Best Auto Insurance Companies In Rhode Island

Rhode Island has some of the most expensive car insurance rates in the US, with an average annual cost of $2,106, which is 38% higher than the national average. The cheapest car insurance companies in the state are State Farm, USAA, and Travelers, while the best companies for customer service, coverage options, and discounts are Amica, Geico, and USAA.

Minimum auto insurance requirements in Rhode Island

To legally drive in Rhode Island, motorists must carry liability auto insurance with minimum coverage amounts of 25/50/25 per accident. This means:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage per accident

Rhode Island is not a no-fault state, so drivers are not required to carry personal injury protection (PIP). However, it is recommended to have more than the minimum coverage as it may not be enough in the event of a severe accident.

You must be ready to provide your insurance information, including the name of your insurance company and the start and end dates of your policy, on your RI vehicle registration application. Law enforcement officers may also ask to see proof of insurance during a traffic stop.

While collision and comprehensive coverage are not mandated, they are highly recommended for additional protection. Collision insurance will cover repairs or replacement of your vehicle after an accident, even if it was your fault. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car from non-collision events like theft, fire, or natural disasters.

If you are a high-risk driver, you may need to obtain insurance through the Rhode Island Automobile Insurance Plan (RIAIP).

Average cost of auto insurance in Rhode Island

The average cost of auto insurance in Rhode Island varies depending on the type of coverage, age, gender, driving record, and other factors. Here is an overview of the average costs:

Average Annual Cost

The average annual cost of auto insurance in Rhode Island is $2,106, which is about 38% more expensive than the national average. However, this cost can vary based on the level of coverage, with the state minimum liability-only coverage costing around $838 per year, and full coverage costing around $1,893 with a $1,000 deductible.

Average Monthly Cost

The average monthly cost of auto insurance in Rhode Island can range from $70 for minimum coverage to $156 for full coverage. The average monthly cost for full coverage is around $220, while minimum coverage costs around $101 per month.

Cost by Age and Gender

Age and gender also impact the cost of auto insurance in Rhode Island. For example, young male drivers tend to pay higher rates, with the average 18-year-old male driver paying around $8,783 per year. As drivers age, rates tend to drop, with the average cost for a driver between 50 and 59 years old being $1,699 annually.

Cost by Driving Record

Your driving record can significantly affect your auto insurance rates in Rhode Island. For example, a single speeding ticket can increase your rates by 21% on average, while a DUI conviction can result in an average increase of 88%.

Cost by Credit Score

In Rhode Island, credit score is also a factor in determining auto insurance rates. Drivers with poor credit scores may pay up to 83% more for full coverage insurance compared to those with good credit scores.

Cheapest auto insurance companies in Rhode Island

The cost of car insurance in Rhode Island varies depending on factors such as age, driving record, and location. The average cost of car insurance in the state is $153 per month, but some companies offer cheaper rates than others. Here are some of the cheapest auto insurance companies in Rhode Island:

State Farm

State Farm is the cheapest option for full coverage, costing about $88 per month on average. It is also the most affordable company after an at-fault accident or DUI, and the second-cheapest option for adults and seniors.

USAA

USAA is the cheapest option for drivers with poor credit. It is also the second-cheapest option overall and for adults and seniors. However, USAA is only available to current and former military members and their families.

Travelers

Travelers offer the cheapest rates for minimum liability coverage at $61 per month, 40% cheaper than the state average. They also offer affordable rates for drivers with an accident on their record.

Amica

Amica is a good option for drivers with a speeding ticket, offering rates 22% cheaper than the state average. They also have cheaper-than-average rates for minimum liability coverage.

Nationwide

Nationwide is the best option for drivers with poor credit, with rates 22% cheaper than the state average. They also offer affordable rates for full coverage.

Progressive

Progressive has the cheapest rates for drivers with a DUI on their record. They also offer cheaper-than-average rates for minimum liability coverage.

It's worth noting that insurance rates can vary depending on individual factors, so it's always a good idea to compare quotes from multiple companies to find the best rate for your specific situation.

Best auto insurance companies in Rhode Island

When it comes to auto insurance in Rhode Island, there are several companies that stand out for their competitive rates, customer service, and range of coverage options. Here are some of the best auto insurance companies in the Ocean State:

Amica Mutual

Amica Mutual is a Rhode Island-based insurance company that offers excellent customer service. They have the second-highest customer satisfaction score in the New England region according to J.D. Power's 2023 Auto Insurance Study, and they also received high marks in The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey. Amica offers a wide range of discounts, including for setting up autopay, owning a home, and having a vehicle with forward collision warning. Their rates are slightly higher than some competitors, but they provide robust coverage options and easy policy management through their website and mobile app.

GEICO

GEICO is known for its affordable rates and excellent customer service. They offer a wide range of discounts, including for military service, good students, bundling policies, and alumni affiliation. GEICO also has highly-rated digital tools that allow policyholders to manage their insurance and file claims conveniently. While their add-on coverage options are limited, they do offer coverage for driving in Mexico, which can be useful for those who travel frequently.

USAA

USAA is a highly-rated insurance company that serves current and former military members and their families. They consistently score highly in J.D. Power reports for customer satisfaction. USAA offers military-focused discounts, such as lower rates for garaging a vehicle on base and discounted rates during deployment. Their average premiums are very competitive, and they have a superior financial strength rating from AM Best. However, their strict eligibility requirements limit their availability to those with military affiliations.

Travelers

Travelers is an excellent choice for drivers seeking extensive coverage options and policy customization. They offer competitive rates in Rhode Island and provide a range of endorsements, including accident forgiveness, new car replacement, rideshare coverage, and roadside assistance. Travelers also have a telematics program called IntelliDrive that can help you save on your premium. However, they scored below average in the J.D. Power car insurance study, so their customer service may not be as strong as other providers.

Nationwide

Nationwide is a good option for drivers with unique coverage needs and low-mileage drivers. They offer several policy customization options, including accident forgiveness, a vanishing deductible, and classic car coverage through Hagerty. Nationwide also has two telematics programs: SmartRide and SmartMiles, with the latter being a pay-per-mile option for those who don't drive much. While their average rates are higher than some competitors, they still fall below the state average for Rhode Island.

In addition to these companies, other notable mentions include State Farm, which is one of the most popular insurers in the nation, and Liberty Mutual, which allows you to customize your coverage so you only pay for what you need. It's important to remember that the best auto insurance company for you may depend on your personal circumstances, driving history, and specific coverage needs. Shopping around and comparing quotes from multiple providers can help you find the most suitable option.

Penalties for driving without insurance in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, driving without insurance is illegal and can result in various penalties. The penalties for driving without insurance in the state include fines, suspension of driving privileges, and high-risk insurance requirements. Here are the details:

First Offense

For a first offense, if you fail to provide proof of insurance, you will be fined $100 to $500. You may also lose your registration and have your license suspended for three months. However, Rhode Island offers a grace period of 10 days to provide valid proof of insurance after a citation. If you can prove that your policy was active at the time of the citation, your license suspension and registration revocation will be dismissed.

Repeat Offenses

For a second violation, you will be charged a $500 fine, and your driving privileges will be revoked for six months. For a third or subsequent offense, it is considered a civil violation, resulting in a $1,000 fine and a driving privileges suspension of up to 12 months.

Accident While Uninsured

If you are involved in an accident while uninsured, you must file an accident report with the DMV. The DMV will then order the impoundment of your car's registration certificate and plates, and your driver's license will be suspended. The duration of these penalties is based on the number of previous offenses. You have the right to request a hearing to contest the conviction, but the suspension orders will still take effect on the date set by the DMV.

Reinstating Driving Privileges

To reinstate your driving privileges in Rhode Island, you must satisfy all court requirements, including obtaining active insurance coverage and filing an affidavit. You will also need to pay reinstatement fees, including a $30 administrative fee, a $152.50 license reinstatement fee, and a $252.50 registration reinstatement fee.

Reapplying for Auto Insurance

Violations, suspensions, and at-fault accidents will become part of your permanent record, and you may be branded a high-risk driver. If you cannot find an insurance company in Rhode Island that will offer you coverage due to your driving history, the state can assist you in purchasing a policy through the Rhode Island Automobile Insurance Plan.

It is important to note that driving without insurance in Rhode Island can have serious consequences, and it is best to ensure you meet the state's minimum insurance requirements to avoid these penalties.

Frequently asked questions