Auto Insurance Requirements in South Bend, Indiana
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Jan 13
- 2 min read
Driving in South Bend legally means having the right auto insurance. Indiana law mandates specific minimum levels of coverage to protect drivers, passengers, and others on the road. This blog explains the legal auto insurance requirements in South Bend, important optional coverage, proof of insurance standards, and consequences of non-compliance. Plus, learn why Wexford Insurance is the best resource when you’re ready for a quote.
Indiana’s Minimum Liability Coverage
Indiana drivers must carry at least 25/50/25 liability insurance, broken down as:
$25,000 per person for bodily injury
$50,000 total per accident for bodily injury
$25,000 for property damage per accident
This basic liability covers medical expenses and property damage if you cause an accident. However, these limits may not be enough in serious crashes. Experts often recommend higher coverage, or 100/300/100 for better protection.
Required UM/UIM Coverage
Indiana law requires insurers to offer uninsured/under insured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) at the same limits (25/50/25), unless explicitly rejected in writing. This optional coverage protects you when the at-fault driver is uninsured or under insured.
Proof of Insurance Rules
You must maintain continuous coverage and carry acceptable proof, including:
A paper insurance card, or
A digital policy declaration accessible on your phone.
Law enforcement and the Indiana BMV can request proof during traffic stops, after accidents, or when registering your vehicle. Failure to present proof can lead to citations and suspensions.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Driving without the required liability insurance results in serious consequences:
First offense: License suspension up to 90 days and a $250 reinstatement fee
Subsequent offenses: Up to one-year suspension, up to $1,000 fines, and mandatory SR-22 filing
Proof Violations: Failing to provide proof of insurance can lead to administrative penalties and suspensions.
Recommended Optional Coverage
Beyond the legal minimum, consider:
Collision & Comprehensive: Covers your vehicle after a collision or non-collision event
Medical Payments (MedPay): Helps pay for your or passengers’ medical bills
Higher UM/UIM Limits: Additional financial protection if involved with uninsured drivers
Roadside & Rental Reimbursement: Useful add-ons for emergencies and rentals
These extras enhance protection and reduce out-of-pocket costs in an accident.
Driving Fully Legal (and Safe)
South Bend drivers need to carry at least 25/50/25 liability insurance and be prepared to show proof at any time. Adding UM/UIM and other coverages gives you more comprehensive protection. Review your policy every year or after major changes to ensure it still meets legal requirements and personal needs.
Why Choose Wexford Insurance?
At Wexford Insurance, we help South Bend drivers understand Indiana’s auto coverage requirements and choose policies that meet or exceed them. Whether you're looking for basic liability or full protection, our expert agents find the best coverage at the best price.
Ready to get the best quote?
