Ohio Car Insurance Guide
Whether you live in Cincinnati, Cleveland, or anywhere in between, affordable auto insurance coverage can help protect you while you’re cruising from adventure to adventure. Learn which coverages are mandatory, which are optional, and how EagleWay Auto Insurance can be your cheap Ohio car insurance solution. Get a free quote to see how much you can save.
Do You Have to Have Car Insurance in Ohio?
Ohio law requires all drivers to have a car insurance policy to legally operate a vehicle. Policies must at least meet the state’s minimum liability coverage limits.
Ohio Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
| Coverage Type | Required by Law | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability – Pays for medical expenses and legal costs if you injure someone in an accident. | Yes | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident |
| Property Damage Liability – Pays to repair or replace other people’s property damaged in an accident. | Yes | $25,000 per accident |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) – Pays for medical bills if the other driver lacks coverage. | Not required | – |
| Medical Payments Coverage – Pays for medical expenses regardless of fault. | Not required | – |
| Collision – Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after a collision. | Not required¹ | – |
| Comprehensive – Pays for non-collision damages like fire, vandalism, flood, or animal impact. | Not required¹ | – |
¹May be required by lenders if the vehicle is leased or financed.
Important: Liability-only coverage meets Ohio law but does not fully protect you or your vehicle. Additional coverage, like UM/UIM, comprehensive, and collision, is recommended.
Additional Coverage Options
- Roadside Assistance*
- Emergency Protection Plan (EPP)*
- Towing & Labor Coverage
- Rental Reimbursement Coverage
Proof of Financial Responsibility and Penalties
Driving without insurance in Ohio can result in non-compliance suspensions, escalating fines, reinstatement fees, and the need to fulfill SR-22 requirements. Always carry proof of insurance to avoid penalties.
Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License
Driving with a suspended license is a first-degree misdemeanor in Ohio, punishable by fines, possible jail time, and up to an additional one-year license suspension. Subsequent offenses within three years may result in vehicle impoundment and remedial driving course requirements.
SR-22 Insurance in Ohio
High-risk drivers may be required to keep an SR22 (certificate of financial responsibility) on file if they have:
- Been caught not maintaining proper liability coverage
- Been convicted of a DUI/DWI
- Committed other serious driving violations
EagleWay Auto Insurance can assist with SR-22 filings and finding affordable coverage regardless of driving history.
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Drivers with violations or a poor driving record may be considered high-risk. Non-standard insurance is available to provide financial protection. EagleWay Auto Insurance works to provide quality, affordable coverage for every driver.
Finding the Cheapest Car Insurance Rates in Ohio
Car insurance costs vary depending on:
- Coverage type and limits
- Vehicle year, make, and model
- Driving habits, location, and distance driven
- Demographics, driving record, and credit history
EagleWay Auto Insurance helps drivers, even high-risk ones, find affordable coverage. Get a free quote online or work with an agent to create a plan that meets your needs and maximizes discounts.