Auto Coverage in Iowa
Iowa Auto Insurance
Iowa drivers must have liability coverage to drive on public roads. Insurance in Iowa is especially important , because the state relies on a tort system, meaning that in the event of an accident one of the drivers must be found at fault and pay all the damages. Having a solid, strong insurance policy will help save you in case you are in this type of car crash.
Minimum Iowa auto insurance
According to the law in Iowa you need to have insurance at least in these minimum amounts:
- Bodily Injury and Death: $20,000 to cover one person in any one accident, and $40,000 to cover all injuries
- Property Damages: $15,000
Comprehensive and collision insurance aren't required in the state of Iowa, but they can be helpful for paying for your vehicle for accidental damages.
Penalties without Iowa auto insurance
If you're pulled over by a police officer or involved in an accident you will need to show proof of insurance at the scene. If you don't meet at least the minimum requirements you can be fined $100 for the first offense, and more if it's your second or subsequent offense.
Also, since Iowa follows a tort system, the at-fault driver will need to pay for damages in an accident. If your insurance isn't enough to cover it, and you can't pay out-of-pocket, you could face a heavy fine and losing some of your driving privileges. It's important to cover yourself and make sure you have enough insurance to pay these costs, just in case of an accident.
For this reason it's also recommended to carry uninsured motorist insurance. Then, if you're in an accident with a driver who has no insurance, you would be able to pay their costs, if need be.