When it comes to cheap car insurance in Montana drivers are at a disadvantage. Ranked in the top 15 of the most expensive states in the nation to get cheap insurance, it’s no surprise that drivers are looking for cheap insurance quotes.
CheapInsurance.com helps get the insurance quote you need to legally drive with affordable car insurance in Montana.
Quick Montana Car Insurance Facts
Read up on information about car insurance in Montana and some of the factors that make it so expensive:
- Montana ranks #12 for the cost of car insurance in the nation.
- Montana has one of the highest rates of auto fatalities in the country.
- Numbers vary from year to year, but fatality rates in Montana are often twice as much as the national average.
- Montana has been rated #1 for auto fatalities in a number of past years.
- Severe weather is also a factor that raises the cost of car insurance in Montana.
Big Sky Country Cruising: Updates and Insurance Insights for Montana in 2024
Hit the open road and explore Montana’s breathtaking landscapes with these key updates for car insurance in 2024:
Montana Vehicle Code Changes:
- Autonomous vehicle pilot program: Limited testing of autonomous vehicles on designated roads begins. (Source: Montana Senate Bill 339)
- Increased penalties for speeding: Expect harsher fines and points for excessive speeding violations. (Source: Montana Code Annotated Title 61)
- No major changes to distracted driving laws: Existing prohibitions on texting and holding phones while driving remain in place. (Source: Montana Code Annotated Title 61)
Remember: These are just highlights, and other changes may apply. Visit the Montana Department of Motor Vehicles website for complete information. (Source: Montana Department of Motor Vehicles)
Average Auto Insurance Rates in Montana (2024):
(Sources: The Zebra, Value Penguin)
Company | Full Coverage | Minimum Coverage |
State Farm | $1,647 | $440 |
GEICO | $1,562 | $398 |
Progressive | $1,725 | $385 |
Farmers | $1,784 | $425 |
Liberty Mutual | $1,843 | $453 |
Remember: Individual car insurance rates in Montana can vary significantly based on driving history, location, vehicle type, and desired coverages. Consider factors like the low population density and potential for wildlife collisions when comparing auto insurance quotes in Montana.
Minimum Liability Car Insurance in Montana
You must have car insurance to drive on Montana’s roads, it’s the law. However, the amount of insurance coverage you need varies by state. In fact, the minimum auto insurance coverage in Montana required to have is lower than other states.
According to Montana state law, you must have:
- Bodily injury coverage: $25,000 per individual and $50,000 per covered traffic event
- Property damage coverage: A flat $20,000 per covered traffic event
Getting Cheaper Car Insurance In Montana
There are lots of tricks to finding cheaper insurance. It’s not as hard as you think. Here are our suggestions to get you started.
- Begin with state minimums: To find cheap auto insurance in Montana, locals will often begin with the minimum requirements for auto insurance (listed above). All auto insurance carriers in Montana are required to offer this type of policy. These minimums are lower than those of many other states, which gives you the chance for inexpensive insurance.
- Shop for the best rates: Check out affordable car insurance quotes from different providers, and never settle for the first figures you find. Also, it’s wise to compare car insurance quotes online every year.
- Drive more carefully: When you speed or drive aggressively, distracted, or under the influence, you are putting yourself at risk. You’re also less likely to get low cost car insurance if you don’t have a clean driving record.
Car Insurance Discounts in Montana
Montana automobile insurance companies have the power to offer discounts to their policy holders. Luckily, there are many insurance companies that offer car insurance discounts in Montana.
Good Driver: This is for drivers with clean driving records and no recent insurance claims.
Good Student: Young drivers who have good grades can receive discounts for auto insurance.
Safety Features: Discounts for maintaining your car or updating safety features.
Defensive Driving: Discounts for taking and passing a defensive driving course.
Affiliation Discounts: Discounts for service members, police, and others.
Insurance companies may not always tell you about their discounts in advance. Once you find a auto insurance quote in Montana you like, be sure to contact the insurer directly and find out about any savings you might be eligible for.
Additional Montana Auto Insurance FAQ
What is the average car insurance cost in Montana?
Average minimum liability auto insurance is $466 per year. Average full coverage auto insurance is $2,297 per year.
How much is car insurance per month in Montana?
Average minimum liability car insurance is $69 per month, while average full coverage car insurance is $291 per month.
What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Montana?
Driving without car insurance coverage in Montana is a misdemeanor offense. You could pay a fine of up to $500 on your first offense and spend up to 10 days in jail. Subsequent offenses lead to harsher penalties. Your license and vehicle registration may be suspended. You’ll need to pay fines and get auto insurance before you can drive.
What is driving like in Montana?
Montana ranks among the most dangerous states to drive in because of the high rate of auto fatalities. It can be dangerous to drive in during severe storms. If you move to a suburban or rural area, you will often pay less for auto insurance in Montana.
How can I save money on car insurance in montana?
To save on vehicle insurance in Montana, start with the cheapest car insurance deal you can find. Remember, you can always switch car insurance providers if you find a better price for car insurance Below are a few more ideas to help save on auto insurance quotes.
- Put two or more cars onto your policy to get multi-car insurance discounts.
- Avoid distracted driving, DUIs, and speeding tickets to keep rates low for auto insurance.
- Explore the possibility of paying with an installment plan.
- Talk to your car insurance company about increasing your deductible to lower car insurance in Montana.
What do I need to know about registering my vehicle in Montana?
- Vehicle registrations are conducted by Montana’s Title and Registration Bureau within the Department of Justice’s Motor Vehicle Division.
- New registrations may be done in person at your local county treasurer’s motor vehicle office.
- New residents must transfer a vehicle registration within 60 days of becoming a resident.
Other Types of Coverage
Auto insurance coverage in Montana must meet certain basic standards to be legal. You will need to show proof of at least minimum insurance before you can register a vehicle. However, based on your situation, you may want more coverage than just the state minimum requirement. Though not required in Montana, other auto insurance coverages are good to have. Consider adding these coverages to your car insurance policy.- Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UMC)/Underinsured Motorist coverage (UIM)
- Medical Payments Coverage
- Comprehensive Coverage
- Collision Coverage
Additional kinds of coverage
- Towing and road service
- Rental car reimbursement
- Gap insurance
