If you are a driver in Connecticut, you need to have auto insurance to protect yourself and others in case of an accident. Connecticut is a tort state, which means that the driver who causes an accident is responsible for paying the medical and repair costs of the other party. This is why you need to have liability insurance, which covers the bodily injury and property damage you cause to others.

But how much liability insurance do you need? According to Connecticut law, you must have at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability, and $25,000 per accident for property damage liability. These are the minimum limits required by the state, but you may want to consider higher limits if you can afford them. This is because if you cause an accident that exceeds your liability limits, you may have to pay the difference out of your own pocket.

Another type of insurance that you need in Connecticut is uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). This covers your own medical and repair costs if you are hit by a driver who has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your damages. Connecticut requires you to have UM/UIM coverage with the same limits as your liability coverage: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.

In addition to these mandatory coverages, you may also want to add optional coverages to your policy, such as collision, comprehensive, medical payments, rental reimbursement, or towing and labor. These coverages can help you pay for your own expenses in different situations, such as if your car is damaged by a collision, theft, fire, vandalism, or weather; if you need medical treatment after an accident; if you need a rental car while your car is being repaired; or if you need roadside assistance.

The cost of auto insurance in Connecticut depends on many factors, such as your age, gender, driving record, credit score, vehicle type, location, mileage, and coverage options. According to MoneyGeek.com, the average annual cost of minimum liability insurance in Connecticut is $1,004, while the average annual cost of full coverage insurance (which includes collision and comprehensive) is $2,018. However, these are only averages and your actual rates may vary depending on your personal situation and the insurance company you choose.

To find the best auto insurance policy for your needs and budget, you should shop around and compare quotes from different insurers. You can use online tools or contact agents or brokers to get quotes. You should also check the financial strength and customer service ratings of the insurers you are considering. You want to make sure that the insurer you choose can pay your claims and handle them efficiently.

Auto insurance is not only a legal requirement but also a smart investment in Connecticut. It can protect you from financial losses and legal troubles if you cause or are involved in an accident. By understanding the state minimum auto insurance requirements and the local rates as well as the different types of auto insurance coverage available, you can make an informed decision about your auto insurance policy.