Yes, in almost every U.S. state, you can legally choose to only carry liability insurance on your car. This is often referred to as a "state minimum" policy. It's the most basic and affordable form of auto insurance because it doesn't cover your own vehicle; it only covers costs for others if you're at fault in an accident. This includes bodily injury liability (for medical expenses of other people) and property damage liability (for repairing someone else's car or property).
However, this decision carries significant financial risk. If you cause an accident, liability insurance will not pay for your own medical bills or the repairs to your car. You would be responsible for those costs out-of-pocket. This makes it a viable option primarily for older cars with very low market value, where the cost of full coverage (which includes comprehensive and collision) might exceed the car's worth.
It's also crucial to understand that each state sets its own minimum liability coverage limits, usually expressed as three numbers (e.g., 25/50/25). These limits can be surprisingly low and may not be enough to cover a serious accident, potentially leaving you personally liable for amounts that exceed your policy's cap.
| State | Minimum Bodily Injury Liability (per person / per accident) | Minimum Property Damage Liability | State Minimum Annual Premium (Estimate) |
|---|
| Florida | $10,000 / $20,000 | $10,000 | ~$850 |
| California | $15,000 / $30,000 | $5,000 | ~$650 |
| New York | $25,000 / $50,000 | $10,000 | ~$1,100 |
| Texas | $30,000 / $60,000 | $25,000 | ~$550 |
| Ohio | $25,000 / $50,000 | $25,000 | ~$450 |
Before opting for liability-only, honestly assess your financial situation. If you couldn't afford to replace your car or pay substantial medical bills unexpectedly, the higher monthly premium for full coverage might be a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.
