Montana Car Insurance

Everything You Need to Know About Auto Insurance in Montana

Montana is a state located in the western part of the United States. Its name, derived from the Spanish word “montaña,” meaning mountain, reflects its characteristic mountainous terrain. The state’s prominent cities include Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls.

Tourists visiting Montana can explore attractions such as Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park, which showcase natural landscapes. In these parks, visitors can engage in various activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Montana also offers outdoor adventures such as skiing, rafting, and camping. Additionally, it has historical sites like the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument that provide insight into Native American history and the Battle of Little Bighorn. If you’re looking to find the best auto insurance at affordable rates in Montana, InsureOne’s experienced agents are here to help.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Montana?

The average cost of car insurance in Montana for full coverage is $1,889 per year, which is slightly below the national average of $2,014. If you opt for minimum auto insurance in Montana, you can expect to pay around $310 per year, approximately half of the national average of $622 per year.

However, it’s important to note that your actual car insurance quote will be influenced by various factors, including your driving record and personal information.

Reasons Why Insurance Is So Expensive in Montana

There are several reasons why car insurance is more expensive in Montana compared to neighboring states. In comparison to Idaho, where minimum coverage car insurance costs an average of $267 per year and full coverage costs $1,133 per year, Montana’s rates are slightly higher. Similarly, in Wyoming, minimum coverage car insurance averages $263 per year, and full coverage costs $1,582 per year.

The occasional severe weather threats in Montana might contribute to the higher average cost of car insurance in the state. Additionally, Montana’s high rate of traffic fatalities, at 19.6 deaths per 100,000 residents, could also impact insurance costs.

Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Montana

Here is a comparison table of the average monthly premiums paid by drivers in different cities across Montana:

City	Full Coverage Insurance	Liability Insurance Coverage
Billings	$151	$36
Missoula	$137	$33
Great Falls	$148	$35
Bozeman	$144	$30
Helena	$135	$31
Kalispell	$156	$34
Butte	$147	$33
Havre	$158	$28
Miles City	$160	$27

We arrive at our average auto insurance costs by using a male driver, aged 30 with a clean driving record. Minimum liability is the state-required minimum. Full coverage is a 100K/300K/100K policy. Your costs will be different and based on your individual factors.

What Types of Auto Discounts Are Available in Montana?

Insurance companies typically provide various types of driving discounts, and among the most availed is the good driver discount. Maintaining a spotless driving record without any traffic violations for a specific period can lead to significant monetary savings through this discount.

Other discounts that can reduce rates include:

• Multi-car
• Anti-theft
• Paperless billing
• Low mileage
• Good student
• Loyalty

Montana Car Insurance Laws

In Montana, car insurance laws mandate that drivers carry a mandatory 25/50/20 insurance policy. These insurance requirements are in place to ensure that drivers have a minimum level of financial protection in case of accidents.

Here’s a closer look at what this means.

What Are the Mandatory Car Insurance Requirements in Montana?

The state mandates a minimum amount of coverage, which includes:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident

$20,000 for property damage per accidentIt is important to note that these minimum coverage limits may not be sufficient in all cases, especially if the damages and medical expenses exceed these amounts. Therefore, it is recommended to consider higher coverage limits to adequately protect yourself and your assets in the event of a severe accident.

What Is the Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Montana?

In Montana, violating insurance laws can result in escalating fines based on the number of offenses. First-time offenders face fines of $250 to $500, while repeat offenders within five years can be fined $350. For third and subsequent offenses, the penalty increases to $500.

Additionally, driving without insurance can lead to incarceration. For the first and second offenses, the maximum jail sentence is ten days. However, for repeat offenders, the sentence can increase up to six months.

Furthermore, if you are a repeat offender, your vehicle’s registration may also get suspended. For the second offense, the suspension period will be 90 days, while for third and subsequent offenses, the period increases to 180 days. You will need to surrender the license plates and the registration receipt, and driving on a suspended license will result in a significant fine of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to six months.

Lastly, if you violate the insurance law four times or more within five years, both your driver’s license and vehicle registration will be suspended. You can only get back your license and registration after paying the fine and providing proof of insurance. These consequences aim to ensure Montana’s roads are safe by compelling drivers to always have insurance coverage.

What Factors Does Montana Law Allow in Determining Your Premiums?

State law allows insurance companies to calculate your premium based on several aspects. Some of the top deciding factors are:

• Gender
• Age
• Marital status
• Location
• Vehicle type
• Driving record and experience
• Credit history

Here’s What You Need to Know When Driving in Montana

When driving in Montana, it’s important to prioritize road safety and be aware of various factors that can affect driving conditions. One of the simplest practices is to follow the speed limit indicated on signs along the highway. Remember that Montana law requires driving ten under the speed limit at night and in harsh weather conditions, so adjust your speed accordingly.

Driving at an appropriate speed is especially crucial when wildlife is present. Montana’s natural surroundings, including mountains, lakes, streams, and wildlife, make it a fascinating place to explore. However, if you encounter wildlife on the road, slow down to avoid potential accidents.

Wildlife has the right of way in this state, and it’s essential to be prepared for any sudden movements that might occur. Instead of stopping, slowly pass by the animal, honk your horn if necessary, and alert oncoming drivers using your high beams (in the daytime) or hazards.

While many dirt roads make up the driving routes in Montana, it’s important to remember that traffic laws still apply, even if the road is unpaved. Be respectful and considerate of other drivers and potential hazards along these roads.

Additionally, during the dark winter months when visibility is limited, make sure to control your vehicle’s lights appropriately. Continuously monitor if your headlights are too bright or if your high beams are unintentionally blinding other drivers. Ensuring that your lights are adjusted properly will help prevent accidents and maintain a safer driving environment.

How Many Car Accidents Happen in Montana?

Despite the difficulty in confronting statistics related to traffic accidents, understanding them is crucial in promoting road safety. Montana reported a total of 222 fatalities resulting from traffic crashes in 2021.This chart shows some of the deadly accidents in different cities and one county across Montana that same year.

City/County	Fatal Crashes in 2021
Great Falls	4
Billings	12
Kalispell	1
Bozeman	4
Madison County	1

Source: United States Department of Transportation

How Many Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists Are in Montana?

In Montana, over 8.5% of drivers were uninsured or underinsured in 2019, ranking the state 38th in terms of the number of drivers without coverage. Despite not having the highest percentage of uninsured motorists, it is still crucial to have auto insurance.

Accidents can happen at any time, and being uninsured can result in significant financial burdens for responsible drivers. Additionally, driving without insurance puts oneself and others at risk of liability and potential legal issues.

Having auto insurance provides you with peace of mind, financial protection, and fulfills your legal obligations as a vehicle owner.