Maryland drivers pay among the highest auto insurance premiums in the country. The state’s average premium in 2009 was $2,295, compared to the national average of $1,753. While it might seem impossible to find cheap car insurance in Maryland (MD), there are some solid strategies that can help. Just because the state’s average is high doesn’t mean your premiums have to be through the roof.
The state of Maryland requires all drivers to maintain Bodily Injury Liability limits of $20,000 per injured person with a total of $40,000 per accident. You also must carry a minimum of $15,000 in Property Damage Liability coverage. This basic coverage is referred to as 20/40/15 coverage. Unlike some other states, Maryland also required Personal Injury Protection coverage with a minimum of $2,500. Complete insurance requirements can be found on the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration website.
Residents of Maryland will find that their insurance premiums will vary considerably depending on where they live in the state. Drivers in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. area pay the highest rates in the state due to the high density of traffic which leads to more accidents and expensive claims. People who live in more rural areas like Libertytown, New Windsor, or Beaver Ridge will find it much easier to get cheap car insurance in Maryland because fewer cars on the road mean less change of an accident.
Car insurance rates in Maryland have increased recently. The average premium jumped 15 percent from 2008 to 2009. That followed a drop of 1% from 2007 to 2008. With rates rising, it is imperative that you lock in cheap car insurance in Maryland while you still can. Rates are only likely to rise further, so the faster you act to get a good policy at a good price, the better off you will be.
When you register a new car or renew your registration the state requires you to sign an FR-19 insurance certificate which states that you will maintain the minimum insurance coverage required by law. Your insurance provider will supply this form for you.
Maryland requires that a valid and up to date insurance card be kept in your car or truck at all times. If you drive without insurance and get caught you will face serious penalties. While you may think the key to obtaining cheap car insurance in Maryland is not carrying coverage at all, this is not a wise financial decision. The state can take away your license and you would be fully responsible for any injuries or damage that you cause with your vehicle. You could also face large fees and penalties, so be sure to keep your auto insurance policy up to date at all times.
The key to finding cheap car insurance in Maryland is allowing carriers to compete for your business. All the big insurance companies like Allstate, Geico, and State Farm do business in Maryland, so why not let them fight it out to give you the best rate?
The easiest way to compare rates is to enter your zip code in the form above and you will be instantly connected with the best discount insurers in your area. We work with not only the big guys, but also with high quality local insurance companies that can provide a great policy at a very competitive price. Start saving on your Maryland car insurance policy today – it only takes a few minutes and the service is completely free.