Car Insurance in Wisconsin: Car insurance is a necessity for drivers in Wisconsin, and while it’s easy to focus only on the price, choosing the right policy is about much more than just finding the cheapest option.
With the wide variety of coverage types and levels available, it’s essential to understand what you’re getting and why it matters.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about car insurance in Wisconsin, from legal requirements to tips on how to get the best deal with a free quote.
Why Car Insurance Is Important in Wisconsin
Driving without insurance is not just risky; it’s illegal in Wisconsin. The state requires all drivers to have at least the minimum amount of car insurance, which helps ensure that if an accident happens, there are funds available to cover medical bills or property damage. Without car insurance, you could face hefty fines, penalties, or even license suspension.
More importantly, having the right insurance protects you from the financial burdens that come with accidents, such as medical expenses or lawsuits. In short, car insurance isn’t just a legal obligation – it’s a safeguard for your financial well-being.
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, drivers are legally required to carry the following minimum levels of insurance coverage:
- Liability Coverage:
- Bodily Injury: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage: $10,000 per accident
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage:
- Bodily Injury: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
While these are the bare minimum requirements, many drivers opt for additional coverage to provide greater protection. It’s important to remember that in the event of a serious accident, the minimum coverage might not be enough to cover all the costs.
Types of Car Insurance Coverage Available in Wisconsin
Wisconsin drivers have access to various types of coverage that go beyond the state-mandated minimums. These include:
- Liability Coverage: Covers injuries and damages to others if you’re at fault in an accident.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects your vehicle from non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
- Collision Coverage: Covers damage to your car in the event of a collision, regardless of who’s at fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if you’re in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or insufficient coverage.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
Additional Coverage Options
For added peace of mind, you might want to consider extra options such as:
- Roadside Assistance: Provides help if you’re stranded due to a flat tire, dead battery, or mechanical issue.
- Rental Car Reimbursement: Covers the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
- Gap Insurance: Helps cover the difference between the car’s value and what you owe if it’s totaled.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates in Wisconsin
Your car insurance premium can vary significantly based on several factors, including:
- Driving History: A clean driving record can help lower your premiums, while accidents or traffic violations will likely raise them.
- Location: Insurance rates in urban areas, where accidents and theft are more common, tend to be higher than in rural areas.
- Vehicle Type: The make, model, and age of your car will impact your rates. Luxury cars or vehicles with expensive parts can cost more to insure.
- Credit Score: Many insurers use your credit score as a factor when calculating your premium, with higher scores generally leading to lower rates.
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.Cheapest liability coverage in WI
| 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 a Free Car Insurance Quote in Wisconsin
Getting a free car insurance quote in Wisconsin is easy and can be done in several ways:
- Online Comparison Tools: Use websites that allow you to compare quotes from multiple insurers side-by-side.
- Local Insurance Agents: Contact agents who specialize in Wisconsin policies for personalized quotes.
- Insurance Brokers: These professionals can shop around for you and present the best offers from various insurers.
Why Compare Multiple Quotes?
Not all insurance companies calculate premiums the same way. Even if you’re looking at the same level of coverage, quotes can vary dramatically between providers. By comparing multiple quotes, you ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible, without sacrificing the coverage you need.
Discounts Available for Car Insurance in Wisconsin
Many insurers offer discounts that can help lower your premiums, such as:
- Good Driver Discount: If you have a clean driving record, you may qualify for a discount.
- Bundling Discounts: Combining home and auto insurance with the same company can result in lower rates.
- Student Discount: Many insurers offer reduced rates for students with good grades.
- Low Mileage Discount: If you don’t drive often, you may qualify for lower rates due to reduced risk.
How to Lower Your Car Insurance Premiums
To save on your car insurance premiums, consider these strategies:
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Avoid traffic violations and accidents to keep your rates low.
- Increase Your Deductible: A higher deductible can lower your monthly premium, but make sure you can afford the deductible in case of an accident.
- Adjust Coverage on Older Vehicles: If your car is older and paid off, you might not need comprehensive and collision coverage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping for Car Insurance
When searching for car insurance, avoid these pitfalls:
- Overlooking Coverage Details: Make sure you understand exactly what each policy covers. Don’t assume that cheaper premiums mean adequate protection.
- Ignoring the Fine Print: Always read the fine print to understand exclusions and conditions that may affect your coverage.
- Focusing Solely on Price: While saving money is important, ensure that you’re also getting sufficient coverage for your needs.
The Role of Local Insurance Agents in Wisconsin
Working with a local insurance agent can be beneficial, as they’re familiar with state-specific laws and can guide you through the process. Local agents can also help tailor a policy to your needs and answer any questions you might have about your coverage options.
How to File a Car Insurance Claim in Wisconsin
If you’re involved in an accident, follow these steps to file a claim:
- Report the Accident: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the incident.
- Provide Necessary Information: Supply details like the police report, photos, and contact information for anyone involved.
- Work with an Adjuster: The insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage and determine compensation.
Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers in Wisconsin
If you have a history of traffic violations, accidents, or DUI charges, you may be considered a high-risk driver. While finding affordable insurance can be challenging, there are options, including high-risk insurance pools and companies that specialize in covering high-risk drivers.
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.
