Delaware Car Insurance: Small State, Complex Rules
Navigate the First State's no-fault system and mandatory PIP coverage.
Delaware Quick Facts
🤯 The Delaware Mindblower
Delaware is the 2nd smallest state but has the 6th highest population density. That means lots of cars packed into tiny roads. Combined with no-fault rules and I-95 corridor traffic, premiums run higher than you'd expect for such a small state.
Delaware 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 | $10,000 | Very low—increase immediately |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | $15,000/$30,000 | Mandatory no-fault coverage |
Average Car Insurance Costs in Delaware
| Coverage Level | Annual Premium | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| State Minimum | $756 | $63 |
| Full Coverage | $1,920 | $160 |
Costs by Delaware Area
| Area | Avg. Annual Premium | vs. State Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| Wilmington | $2,240 | +17% |
| Newark | $2,080 | +8% |
| Dover | $1,840 | -4% |
| Beach Areas (Rehoboth) | $1,720 | -10% |
Delaware-Specific Considerations
No-Fault Lawsuit Threshold
Delaware uses a monetary threshold. You can sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering only if medical expenses exceed PIP limits OR you suffer permanent injury.
I-95 Corridor
Delaware sits on the busy I-95 corridor between Philadelphia and Baltimore. High traffic volume increases accident rates in northern Delaware.
Modified Comparative Fault
When you can sue (above PIP threshold), Delaware follows a 50% bar rule. You recover nothing if 50%+ at fault.
Top Car Insurance Companies in Delaware
GEICO
Often cheapest in Delaware. Strong online service.
State Farm
Largest national insurer. Good agent network.
Progressive
Competitive rates. Snapshot telematics available.
Nationwide
Strong Mid-Atlantic presence. Good bundling options.
Bottom Line: Delaware Car Insurance
Delaware's no-fault system and high population density push rates above what you'd expect for such a small state. The $10,000 PD minimum is dangerously low—increase to $50,000+.
Shop GEICO, State Farm, and Progressive. Northern Delaware (Wilmington) has the highest rates; beach communities and Dover are more affordable.