Columbus Auto Insurance

What is Financial Responsibility?
In Ohio, it is illegal to drive any motor vehicle without insurance or other proof of financial responsibility (FR). It is also illegal for any motor vehicle owner to allow anyone else to drive the owner's vehicle without FR proof. To comply with the FR requirements, individuals must maintain insurance or get a bond. Both types of coverage are described below.

If I obtain insurance, what is required?
Ohio law requires the following for insurance coverage:

• If a person purchases automobile insurance, the state requires the person to purchase Bodily Injury Liability Coverage as well as Property Damage Liability Coverage.


• A motor vehicle liability insurance policy. Insurance cards are issued by an insurer to the policyholder for each motor vehicle insured under a motor vehicle liability insurance policy.
  
• A certificate of proof of financial responsibility on a form prescribed by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

If I purchase auto insurance to demonstrate Financial Responsibility, what are the minimum coverage requirements in Ohio?

In Ohio the required minimum limits for Bodily Injury Liability Coverage is $12,500 per person injured in any one accident and $25,000 for all persons injured in any one accident.

The required minimum limits for Property Damage Liability Coverage is $7,500 for injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident.

To learn more about Ohio auto insurance laws, please visit the Ohio Department of Insurance.

Your Independent Agent is an advocate for finding auto insurance that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider as you prepare for the discussion:

• How much can you afford to pay if you get in an accident? (To keep premiums low you may want to have a higher deductible and be willing to pay more for repairs.)


• What is the insurance company's level of service and ability to pay claims?


• What discounts are available? (Ask about good driver, multiple policy and student discounts.)


• What's the procedure for filing and settling a claim? (Ask who to call and what happens after you file a claim.)