Montana Car Insurance: Big Sky, Big Distances, Big Risks
The state that had no speed limits until 1999—here's what you need to know about coverage.
Montana Quick Facts
🤯 The Montana Mindblower
Montana had no numeric daytime speed limits from 1995-1999—just "reasonable and prudent." The Supreme Court struck it down as unconstitutionally vague. Today's 80 mph interstate limits are still among America's highest, making comprehensive coverage essential for high-speed highway driving.
Montana Minimum Insurance Requirements
| Coverage Type | Minimum Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $25,000 | Per injured person |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $50,000 | Total per accident |
| Property Damage | $20,000 | Slightly higher than many states |
| Uninsured Motorist | Optional | Must be offered |
Average Car Insurance Costs in Montana
| Coverage Level | Annual Premium | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| State Minimum | $456 | $38 |
| Full Coverage | $1,480 | $123 |
Costs by Montana City
| City | Avg. Annual Premium | vs. State Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| Billings | $1,640 | +11% |
| Missoula | $1,520 | +3% |
| Great Falls | $1,440 | -3% |
| Bozeman | $1,580 | +7% |
| Rural Montana | $1,280 | -14% |
Montana-Specific Considerations
Wildlife Collisions—Serious Risk
Montana ranks in the top 5 states for deer-vehicle collisions. Elk and moose strikes are even more dangerous. Comprehensive coverage is essential for Montana driving.
High-Speed Highways
With 80 mph speed limits on rural interstates, accidents tend to be more severe. Higher liability limits are recommended given the speeds involved.
Winter Extremes
Montana winters are brutal. Single-vehicle accidents on icy roads are common. Collision coverage pays for these—comprehensive does not.
Modified Comparative Fault (51%)
You can recover damages if you're 50% or less at fault. At 51%+, you recover nothing.
Top Car Insurance Companies in Montana
State Farm
Largest insurer in Montana. Strong agent network.
GEICO
Often cheapest. Online service works well in remote areas.
Mountain West Farm Bureau
Regional carrier. Understands Montana's unique needs.
Farmers
Strong Western presence. Good bundling discounts.
Bottom Line: Montana Car Insurance
Montana's vast distances, high speeds, and abundant wildlife create unique insurance needs. Don't skip comprehensive coverage—animal strikes are common and expensive.
Shop State Farm, GEICO, and Mountain West Farm Bureau. Billings and Bozeman have the highest rates; rural Montana is cheapest but carries the most wildlife risk.