Arizona auto insurance laws
Here are a few Arizona auto insurance laws all drivers in the state should know.
Arizona is an at-fault state
Arizona is an at-fault state. In the event of a multi-car accident, the driver found to be at fault must pay for all parties' medical bills and property damage. This is different from no-fault states where each driver bills their own insurance for medical bills, regardless of fault.
Consequences for driving without insurance in Arizona
Arizona drivers who fail to purchase at least state minimum insurance could face the following consequences:
- First violation: Fine of at least $500 and suspension of driving privileges for three months
- Second violation within three years: Fine of at least $750 and suspension of driving privileges and vehicle registration for six months
- Third violation within three years: Fine of at least $1,000 and suspension of driving privileges and vehicle registration for one yearArizona minimum coverage requirements
To drive legally in Arizona, drivers must carry a minimum of:
- Bodily injury liability coverage of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident
- Property damage liability coverage of $10,000
Coverage is required not only for automobiles, but also golf carts, mopeds, and motorcycles.
What is the minimum car insurance required in Arizona?
All Arizona drivers must have at least the following auto insurance to drive legally:
- $25,000 of bodily injury liability coverage per person
- $50,000 of bodily injury liability coverage per accident
- $15,000 of property damage liability coverage
Other things to consider when looking for car insurance in Arizona
Here are a few other things Arizona drivers should be aware of when shopping for car insurance:
State minimum coverage may not be enough
State minimum car insurance enables a driver to operate their vehicle legally, but it might not be enough to protect them fully in the event of a severe accident. Once the insurer has paid up to the policy limit, it's off the hook. The driver will have to pay for the remaining damages out of pocket. Those who would like to avoid this should purchase higher policy limits whenever possible.
State minimum coverage doesn't protect the policyholder's vehicle
Arizona law requires liability coverage, which protects other drivers if the policyholder hits them. There's no built-in coverage for the policyholder's own vehicle. Those who want help with their own vehicle repairs after an accident should invest in collision and comprehensive coverage.
How to find the best car insurance in Arizona
Here are a few tips to help Arizona drivers find the best rates on car insurance:
- Shop around: Comparing rates from several providers is the best way to find a great deal. Don't just look at price, though. Pay attention to customer reviews and available coverage options as well.
- Review available discounts: Pretty much all insurers reward drivers for things like safe driving. But some have less common car insurance discounts for things like owning a hybrid vehicle or belonging to a certain affinity group. Drivers who think they may qualify for these discounts may want to seek out insurers that offer them.
- Raise the policy's deductible: A higher deductible reduces monthly premiums. But drivers who do this may want to save for the deductible in an emergency fund so they're not caught off guard in the event of an accident.