If you drive in Indiana, having car insurance isn’t just a smart idea—it’s the law. But knowing what kind of coverage you’re legally required to carry can be confusing, especially if you’re buying a policy for the first time or renewing your current one. Indiana has specific minimum car insurance requirements for liability that all drivers must meet. These rules are in place to help cover the cost of injuries or damage you might cause in an accident. Understanding what’s required, and what additional coverage might be worth considering, can help you stay protected and avoid costly penalties.
Let’s take a closer look at what Indiana law says about car insurance and how to make sure you’re covered.
Indiana’s Minimum Liability Coverage
All drivers in Indiana are required to carry liability insurance. This type of coverage helps pay for injuries or property damage you cause to others in an accident. The state minimums are:
- $25,000 for bodily injury to one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident (if more than one person is injured)
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
Keep in mind, liability insurance does not cover your own injuries or damage to your own vehicle.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
In addition to liability coverage, insurance companies in Indiana are also required to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage protects you if you’re hit by someone who either has no insurance or doesn’t have enough to cover the damages.
Standard limits for these coverages are:
- $25,000 per person for uninsured motorist bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for uninsured motorist bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for underinsured motorist bodily injury
You can choose to decline this coverage, but you must do so in writing.
Optional Coverage Worth Considering
While the state requires only liability coverage, many drivers choose to add extra protection. Some common types of optional coverage include:
Collision Coverage
Helps pay for repairs to your car after an accident, no matter who was at fault
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers damage caused by things like theft, vandalism, fire, or severe weather
Medical Payments Coverage
Helps with medical expenses for you or your passengers after an accident
Extras
You can also add things like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, or gap coverage
These options can help you avoid paying out of pocket for expenses your basic policy won’t cover.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Indiana
Driving without the required insurance can lead to serious consequences. If you’re caught without coverage, you could face:
- Fines between $250 and $1,000
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- A requirement to file an SR-22, which proves future financial responsibility
Repeat offenses come with steeper penalties and can make it harder or more expensive to get insured in the future.
Stay Legal and Protected
Following Indiana’s minimum insurance rules isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s about making sure you and others are protected when the unexpected happens. While the required coverage is a good start, many drivers find that adding more protection gives them greater confidence on the road.
If you’ve been injured in a crash and are having trouble dealing with the insurance company, the attorneys at Foley & Murphy can help. We’ll explain your legal options, handle communication with insurers, and fight to make sure you’re treated fairly. Contact us if you need support after an accident.
