Find the Best Car Insurance Companies in Billings, MT

Why Billings residents need car insurance

The law in Montana requires that cars driven on public roads be covered with liability insurance. This includes liability for bodily injury and death and property damage. If you are stopped for a traffic violation or involved in an accident, you are required to show proof of insurance to a law enforcement officer who requests to see it. Billings residents caught without car insurance can be fined up to $500 or spend up to 10 days in jail on a first-time offense. A second-time offense can result in loss of a driver’s license, according to the Montana Department of Justice.

Billings car insurance costs

Montana is neither one of the most expensive nor least expensive states for car insurance. The average cost of car insurance in Billings is about $1,470 per year. The Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, Office of the Montana State Auditor has a rate comparison guide that allows you to compare six-month premiums from various insurers for different types of drivers in Billings.

The cost of car insurance in Billings depends on your age, where you live, your driving record and the vehicle you drive. Insurers offer free quotes, so you can shop around for a policy that fits in your budget. In addition to price, be sure you also consider reputation for claims handling, financial stability and extra benefits for policyholders.

Driving in Billings

Many Billings residents use cars as their main method of transportation around Montana’s largest city. Having a car insurance policy provides financial protection in case of an accident on the city’s roads or theft of a vehicle.

Crashes in Billings

According to the Montana Department of Transportation, there were 2,392 total crashes in Billings in 2018.

• All crashes: 2,392
• Injury crashes: 684
• Fatal crashes: 14

If you are involved in a car accident, car insurance pays for bodily injury, property damage, medical payments and other costs.

Road conditions in Billings

Winter weather, an abundance of wildlife and twisty mountain roads make driving in Montana different from in most states. Auto insurance with comprehensive coverage covers the cost to repair your car if, for example, you hit a deer while driving and damage your car.

Vehicle theft in Billings

Motor vehicle thefts were down in 2019 compared with the four previous years, but there were still 572 instances that year, according to the Billings Police Department. That’s an average of 11 stolen cars per week. Auto insurance with comprehensive coverage protects you from financial loss if your car is stolen.

What is the minimum auto insurance coverage in Billings?

The minimum requirements for auto insurance in Montana are:

• $25,000 liability coverage for bodily injury or death of a person in an accident
• $50,000 liability coverage for bodily injury or death of multiple people in an accident
• $20,000 liability coverage for damage to property of others in any one accident

Those driving without insurance can be charged hefty fines and penalties in Montana, and may even face jail time. The Insurance Information Institute estimates that right around 10% of Montana drivers are uninsured.

Billings car insurance FAQ

How can I save on auto insurance?

The best way to save on auto insurance is to shop around at different companies. You may be surprised at the variation in price between insurers. Also, ask about available discounts and find out which you are eligible for.

How much liability insurance do I need?

In Montana, drivers are required to have $25,000 in coverage for injury or death of one person in one accident, $50,000 for injury or death of two or more people in one accident and $20,000 for property damage.

What does full coverage car insurance consist of?

Full coverage means buying more than just the mandatory minimum liability insurance. This is typically a good idea. Full coverage usually includes collision insurance and comprehensive coverage, which covers damage to your car in case of an accident when you’re at fault, if you hit a deer or if your car is stolen. Billings residents may also choose to add uninsured motorist coverage in case they are hit by someone without insurance.

Is car insurance required in Montana?

Yes, drivers in Montana must have car insurance. It is a misdemeanor to drive without it.