Rhode Island Car Insurance

Everything You Need to Know About Auto Insurance in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is a small state located in the New England region of the United States. It is the smallest state in terms of land area and is known for its historical significance. The name “Rhode Island” was given by the explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, who compared the state’s coastline to the Greek island of Rhodes. Its capital and largest city of Rhode Island is Providence, which offers a downtown area with historic architecture and cultural institutions. Other major cities there include Newport, known for its seaside views and mansions, and Warwick, which is home to beaches and the T.F. Green Airport.

Rhode Island also is an easily navigable state, making it convenient for everyone to visit multiple cities and attractions during their stay. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, this region provides a diverse range of experiences for tourists and residents.

If you’re ready to get affordable vehicle protection, InsureOne’s experienced agents will help you find the best auto insurance at the best rates in Rhode Island.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Rhode Island?

On average, Rhode Island drivers only pay $551 per year for minimum coverage and $1,886 for full coverage. In contrast, the national averages are $622 and $2,014, respectively. These lower insurance costs make Rhode Island a favorable choice for car owners, ensuring both wallet-friendly premiums and comprehensive coverage.

Reasons Why Insurance Is So Cheap in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is known for its affordable car insurance rates compared to the national average. There are several factors that contribute to these lower insurance costs. One of the key reasons is the low population density in the state, which translates to fewer cars on the road and reduces the risk of accidents, theft, and vandalism.

But, in any case, the only way to be completely protected is to have adequate car insurance coverage.

Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Rhode Island

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

City	Full Coverage Insurance	Liability Insurance Coverage
Providence	$190	$66
Cranston	$157	$51
Warwick	$157	$51
Pawtucket	$190	$66
East Providence	$170	$59

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 Rhode Island?

Insurers typically offer various types of driving discounts to policyholders. One of the most important is the good driver discount, which allows drivers to save money by maintaining a clean driving record without any traffic violations for a specified period.

Additionally, there are other discounts available that can help reduce insurance rates, such as:

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

Rhode Island Car Insurance Laws

In Rhode Island, car insurance laws mandate that drivers carry a mandatory 25/50/25 insurance policy and uninsured/underinsurance motorist coverage is also required unless drivers only purchase the minimum amount of coverage. Here’s a closer look at what this means.

What Are the Mandatory Car Insurance Requirements in Rhode Island?

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

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury liability coverage
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability coverage
• $25,000 for property damage liability coverage
• $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage*

*May be declined if only purchasing minimum liability.

What Is the Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Rhode Island?

Driving without car insurance in Rhode Island is illegal, and those who are caught face significant consequences. For a first offense, drivers can expect to receive a fine ranging from $100 to $500. If caught multiple times, the minimum fine increases to $500. In addition to the financial penalties, individuals may have their driving privileges suspended and will have to pay a fee to reinstate their license.

What Factors Does Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island

As a driver in Rhode Island, it is crucial to be aware of and comply with all motor vehicle laws. Here are some of the important ones to keep in mind:

1. Right Turns on Red: Drivers are permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless there is a “no turn on red” sign. However, it is essential to yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before proceeding.
2. Child Restraints: Children under the age of eight must be secured in a federally approved restraint seat in the back seat of the vehicle. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding age and weight requirements.
3. Seat Belt Use: Both drivers and passengers are required to wear seat belts.
4. School Bus Stops: Stay alert and be prepared to stop for school buses with flashing red lights.
5. Using Directional Signals: Signal your intentions by using your vehicle’s directional signals at least 100 feet before making turns or changing lanes. Gradually slow down to avoid being rear-ended.
6. Right of Way: When two vehicles approach or enter an intersection from different directions at the same time without appropriate signs or signals, the driver on the left must yield the right of way to the vehicle on the right.
7. Headlight Usage: Turn on your vehicle headlights from sunset to sunrise, as well as when visibility is less than 500 feet ahead. This includes inclement weather conditions such as rain or snow, or whenever windshield wipers are in use.
8. Snow and Ice Removal: Rhode Island law holds drivers responsible for removing snow and ice from their vehicles to ensure clear vision. Clear off any snow that could potentially fall on the windshield or windows of other vehicles.
9. Insurance Requirements: Every driver on Rhode Island’s public roads must carry motor vehicle liability insurance. When obtaining or renewing vehicle registration, you must sign a statement confirming insurance coverage for the registration period. Proof of insurance must be carried in the vehicle alongside the registration at all times.
10. Littering: It is prohibited by Rhode Island law to litter on public or private roads or property, with fines ranging from $85 to $1000.

How Many Car Accidents Happen in Rhode Island?

It’s never easy to read statistics about traffic accidents, but understanding them can help us stay safe on the road. To break it down, in 2021, Rhode Island reported a total of 61 traffic crash fatalities.

This chart shows the number of deadly accidents in different cities and counties across Rhode Island that same year.

 

County	Traffic Fatalities in 2022
Warwick	6
Kent County	12
Washington County	12
Providence	12

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

How Many Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists Are in Rhode Island?

According to the Insurance Information Institute’s report for 2019, Rhode Island had a higher percentage of uninsured drivers compared to many other states in the country, with 16.5% of all drivers being uninsured. This statistic indicates the likelihood of being involved in a serious accident with an uninsured driver is significantly increased for residents of Rhode Island.