Finding the right car insurance in Maryland is crucial for staying safe and compliant on the road. Below, you'll learn about the minimum required auto insurance, types of coverage, average costs, discounts, and more.
Car insurance premiums in Maryland vary depending on the type of coverage you choose, your driving history, and even where you live within the state. According to Bankrate, Maryland drivers pay an average of $2,637 annually* for “full coverage” car insurance, which typically includes liability, comprehensive, and collision insurance. For those who opt for the state minimum coverage, the average cost drops to around $981 per year*.
All drivers must meet or exceed Maryland state auto insurance requirements to legally operate a vehicle. Mandatory coverages include:
Bodily injury liability insurance can help pay the costs of injuries you cause to others in an accident. In Maryland, the minimum coverage is:
$30,000 per person
$60,000 per accident
Property damage liability insurance can help cover the costs of damage you may cause to another person's property while operating your vehicle. Maryland state insurance requirements mandate drivers to carry a minimum of:
$15,000 per accident
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) can help protect you financially if you're involved in an accident with a driver who either has no insurance or doesn't carry sufficient coverage. Maryland drivers are required to carry these four coverages:
Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury
Uninsured/underinsured motorist property damage
Maryland law requires UM/UIM limits of 30/60/15—or $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury and $15,000 per person for property damage.
Personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, also sometimes known as no-fault insurance, is designed to help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs after a car accident, regardless of who's at fault. In Maryland, you can select full or limited PIP coverage.
Full PIP covers:
You and members of your household in any motor vehicle accident
Anyone injured in your vehicle
Pedestrians injured by your vehicle
Limited PIP will cover pedestrians and minor children, but waives coverage under any motor vehicle liability insurance policy for:
You
All drivers listed on your policy
Family members in your household who are 16 years of age or older
Sometimes, you might want a little more protection than the minimum coverages offer. Maryland drivers can elect to carry these optional insurance coverages to build on their required coverages:
Collision insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement of your vehicle if it's damaged in an accident, regardless of fault. This optional coverage is particularly beneficial if you have a newer or more valuable car.
Comprehensive insurance can help pay for repairs or replacement if your vehicle is damaged by events other than a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
Rental car reimbursement coverage can help pay for a rental car while your vehicle is in the shop for a covered loss. It's a helpful option if you need your car every day and don't have a backup.
Roadside assistance offers services such as towing, flat tire changes, lockout assistance, battery jump-starts, and even fuel delivery.
Non-owner insurance is a liability coverage that helps cover individuals who drive but don't own their own car. It provides liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage, which can be a smart choice if you frequently rent or borrow cars.
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An SR22 form is a certificate of financial responsibility required for certain drivers in Maryland—typically those who have committed serious traffic offenses such as DUI or driving without insurance. An SR22 is not insurance or a type of coverage but rather a form that verifies you're carrying insurance that meets Maryland state insurance requirements.
We file all SR22s with the state at the end of the day to get you back on the road as fast as possible. There's no fee to file an SR22 form in Maryland.
Car insurance discounts can significantly lower your premiums and make car insurance much more affordable. We offer a variety of discounts in Maryland you may qualify for, including:
Multi-vehicle
Homeowners
Prior insurance/Transfer
Paid in full
Advanced quote
Good driver
The cost of car insurance can vary widely between providers, even within the same state. Cheap car insurance in Maryland generally depends on what coverages you need along with other variables unique to you.
But remember, the cheapest insurance isn’t always the right insurance. Along with premiums, there’s also claims service, customer support, and other factors to consider. It's a good idea to compare quotes from multiple providers to find the rate and services that fit your situation.
Car insurance is just one protection for drivers in Maryland. Here are some resources to help you understand and adhere to Maryland's driving laws and requirements.
Maryland has unique driving laws designed to keep its roads safe. For example:
Seat belts or other age-appropriate safety restraints must be worn by all vehicle occupants
Handheld cell phone use while driving is prohibited
You must move over for stopped cars with hazard lights flashing
You can find more detailed information about these laws and other driving requirements in the Maryland Driver's Manual.
Access to the right resources can help you stay informed and safe on Maryland's roads. Here are some organizations to contact for more information:
The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) oversees the state's transportation systems, including roadways and public transportation. MDOT provides valuable information on road conditions, construction projects, and travel advisories. For assistance, you can contact MDOT online or by phone at (410) 865-1142.
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, titling, and other essential services for Maryland drivers. Contact the Maryland MVA, take advantage of online services, or call (410) 768-7000.
The Maryland Insurance Administration regulates insurance companies and ensures compliance with state laws. They offer resources for consumers to understand their rights and can help resolve disputes with insurers. You can reach out online or by phone at (800) 492-6116 for more information.
Dairyland® brand property and casualty coverages are underwritten by a member of the Sentry Insurance Group, Stevens Point, WI. For a complete listing of companies, visit the Underwriting Company page.
*Data accuracy is subject to this article’s publication date.