Wisconsin Auto Insurance Requirements | EagleWay Auto Insurance
Whether you live along Lake Michigan or in Eau Claire, Wisconsin offers plenty to see and do. Before you hit the road to the Deer District or your favorite hiking trails, make sure you have the right auto insurance coverage. Take a few minutes to learn about Wisconsin car insurance, including which coverages are mandatory and which are optional. Then get a free quote and see how much you can save with EagleWay, including potential discounts for crypto payments.
Do you have to have car insurance in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin law requires drivers to have an appropriate car insurance policy in force. Policies must meet the state’s minimum liability coverage limits, usually expressed as three numbers representing thousands of dollars (e.g., 25/50/10). Additionally, Wisconsin drivers are required to carry uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage.
Wisconsin Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Here’s a breakdown of coverages required by law and optional protections:
| 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 | $10,000 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 — covers your injuries if the other driver has insufficient or no coverage, or in hit-and-run accidents. |
| 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 to your vehicle from fire, vandalism, flood, 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
Wisconsin Proof of Financial Responsibility & Penalties
Driving without proper insurance in Wisconsin can result in fines up to $500 for a first offense. If involved in an accident without coverage, you will be responsible for all damages out of pocket. Always maintain continuous coverage and carry proof of insurance.
Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License
Operating a vehicle without a valid license in Wisconsin can result in fines, potential vehicle impoundment, and other penalties. Harsh consequences apply if driving under the influence (OWI) or involved in a crash while suspended.
SR-22 Insurance in Wisconsin
High-risk drivers may be required to maintain an SR-22, verifying insurance coverage that meets state minimums. SR-22 may be needed 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 Wisconsin
Some drivers may be considered high-risk due to violations or accidents. While not all insurers cover these drivers, non-standard (high-risk) insurance is available to ensure financial protection.
Where can I find the cheapest car insurance rates in Wisconsin?
Insurance costs vary depending on:
- Coverage type and limits
- Vehicle year, make, and model
- Driving frequency, location, and mileage
- Demographics
- Driving record
- Credit history