New Hampshire Car Insurance Guide

In New Hampshire, drivers do not necessarily have to have liability auto insurance coverage. However, New Hampshire drivers must produce proof of sufficient assets to cover any liability claims. Most of us do not have that kind of money, so it's probably a safe bet you're going to need liability insurance coverage.

The minimum coverage amounts under New Hampshire law are third party liability insurance (aka PLPD, accidental benefits coverage, and uninsured and unidentified driver's coverage) in the amounts of: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 property damage.

Your driver's license can be suspended if you are caught driving without adequate insurance, with too many fines, while under the influence, or if you owe back child support. Also, if you leave the scene of an accident or fail to file an accident report, and if you refuse to take a blood-alcohol test, your driver's license can also be suspended. This means that if you are caught driving on a suspended license, or if your insurance has expired, the police can tow your vehicle and impound it.

Other important things to keep in mind when driving in New Hampshire are that motorcycle helmets are required; however, seatbelts are not.

Auto insurance policies are designed to protect you from having to pay high settlement amounts after an accident. So it is important that you remember you do not need to stick to minimum coverages. In fact, with the higher prices vehicles command these days, the minimum may not completely protect you. Hospital bills can also add up very quickly, so you may find yourself with insufficient protection if you only buy minimum coverage.

Another thing to consider is what if an uninsured driver hits your vehicle? While it's true that he or she would still be liable for your damages, collecting that money may not be so easy. You should consider obtaining comprehensive and collision coverage, particularly if your vehicle is relatively new. And if you still owe a lot of money on your vehicle, gap insurance coverage is a necessity. Few things could be worse than having to continue to make a car payment on a car that was a total loss in an accident.

Comprehensive insurance protects you against losses due to theft, natural disasters, water or fire damage, and if you opt for it, glass protection will repair or replace your windshield when it gets chipped.

Don't purchase your insurance based on price alone. Make sure you're dealing with a reputable insurance company. Compare different policies from different auto insurance companies, and make sure the policy is right for you and that you're comfortable with the company offering the policy.