Compare car insurance in Rhode Island

When it comes to car insurance, Rhode Island requires drivers to carry a policy to legally drive on its roads. And you’ll want to find a policy that works for your needs at a rate that fits your budget. Read on to learn about car insurance in Rhode Island, from rules and regulations and shop around to get the best rates possible.

Most popular Rhode Island auto insurance companies list

Average car insurance costs in Rhode Island

Drivers in Rhode Island tend to pay around $1,800 annually, which is significantly above the national average of $1,200 to $1,300. These higher rates reflect the high amount of coverage required by law.

The most expensive areas to insure a car can be found in big cities like Providence, given the additional risk for car accidents, vandalism and theft. In small towns and rural areas of the state, you’re likely to find lower insurance rates because the risk of damage to your car is lower.

However, if you take the time to shop around before signing up with an insurance provider, you could end up paying less than the state average for your car insurance policy.

Which city has the cheapest car insurance in Rhode Island?

Of Rhode Island’s largest cities, Cumberland has the cheapest rates and Providence has the most expensive car insurance rates. Providence drivers could face rates 3 times more than Cumberland drivers.

• Pawtucket
• Woonsocket
• Cumberland
• Cranston
• Providence

State minimum requirements in Rhode Island

To legally drive in Rhode Island, you’ll need insurance that includes at least:

• $25,000 bodily injury per person per accident
• $50,000 bodily injury for all persons per accident
• $25,000 property damage liability

Two other types of coverage that are typically optional in other states but among the requirements for Rhode Island:

• $25,000/$50,000 uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
• $25,000 uninsured motorist property damage.

Can I get SR-22 insurance in Rhode Island?

Yes. Your insurance provider might file an SR-22 in Rhode Island on your behalf if you’re convicted of a DUI, have a lapse in your car insurance coverage or accumulate too many violation points on your driving record.

Bottom line

Getting the right car insurance can protect you, your passengers, your vehicle and everyone else on the road. Rhode Island requires a minimum standard of auto insurance coverage. And by shopping around and comparing your options, you can find a policy that works for you at a reasonable rate.

To learn more about insuring your car, from rules and regulations to better rates and policy options, read our comprehensive guide to auto insurance.

Frequently asked questions about car insurance in Rhode Island

• Should I report the car accident I was recently involved in?

  It depends on the severity of your accident. Rhode Island law requires you to report the crash if damages exceeded $1,000 in value or if anyone is injured or killed. For minor fender benders, you might be OK settling it between yourself, the other drivers and the insurance companies involved.

• How does my credit score affect my insurance rate and why?

  Independent studies from the University of Texas and the Federal Trade Commission show links between low credit scores and high accident risk. So in 47 states — that’s excluding California, Hawaii and Massachusetts, where this practice is prohibited — car insurance companies can use a poor credit score to suggest a higher likelihood of filing insurance claims. Higher-risk customers, for the most part, are charged higher rates for coverage.