History

• The state of Mississippi passed a law on Feb. 23, 2000, requiring drivers to purchase minimum amounts of insurance and to also always have proof of insurance coverage in their automobiles. Despite insurance laws, WJTV reports that one in four drivers still fails to purchase any automobile insurance at all.
  
  

Types

• The insurance laws in Mississippi require drivers to maintain liability coverage. Liability insurance varies according to the amount of coverage provided. The law does not require comprehensive and collision insurance, but lien holders may require those coverages.
  
  

Features

• Mississippi drivers must purchase coverage that offers $25,000 for each person injured in an automobile accident, $25,000 for property damage caused in an accident and $50,000 for bodily injury coverage that occurs during a single accident. Liability insurance includes coverages that protect other individuals in the event that you cause an accident.
  
  

Expert Insight

• According to the Mississippi Automobile Insurance Consumer's Guide, the minimum liability requirement in Mississippi may not be enough protection when a serious accident occurs. If the bodily injuries or damages exceed the amount of insurance coverage, you can be sued for the remaining costs. The Mississippi Insurance Consumer's Guide recommends that drivers consider purchasing more than the minimum amount of liability insurance coverage.
  
  

Considerations

• Anytime a Mississippi law enforcement officer pulls over a vehicle, he will usually ask to see proof of insurance. If proof cannot be shown, he will issue a citation. Penalties for failing to purchase liability insurance in Mississippi include a $1,000 fine and license suspension for one year.