Insurance is one of the aspects of life we often take for granted. But knowing how much insurance we need, and how much insurance is required by our states, is one of the most crucial things a car owner can know. Depending on where you live, there are several different types of regulations you’re required to follow. Your state could require significantly less insurance than your neighbor – but it’s up to you to decide exactly how much insurance you need to feel comfortable and safe on the road. Make sure to receive competitive quotes before determining which types of coverage are best for you.
Auto Insurance Regulations in Iowa
Iowa is rare when it comes to auto insurance guidelines. While most states have very specific guidelines about required insurance, minimum coverage and documentation standards, Iowa’s policies are remarkably different. Among the regulations:
- You are required to show proof of financial responsibility: In Iowa, you don’t necessarily need auto insurance, although it’s strongly recommended that you do. If you’re in an accident in which more than $1,000 of damage is caused – which isn’t a very difficult threshold to reach – you are required to show that you’re financially capable of covering the costs of the accident.
- Meeting the financial responsibility burden means you have auto insurance, you have cash available, you have a written waiver from driver’s involved, a court relieved you of your responsibility, or have a plan to pay for the damage in an installment plan.
- Failure to meet this requirement could result in the loss of your license.
- Experts agree that auto insurance is the smartest way to retain financial responsibility. By having complete coverage, you’re protected in the event of a serious accident. Otherwise, you could be responsible for paying for several people’s physical injuries, as well as property damage. This amount could run past hundreds of thousands of dollars. Easily.
- In some cases, proof of financial responsibility isn’t required. These instances include if your vehicle was operated without your permission, the accident occurred while your car was legally stopped, or when no property or persons other than yourself is damaged or injured.
- The easiest way to provide proof of responsibility is with an insurance card, which your carrier will provide you. Carry your card in your vehicle’s glove box at all times.
Consumer Tips
No matter where you live, be sure to consider several quotes before settling on an insurance policy. Comparing multiple quotes will give you the chance to make sure you’re paying the right amount, and also will ensure you’re saving money.
Consider combining all your insurance policies through a single carrier. Multiple policies generally result in an overall premium discount; you could find that your home and auto rates could decline.
If money is tight, you might want to think about raising your deductible. While this will cost you more in the event of a claim, you will see your premiums drop.
Department Of Iowa (IA) State Government That Regulates Auto Insurance:
Web Site: www.iid.state.ia.us
Email: Contact Page
How To Contact Directly:
Iowa auto insurance Div.
330 Maple St.
Des Moines, IA 50319-0065
Phone: 1-515-281-5705
Toll Free: 1-877-955-1212
Iowa (IA) Mandatory Auto Insurance Minimums
- Liability: 20/40/15 = Bodily Injury Individual/Bodily Injury Total Per Accident/Property Damage
- Regulations Regarding Proof of Insurance: Proof Required - If Involved In An Accident, If Stopped By Authorities When Driving
- Penalties For Not Carrying Mandatory Insurance: Confiscation of license plate
How To File A Complaint About An Insurer:
Consumer Complaints Directed To The Iowa Insurance Div.
File a complaint online