,756 |
Connecticut auto insurance rate by violation
While every company’s pricing is different, having a ticket or citation on your driving record will trigger a rate increase. It’s difficult to say exactly how much your premium will go up, but we can provide general estimates.
See below for average auto insurance rates in Connecticut after a variety of citations. Car insurance rates in Connecticut after tickets, at-fault accidents, and violations
| Accident/Violation | Avg. Annual Premium | % Rate Increase | $ Rate Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | $1,963 | 0% | $0 |
| One Med/PIP claim | $1,965 | 0% | $2 |
| Not-at-fault accident | $2,037 | 4% | $74 |
| Two Med/PIP claims | $2,038 | 4% | $75 |
| One comp claim | $2,088 | 6% | $125 |
| Driving without lights | $2,235 | 14% | $272 |
| Two comp claims | $2,236 | 14% | $273 |
| Failure to wear a seat belt | $2,253 | 15% | $291 |
| Child safety restraint | $2,276 | 16% | $313 |
| Failure to show documents | $2,290 | 17% | $327 |
| Driving with expired registration | $2,312 | 18% | $349 |
| Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over limit | $2,333 | 19% | $371 |
| Speeding 11 – 15 MPH over limit | $2,342 | 19% | $379 |
| Speeding 16 – 20 MPH over limit | $2,342 | 19% | $379 |
| Texting while driving | $2,351 | 20% | $388 |
| Cell phone violation | $2,351 | 20% | $388 |
| Driving too slowly | $2,363 | 20% | $400 |
| Failure to yield | $2,365 | 20% | $402 |
| Failure to stop at a red light | $2,365 | 20% | $402 |
| Following too closely | $2,365 | 20% | $402 |
| Illegal turn | $2,365 | 20% | $402 |
| Speeding in school zone | $2,372 | 21% | $409 |
| Wrong way/wrong lane | $2,373 | 21% | $410 |
| Improper passing | $2,373 | 21% | $410 |
| At-fault accident – less than $1000 | $2,385 | 21% | $422 |
| Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over limit | $2,393 | 22% | $431 |
| In 65 MPH zone | $2,460 | 25% | $497 |
| Operating a vehicle without permission | $2,544 | 30% | $581 |
| Passing school bus | $2,603 | 33% | $640 |
| Open container | $2,647 | 35% | $684 |
| At-fault accident – greater than $2000 | $3,048 | 55% | $1,085 |
| At-fault accident – $1000-$2000 | $3,054 | 56% | $1,091 |
| Racing | $4,097 | 109% | $2,134 |
| Reckless driving | $4,153 | 112% | $2,190 |
| Driving with a suspended license | $4,211 | 115% | $2,248 |
| Refusal to submit to a chemical test | $4,214 | 115% | $2,251 |
| DUI | $4,283 | 118% | $2,320 |
| Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run | $4,366 | 122% | $2,403 |
Connecticut DUI laws
Getting a DUI in Connecticut can increase your car insurance premium by $2,320 annually. Because a DUI often causes a significant jump in premium costs compared to other citations, it can be difficult to find affordable auto insurance in the aftermath of a DUI conviction.
Low-cost car insurance after a DUI in Connecticut
It’s of the utmost importance to assess each of your insurance choices carefully if you’re convicted of a DUI or DWI violation in Connecticut and need to find car insurance you can afford. Car insurance premiums following a DUI can vary substantially by insurance company. For example, the least expensive car insurance company with a DUI in Connecticut, State Farm, advertises annual rates 49% less than the statewide average insurance rate with a DUI. The second-cheapest insurer for auto insurance after a DUI in Connecticut is Progressive, while the most expensive is Amica, with prices 28% above average.
Cheapest insurance companies in Connecticut after DUI
| Company | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| State Farm | $2,204 |
| Progressive | $2,465 |
| USAA | $2,760 |
| Nationwide | $3,207 |
| GEICO | $3,446 |
| Allstate | $3,624 |
| Amica Mutual | $5,463 |
Rates by city
Car insurance companies calculate your rate based on many factors, and an important one is the location of the vehicle. The cheapest car insurance in Connecticut is found in Stonington and Pawcatuck, and the most expensive in New Haven.
Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of Connecticut’s biggest cities.Car insurance rates in Connecticut’s most populous cities
| City | Avg. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Stamford | $2,097 |
| Waterbury | $2,496 |
| Hartford | $2,702 |
| Bridgeport | $2,707 |
| New Haven | $2,714 |
Car insurance price trends in Connecticut
In Connecticut, average annual auto insurance costs increased by just $9 in the past year. A typical Connecticut driver pays an average of $1,551 per year or $129 per month.
Year over year pricing trends in Connecticut show that car insurance has gotten more affordable over time in the state — from 2012 to 2016, the average cost continually declined, sometimes by hundreds of dollars, before increasing once again in 2017. Compared to nationwide averages, auto insurance rates in Connecticut tend to be more volatile.CONNECTICUT CAR INSURANCE RATE TRENDS
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Connecticut | Yearly Change — Connecticut | Avg. Annual Premium — US | Yearly Change — US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $1,551 | $9 | $1,529 | $46 |
| 2020 | $1,542 | -$150 | $1,483 | -$61 |
| 2019 | $1,692 | $103 | $1,544 | $23 |
| 2018 | $1,589 | $78 | $1,521 | $84 |
| 2017 | $1,511 | $288 | $1,437 | $69 |
| 2016 | $1,223 | -$361 | $1,368 | $88 |
| 2015 | $1,584 | -$21 | $1,280 | $51 |
| 2014 | $1,605 | -$33 | $1,229 | $34 |
| 2013 | $1,638 | -$355 | $1,195 | -$80 |
| 2012 | $1,993 | $227 | $1,276 | $82 |
How to Get a Free Quote for Car Insurance in Connecticut
Getting a free quote for car insurance in Connecticut is simple and can be done online or through an insurance agent. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
Steps to Get a Free Car Insurance Quote
1. Gather Your Information: Before you start, make sure you have your personal details ready. You’ll need your driver’s license number, vehicle information (make, model, and year), and current insurance details (if applicable).
2. Choose a Quote Method:
- Online Quote: Many insurance companies offer free quotes directly on their websites. Simply enter your details, and you’ll get a quote in minutes. You can also use comparison websites to view quotes from multiple insurers at once.
- Through an Agent: If you prefer a personal touch, contact an insurance agent. They can walk you through the process and provide you with multiple quotes from different companies.
3. Review and Compare: Once you have your quotes, compare coverage options, deductibles, and premiums. Make sure to check for any discounts, such as safe driver discounts or bundling options.
4. Choose the Best Option: After comparing, select the policy that fits your needs and budget. You can purchase the policy online or through your agent.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Quotes
Several factors can influence your car insurance quote in Connecticut:
- Driving Record: A clean driving history typically results in lower premiums, while accidents or violations can increase your rates.
- Vehicle Type: The make, model, and age of your vehicle can affect the cost. Newer or more expensive cars generally cost more to insure.
- Location: Your ZIP code plays a role too. Urban areas with higher traffic and crime rates often have higher insurance costs.
- Credit Score: Insurers may consider your credit score when determining your premium. A higher score can help lower your rates.
- Coverage Options: The type and amount of coverage you choose, such as liability, comprehensive, or collision, will impact your quote.
By considering these factors and following the steps, you can easily find and compare free car insurance quotes in Connecticut.
Types of Car Insurance Coverage in Connecticut
When shopping for car insurance in Connecticut, it’s important to understand the various types of coverage available to you. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of car insurance coverage you’ll encounter:
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance is mandatory in Connecticut and covers the costs if you’re at fault in an accident that causes injury or damage to someone else’s property. There are two parts to liability insurance:
- Bodily Injury Liability (BI): This covers medical expenses, lost wages, and legal fees if someone else is injured in an accident you caused.
- Property Damage Liability (PD): This covers the cost of repairing or replacing another person’s property that was damaged in an accident.
Connecticut requires minimum coverage limits of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
These coverages are optional but highly recommended, especially if you have a newer car.
- Comprehensive Coverage: This pays for damages to your vehicle caused by non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
- Collision Coverage: This pays for damages to your vehicle if you’re involved in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. While Connecticut does not require PIP, it’s an important consideration for additional peace of mind.
Optional Coverages
There are several optional coverages that Connecticut drivers can add to their policies for extra protection:
- Roadside Assistance: Offers help if your vehicle breaks down, covering services like towing, fuel delivery, and flat tire changes.
- Rental Car Coverage: Helps cover the cost of renting a car if your vehicle is being repaired after an accident.
By understanding and choosing the right combination of these coverages, you can ensure you’re fully protected on the road while complying with Connecticut’s legal insurance requirements.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Connecticut?
The cost of car insurance in Connecticut can vary based on several factors, including your age, driving history, and where you live. On average, car insurance in Connecticut costs around $1,500 to $1,800 per year for full coverage. For minimum coverage, the average is about $800 to $1,000 annually. However, your specific rate may be higher or lower depending on personal factors.
Average Cost of Car Insurance in Connecticut
The average cost for full coverage in Connecticut is approximately $1,700 per year, but drivers who opt for minimum coverage typically pay less. This cost can fluctuate depending on your individual profile and insurance provider.
Factors Influencing Car Insurance Rates
Several key factors influence car insurance rates in Connecticut:
- Age: Younger drivers, especially those under 25, typically face higher premiums due to inexperience. Older drivers may see lower rates.
- Driving History: A clean driving record often leads to lower premiums, while accidents, speeding tickets, or DUIs will increase your rates.
- ZIP Code: Your location within Connecticut plays a significant role. Urban areas tend to have higher rates due to increased traffic and a higher risk of accidents, while rural areas may have lower premiums.
Comparison of Rates from Different Companies
Rates can vary significantly between car insurance companies in Connecticut. For example, a 30-year-old driver with a clean record might find rates ranging from:
- Geico: Around $1,400 per year
- State Farm: Approximately $1,550 per year
- Allstate: Closer to $1,800 per year
However, it’s a good idea to compare quotes from several companies to find the best rate for your situation. Additionally, many insurers offer discounts for bundling policies, safe driving, and more, which can help reduce your premiums.
Discounts on Car Insurance in Connecticut
When looking for car insurance in Connecticut, it’s essential to know about the discounts available to help lower your premiums. Insurance companies often offer various discounts that can significantly reduce your costs if you meet the criteria. Here are some of the most common discounts you can take advantage of:
Available Discounts
- Safe Driver Discount: If you maintain a clean driving record without any accidents or traffic violations, you can qualify for a safe driver discount. Insurance providers reward those who prove to be less risky to insure.
- Multi-Car Discount: Insuring more than one car with the same insurance company can save you money. By bundling policies for multiple vehicles, you may get a discount on your overall premium.
- Bundling Policies: Combining your auto insurance with other policies like homeowners or renters insurance can earn you a bundling discount. Many companies offer lower rates when you purchase multiple types of insurance together.
- Good Student Discount: If you’re a student with good grades, typically a B average or higher, you may qualify for a discount. This is especially useful for young drivers who usually face higher insurance rates.
- Anti-Theft Discount: Installing anti-theft devices in your car can lower your premium. Insurance companies see these devices as a way to reduce the risk of theft, and they often offer discounts for added security.
- Low Mileage Discount: Drivers who don’t use their cars often or drive fewer miles per year can qualify for a low mileage discount. Insurance companies consider less time on the road as a lower risk for accidents.
Tips to Save on Car Insurance
- Shop Around for Quotes: Compare quotes from different insurance providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Rates can vary significantly from one company to another, so it’s worth taking the time to explore your options.
- Raise Your Deductible: Opting for a higher deductible can lower your premium. However, be sure you’re comfortable paying that deductible out of pocket in case of an accident.
- Bundle Policies: As mentioned earlier, bundling your car insurance with other policies like home or renters insurance can help you save.
- Maintain a Good Credit Score: Many insurance companies use credit scores to determine premiums. By keeping a good credit score, you can potentially secure lower insurance rates.
- Ask About Discounts: Not all discounts are automatically applied to your policy. Be proactive and ask your insurance provider if you’re eligible for any discounts that may not be mentioned upfront.
By taking advantage of available discounts and following these tips, you can reduce your car insurance costs in Connecticut while still maintaining adequate coverage.
Best Car Insurance Companies in Connecticut
Here’s a look at some of the top car insurance companies in Connecticut, comparing their offerings in key areas like customer satisfaction, coverage options, and cost-effectiveness.
1. Geico
- Customer Service: Geico is known for its easy-to-use online platform and responsive customer service. Customers consistently report satisfaction with the simplicity of filing claims and getting assistance.
- Coverage Options: Geico offers a wide range of coverage, including liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage.
- Affordability: One of the most affordable options, especially for drivers with a clean record. Geico is often praised for providing cheap premiums while maintaining solid coverage.
2. State Farm
- Customer Service: State Farm shines with local agents available throughout Connecticut, offering personalized support to policyholders.
- Coverage Options: From basic liability to extensive full-coverage policies, State Farm has options for every driver’s needs. They also provide optional add-ons such as rental car coverage and rideshare insurance.
- Affordability: While slightly more expensive than Geico, State Farm remains competitive and offers discounts for safe drivers, students, and vehicles with safety features.
3. Progressive
- Customer Service: Progressive is known for its user-friendly website and mobile app, making it easy for customers to manage their policies and file claims. Their 24/7 customer support is a big advantage.
- Coverage Options: In addition to standard coverages, Progressive offers custom options like gap insurance and pet injury protection. Their “Name Your Price” tool helps drivers find coverage within their budget.
- Affordability: Progressive offers competitive rates, especially for drivers with previous accidents, as they provide accident forgiveness and usage-based insurance programs like Snapshot.
4. Allstate
- Customer Service: Allstate provides excellent customer support, with a network of agents across Connecticut and strong online tools. Their claims satisfaction guarantee sets them apart.
- Coverage Options: Allstate’s policies include standard coverages as well as unique add-ons like new car replacement and sound system coverage.
- Affordability: Allstate tends to be on the pricier side but offers numerous discounts, especially for bundling policies like home and auto insurance.
5. Liberty Mutual
- Customer Service: Liberty Mutual has strong customer service, with agents ready to help in Connecticut. They offer 24/7 claims assistance and a seamless online experience.
- Coverage Options: They provide comprehensive coverage options, including personal injury protection, better car replacement, and roadside assistance.
- Affordability: Liberty Mutual’s premiums are moderate but may vary based on the driver’s profile. Discounts for homeowners and good drivers help make their rates more affordable.
However, when choosing car insurance in Connecticut, it’s essential to compare providers based on your unique needs, whether you’re looking for the cheapest rates, the best customer service, or comprehensive coverage.
FAQs About Car Insurance in Connecticut
1. What are the minimum car insurance requirements in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, drivers are required to carry a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability coverage. Additionally, you must have at least $25,000 in property damage liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
2. Is car insurance mandatory in Connecticut?
Yes, car insurance is mandatory in Connecticut. Every driver must carry liability insurance, which includes bodily injury and property damage coverage. Driving without insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and registration revocation.
3. What is uninsured motorist coverage, and is it required in Connecticut?
Uninsured motorist coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance. It also covers underinsured drivers who don’t have enough insurance to cover damages. In Connecticut, this coverage is required with a minimum limit of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
4. How can I lower my car insurance premiums in Connecticut?
To lower your car insurance premiums in Connecticut, you can consider increasing your deductible, maintaining a clean driving record, and bundling your car insurance with other types of insurance like home or renters insurance. You may also qualify for discounts if you complete a defensive driving course.
5. What happens if I drive without car insurance in Connecticut?
Driving without insurance in Connecticut can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment. You may also face legal consequences if you’re involved in an accident while uninsured.
6. Does Connecticut require full coverage insurance?
While Connecticut only requires liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, full coverage insurance (which includes collision and comprehensive coverage) is recommended if you want protection against damages to your own vehicle from accidents, theft, or natural disasters.
7. Can I use my Connecticut car insurance when driving out of state?
Yes, Connecticut car insurance policies generally provide coverage when you’re driving out of state. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm with your insurance provider to ensure you’re adequately covered.
8. What factors influence car insurance rates in Connecticut?
Several factors can influence car insurance rates in Connecticut, including your driving record, age, type of vehicle, credit score, and location. Living in areas with higher traffic or crime rates may result in higher premiums.
Conclusion
Securing the right Connecticut car insurance coverage is essential for protecting yourself and your vehicle. Understanding the state’s minimum insurance requirements and additional coverage options like liability, property damage, and uninsured motorist coverage ensures that you are fully protected on the road. By choosing the right policy, you can avoid financial risks and stay compliant with Connecticut laws.
If you’re ready to find the best coverage that fits your needs, take the first step today. Get a free quote and see how you can save while staying protected.
References
To further enhance your understanding of Car Insurance in Connecticut, here are some reputable sources that provide detailed insights and up-to-date information:
- Connecticut Insurance Department – For a comprehensive overview of the state’s insurance requirements and regulations, visit the Connecticut Insurance Department website.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – Learn more about national car insurance guidelines and how Connecticut fits into the broader U.S. insurance landscape on the NAIC website.
- Insurance Information Institute (III) – For expert advice and data on various insurance coverages, including those specific to Connecticut, explore the III website.
- DMV Connecticut – Stay informed on legal obligations related to car insurance and driving requirements in Connecticut by visiting the DMV Connecticut website.
These sources will help validate the information provided in this article and offer additional context for navigating Connecticut’s car insurance system.
