Best Car Insurance in Minnesota for 2025 [Check Out the Top 10 Companies]

State Farm, Progressive, and Geico offer the best car insurance in Minnesota starting with $27 monthly.

 

These providers are the leading companies in Minnesota that provide excellent discounts and customer satisfaction. Ready to find affordable car insurance? Enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool

Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best Car Insurance in Minnesota

Keep reading to find the best car insurance in Minnesota that fits your needs and budget. Get the right car insurance at the best price — enter your ZIP code to shop for coverage from the top insurers.

#1 – State Farm: Top Pick Overall

Pros

• Large Agent Network: State Farm’s agents can help you find the best car insurance in Minnesota. Check more in our State Farm car insurance review.
• Competitive Rates & Discounts: Affordable premium prices, particularly for driver safety records, continue to reduce premiums through various discount programs.
• Efficient Claims & High Satisfaction: State Farm’s reliable claims process enables 24/7 support with a convenient app, making it the best option for car insurance in Minnesota.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for High-Risk Drivers: Your driving history influences the premium rates State Farm provides, so you must review different options to find the best deal.
• Limited Coverage Customization: Customers receive standard coverage from State Farm, but the company provides fewer customization choices than its competitors.

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#2 – Progressive: Best for Customizable Coverage

Pros

• Extensive Discounts Available: Offers the best car insurance in Minnesota at a premium level by offering multiple discount options. Read more in our Progressive car insurance review.
• Exceptional Digital & Claims Experience: Modern drivers will appreciate the convenience of a well-rated mobile app and user-friendly online features.
• Attractive Rates for High-Risk Drivers: Offers discounts for safe drivers, competitive prices, and flexible insurance solutions.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Low-Risk Drivers: Progressive’s premium rates often become higher for drivers who maintain a safe driving record.
• Limited Local Agent Support: Operations focus on online services, which reduces the number of local agent locations in the state.

#3 – Geico: Best for Budget-Friendly Rates

Pros

• Affordable Premiums: Geico, the best car insurance in Minnesota, offers affordable premiums and various discounts. See more on Geico Car Insurance Review.
• Strong Digital Experience: Delivers a user-friendly digital platform combined with mobile app features that enable policy management.
• Reliable Financial Strength: Dependable finances ensure prompt claims payments, earning recognition as the best car insurance provider in Minnesota.

Cons

• Limited Local Agent: The online and phone-based operations limit local drivers’ access to in-person agent services.
• Higher Rates for High-Risk Drivers: Geico’s rates rise significantly for drivers with accidents, DUIs, or poor credit.

#4 – USAA: Best for Military Families

Pros

• Outstanding Customer Service: USAA, one of the best car insurance providers in Minnesota, excels in claims satisfaction with fast, expert assistance.
• Competitive Military Rates: USAA’s car insurance review provides rate breakdowns for lower premiums and exclusive military family discounts.
• Military-Friendly Coverage: USAA, the best car insurance in Minnesota, offers accident forgiveness, roadside assistance, and customizable coverage.

Cons

• Limited Eligibility: Inaccessible to most due to USAA’s military-only membership.
• No Local Offices: USAA operates online and by phone, with no physical offices in Minnesota, despite being one of the best car insurance companies in the state.

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#5 – Allstate: Best for Comprehensive Options

Pros

• Strong Local Agent Network: Allstate has a reliable network of agents in Minnesota for personalized help with policies and claims.
• Comprehensive Options: As the best car insurance in Minnesota, it offers liability to full coverage, accident forgiveness, and roadside assistance.
• Competitive Discounts: Discounts for safe driving and bundling make Allstate the best car insurance in Minnesota. Find more details in our Allstate car insurance review.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: Allstate’s rates may be higher for some drivers, particularly those with past violations.
• Customer Service Variability: Service quality varies across provider network locations, with customers finding exceptional agents but also facing issues with claims or billing.

#6 – Travelers: Best for Customizable Policies

Pros

• Customizable Options: According to Travelers car insurance review, they offer accident forgiveness, new car replacement, and gap insurance, ideal for premium coverage.
• Excellent Discounts: They provide savings for safe driving, hybrid vehicles, and bundling policies, appealing to drivers who are looking for the best insurance in Minnesota.
• Financial Strength: Has strong stability and a reliable claims process, reinforcing its status as the best insurance provider in Minnesota.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: Rates may be higher for young or high-risk drivers than the market average, which is something to consider when seeking the best insurance in Minnesota.
• Limited Local Agents: Travelers have fewer local agents in Minnesota, which might disadvantage those preferring in-person service.

#7 – Farmers: Best for Local Agents

Pros

• Strong Local Agent Network: Farmers Insurance agents offer personalized support, making it one of the best car insurance providers in Minnesota.
• Excellent Coverage Options: Tailored policies, including accident forgiveness and rideshare coverage, contribute to its reputation as the best car insurance in Minnesota.
• Solid Discounts for Savings: Discounts for bundling home and auto and safe driving make Farmers Insurance appealing. Read this Farmers car insurance review for more.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: Premiums are higher unless multiple discounts are applied, which can impact its ranking as the best car insurance in Minnesota.
• Limited Online Policy Management: The digital policy management system is functional but lacks the seamless experience of fully digital providers.

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#8 – American Family: Best for Family Discounts

Pros

• Strong Local Presence: Offers customized policies and services, making it one of the best car insurance options in the state. See more in our American Family car insurance review.
• Generous Discounts: Check out safe driving tips for safe driving discounts, making the American Family a top choice for the best car insurance in Minnesota.
• Excellent Customer Satisfaction: It is known for fast claims and excellent service, making it the best car insurance provider in Minnesota.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Some Drivers: Not ideal for younger and high-risk drivers leading to higher premiums.
• Limited Online Servicing Options: Some customers find online servicing limited and require face-to-face agent assistance.

#9 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Flexible Coverage

Pros

• Strong Local Presence: Minnesota drivers receive the best car insurance through state-specific policies that address local winter driving needs.
• Customizable Coverage Options: Drivers can manage their insurance better by adding accident forgiveness and new car replacement options.
• Competitive Discounts: Liberty Mutual car insurance review highlights discounts and bundling, making it among Minnesota’s best.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Some Drivers: Offers excellent Minnesota car insurance, but prices are often high for young and risky drivers, which may deter budget-conscious customers.
• Mixed Customer Service Reviews: Liberty Mutual’s best car insurance in Minnesota earns mixed reviews, with praise for coverage but complaints about claims delays.

#10 – Nationwide: Best for Claims Satisfaction

Pros

• Strong Coverage Options: Nationwide car insurance review highlights coverage benefits like accident forgiveness, total loss replacement, and vanishing deductibles.
• Competitive Discounts: Provides multiple savings opportunities through their multi-policy, safe driving, bright driving, and defensive driving course initiatives.
• Reliable Claims Process: Minnesota drivers get 24/7 claims help and approved repair shop access, reinforcing Nationwide as the best car insurance in Minnesota.

Cons

• Higher Than Average Premiums: Nationwide delivers reliable policies but sets prices above other providers.
• Limited Local Agent Availability: Customers might experience difficulty locating local agents, particularly in country regions.

 

Minnesota minimum coverage requirements

From the Minnesota Marine Art Museum to Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive, there is a lot to see and do in the North Star State.

This explains why there are approximately 5 million registered vehicles on the road in Minnesota. That is almost one car for every resident.

With so many cars on the road, there are bound to be some accidents. This could leave you with a huge headache if you are forced to navigate the claims process and car insurance premium laws on your own.

Having the right car insurance provider on your side can help you cut through all the red tape and get things back to normal quickly, though.

How do you know that you have chosen the right provider? Keep reading to find out about some simple tips that can help you choose your car insurance provider with confidence.

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Getting Minnesota’s Car Insurance Coverage and Discounts

Minnesota is really a great place to live. The North Star State also cares about the safety and security of its residents, which is why it has passed legislation to ensure that all drivers in the Land of 10,000 Lakes are protected.

Knowing these requirements and who is really offering you the best price for them can be tricky, though. That is where we come in.

Car Insurance Discounts from Top Minnesota Providers

We are here to help you sort through the confusion by providing insight into all of the data you need to make an educated investment in your car insurance provider and policy.

Keep scrolling to find out just what your minimum insurance requirements, rights, and responsibilities are as a driver on Minnesota roadways.

Minnesota’s car culture

In the North Star State, the “Minnesota Nice” extends beyond the office or supermarket. This is why many tourists and newcomers to the Minnesota car culture often remark about the lack of aggression displayed on Minnesota roadways.

That is of course unless you live in Minneapolis-St. Paul, which Infoplease ranks 14th on its list of the top 25 U.S. Cities with the worst road rage.

Just because most Minnesotans aren’t as vocal as drivers in other states doesn’t mean that they aren’t silently judging your lack of driving ability, though.

All jokes aside, residents of the North Star State are great people who desire to share the road with each other and get from point A to point B with as little conflict or incident as possible.

Harsh Minnesota winters can sometimes make this a near-impossible endeavor, but the Minnesota spirit is harder than anything that Mother Nature can throw at it.

This hardy spirit has made residents of the North Star State savvy shoppers who want to get the most out of every dollar they spend.

This is why we have collected all of the information you need in one place so that you can make the best decision for yourself and your loved ones when it comes time to purchase your car insurance policy.

Minnesota’s minimum coverage requirements

Because driving conditions on the roads in Minnesota can sometimes be more hazardous than those in other places across the United States, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Servis (DVS), and the state legislature have worked together to create the minimum car insurance requirements for drivers in the North Star State.

These minimum mandatory requirements for liability coverage are as follows:

• $30,000 in bodily injury liability coverage for one person injured in an accident.
• $60,000 in bodily injury liability coverage for two or more people injured in an accident.
• $10,000 for property damages occurring as a result of an accident.

Minnesota also requires that you carry the following Personal Injury Protection coverage:

• $40,000 per person per accident
  • $20,000 for medical expenses
  • $20,000 to cover any other expenses, such as lost wages that were incurred due to a car accident

The North Star State requirements don’t stop there.

As a driver in Minnesota, you are also required to carry the following amounts in Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage:

• $25,000 to cover injuries to one person for both UM and UMI
• $50,000 to cover injuries to two or more people for UM and UMI

With so much coverage required by the North Star State, you will definitely want to be sure that you are getting the most for your money when you purchase your car insurance policy.

You will also want to make sure that you have the proper forms of financial responsibility should you get pulled over or be involved in an accident.

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Form of financial responsibility

The Minnesota Legislature has mandated that:

No motor carrier and no interstate carrier shall operate a vehicle until it has obtained and has in effect the minimum amount of financial responsibility required.

This is part of the statutes that define Minnesota’s financial responsibility laws.

Simply put, the financial responsibility laws in the North Star State mandate that all drivers carry the minimum amount of coverage required by law and have proof of insurance to demonstrate their compliance with the law.

This is why forms of financial responsibility are often called proof of insurance. Drivers use them to prove that they have a valid car insurance policy or surety bond.

A surety bond is also referred to as an SR-22 insurance form, and it may be required if you have an accident or other driving offenses on your record.

If asked to provide proof of insurance in the North Star State you can always present your physical policy which will tell the demanding part that your policy is valid.

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, you also have two other ways that you can prove that you are within the letter of the la,w which are:

• An e-insurance card that can be accessed through your auto insurance provider’s app on your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or other electronic devices.
• A printed copy of your Insurance ID Card is usually mailed to you shortly after you purchase your policy or emailed to you so that you can print it out at your convenience.

Be aware that Minnesota does have penalties if you fail to present the proper proof of insurance.

Some of these penalties may include:

• A misdemeanor charge
• A $200 fine
• Community service

Why would you risk it, though, when modern-day conveniences have made proving your financial responsibility so easy?

Percentage of income spent on premiums

Now that you know what is expected of you as a driver on Minnesota’s roadways it is time to start crunching numbers.

According to Business Insider, Minnesota ranks 19th in the nation in terms of the amount Americans pay for car insurance premiums annually.

The Insurance Information Institute (III) also ranks North Star State 39th nationally for average expenditures for auto insurance.

This is good news for residents of the North Star State because it means that, overall, the cost of car insurance in Minnesota is below the national average.

Car insurance rates have remained pretty consistent as a percentage of income over the last few years as well.

On average, around 2.01 percent of every Minnesotan’s annual disposable income is spent on car insurance.

With a per capita disposable income of $42,516 per year earned by residents of the North Star State, and $875.49 of that being spent to maintain insurance on your vehicle, this means that the average cost for a Minnesotan is around $73 of their $3,543 monthly budget to drive in the Land of 10,00 Lakes.

The price of car insurance is also higher than it is in both Wisconsin and Iowa whose residents pay around $717 and $684 respectively for the car insurance coverage annually.

This is why it is so important to get the best price when shopping for your car insurance policy in the North Star State.

The average monthly car insurance rates in MN (liability, collision, comprehensive)

Finding out how you can get the most for your money when shopping for your car insurance policy means understanding what is required of you as a vehicle owner in Minnesota.

Car Insurance Monthly Rates by State & Coverage Level

The rates reflected above are from the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s (NAIC) 2014/2015 Auto Insurance Database Report, which could mean that the rates in 2019 are slightly higher.

Because rates can sometimes fluctuate, it pays to shop around for your car insurance policy. Part of this process is becoming a well-informed consumer.

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Additional coverage for best car insurance in Minnesota

When deciding which car insurance provider is right for you, core coverage is not the only consideration.

In fact, sometimes it pays to have more auto insurance coverage than just what the state requires.

This is why insurers in the North Star State provide you with the following additional coverage options:

• Umbrella Insurance: This type of liability coverage protects you in the event that you find yourself being sued as a result of an accident and the underlying policy limits have been exhausted.
• Collision Coverage: This addition to your policy covers you if you hit another vehicle, your vehicle is hit by someone else, you hit a stationary object, or your vehicle rolls over unintentionally.
• Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage protects you from damage caused by vandalism, theft, natural disasters, or animal strikes.

Given that animal strikes are common at certain times of the year in the North Star State, it could prove useful to invest in additional liability options.

When deciding on additional coverage options, it is always a good idea to consider the loss ratio of the companies with which you are considering doing business.

Take a look at the table below to see the loss ratio trends for Minnesota.

Minnesota Car Insurance Loss Ratios (2022–2024)

As you can see, Minnesota made a major turnaround in MedPay’s loss ratio. What does this mean to you? It means that Minnesota car insurance companies are constantly amending their business practices to improve the market’s overall health.

Looking at the loss ratio trends gives you an indication of how the car insurance market as a whole is performing in the North Star State.

• A High Loss Ratio (over 100 percent) means that companies are losing money because they are paying out too many claims in comparison to the amount of premium they are collecting, which might cause them financial trouble in the long term.
• A Low Loss Ratio indicates that these companies might have over-priced their auto insurance policies or overestimated the number and severity of claims they expected to receive.

The gains in MedPay are really good news for the health of Minnesota’s overall insurance market.

The loss ratios for uninsured/underinsured motorists (UM/UIM) are also good news, considering that 11.5 percent of all drivers in the North Star State are uninsured, ranking Minnesota 27th in the nation.

Keep reading to find out about other ways to guard against unseen events.

Add-ons and endorsements for the best car insurance in Minnesota

Minnesotans do not just have insurance options when it comes to additional liability coverage.

When purchasing your car insurance policy in the North Star State, you also have a variety of add-ons and endorsements to choose from.

The options can help you pay for things like a mechanical breakdown or renting a car, and they can help you protect yourself in the case of a total loss.

Some of the most popular add-ons and endorsement options in the North Star State include:

• Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP)-If your car is ever stolen or totaled in an accident, this add-on can help you cover the loss by paying off the lease or loan.
• Rental Reimbursement-Should you ever find yourself in need of a rental car after an accident while your car is being repaired it will be nice to know that this nifty add-on has your back.
• Emergency Roadside Assistance – Getting caught on the side of the road is no fun. This type of add-on can take away some of the pain of getting a flat or needing a tow if your car ever breaks down while you are behind the wheel.
• Non-Owner Car Insurance – Don’t own a car but still enjoy driving once in a while? This add-on is perfect for you then because it offers you liability coverage even if the car you are driving isn’t registered to you.
• Mechanical Breakdown Insurance – This type of coverage can help you make up the difference in the cost of repair bills should you ever need help.
• Classic Car Insurance – Classic cars need special care and special coverage. This type of add-on is perfect for protecting your prized possession.
• Modified Car Insurance – If you like to soup up your wheels then this type of coverage can help cover the cost of repairing the modifications that you have made should they become damaged in a crash.

The type of car you drive, or the possibility of a mechanical breakdown are not the only things that you should consider as you construct a car insurance policy that suits all of your needs.

Sometimes, just being who you are can impact how much you will pay, which is why it is best to shop around. Keep reading to find out how you can help keep your rates down no matter who you are.

The average monthly car insurance rates by age & gender in MN

No matter your age or gender, most of us will eventually need to buy car insurance. When it comes time to make your purchase, you will want to know just how these things will impact you.

According to the Consumer Federation of America:

48 percent of Americans think auto insurers charge men more for coverage than women, while only 23 percent of mericans think that women are chargesd more.

The reality is that women are more likely to pay more, according to their 2017 study.

As you can see from the table above, no matter what their gender is, teenaged drivers are still the most expensive people to insure.

The ability of car insurance companies to use gender as a factor for setting your rates is also a hotly debated issue among people such as University of Minnesota Law School professor Daniel Schwarcz who believes that:

If companies are not allowed to use “outdated stereotypes based on generalities” about men and women, the insurers will have to consider “more directly” such measures as the number if miles driven, the number of years customers have been driving, and where they live.

Many drivers agree with this as well.

For now, age and gender are still allowed to be considered in the North Star State. They are not the only things under consideration, though.

Some of those direct measures that Daniel Schwarcz discussed are factors as well.

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The cheapest car insurance rates by ZIP code in Minnesota

Most people don’t realize that their car insurance rates can be impacted just by the neighborhood that they call home. Sometimes just crossing the street into a new ZIP code can make a world of difference. Take a look at the tables below to find out what we mean.

As the largest city in Minnesota, Minneapolis boasts no less than 68 ZIP codes. Not all people in these ZIP codes pay the same for car insurance, though.

The data reveals that Minneapolis residents who live near the U.S. Bank Stadium pay an average of $6,385, while those who reside near North Commons Park pay almost $300 more.

If you move into the Minneapolis neighborhood near Lyndale Farmstead Park, though, you will be paying about $200 less than those by U.S. Bank Stadium.

Your neighborhood is not the only geographic factor that car insurance companies consider when determining how much you will pay for your policy. Sometimes the city that you love can cost you big bucks as well.

The cheapest car insurance rates by city in Minnesota

From sights along the Mighty Mississippi as it meanders through Minneapolis-St. Paul to the tiny town of Funkley, where Funkley Bar becomes City Hall when the City Council meets, the North Star State has some of the most beautiful and interesting cities in the nation.

The city that you call home could be working against you when it comes time to buy car insurance though.

This is why having the right information in your hands as you determine which car insurance provider is right for you could help you avoid a costly mistake when investing in your policy.

We have put the research together for you that could help you invest wisely. Take a look at the tables below to see just what residents of your hometown are paying for their car insurance policies.

With a population of around 18,000, it is no wonder that car insurance rates in Albert Lea are so cheap compared to the sprawling city of Minneapolis where Minnesotans pay over $2,000 more on average.

More people means more cars on the road which explains the drastic difference in the prices of premiums between Albert Lea and Minneapolis since more cars usually translate into more accidents.

With more accidents comes more claims filed against car insurance companies, leading to an increase in rates for everyone.

Should you ever find yourself in the unfortunate position of needing to file a claim, you will want a great car insurance provider on your side. That is where we come in.

The best car insurance companies in Minnesota

With so many car insurance companies in Minnesota, it can be difficult to determine which provider is right for you. Having trusted agencies like AM Best and JD Power look out for you makes it easier, though. Take a look at what they have to say about the top companies in the North Star State.

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The financial rating of the largest auto insurance companies

As the only worldwide company to have a singular focus on the insurance market, AM Best has become one of the most trusted agencies in the global insurance market used by such organizations as the National Association of Auto Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).

The table below shows you how they have rated the biggest insurance providers in the North Star State.

808-Imported-from-Manual-Input-2019-10-24.csv

When you choose a company that has been given an A++ rating and/or a stable outlook by AM Best you are choosing a company that has a good loss ratio and a great outlook for future growth and prosperity.

Understanding a company’s financial stability and loss ratio can help you choose a car insurance provider that will be more likely to pay out your claim should you ever need to file one.

Companies that have the best ratings in car insurance

Just like AM Best has your back when it comes to understanding the car insurance market and its overall viability so too does JD Power, and what they have found is that customer satisfaction ratings with car insurance providers are at a record high.

Buying car insurance in Minnesota isn’t always as great as the perfect pan of “Hot Dish. Making sure that you have all the information you need to make an educated decision before purchasing your car insurance policy can make the experience a more pleasant one though.

Companies with the most complaints

Before you choose a car insurance provider to help protect you and your family it is a good idea to find out what their complaint ratio is.

This complaint ratio can help you determine where each car insurance provider in your area stands in relation to its competitors. This can save you money by giving you insight into who is competing for your business.

The baseline for the complaint ratio is 1.0. This means that the higher the complaint ratio is above the baseline of 1.0, the higher the number of complaints against a car insurance company.

Below is a list of the top ten car insurance companies in the North Star State, along with their complaint ratios, so you can see how each one performs.

809-Minn-Complaint-Ratio-2019-10-24.csv

Don’t let the raw numbers fool you. Just because a company has a high complaint ratio doesn’t mean that they are terrible to do business with.

When looking at the complaint ratio, you have to consider the company’s market share to get a fuller picture.

Looking at the table in this light reveals that although American Family Insurance Group has a complaint ratio that is a bit on the high side also has a higher portion of the market share. More market share means more customers which means a higher possibility for complaints overall.

We truly hope that you never need to file a complaint against your car insurance provider, but if it should come to that, the state of Minnesota has a few ways for you to do so.

Some of these ways include:

• Online at https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/file-a-complaint/
• Email your questions to [email protected]
• By Mail at 85 7th Place East, Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101

Now that you are gaining a better grasp of how to use the loss ratio and complaint ratio to negotiate a better price on your car insurance policy it is time to start looking at what those companies are charging for coverage.

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The cheapest companies in Minnesota

Every good shopper knows that you never take the first price given to you if you can help it. Being able to haggle means knowing what all of the competitors on the market are charging for the same goods or services. We are here to help you with that.

The table below gives you a glimpse into what the biggest competitors in your area are charging on average. This is information that can help you gain the upper hand when shopping for your car insurance policy.

810-Minn-chae-co-2019-10-24.csv

Knowing how far your dollar will stretch with each competitor on the market can help you save money.

Before you become a customer, though, you will want to know how each of these companies determines your rates.

We have talked a little about your age and gender, as well as how where you live can impact your rates. Did you know that how much you drive can also play a role in how companies decide how much they should charge you? Keep reading to find out more.

Commute rates by company in Minnesota

Driving is a game of chance for the most part. One thing that you can pretty much count on, though, is the fact that the more you drive, the higher your insurance premiums will most likely be. This is why it pays big dividends sometimes to shop before you buy.

Across the country, car insurance providers charge customers based on the number of miles that these customers travel annually, and looking at the numbers reveals that residents of the North Star State really are on the go.

More people on the roads means a greater chance of traffic incidents, which can lead to higher rates. This is why car insurance providers consider how much you drive when determining your premiums.

811-Minn-commute-2019-10-24.csv

The table reveals that car insurance companies in Minnesota are pretty fair when it comes to charging you for every mile you drive. This is where a fine eye for detail comes in, though.

Choosing a company like State Farm or USAA could save you money no matter how long your commute is because they are both the lowest-priced carriers in this category, and their rates do not fluctuate much with every mile you put behind you.

Keep in mind though that these companies might also have a complaint ratio or loss ratio that might cause you to reconsider so getting all of your ducks in a row before targeting an insurance provider is always the best decision.

The coverage level rates by the company in Minnesota

Understanding where you live, who you are, and how healthy a particular car insurance company might be is only part of the process of purchasing your car insurance policy.

You will also need to consider just how much coverage you need and find out what that coverage is going to cost you. The table below can help you get started.

812-Minn-cost-by-coverage-level-2019-10-24.csv

It goes without saying that the higher your coverage level is the more money you will pay out for car insurance premiums. That is not all there is to it, though.

For instance, a new car may require more coverage, while an older car with high mileage might require less. The price for these coverage amounts might also be influenced by another factor, such as where you live or the length of your commute.

Another one of these factors is your driving record, of course. But did you know that things like your education level and credit score can also impact how much you pay? Keep reading to find out how.

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Credit-based insurance rates for each company in Minnesota

Your actions on the road have obvious consequences when it comes to paying for car insurance. However, your financial habits can also play a significant role.

According to a 2015 article published by Consumer Reports, car dealerships and credit card companies use your credit score to determine your risk level:

Car insurers are also rifling through your credit files to…predict the odds that you’ll file a claim.

This means that too many unpaid or delinquent bills on your credit report could cost you big time when it comes time to purchase your car insurance policy.

844-Minn-Credit-2019-10-24.csv

People with better credit scores get better rates on car insurance because it is assumed by the car insurance provider that if a person with good credit has an accident they will most likely pay out-of-pocket rather than filing a claim.

This doesn’t mean that maintaining a clean driving record doesn’t have its advantages, though.

Keep scrolling to find out some of the ways that defensive driving and responsible behavior behind the wheel can save you money on car insurance.

Driving record rates by the company in Minnesota

What you do behind the wheel in the North Star State is important, not just for the safety of others with who you share the road.

Your behavior behind the wheel can also cost you more money when it comes time to invest in car insurance. Take a look at the table below to see how.

845-Min-Driving-Record-2019-10-24.csv

The drastic difference in rates between a driver with a clean record and one who might have one speeding ticket or accident illustrates how important it is to exercise good driving habits while on Minnesota roadways.

If you think your driving skills need work, the North Star State also has a list of approved accident prevention courses.

You can also request a certified copy of your Minnesota driving record by printing out the request form and mailing it to the Driver and Vehicle Services Unit at 445 Minnesota Street, Suite 161, St. Paul, MN, 55101-5161.

You can request one online for your convenience as well.

Largest car insurance providers in Minnesota

We have talked a little bit about market share, which is the percentage of the overall market that is controlled by a particular car insurance company.

Market share is much more than that, though. It is the key to unlocking the way that loss ratios and complaint ratios work to save you money on car insurance by examining how market share relates to direct premiums written.

846-Minn-Market-Share-2019-10-24.csv

As you can see from the table, State Farm holds the largest share of the Minnesota car insurance market, with almost $900,000 in Direct Premiums Written.

This indicates that the car insurance market as a whole is pretty healthy in the North Star State, which translates into safety for you as a consumer once you purchase your car insurance policy. These companies write new policies as a means of growth rather than raising their rates to increase their bottom line.

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The number of insurers by state

Minnesota has 39 domestic insurers and 816 foreign ones all operating in the North Star State. That is 855 options for car insurance companies in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

So what is the difference between the two? Simply states:

• A domestic insurer is one that has been formed under the laws of the state of Minnesota.
• A foreign insurer is one formed under the laws of any state, district, territory, or commonwealth of the United States other than the state of Minnesota.

Both types of insurers must adhere to the laws that govern car insurance providers in the North Star State, no matter where they are formed, so the choice between one or the other is a personal one.

Dealing with either type of insurer is easier, though, when you understand the laws under which they are formed and the ones that they must comply with.

Minnesota state laws

Trying to navigate your way through all of the laws that govern car insurance in the North Star State can be a confusing and frustrating task. Attempting to understand just which laws apply to who after an accident can complicate things even more.

Gaining a good grasp of these laws before you are ever involved in an accident can help. This is where we come in.

We are here to guide you through the ins and outs of Minnesota laws concerning car insurance so that, should you ever need to negotiate them, you won’t find yourself drowning in legal jargon and feeling deflated like an old tire on the side of the road.

Car insurance laws

We have already discussed the minimum requirements for car insurance coverage in the North Star State. Did you know that there are insurance requirements for registering a vehicle and age-related factors for getting your driver’s license in Minnesota too?

Almost every aspect of vehicle ownership and operation in the North Star State is regulated to keep drivers, passengers, and the population at large protected against injury, loss, or damage.

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Determining state laws

You may be wondering just who is responsible for writing the laws that govern car ownership, vehicle registration, and driver’s licenses in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Like all other laws in Minnesota, the laws and regulations for such things begin in the various chambers and sub-committees that make up the Minnesota State Legislature.

The State Legislature, in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Commerce, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation have come together to determine the various safety, vehicle registration, driver’s license, and insurance laws in the North Star State.

Chief among these, when it comes to car insurance, is that Minnesota has been designated as a “No-Fault” state.

What this means is that:

Certian expenses resulting from the personal injuries of a car owner, the owner’s family, and the driver and occupants of the owner’s car are paid by the car owner’s insurance company regardless of who is at fault in causing an auto accident.

This system is designed so that the delay in the ability to pay for medical or rehabilitation services after an accident is minimized.

After the passage of the laws that designated Minnesota as a “No-Fault” state, companies operating in the North Star State were asked to sign the No-Fault-Certificate Form. This form stated that:

These companies formally agreed to provide Minnesota no-fault benefits to their non-Minnesota insureds if those insureds are involved in an accident while driving their vehicle in Minnesota.

This means that all drivers and passengers involved in a car accident with a Minnesota driver will be covered.

Getting Windshield Coverage

Accidents are not the only thing that the right car insurance provider can help you pay for. Damage to your windshield is also covered under certain provisions within your standard car insurance policy.

This is important to know, considering that in Minnesota:

It is illegal to drive a vehicle if the windshield is discolored or cracked in a way that limits the driver’s clear view.

If you are found in violation, you could be subject to citations and fees.

When it comes time to repair your windshield you do have the right to choose who provides you with service. Keep in mind, though, that if you choose a vendor who is not preferred by your car insurance provider, you might be stuck paying the difference in cost.

Getting High-Risk Auto Insurance

The more tickets, accidents, and claims that you have, the higher your rates are going to be. That is just an unavoidable fact of driving, no matter which state you live in.

If you live in the North Star State, though, you could be required to obtain an SR-22 form if you are determined to be a high-risk driver.

While there is no state requirement in Minnesota regarding the SR22 form, you could be required to obtain a certificate of insurance to get your license reinstated if it is revoked.

The North Star State also has the Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan which is meant to provide insurance for drivers who cannot obtain car insurance on the open market due to the risk that they propose to car insurance providers.

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Getting Low-Cost Insurance

Drivers who pose a greater risk to the bottom line of insurance companies are not the only ones who have specific protections under Minnesota state laws and provisions.

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, the Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan also assists low-income drivers who need a fair price on car insurance.

Automobile insurance fraud in Minnesota

Because Minnesota is a no-fault state, the chances of insurance fraud being committed in the North Star State are increased.

In fact, according to Consumer Watchdog:

No-fault’s mandatory payments create incentives to increase medical treatment and encourage fraud for those people without other forms of health coverage.

This increase in fraudulent claims is one of the reasons why car insurance rates in no-fault states like Minnesota are generally higher.

Some opponents to the no-fault system also believe that when you limit a person’s responsibility for their poor driving habits, you are actually encouraging them to behave recklessly behind the wheel since the financial responsibility for causing an accident will not fall on them as the at-fault driver.

Reckless drivers or people without health insurance are not the only ones who may be responsible for committing fraud.

According to III, fraud may also be committed by:

• Applicants for insurance
• Policy-holders
• Third-party claimants
• Doctors or other healthcare professionals who might inflate the billing costs
• Repair shops and mechanics who claim damage in excess of what is actually present or who claim previous damages on a new claim

These are just some of the people or vendors who might be liable for committing insurance fraud. To be safe, you should always keep track of all transactions and billing invoices after a car accident.

Penalties for committing insurance fraud could include:

• 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 for a charge of fraud where the value is up to $500
• Up to 5 years in jail and a fine of no more than $10,000 for a charge of fraud where the value is between $1,000 and $5,000
• Up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $20,000 for a charge of fraud where the value is between $5,000 and $35,000
• 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000 for a charge of fraud where the value is more than $35,000

If you think that you have been the victim of fraud, you can visit the Minnesota Attorney General’s website and report it to the authorities.

Statute of limitations

The statute of limitations on claims of insurance fraud begins the moment a loss occurs and lasts 7 years.

Fraud cases are not the only things that have a statute of limitations, though. There is also a statute of limitations on how long you have to report a claim after a traffic accident or incident.

NOLO states that if you are injured in a car accident, you have a two-year statute of limitations to file a claim, which begins to run from the date of the accident.

Wrongful death claims have a three-year statute of limitations that also begins to run from the date of the accident.

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Specific Minnesota driving laws

Minnesotans aren’t serious all of the time, as the law that states that you can not cross state lines with a duck on your head proves.

The North Star state also has a strange law that says that all bathtubs must have feet. You are also not allowed to park your elephant on Main Street. Okay, so the last one was just an old Minnesota urban legend.

A law that is not an urban legend states that it is perfectly legal to drive in reverse without a seatbelt on. It is illegal, though, to drive down Lake Street in Minneapolis in a red car.

Zipper-merging is not law, though, but it is strongly recommended by MnDOT.

There are many other general traffic regulations in Minnesota as well, which can be found in more detail on the Minnesota Legislature website.

Vehicle licensing laws in Minnesota

Minnesota does not just have general traffic regulations or car insurance laws on the books. The North Star State also has laws that determine the requirements for registering your vehicle in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Some of these requirements may include the following:

• Presenting the foreign state title of a vehicle previously registered or purchased out-of-state
• Providing an odometer reading
• Presenting your driver’s license or state-issued ID
• And presenting proof of insurance

 

The North Star State also participates in the REAL ID program, which requires that you bring specific forms of identification when seeking your Minnesota driver’s license or state ID with the REAL ID endorsement attached to it.

A printable version of the REAL ID identification and accepted documents list can be found on the Minnesota DVS website.

Penalties for driving without insurance

Just like there are penalties for driving with an expired tag in Minnesota there are also penalties for driving without car insurance.

For your first offense, you could be fined between $200 to $1000 or be given community service. You could also face imprisonment for up to 90 days.

Why risk it, though, when you have all of the information you need right here to make an educated decision that could save you money when purchasing your car insurance policy?

Should you get pulled over or need to prove that you have car insurance to register a vehicle, the North Star State allows you to use the following ways to prove your financial responsibility:

• A printed car insurance ID card
• An e-insurance card which can be presented on your cell phone or other handheld devices

In addition to laws that govern the requirements for registering a vehicle in Minnesota, the North Star State also has laws that regulate who can become a licensed driver in the state.

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Teen driver laws

Most teenagers can’t wait to experience the freedom that the open road provides. In Minnesota, though, that freedom has limits.

Some of these limits dictate the hours that teenagers can be on the road. For instance, for the first 6 months of licensure, a teenager can not drive between the hour of 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.

There are also passenger limits for that first 6 month period which limits the number of passengers in a teenaged driver’s car to 1 person under the age of 20. For the second 6 months that limit increases to 3.

Cell phone use and texting are also completely illegal for drivers under the age of 18 unless they are dialing 911.

Any underage driver who is caught drinking and driving is also subject to the regular DWI laws and sanctions mandated by the state of Minnesota.

Teenagers in Minnesota can obtain their Instructional Permit at age 15 with parental consent. This type of license requires that a licensed adult over the age of 21 be in the vehicle with them when it is in operation.

At 16 years of age, a Minnesota teen can apply for their Provisional License. They must have 40 hours of logged supervised driving hours prior to application though.

The person who signed the driving log must also have completed a 90-minute supplemental parental curriculum unless the teenager has 50 hours of logged practice behind the wheel.

A full, unrestricted driver’s license becomes an option upon the teenager’s 18th birthday. This is, of course, if the teenager does not have any legal restrictions attached to their driving records, such as suspensions or revocations.

Driver’s license renewal procedures

Teen drivers are not the only ones with some restrictions on the way that they obtain and maintain their driver’s license in the North Star State.

The general population is required to renew their Minnesota driver’s license every four years and must do so in person every time because they must prove that they have adequate vision to operate a motor vehicle.

Older drivers are subject to the same renewal regulations as well. The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety also offers a four-hour Defensive Driving Training Course for folks over age 55 at a variety of locations.

The State of Minnesota Department of Public Safety offers some tips and considerations for older drivers and/or their family members who might be concerned with safety while on the road in the North Star State as well.

The Hartford also offers tips for talking to aging family members about the possibility that they might not be the safest when they are behind the wheel.

Getting older doesn’t mean that you become a bad driver. It just means that, as the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety points out:

Older drivers are morelike.y to get killed or injured because they are more likely to become physically fragile and less able to recover from injuries.

The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety also notes that one out of every four traffic fatalities in Minnesota traffic is a person over the age of 65 so be careful out there.

Procedure of car insurance for new residents in Minnesota

Teenage drivers and older Minnesotans are not the only ones that are subject to specific types of license renewal procedures of driving laws.

New residents of the North Star State must also meet their own requirements to become legally sanctioned drivers in Minnesota.

According to the Minnesota Department of Human Services, you are considered a resident of Minnesota based on the following criteria:

• If you are physically present in the state
• If you reside in Minnesota voluntarily and do not maintain a home elsewhere and have done so for 30 days

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety then requires that you obtain insurance before registering your vehicle in the North Star State and that you pass a knowledge test regarding Minnesota’s driving laws if you have a valid license from another state.

As a new resident, you will need to:

• Complete the Minnesota Driver’s License Application
• Present one primary and one secondary form of identification
• Present your license from your previous state of residence
• Pass the vision test

If you would like to study the Minnesota driving laws before attempting to obtain your driver’s license in the North Star State the Minnesota DVS has an online driver’s handbook to help you.

Now that you know how to get your driver’s license and register your vehicle, it is time for us to help you understand how to keep them in good standing. This means understanding just what types of things the driving and safety laws in Minnesota prohibit.

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Negligent operator treatment system

Unlike most states, Minnesota does not operate under a point system. Instead, the North Star State depends on the Minnesota Safe and Sober Campaign.

Just because the North Star State does not mean that you can drive like a maniac. The Minnesota Department of Driver and Vehicle Services will still suspend your driver’s license if you get too many moving violations in a said amount of time.

The Minnesota DVS considers the following as major violations:

• Reckless Driving
• Not carrying enough insurance
• Driving under the Influence (DUI)

Minnesota DVS also considers the following as non-moving violations but still ticket-worthy offenses:

• Inattentive driving
• Driving while talking on your cell phone
• Driving without a seatbelt

If your driver’s license is suspended or revoked, you can visit the Minnesota DVS online portal to pay the reinstatement fees.

The rules of the road

Don’t let Minnesota’s lack of a point system fool you. If you get too many tickets or have too many accidents, your car insurance rates will go up. This an evitable rule of the road.

There are also plenty of other rules for driving on Minnesota’s roadways.

Knowing what these rules are and following them can help you immensely when it comes time to purchase your car insurance policy.

Keep scrolling to find out all the information you need to be a well-informed and safe driver when out on the Minnesota highway.

Minessota: A no-fault or at-fault state

You already know that Minnesota is a no-fault state. What does this mean to you, though, if you are ever involved in an accident?

What this means to you as a driver in the North State is that if you are ever in an accident, your own car insurance coverage will be responsible for paying your medical bills regardless of who caused the crash.

These bills will be paid out of your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage benefits.

Under PIP, you can not get paid for pain and suffering or any other non-monetary damages.

According to NOLO:

No-Fault/PIP also does not appply to a motorcyclist’s injuries after and accident in Minnesota.

These rules are vastly different from the ones in an at-fault state where all medical and damage payments are initially made by the insurance company of the driver who is deemed to be at fault for a car accident.

Whether you live in a no-fault state like Minnesota or an at-fault state like Texas, there are certain rules of the road that cross state lines. Seatbelt laws are among these. The requirements and penalties vary by stat,e though.

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Seat belt and car seat laws in Minnesota

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), driving without a seat belt is a primary offense as of June 6, 2009.

This means that you can be pulled over and ticketed for no other reason than other than not having yourself or your passengers properly secured by a seat belt or child safety restraint device.

Minnesota law requires that children 7 years or younger who are more than 57 inches tall wear a seat belt at all times. The fine for failing to comply is $25.

If the child is less than 8 years old and less than 57 inches tall, they must be in a child safety seat. If you break this law you will be fined $50.

The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety also states that there is no law against children on the front seat; although the rear seat is always the safest place for them.

The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety also warns that all passengers of all ages must be legally restrained while in a motor vehicle, and any unbelted passenger who is over the age of 15 will be ticketed directly.

Riding in the cargo area of a pickup truck is legal in the Land of 10,000 Lakes according to AAA.

The keep right and move over laws in Minnesota

While almost everyone knows that they are supposed to buckle up when riding in a moving vehicle, a lot of people don’t realize that it is illegal to camp out in the left lane in Minnesota if you are traveling slower than the rest of the traffic.

This law is designed to reduce the number of accidents by limiting the number of lane changes made by faster-moving drivers.

The North Star State also has a Move Over Law aimed at keeping law enforcement and emergency services personnel safe when operating on the side of the road.

Specifically, the law states that if the road has more than two lanes, you must keep over one full lane from stopped emergency vehicles with their lights engaged. If you can not move over, you must reduce your rate of speed.

You can be fined in excess of $100 if you fail to do so.

Speed limit in Minnesota

The North Star State recognizes speed as one of its major issues when it comes to highway safety. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety even released a fact sheet on the topic which states that between 2013 and 2017:

Fatalities resultung from speed-related crashes costs Minnesota over $639 million.

Speed increases the chances that you will lose control of your vehicle or fail to stop in time if the driver in front of you suddenly brakes.

Because Minnesota recognizes the dangers of excess speed, the Minnesota Department of Transportation has set out some of the following speed limits:

• 10 MPH in alleys
• 30 MPH on urban streets
• 55 MPH on most other roadways
• 65 MPH on expressways and urban interstates
• 70 MPH on rural interstates

School zones in Minnesota have a speed limit of no less than 15 MPH but no more than 30.

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Ridesharing overview

One of the most popular ways to get around these days is through Ridesharing. Companies such as Uber and Lyft just pick you up and handle all of the traffic headaches for you.

Ridesharing does not come without insurance and other regulations, though.

Investopedia points out that drivers of Rideshare vehicles used to be forced to get commercial insurance. That is now a thing of the past.

Many major car insurance companies are now offering Rideshare policies or allowing policyholders to add them to their traditional ones.

Be aware, though, that if you get caught driving for a rideshare company and you haven’t notified your car insurance carrier of your intentions to use your private passenger vehicle for that purpose, your coverage could be dropped.

Automation on the road in Minnesota

Like Rideshare, Automated Vehicles are all the rage these days. The idea that the future is now is fascinating, but self-driving cars do not come without risks.

These risks have caused the Governor of Minnesota to issue an Executive Order on the matter.

In this EO, the governor created an advisory board to develop recommendations for changes in the state’s laws, rules, and policies regarding autonomous technology.

It seems then that in this area, there is still more to come, so stay tuned.

Safety laws in Minnesota

A number of laws are on the books in the North Star State, designed to keep you and others safe on Minnesota roadways.

Some of these laws deal with speeding, which we have talked about a little. Others concern DUIs and distracted driving.

As a responsible citizen, you will want to keep yourself up-to-date on all of these laws. Keep scrolling to get the latest information to keep you safe.

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DUI laws in Minnesota

Drinking and driving statistics in the North Star State are nothing to celebrate. This is especially true when you consider that in 2017 alone, 85 people lost their lives to drunk driving accidents in Minnesota, according to Responsibility.org.

This places Minnesota just under the national average for total fatalities related to alcohol-impaired driving for that year by only 6 percent.

According to the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety, the legal limit in the North Star State is 0.08 BAC.

The typical penalty for a first-time offense is the loss of your license for a minimum of 30 days and possible jail time.

You will also be responsible for your court costs and legal fees, which could drive the price even higher.

Your BAC could also determine just how stiff the penalty for drinking and driving is, leading you to install an Ignition Interlock Device.

NOLO also points out that in order to regain your license, you could be charged a reinstatement fee and surcharge of upwards of $680.

No price is higher than the potential for the loss of human life, so don’t drink and drive.

Marijuana-impaired driving laws in Minnesota

While many states are legalizing the use of marijuana, Minnesota is not one of them.

Even though it is illegal to possess or use marijuana in the North Star State, there are no specific driving laws related to being caught while under the influence.

I don’t think that you can get away with doing it, though. If you are caught driving while under the effects of marijuana, you will be charged under the state’s laws that govern DUIs.

Some of these penalties include:

• First Offense: Fine of up to $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail with a license suspension of up to 180 days
• Second Offense: A minimum of 30 days in jail or community service and up to a 1-year license suspension
• Third Offense: A minimum of 90 days in jail and up to 2 years of a license suspension

Like drinking and driving, driving under the influence of Marijuana is not worth the risk, so just don’t do it.

Distracted driving laws in Minnesota

The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety has enacted rules and regulations regarding distracted driving that you should be aware of.

It is specifically against the law to:

• Read, compose, or send a text or email or access the internet using a wireless device while in motion. This includes sitting at a traffic light.
• Use a cell phone if you are driving a school bus.
• There is also a total ban on cell phone use for teen drivers with their permits or provisional licenses.

According to The Capital View, as of August 1, 2019, Minnesota will also be one of 17 states that are now totally hands-free.

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Driving in Minnesota overview

With distracted drivers and DUI offenders on the road in Minnesota, on occasion, driving in the North Star State does not come without risk.

There are also risks that come with owning a vehicle that has nothing to do with what happens while you are behind the wheel

Sometimes just parking your car in the wrong place can cause a nightmare. Keep reading to find out some of the ways that you can prevent loss of life and property in the North Star State.

Is there vehicle theft in Minnesota?

The number one car stolen in the state of Minnesota is the Honda Civic.

Just because your vehicle didn’t make the top 10 doesn’t mean that it can’t be stolen. Like Mother Nature, car thieves aren’t picky.

Just because Mother Nature and car thieves aren’t discerning customers doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be. As a smart shopper, you might want to consider comprehensive coverage to protect you and your car from things like car thieves and natural disasters.

Vehicle theft rates in each city

The table below shows which cities in the North Star State have the highest incidents of Vehicle theft according to the FBI database.

As you can see, Minneapolis-St. Paul’s area made the top of the list. That does not make it inherently more dangerous, though.

There are more people concentrated in this area than in the rest of the state, which means that there is more potential for theft or accidents.

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Number of road fatalities in Minnesota

The possibility of a road fatality is one of the hardest realities to face when you think about what could happen behind the wheel. This is why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) collects crash reports.

We have sorted through the NHTSA reports for you to help you understand just why traffic fatalities occur and how to prevent them. Keep scrolling to find out just how the time of day or the amount of snow on the road can change driving conditions for the worse.

Number of fatal crashes by weather conditions and light conditions in Minnesota

Anyone who has ever driven in the Minnesota winter knows that road conditions can deteriorate quickly.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation even offers tips for winter driving to keep you safe.

Some of these include:

• Turning on your headlights
• Turning off your cruise control
• And slowing down

There are other weather and light conditions in the North Star State that cause accidents as well.

Weather and light conditions are not the only things to consider before heading out on the road in Minnesota either.

Number of fatalities by county

Certain Counties in the North Star State are more prone to traffic fatalities. Being aware of which counties these are could help you plan ahead and be more aware of traffic conditions before heading out.

The data on the table was collected from the NHSTA website, and it reveals the five-year trend for the top 10 counties in the North Star State when it comes to traffic fatalities.

These numbers can seem a bit scary at first glance, but if you practice defensive driving and keep your eye on the road and your hands in the wheel, you are helping to keep yourself and others safe while on the road.

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Urban Vs. Rural

The NHSTA also collects data on traffic incidents and fatalities in rural versus urban areas.

Take a look at the table below to see what they have discovered when it comes to city versus country driving.

Looking at the data, the choice seems simple: Slow down, obey all traffic laws and speed limits, and never drive distracted or under the influence, no matter where you live in the North Star State.

Number of fatalities by person type

According to the NHSTA, the type of person most likely to become a traffic fatality statistic in Minnesota is a person traveling in a passenger car.

In just 2017 alone, 124 people died in these types of accidents.

Most traffic fatalities are also white-non-Hispanics. NHSTA also reported that 51 white non-Hispanic non-occupants were killed in 2016 as a result of a vehicle-involved crash.

You can help keep these numbers low by driving defensively and keeping your eyes open for pedestrians, cyclists, and everyone else that you share the road with.

Number of fatalities involving speed in Minnesota

We have already discussed how concerned the North Star State is with speeding. The NHSTA is also concerned, which is why it has collected its own data set on the impacts of speeding and the rates of traffic fatalities.

Take a look at the table below to find out how your county stacks up against others in Minnesota when it comes to the five-year trend for speeding fatalities.

Given that Hennepin County includes Minneapolis and St. Paul, it should come as no surprise that it has the most speeding-related fatalities.

Agencies like the NHSTA don’t just collect all of this data for insurance purposes either. They do it to help you stay safe while on the road.

We all have places to go and people to see though and a fatal car crash can prevent you from ever seeing y our loved ones again so please slow down when driving.

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Number of fatalities involving an alcohol-impaired person in Minnesota

The NHSTA also has data on fatalities involving an alcohol-impaired person, and the data that they have collected is startling.

Here again, Hennipen ranks as the top county for traffic fatalities. No matter which county you live in that last drink is not worth your life or the life of someone else.

Always drink responsibly, and always designate a driver.

Teen drinking and driving ranking in Minnesota

The North Start State saw 144 DUI arrests of people who were under the age of 18 in 2018.

That ranks Minnesota as 17th in the nation for teenagers who choose to drink and drive. This is one list that no state should want to be near the top on.

Teenagers who act against better judgment and get caught under the influence and behind the wheel are subject to the jurisdiction of adult courts in Minnesota if they are 16 or older.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety also notes that the North Star State follows Vanessa’s Law.

This is a law passed in honor of 15-year-old Vanessa Weiss, who was killed in 2003 by a driver who was unlicensed.

The law states that a driver caught underage drinking and driving cannot be given a license of any kind until the age of 18.

These drivers must then:

• Fulfill all reinstatement requirements, including payment of up to $60 in fees
• Pass the knowledge test
• Obtain an instructional permit and hold it incident-free for 6 months

Why be in such a hurry to grow up when it will cost you so much?

EMS response time in Minnesota

If the worst should happen and you need medical assistance after an accident it is helpful to know just how long you might have to wait.

The NHTSA estimates that in Minnesota, the wait time between the moment you call for help and when help arrives is around 10 minutes in an urban setting.

This wait time is pushed to 18 minutes in a rural setting, which is understandable considering the distance between dispatch centers and various places in rural parts of the state.

If you are involved in one of the 199 rural or 140 urban fatal car crashes, it is comforting to know that Minnesota’s emergency service personnel will arrive quickly.

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What’s the transportation system like?

The North Star State has a lot of ways to get around. From bus to boat and everything in between, Minnesotans really are on the go.

Residents of the North Star State are also fiercely independent, which explains why there are so many cars on the road.

More cars on the road mean more of a chance that you could become involved in an accident. Keep reading to discover just how many cars there are on the road in the Land of 10,000 Lakes and what that means to you when choosing the right car insurance provider.

Car ownership percentage in Minnesota

In 2017 DataUSA reported that the typical household in Minnesota owned at least two cars.

This was followed closely by households that owned three cars. Owning that many cars mean that you are going to pay more for your car insurance policy. This is why it pays to shop around.

Average commute time in Minnesota

Something else that could drive up your auto insurance rates is the amount of time that you spend driving to wherever you need to go.

As you can see, the average commute time for most Minnesotans is around 23 minutes. That pretty close to the national average. If you don’t like sitting in traffic behind the wheel there are other transportation options in the North Star State.

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Preferred commuter transportation in Minnesota

While Minnesotans have the option of both rideshare and public transit, almost 80 percent of all residents in the Land of 10,000 Lakes prefer to drive their own cars to work.

All of these cars on the road are inevitably going to lead to more congestion, and that is becoming an increasing problem for residents who make their home in the bigger cities.

Traffic congestion in Minnesota

Anyone who has ever been caught in rush hour traffic in Minneapolis knows exactly why INRIX has listed it as number 17th on its list of most congested cities in the United States. Minneapolis also ranks 85th in the world according to this same study.

Minneapolis is not the only city in Minnesota to suffer from too many cars and not enough roadway.

According to INRIX:

Americans lost an average of 97 hours a year due to congestion, costing them nearly $87 billion in 2018, an average of $1,348 per driver.

This means that Minneapolis alone is on par to beat the national average if traffic keeps at its current pace since residents there spend around 70 hours a year in traffic at a cost of about $971 per driver.

Minneapolis is not alone in its traffic woes either. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the longest average commute times were reported near Isanti.

Zipcodes near Isanti spent nearly 38 minutes in traffic, with ZIP codes near Stanchfield and Zimmerman not far behind.

Most traffic congestion occurs on Minnesota roadways during peak times, such as the morning or evening commute, and along the I-94 and 35W roadways as well.

There is some good news, though. Minneapolis did rank as the third most transit-friendly city. However, given what Data USA has demonstrated regarding the love that Minnesotans have for their personal automobiles, this isn’t likely to slow congestion growth by too much in the metro area.

With so many cars on the road, the risk of an accident increases. This is why it is so important to have the right car insurance provider on your side.

All of the information we have given you is aimed at helping you make the best choice for you and your family when it comes to picking a car insurance provider, types of coverage, and when or how you drive. Given how much time you will spend on the road shouldn’t you get the most for your money?