Mississippi Car Insurance

Everything You Need to Know About Auto Insurance in Mississippi

Mississippi is a state located in the southern United States, bordered by Tennessee to the north and Alabama to the east. Its name comes from the Mississippi River, which flows along its western border. The state is known for its history and culture.

Jackson is the capital and largest city in Mississippi, known for its music scene and historic sites. Some of the main cities in the state include Biloxi, renowned for its beaches and casinos, and Gulfport, known for its downtown area and seafood.

Mississippi boasts a unique culinary tradition, with dishes like fried catfish, hushpuppies, and shrimp and grits being local favorites. This region is also famous for its blues music heritage, with many iconic musicians hailing from here and contributing to the cultural tapestry.

One of the main tourist attractions here is Vicksburg National Military Park, where visitors can explore the history of the Civil War and enjoy the view of the Mississippi River. Another popular destination is the Mississippi Delta region, known for its landscapes, plantations and the birthplace of blues music. The state also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking in its many state parks and natural areas.

If you’re looking for the best auto policy to keep you and your loved ones safe on the roads of Mississippi, InsureOne has expert agents who can help you find top-rated auto insurance at a great rate.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Mississippi?

The cost of car insurance in Mississippi can vary depending on several factors. It includes options such as the state-mandated minimum coverage which typically costs around $446 per year, as well as full coverage which can cost approximately $1,771 per year.

These premiums are lower than national averages, which trend around $2,014 and $622 for full and minimum coverage, respectively.

What Does It Mean if Mississippi Is At-Fault?

In Mississippi, car insurance follows a fault-based system. This means that when an accident occurs, the insurance company of the driver found to be at fault is responsible for covering the medical bills and repair costs of the other party involved up to policy limits.

Unlike in a no-fault state, where drivers would seek compensation from their own insurance companies regardless of fault, in Mississippi, the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for paying for the victim’s expenses.

Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Mississippi

For a comparison of the average monthly premiums drivers pay in different cities across the state, check out our breakdown below.

City	Full Coverage Insurance	Liability Insurance Coverage
Jackson	$140	$42
Gulfport	$140	$45
Southaven	$132	$42
Hattiesburg	$130	$39
Biloxi	$140	$44
Meridian	$134	$37
Tupelo	$119	$34
Greenville	$134	$39
Olive Branch	$144	$43

Our average monthly premiums by city are based on the following methodology: male, age 30, lowest possible legal coverage allowed by Mississippi.

What Types of Auto Discounts Are Available in Mississippi?

You can benefit from insurance discounts by saving money. For example, if your driving history shows no traffic violations or at-fault accidents in the last three years, you could qualify for a good driver discount.

You can also save some money on many other types of discounts, including:

• Pay premium in advance
• Defensive driver course
• Anti-theft devices
• Less mileage
• Multi-car
• Good student

Mississippi Car Insurance Laws

In Mississippi, drivers must meet certain minimum insurance requirements. They are required to carry a minimum of 25/50/25 minimum liability coverage. Here’s a closer look at what this means.

What Are the Mandatory Car Insurance Requirements in Mississippi?

State law sets mandatory monetary amounts that insurers must pay if a policyholder causes a crash. In Mississippi, these limits are 25/50/25. That means if you cause a crash, a basic policy must provide:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 to pay for property damage

It’s crucial to have adequate insurance coverage in case of an accident. If you are at fault, and the accident results in injuries to multiple individuals, the minimum bodily injury coverage of $50,000 per accident may fall short of the medical expenses required. In such a situation, you could end up paying out of pocket to cover costs that exceed your insurance limit. Additionally, while liability insurance covers other drivers’ expenses, it does not cover your own.

Therefore, to ensure coverage that includes your vehicle, you might want to consider opting for collision and comprehensive coverage, commonly referred to as full coverage insurance.

What Is the Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Mississippi?

According to the Mississippi Code for Motor Vehicle Safety and Responsibility, all drivers in Mississippi must maintain minimum liability car insurance. Failure to maintain such insurance is against the law and considered a misdemeanor. If you are found guilty of driving without insurance, you will face the following penalties:

• A fine of $1,000
• A suspension of your driving privileges for one year or until proof of insurance is provided
• To reinstate your license, you will need to provide proof of purchasing an insurance policy. You will also be required to maintain an SR-22 form (proof of future financial responsibility) for three years and pay a reinstatement fee of $100.

What Factors Does Mississippi Law Allow in Determining Your Premiums?

Underwriters consider several factors when determining your premium and eligibility for renewal. These factors include age, driving record, location, employment status, level of education, and credit history.

While you cannot change your age, you have the power to drive safely at all times. Safe driving habits not only keep you and others protected on the road, but they also result in the best policy rates from insurers.

Here’s What You Need to Know When Driving in Mississippi In Mississippi

In Mississippi, the car insurance system operates under a fault-based approach. Unlike in no-fault states, where drivers seek compensation from their own insurance regardless of fault, in Mississippi the insurance of the at-fault driver is responsible for covering the victim’s medical bills and repair costs.

This means that if you are involved in an accident and it is determined that the other driver is at fault, their insurance will be liable for your expenses – up to their policy limits.

How Many Car Accidents Happen in Mississippi?

In 2021, there were 697 fatal crashes in Mississippi, highlighting the importance of driving with caution and avoiding dangerous behaviors behind the wheel. While weather conditions can certainly contribute to road accidents, it is essential to address the role of human factors in these unfortunate incidents.

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a significant concern when it comes to road safety. Impaired driving diminishes a driver’s reaction time, coordination, and judgment, making them more prone to causing accidents. Speeding is another dangerous practice that can lead to fatal crashes because it reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected circumstances on the road and increases the severity of accidents.

The following table shows the different accidents that occurred in various counties and cities in Mississippi in the mentioned year. It is everyone’s responsibility to prioritize safety and make conscious decisions to protect themselves and others while behind the wheel.

Counties and cities	Fatal Crashes in 2021
Jackson	35
Biloxi	2
Jefferson Davis County	65
Lafayette County	13
Lauderdale County	16

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

How Many Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists Are in Mississippi?

In 2019, Mississippi had the highest percentage of uninsured motorists in the United States, with 29.4 percent of drivers lacking insurance coverage. This highlights the importance of having auto insurance, as it provides financial protection and peace of mind in the event of an accident.

Remember, insurance helps cover expenses like property damage, medical costs, and legal liabilities, preventing individuals from facing major financial burdens. Additionally, uninsured drivers not only put themselves at risk but also pose a threat to responsible drivers who may struggle to receive proper compensation for their losses.

By obtaining auto insurance, you can fulfill your legal obligations, promote responsible driving behavior, and ensure financial security for yourself and others on the road.