Compulsory Coverage

There are several types of compulsory insurance, which is the minimum amount of coverage required by state law.

• Bodily Injury to Others: Protects you against the legal liability for the accidental injury or death of others (but not your passengers) cause by the operation of your car, but only if the accident occurs in Massachusetts. You will be covered up to a basic limit of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident.

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Pays up to $8,000 for medical expenses, replacement services and 75% of any lost wages. PIP will also pay these expenses to you or anyone you let drive your car, anyone living in your household, passengers and pedestrians, no matter who causes the accident.

• Bodily Injury Caused by an Uninsured Auto: Protects you, anyone you let drive your car, household members and passengers (unless covered by another Massachusetts policy with similar coverage) against losses caused by an uninsured or unidentified (“hit and run”) driver. A minimum limit of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident is required.

• Property Damage: Pays for damage to another person’s property when you, a household member or another authorized driver cause an accident. A minimum limit of $5,000 is required.

Optional Coverage

Accidents can often result in damage that exceeds the minimum limits required by state law. Depending on your individual needs, you may wish to purchase increased limits on these coverages or additional types of coverage. Consult with your agent to determine what what types and how much coverage you need. Some of the additional coverages available include:

• Medical Payments – Offers coverage that goes beyond the mandatory PIP coverage.

• Collision coverage - Pays for damages to your car no matter who is at fault. A deductible applies if you are more than 50% at-fault.

• Comprehensive coverage - Pays for damages to your car caused by events such as fire, thefts, and vandalism.

• Substitute Transportation – Will provide you with compensation to put towards a rental while your car is being repaired to a collision or comprehensive claim.

• Coverage for Towing and Labor for when your car breaks down.

Different insurance companies provide a wide variety endorsments and discounts that you can apply to your policy. Check with your agent to learn more.