Biloxi Car Insurance
Find the right car insurance policy for you.
From fender benders on Beach Boulevard to major collisions on the Biloxi Bay Bridge, car accidents can happen to anyone in Biloxi. Even the most careful drivers are at risk. But with a reliable car insurance policy, you can have peace of mind. Car insurance protects you from the costs of auto accidents that you cause. And certain policy options can also protect you if your car is damaged by falling objects, theft, or vandalism. Car insurance can sometimes be confusing, but a local independent insurance agent can help you find the best policy for your needs and budget.
Mississippi Car Insurance Requirements
If you own a vehicle in Mississippi, you are required to purchase auto insurance. Each state has certain minimum requirements for auto insurance. In Mississippi, you must have the following coverage in order to comply with the law:
- Bodily injury liability: Required
- Property damage liability: Required
- Personal injury protection (PIP): Not required
- Uninsured motorist coverage: Not required
- Minimum liability limits: 25/50/10; coverage up to $50,000 for all persons injured in an accident, subject to a limit of $25,000 for one individual; and $10,000 coverage for property damage
While this may seem like great coverage, a minimum-coverage policy may leave you seriously underinsured. If you cause a major collision, you will have to pay out of pocket for all of the expenses that exceed your coverage limits. These expenses can include medical bills for other drivers and passengers, vehicle repair costs and even attorney fees and settlements or judgments levied against you if you are sued for negligence.
That is why many Biloxi drivers purchase liability coverage limits that are higher than the state requirement. If you want even more liability protection, you can purchase umbrella insurance, which offers protection beyond the limits of your auto insurance policy. An independent agent can help determine how much liability coverage is necessary to adequately protect you and your family.
How Much Does Auto Insurance Cost in Biloxi, MS?
Mississippi is the 12th most expensive state for car insurance, but rates in Biloxi are a little lower than the state average. Shopping around for the best rate and taking advantage of discounts can help you save.
- National average annual car insurance cost: $1,311
- Mississippi average annual car insurance cost: $1,584
- Biloxi average annual car insurance cost: $1,459
Every insurance company charges somewhat different rates, and you definitely won’t pay the same as your neighbor. Car insurance rates are based on individual characteristics that help the insurance company determine how likely you are to file a claim. Insurance companies evaluate the year, make, and model of your car as well as information about you, like your age, gender, and marital status. Other factors play a role, too, such as:
- Your credit score
- The deductibles and coverage limits that you choose
- Whether you own or rent your home
- The auto theft rates in your city or ZIP code
Independent agents in Biloxi make comparison shopping easy. An independent agent can obtain quotes from multiple insurance carriers, so you can compare costs and coverage and make the best choice for your needs.
Number of Uninsured Motorists in Mississippi
Driving without insurance is against the law in Mississippi, yet many drivers continue to drive without coverage. Uninsured drivers in Mississippi face a $500 fine and a suspension of driving privileges for one year or until proof of coverage can be provided. Mississippi has the 2nd highest percentage of uninsured drivers in the US.
- How many US drivers are uninsured? 13%
- How many Mississippi drivers are uninsured? 23.7%.
Uninsured driving is a serious problem in Mississippi. Every driver is in financial peril every time they are out on the road. Uninsured motorist coverage is one of the few ways that you can protect yourself. It provides immediate reimbursement for your vehicle damage and medical expenses if you are in an accident that is caused by an uninsured, underinsured, or hit-and-run driver. Your insurance company will attempt to collect the funds from the at-fault driver—a time-consuming and often unsuccessful process. If they cannot collect, the insurance company absorbs the costs, instead of you.
Number of Auto Thefts in Mississippi
The auto theft rate across the state of Mississippi is lower than the national average. In Biloxi, however, the annual vehicle theft rate is higher than both the state and national averages. Around 155 vehicles are stolen in Biloxi each year.
- National auto theft rate per 1,000 vehicles: 2.28
- Mississippi auto theft rate per 1,000 vehicles: 2.34
- Biloxi auto theft rate per 1,000 vehicles: 3.37
Biloxi drivers cannot ignore the threat of car theft. While you should always lock your car and park in safe, well-lit places, you may still be a victim no matter how careful you are. If your car is stolen or vandalized, your comprehensive coverage will reimburse you for your lost or damaged car. It also helps you pay for repairs if falling objects, floods, structure fires or other hazards cause damage to your car. If you have a car loan, you’ll probably be required to purchase comprehensive coverage until your loan is paid in full. Talk to a local independent agent about comprehensive coverage, and how it can help you in a variety of unfortunate situations.
Why Contact an Independent Insurance Agent?
Independent insurance agents are insurance professionals who can explain your coverage options, answer your questions, and provide you with customized car insurance quotes from multiple insurance companies. With the help of an independent agent, you can make an informed choice.
Start your search by contacting an independent agent in Biloxi.
http://www.naic.org/prod_serv/AUT-PB-14.pdf
http://www.city-data.com