Liability Car Insurance: What You Need to Know

Liability insurance is the cornerstone of every auto policy. It pays for the injuries and property damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident — the protection states require drivers to carry before getting on the road.

How liability limits work

Liability is expressed as three numbers, such as 50/100/50. These represent thousands of dollars of coverage:

• Bodily injury per person — the most paid for one injured person.
• Bodily injury per accident — the most paid for everyone injured in one event.
• Property damage — the most paid for damage to vehicles and property.

Every state sets its own minimum. You can review the requirement where you live on our rates-by-state guide.

Why minimum limits can fall short

State minimums are exactly that — a floor. A single serious accident can produce medical bills and repair costs that exceed low limits, and you'd be personally responsible for the difference. That's why many drivers carry more than the minimum to protect their savings and assets.

Liability vs. full coverage

Liability protects others, not your own car. If you want repairs to your vehicle covered too, you'll need full coverage, which adds collision and comprehensive. Budget-focused drivers can review our cheap car insurance tips.

Compare and choose with confidence

The right liability limit balances affordability with protection. Run a quick comparison to see how different carriers price the limits you want.