Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers | January 21, 2025 | Personal Injury
It is important to understand car insurance coverage requirements if you have a car registered in West Virginia. Not all insurance policies are created equal, and while some coverage types are mandatory, others may be unnecessary. Understanding what you need and don’t need can help you stay financially protected while driving.
Mandatory Car Insurance Coverage in West Virginia
West Virginia law requires all drivers to carry a minimum level of auto insurance coverage to operate a vehicle legally. The required coverages include:
1. Liability Insurance
Liability insurance is mandatory in West Virginia. It covers bodily injury and property damage you cause in an accident for which you are at fault. The minimum liability requirements are:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
Liability minimums are designed to provide financial compensation for injuries and property damage due to your negligence. However, they likely will not be sufficient in moderate or serious accidents, leaving you financially responsible for the rest. This makes having additional coverage wise.
2. Uninsured Motorist Coverage
West Virginia also mandates that you purchase uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This protects you if you are involved in an accident where the driver has no insurance. The minimum limits for UM coverage mirror those of liability insurance:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
UM coverage is essential since West Virginia has a significant number of uninsured drivers, and this coverage helps cover medical expenses if you’re injured in an accident caused by one.
Recommended Car Insurance Coverage in West Virginia
West Virginia requires liability and uninsured motorist coverage, but additional coverage options may be available. They can be highly beneficial in protecting you financially after an accident. Examples include:
1. Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM)
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage steps in when an at-fault driver does not have sufficient insurance to cover your damages. UIM coverage can protect you from financial burdens due to medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or even vehicle repair costs, which can quickly exceed minimum insurance limits.
2. Collision Coverage
Collision coverage pays for damage to your car after an accident, regardless of fault. This is typically important if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle or have financed it. It can allow you to avoid paying out-of-pocket for repairs above your deductible.
3. Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive insurance covers damages from non-collision-related incidents such as theft, vandalism, fire, flooding, or animal collisions. This coverage is recommended for those who want protection against unpredictable events that could lead to expensive repairs
4. Medical Payments (MedPay)
MedPay covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. It can help cover co-pays, hospital bills, or even funeral costs in fatal accidents. This coverage is beneficial if you are worried about the cost of injuries you may sustain in an accident.
Car Insurance Coverages You May Not Need in West Virginia
Some coverage options provide excellent protection, while others may not be necessary, depending on your situation. A few coverages you might consider skipping include:
1. Collision and Comprehensive on Older Vehicles
Paying for collision and comprehensive coverage may not be cost-effective if your vehicle is older and has a low market value. The cost of premiums may outweigh the potential payout after a claim.
2. Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
West Virginia does not require Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which can cover certain medical bills and other expenses regardless of who is at fault in the accident. PIP coverage may be redundant if you have good health insurance and MedPay, which could cover accident-related medical expenses instead.
3. Gap Insurance
Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on a loan or lease and the actual cash value of your car if it is totaled. You typically do not need to pay for gap insurance unless you lease your car or have a car loan.
Injured in Charleston? Schedule a Consultation With a Charleston Car Accident Lawyer
Choosing the right car insurance coverage in West Virginia is important. You must have liability and uninsured motorist coverage as state law requires, but adding other coverages can give you financial protection after an accident. If you have been involved in an accident and need assistance, a Charleston car accident lawyer can help you fight for potential compensation. Schedule a free consultation today.
Contact the Car Accident Law Firm of Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers, to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have convenient locations in Charleston, Beckley, Morgantown, WV.
Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers – Charleston
746 Myrtle Rd
Charleston, WV 25314
(304) 346-5990
Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers – Beckley
101 N Kanawha St, Suite 101
Beckley, WV 25801
(304) 252-5990
Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers – Morgantown
453 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, Suite 300
Morgantown, WV 26505
(304) 225-5990
