New Hampshire stands out as the only state that doesn’t mandate auto insurance. However, drivers are still required to demonstrate financial responsibility in the event of an accident. This means that if you choose not to carry insurance, you must prove you can cover potential damages and injuries resulting from a crash.
Financial Responsibility Laws in New Hampshire
If you opt to purchase auto insurance, New Hampshire law requires the following minimum coverage limits:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability: $25,000 per accident
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Medical Payments (MedPay): $1,000 per accident
These limits are designed to cover damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident where you are at fault. However, they may not fully protect you in the event of a serious accident.
New Hampshire Optional Coverages
While not required by law, consider additional coverages to enhance your protection:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Pays for damages to your vehicle not involving a collision, such as theft or weather-related incidents.
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damages to your vehicle resulting from a collision, regardless of fault.
- Medical Payments (MedPay): Helps cover medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident.
- Roadside Assistance: Provides services like towing, flat tire changes, and battery jumps if your vehicle breaks down.
- Rental Car Reimbursement: Assists with the cost of a rental car if your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered loss.
These optional coverages can provide added financial protection and peace of mind.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance In New Hampshire
While New Hampshire doesn’t require auto insurance, you are still financially responsible for any damages or injuries you cause in an accident. If you’re involved in an accident and cannot prove financial responsibility, you may face:
- Fines
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Requirement to file an SR-22 form to reinstate driving privileges
It’s essential to maintain proper insurance or demonstrate financial responsibility to avoid these penalties and ensure you’re financially protected.
How Can I Show Proof of Insurance In New Hampshire?
Drivers must carry proof of insurance and present it when requested by law enforcement or during vehicle registration. Acceptable forms of proof include:
- Paper insurance ID card
- Digital insurance ID card accessible on a mobile device
Always ensure you have valid proof of insurance with you while driving.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Hampshire Car Insurance
Is car insurance required in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire does not require car insurance if you can prove financial responsibility through other means, such as a bond or cash deposit.
What are the minimum coverage requirements if I choose to have insurance?
If you carry insurance, New Hampshire requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25 for bodily injury and property damage.
Does New Hampshire have a no-fault insurance system?
No. New Hampshire is one of the few states that is not no-fault; drivers must prove fault in accidents to collect damages.
Are there penalties for driving uninsured in New Hampshire?
Yes. If you choose not to carry insurance and do not prove financial responsibility, you may face fines, license suspension, and registration revocation.
Does New Hampshire use electronic insurance verification?
Yes. The DMV checks insurance electronically during vehicle registration and can request proof of coverage if there are concerns.
Want to compare New Hampshire’s insurance laws? Check neighboring states:
Maine,
Massachusetts,
Vermont.