Cheap Car Insurance in Wisconsin

Car insurance requirements in Wisconsin

Here’s What you need to know before hitting the road in Wisconsin

Like death and taxes, there’s no way around car insurance. If you live in the United States, including Wisconsin, it’s a mandatory requirement for operating a vehicle on public roadways.

Like any state in the US, Wisconsin makes it illegal for residents to drive on its roadways without having a minimum mandated level of coverage.

But wait, there’s more. Not only must you have a minimum amount of coverage specified by state law and the Department of Transportation, but you must also always carry PROOF of having covered if you’re pulled over or get into an accident.

But how much is this going to cost you? That question is a bit nuanced, and we will cover all the ins and outs of what makes one policy more expensive than another and what you can do to ensure you’re not overpaying.

Luckily, some policies, such as those offering minimum mandated coverage, can be affordable and low-cost if you know what to look for and how to find the right policy.

Optional Car insurance coverage in Wisconsin

Finding an inexpensive ‘full’ or ‘comprehensive’ car insurance policy may make sense even if you’re on a tight budget. Although this type of coverage is more expensive than “liability only” insurance, it may save you much money in the event of an accident.

No one gets in the driver’s seat expecting to have an accident, but each year, more than 23,747 injury-causing accidents and 540 fatal crashes per year in Wisconsin (Wisconsin Department of Transportation). And that doesn’t even consider non-injury-causing accidents or those that go unreported. Having comprehensive or full coverage can be a real lifesaver in such situations.

If you are still paying off a vehicle loan, your lender may require you to keep comprehensive coverage on that vehicle until it is paid off in full.

Optional types of Auto insurance coverage vary by carrier and may include:

• Full or comprehensive car insurance coverage

• Collision car insurance coverage

• GAP insurance

• Medical coverage

• Emergency Roadside assistance service packages

• Rental car reimbursement

• Uninsured motorist coverage

Why is Cheap car insurance in Wisconsin often expensive?

More people are driving in Wisconsin. As a result, there are more incidents, claims, and settlements. For instance, Wisconsin had around 526 fatal collisions in 2019 compared to 523 in 2015.

In Wisconsin, uninsured drivers are common. More drivers are choosing to drive without insurance since car insurance costs keep increasing. In Wisconsin, 13% of drivers lacked even the bare minimum liability insurance in 2019. Higher rates are passed on to customers as the cost of uninsured drivers.

The cost of auto repairs is rising. The extra technology and amenities in today’s vehicles increase the expense of repairs. For instance, a survey by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners revealed that the average cost of auto repairs increased by almost 8% between 2014 and 2018.

The weather is getting worse in Wisconsin. Droughts, floods, and severe storms occur more frequently in Wisconsin. These weather-related catastrophes force insurers to pay out more claims, which are often more pricey and unpredictable. They have to hike rates as a result to keep up.

The cost of healthcare is rising in Wisconsin. Car insurance companies are the worst hit when paying out claims involving medical expenditures, and it isn’t getting any less expensive. Wisconsin sees an average 2% annual growth in healthcare spending.

What types of penalties could you face for driving without Car insurance in Wisconsin?

Think car insurance is pricy? Try driving without it, and you could find out the hard way.

When operating a vehicle on a public road in Wisconsin, drivers are required by law not only to have insurance but to carry PROOF of that insurance policy with them at all times.

A ‘cheap’ policy makes no difference as long as it meets the state’s minimum requirements for coverage. And paying for a cheap car insurance policy is MUCH less expensive than dealing with the legal repercussions and penalties of not being covered.

Penalties for driving without Auto insurance in Wisconsin:

The state of Wisconsin does not mess around when it comes to violating the regulations that govern car insurance coverage.

• Driving without Insurance: fine not to exceed $510 and suspension of driving privileges until you have an SR-22 on file. The driver must maintain an SR-22 for three subsequent years. In addition, a $60 license reinstatement fee is levied.

• Driving without insurance (with an accident): fine not to exceed $510 and suspension of driving privileges for up to three years. $50 reinstatement fee for the vehicle and a $60 reinstatement fee for your license. Violators will also be required to maintain an SR-22 policy for three years.

• Has insurance but no ‘proof’ at the time: $10 fine

Exceptions to penalties for driving Uninsured in an accident

According to Wisconsin’s state safety responsibilities laws, a driver can have their privileges and vehicle registration suspended if involved in an accident while uninsured, BUT they can avoid such penalties if they

• Put up a security deposit to cover the cost of claims.

• Agree to an installment agreement to pay for claims.

• Submit a liability lease to prove that they have settled claims with the other parties involved.

Even so, nothing beats knowing you have a cheap car insurance policy to protect you from dealing with the headache.

Cheapest car insurance in Wisconsin for minimum coverage

Shopping for car insurance doesn’t excite anyone, but finding a good deal is always a good idea if there’s one thing we always agree on.

Regarding cheap car insurance, liability-only policies are the cheapest and easiest way to meet your legal requirements of state minimum coverage without spending a fortune.

How Much Does Auto Insurance Cost in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has adopted a strict policy when it comes to violating the regulations governing car insurance coverage.

Answering this one is trickier. Several variables come into play when an auto insurance provider gives you a personalized price quote.

In Wisconsin, the average cost of car insurance reported by residents is around $332/year for minimum coverage (i.e., cheaper car insurance) and around $1,186/year for full coverage.

Overall, this state ranks among the more competitively priced when it comes to auto insurance. However, it’s still worth doing everything possible to keep costs down.

What Determines Your Auto Insurance Premiums?

• Your vehicle’s make and model

• Your driving habits

• Age

• Zip code

• Marital status

• Driving record

Although it is against the law for insurance companies to discriminate based on ethnicity, gender, and credit score, there is a clear bias in the data about these factors when looking at insurance premiums.

How Age Affects Your Ability to Get the Cheapest Car Insurance In Wisconsin

The general assumption among auto insurers is that the older you are (within reason), the less likely you are to have an accident, even if there isn’t a hard-and-fast rule in this regard.

For instance, it stands to reason that a 30-year-old with a family will likely drive more safely than an 18-year-old still in high school. Young drivers in Indiana are less experienced behind the wheel and have less opportunity to earn a strong driving record. As a result, we usually see a cheaper premium as we age.

Typically, premium costs begin to gradually decline at age 26 and continue to do so until they start to increase again around age 60.

Cheap Auto Insurance for Young Drivers in Wisconsin

According to data, young drivers (teens) in Indiana pay premiums that are around twice as much as those of a 30-year-old. Additionally, this information shows that many teenagers spend an additional $1778 on top of the national average for auto insurance.

We think that every driver deserves a fair shot at Affordable Car Insurance in Wisconsin. To compare costs and find the cheapest auto insurance solutions, we work with many insurance companies to help you find the right policy at the right price.

How Location Affects Your Car Insurance Premiums

Did you know that the zip code you live in (as well as the state) can affect how much you pay for car insurance?

Insurance companies bundle risk profiles together based (in part) on location. They analyze accident rates for zip codes, crime rates, and more to estimate the risk of payouts per capita.

This is why those living in more rural or unpopulated areas generally pay a LOT less in premiums than those who live in Wisconsin suburbs or cities like Green Bay or Madison.

Cheapest Car Insurance in Wisconsin with an At-Fault Accident On Your Record?

Do you have a bad driving record? Have you been blamed for one or more mishaps on the road? If so, affordable auto insurance is beyond your price range.

A history of accidents can (and frequently does) result in higher premiums, but you can still shop for the best deal.

According to our statistics, many insurance companies raise premiums by as much as $620 a year for customers with a history of at-fault accidents, making it even more important to use a broker like Insurance Navy to compare multiple insurance providers.

Cheapest Car Insurance in Wisconsin for Those with Bad Credit - how will this affect your rates?

Tens of thousands of people in Indiana and millions of Americans suffer from bad credit. Understandably, so many people struggle to pay their bills, given the rising cost of living and inflation.

However, how does this impact your ability to find affordable car insurance?

There is a link between having bad credit and making vehicle insurance claims, which has prompted many insurance firms to consider factors like income and credit scores for different zip codes when providing rates for insurance.

For instance, according to industry data, Wisconsin drivers with bad credit frequently pay up to $1228 more annually than those with excellent credit.

Although it may not be correct, we don’t have the final say in how much any insurance company charges or how they base their fees. Instead, we strive to connect you with the cheapest rates by comparing several quotes and letting insurance companies fight for your business.

How Do Your Auto Insurance Premiums Change Based on Your Marital Status?

You probably didn’t consider it, but whether you’re single or married, your marital status can affect how much you pay for low-cost auto insurance in Wisconsin. According to statistics revealed by insurance providers, married people experience fewer accidents and, as a result, pay lower premiums, making their policies more affordable than those of single people (all other things being equal).

How Your Car’s Make and Model May Affect Your Auto Insurance Rates

One of the most essential elements car insurance providers use to calculate your policy’s rate is the vehicle you drive. For instance, a new vehicle or a high-end model is worth more than an older, less expensive one, requiring a higher payout for repairs or replacement in the event of an accident.

On the other hand, a sports car will have a higher premium because of both the higher risk of accidents and the higher cost of the automobile. Conversely, a family sedan will be considered safer and less likely to be involved in accidents, thus having a significantly lower premium.

How Much You Drive Your Car Also Has a Part to Play

Did you know that your auto insurance cost can be influenced by how many miles you drive and what you use your Vehicle for?

Drivers who drive more than 20,000 miles annually pay an average of 5% more for their insurance than those who travel 7,500 miles or less yearly.

Similarly, drivers who use their vehicle for local errands and not for daily commuting to work are likely to be quoted a cheaper insurance premium.

A lower likelihood of accidents results from driving fewer miles on higher-risk roadways; something insurance providers favor and reward with lower insurance rates.

How Does Your Driving Record Play a Role in Your Chances of Getting a Cheap Car Insurance Premium?

It shouldn’t be too surprising that having citations on your driving record raises your associated level of risk in the eyes of auto insurance companies, causing your rates to climb.

Wisconsin Auto Insurance Rate Increases Violation (averages):

*Per year increases

• Speeding ticket: $298

• Distracted driving citation: $251

• Ticket for racing: $708

• Citation for reckless driving: $647

National Average Increases in Premiums For Other Violations:

• 1 Comp claim - 8%

• 2 Comp claims - 14%

• NOT at-fault accident - 6%

• Failure to show documents to law enforcement - 18%

• No seatbelt violation - 18%

• Child safety restraint violation - 20%

• Driving on expired registration - 21%

• Driving without lights - 20%

• Cell phone use violation - 25%

• Illegal turn - 26%

• Speeding 6-10mph over the limit - 25%

• Failure to yield - 27%

• Improper passing - 27%

• Racing or Reckless driving - 89%

• Speeding 16-20mph over the limit - 27%

• Leaving the scene of a crime - 97%

• Driving on a suspended license - 94%

*Examples are averages and vary widely depending on the particular carrier. The list is not exhaustive and is meant to give a representative sample of common traffic violations.

What’s the Cheapest Car Insurance After a DUI In Wisconsin?

Wisconsin’s government and auto insurance companies have taken a strong position against operating a vehicle while intoxicated. If convicted, you should anticipate paying extra for auto insurance and being subject to severe legal penalties and fines.

DUI offenders are typically categorized as “high-risk drivers,” thus finding affordable insurance can be impossible. To see coverage that won’t break the bank, browsing around will be your best bet.

Insurance Navy works with a wide range of insurance providers to find you the lowest cost possible.

Nevertheless, don’t be shocked if some insurance providers charge drivers with DUIs 90% more than those with clean records.

Wisconsin SR-22 Insurance

As part of the penalties imposed for a DUI conviction, accidents you caused, driving while your license is suspended, driving without insurance, or having too many “points” on your license, you frequently need to obtain and maintain a SR22 insurance in Wisconsin.

Although it is occasionally referred to as “insurance,” an SR-22 is more like a certificate or bond provided by the insurance carrier to guarantee to the state that you have a specific level of coverage in the case of an accident.

What is the most affordable car insurance for Wisconsin drivers who have received speeding tickets?

As previously indicated, speeding is a widespread driving infraction that frequently results in premium increases of between 10 and 20 percent, making insurance prohibitively expensive for those with a ‘lead foot.’

But there is still some hope, with time.

In general, you might have to put up with it now. However, you should be aware that in most situations, your rates should start to decline after three to five years (if you don’t commit any other moving violations during that period).

Your best bet is to obtain many auto insurance rates. Insurance Navy can assist you quickly and efficiently, working hard to find the cheapest car insurance that meets your needs.

The Best Auto Insurance Rates in Wisconsin for Safe Drivers

Insurance companies frequently reward those with good driving histories, much like how reckless drivers are penalized. The definition of a good driver varies from company to firm. However, generally speaking, it requires having no (or few) infractions on your driving record.

In addition to cheaper premiums, having a clean driving record may qualify you for ‘safe driving’ discounts, lower deductibles, and other benefits.

Cheap Car Insurance Rates by City In Wisconsin

We already discovered that where you live can impact your premiums, but what about the most expensive cities in Wisconsin? You might not be able to move just for auto insurance. However, if your lease is up, it could help you save more yearly by carefully selecting a zip code with a lower premium.

Average Annual Auto Insurance Premiums by City In Wisconsin:

• Madison $1,025

• Milwaukee $1,525

• Appleton $984

• Green Bay $972

• Kenosha $1,185

• Waukesha $1,054

• Eau Claire $1,041

• Oshkosh $983

• Racine $1,191

• Sheboygan $978

• Janesville $1,005

• West Allis $1,294

• Fond du Lac $996

• La Crosse $1,117

• Beloit $1,029

• West Bend $1,040

• Wauwatosa $1,374

• Neenah $973

• Wausau $1,067

• Brookfield $1,048

Best Cities for the Cheapest Car Insurance in Wisconsin

While it’s unlikely that anyone will move only to acquire cheaper vehicle insurance, knowing a lower rate location may give you the confidence to switch providers or contact a broker like Insurance Navy to ensure you receive the best deals.

Keep in mind that rural locations will almost always be less expensive. However, you can pick where you rent or purchase your next house or apartment. These cities will significantly reduce your auto insurance costs.

The Following Cities in Wisconsin are the BEST for Cheap Car Insurance:

• Wisconsin Rapids: $337 per year

• Chippewa Falls: $341 per year

• Stevens Point: $330 per year

• Eau Claire: $342 per year

*The cheapest annual rates for car insurance in Wisconsin’s largest cities and towns.

Tips for How to Get the Cheapest Car Insurance in Wisconsin

Quote Comparison: your one-stop shop at Insurance Navy

Shopping around is one of the best tactics for obtaining the best Wisconsin auto insurance deal.

Could it take much time? Not necessarily.

At Insurance Navy, we collaborate with several leading insurance companies, enabling us to find you the best deal among several insurers without you having to fill out countless forms and waste time with pesky sales reps.

Understand How Various Factors Can Impact Your Rates

This article looked at some significant events and decisions that might impact your auto insurance costs. While some of these (like getting married) can’t be easily reversed, you can take advantage of others.

Selecting the Appropriate Type of Coverage

At Insurance Navy, we take great satisfaction in assisting people like you in being more knowledgeable about the different insurance plans available. We work hard to assist you in locating the coverage that BEST meets your needs without breaking the bank.

Don’t Let Your Policy Lapse

Letting your insurance lapse is a common mistake, especially for individuals who may not be able to drive for a while (due to a medical condition, injury, or a vehicle needing repairs). Policy lapses might raise red flags with insurance companies and disrupt the long history of safe driving practices you’ve established.

Consider Uninsured Motorist Protection

According to research published by the Insurance Information Institute, 13.3% percent of all Wisconsin drivers do not have auto insurance. Adding this extra insurance won’t lower your premiums but could save you much money in the long run.

Find Cheap Car Insurance you Can Afford at Insurance Navy!

The mission of Insurance Navy is to assist Wisconsin residents in finding the affordable coverage they need at the lowest prices. As an Insurance broker, we provide Wisconsin drivers access to various top insurance companies under one roof, making comparing quotes and shopping around simple.

Insurance Navy can help you get the cheap auto insurance in Wisconsin you need, whether you live in Madison, Milwaukee, or any city in Wisconsin. Call an Insurance Navy Insurance Agent at 888-949-6289 or get a free quote online. We’ll get back to you with a quote for the Cheapest Car insurance in Wisconsin in three minutes or less.