West Virginia Auto Insurance Requirements | EagleWay Auto Insurance
Whether you live in Charleston, Huntington, or Morgantown, you must meet West Virginia’s minimum auto insurance requirements before driving in the “Mountain State.” Take a few minutes to learn about cheap car insurance in West Virginia, including which coverages are mandatory and which are optional. Then get a free quote to see how much you can save with EagleWay.
Do you have to have car insurance in West Virginia?
West Virginia law requires all drivers to carry proof of financial responsibility, most commonly satisfied with a car insurance policy. Policies must meet the state’s minimum liability coverage limits, usually expressed as three numbers representing thousands of dollars (e.g., 25/50/25). Additionally, drivers must carry uninsured motorist bodily injury and property damage coverage.
West Virginia Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Here’s a breakdown of required and optional coverages:
| Coverage | Required by Law? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability | Yes | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident — covers medical expenses and legal costs if you injure another person. |
| Property Damage Liability | Yes | $25,000 per accident — covers damage to another vehicle or property you cause. |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) | Yes | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, $25,000 per accident for property damage — covers your expenses if the other driver lacks sufficient insurance or is a hit-and-run. |
| Medical Payments (Med Pay) | No | Covers medical expenses from an accident regardless of fault. |
| Collision | No1 | Repairs or replaces your vehicle if it collides with another car or object. |
| Comprehensive | No1 | Covers damage from fire, flood, vandalism, falling objects, or animals. |
1Required by your lender if your vehicle is financed or leased.
Additional Coverage Options
- Roadside Assistance
- Emergency Protection Plan (EPP)
- Towing & Labor Coverage
- Rental Reimbursement
Proof of Financial Responsibility & Penalties
Driving without proper insurance in West Virginia can result in administrative penalties affecting registration and driver’s license. Criminal penalties, including fines or jail time, may also apply. Always carry proof of insurance for traffic stops or accidents.
Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License
Operating a vehicle without a valid license can result in misdemeanor charges, fines, and potential jail time. Consequences vary depending on the offense and circumstances.
SR-22 Insurance in West Virginia
West Virginia does not require SR-22 filings. However, if you move to another state, you may need to file an SR-22 if you:
- Failed to maintain proper liability coverage
- Were convicted of DUI/DWI
- Committed other serious driving violations
Our agents can help high-risk drivers find affordable coverage, regardless of history.
High-Risk Auto Insurance in West Virginia
Drivers with violations or accidents may be considered high-risk. Non-standard insurance is available to ensure financial protection for these individuals. EagleWay works to find quality, affordable coverage for all drivers.
Where can I find the cheapest car insurance rates in West Virginia?
Rates depend on:
- Coverage type and limits
- Vehicle year, make, and model
- Driving frequency, location, and mileage
- Demographics
- Driving record
- Credit history