When it comes to car insurance, there are a lot of different opinions out there. Some people believe that it should be mandatory in every state, while others think that it should be up to the individual to decide whether or not they want to purchase it. In the state of New Hampshire, auto insurance is not required by law. However, there are still plenty of reasons why you might want to consider getting coverage.
Why Do Some States Require Auto Insurance?
Before we dive into the specifics of New Hampshire, let’s take a look at why some states require auto insurance in the first place. There are a few key reasons why this is the case:
- Protecting other drivers: If you cause an accident and don’t have insurance, the other driver(s) involved may have a hard time getting compensation for their injuries or damages. This can be especially problematic if you don’t have the financial means to pay for those costs out of pocket.
- Encouraging responsible driving: Knowing that you’re required to have insurance can incentivize you to drive more safely. After all, if you get into an accident and it’s your fault, your rates will likely go up.
- Economic benefits: When more people have insurance, it can help keep costs down for everyone. This is because insurance companies can spread out risk among a larger pool of people, which can make it easier to provide affordable coverage.
Why Doesn’t New Hampshire Require Auto Insurance?
So, why doesn’t New Hampshire require auto insurance? The answer has to do with the state’s motto: “Live Free or Die.” New Hampshire has a longstanding tradition of prioritizing individual liberty, and many residents feel that requiring auto insurance would be an infringement on their personal freedoms.
However, it’s worth noting that even though the state doesn’t require insurance, you may still be held liable if you cause an accident. If you don’t have insurance, you could be on the hook for thousands of dollars in damages and medical bills.
What Are the Benefits of Having Auto Insurance?
Even if you’re not required to have auto insurance in New Hampshire, there are still plenty of benefits to getting coverage. Here are just a few:
- Protecting yourself: If you get into an accident and you’re at fault, your insurance can help cover the costs of repairing or replacing your own vehicle. This can be especially important if you don’t have the financial means to pay for those costs out of pocket.
- Protecting others: As we mentioned earlier, if you cause an accident and don’t have insurance, the other driver(s) involved may have a hard time getting compensation for their injuries or damages. Having insurance can help ensure that they’re taken care of.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you’re covered in case of an accident can help give you peace of mind while you’re on the road. This can make driving a less stressful experience overall.
What Types of Auto Insurance Are Available?
If you do decide to get auto insurance in New Hampshire, there are a few different types of coverage you can choose from. These include:
- Liability: This type of insurance covers the costs of damages or injuries you cause to other people or their property.
- Collision: Collision insurance covers the costs of repairing or replacing your own vehicle if you’re in an accident.
- Comprehensive: Comprehensive insurance covers things like theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist: This type of insurance can help cover your costs if you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance (or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the damages).
Conclusion
So, should auto insurance be mandatory in New Hampshire? That’s ultimately up to you to decide. While the state doesn’t require insurance, there are still plenty of good reasons to consider getting coverage. Whether you’re looking to protect yourself, others, or simply give yourself peace of mind while you’re on the road, auto insurance can be a valuable investment.