North Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements

W hether heading up the Great Smoky Mountains, taking a beach vacation on the Outer Banks, or commuting to work in Charlotte, there are plenty of places to go in the Tar Heel State when you have some free time and an adequate car insurance policy.

Every driver in the state must have an active North Carolina auto insurance policy before getting behind the wheel, lest they face legal penalties. Driving without the minimum coverage required by law is illegal and could land drivers some severe consequences. Let’s check out exactly what’s necessary on a policy in the Tar Heel State, what the law says about auto accidents, and answer your frequently asked questions about car insurance laws in the state.

What Are the North Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements?

When it comes to car insurance in North Carolina, there are a few things drivers should know before they bind policies or get behind the wheel. First of all, it’s essential to remember that driving without the minimum amount of coverage required by state law is illegal. Maintaining a policy is necessary for all North Carolinians who drive, both for their safety and legal purposes.

A minimum coverage policy in the Tar Heel State will have a limit of $30,000 in bodily injury liability per person, $60,000 in bodily injury liability per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability per accident (30/60/25 liability coverage), and the same 30/60/25 limit for uninsured motorist coverage (UM) . Those who lease or finance their vehicles may need to carry comprehensive and collision coverages as part of their agreement.

Drivers in the Tar Heel State who maintain a policy with the legal minimum amount of coverage are adequately protected in the eyes of the law. While some drivers may be content with a minimum coverage policy, others may feel such minimal coverage leaves them inadequately protected on the roads. Those uncomfortable with such minimal protection may opt for a full coverage policy with higher limits of the legally necessary coverages and several optional coverage types added on.