Carrying the state minimum auto insurance limits in Missouri may seem like a way to save money. But in reality, low limits can create serious financial consequences that follow you for years. If you live in Missouri, understanding how liability limits work — and what happens when they’re too low — is critical. So whe buying car insurance ask. “Are Missouri’s Minimum Auto Limits Enough?”
What Are the Minimum Auto Insurance Limits in Missouri?
Missouri currently requires drivers to carry at least:
- 25/50/25 liability limits
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
You must also carry uninsured motorist coverage.
These limits meet legal requirements. But they often do not provide adequate protection in today’s world of high medical bills, expensive vehicles, and rising lawsuit awards.
For official requirements, see the Missouri Department of Insurance.
The Real Consequences of Low Liability Limits
1. You Can Be Personally Sued
If you cause an accident and damages exceed your policy limits, you are personally responsible for the difference.
Example:
- You rear-end a newer SUV carrying a family of four.
- Total medical bills and lost wages = $180,000
- Your bodily injury limit = $50,000 per accident
Your insurance pays $50,000.
You could be personally responsible for the remaining $130,000.
That means:
- Wage garnishment
- Asset seizure
- Liens against property
- Long-term financial hardship
Missouri law allows injured parties to pursue personal assets when insurance is insufficient.
2. Modern Vehicles Are Expensive
Property damage limits are often overlooked.
Many newer vehicles easily exceed $40,000–$70,000 in value. If you carry only $25,000 in property damage coverage and total a $65,000 vehicle, you could owe $40,000 out of pocket.
And that doesn’t include:
- Multiple vehicles
- Guardrails or public property damage
- Commercial vehicles
3. Medical Costs Are Higher Than Ever
Emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term care add up quickly.
A single serious injury can exceed $100,000 in medical bills. Multiple injured passengers can exhaust minimum limits immediately.
Even “moderate” injuries like a broken leg with surgery can push beyond $25,000 per person.
4. Future Income and Assets Are at Risk
If you:
- Own a home
- Have savings
- Operate a business
- Expect future income growth
You have more to lose.
Low limits expose your current and future financial stability.
5. You May Struggle to Get Umbrella Coverage
Personal umbrella policies typically require minimum underlying auto limits such as:
- $250,000 / $500,000 bodily injury
- $100,000 property damage
If you carry state minimums, you may not qualify for umbrella protection — leaving you exposed to catastrophic claims.
Why Do So Many Missouri Drivers Carry Low Limits?
Common reasons:
- “It’s cheaper.”
- “I’ve never had an accident.”
- “I just need to be legal.”
- “I don’t own much.”
But accidents are unpredictable. And liability isn’t based on what you own — it’s based on the damages you cause.
How Much Coverage Should You Carry in Missouri?
While every situation is different, many insurance professionals recommend:
- 100/300/100 minimum
- Or 250/500/100 for stronger protection
- Consider adding a personal umbrella policy for $1M+ in coverage
The price difference between state minimum limits and 100/300/100 is often surprisingly small compared to the financial protection gained.
Is It Worth the Risk?
Saving $10–$20 per month by carrying low limits could cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars after one serious accident.
Auto liability insurance is not just about meeting Missouri’s legal requirement — it’s about protecting your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Missouri a “no-fault” state?
No. Missouri is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who causes the accident is financially responsible.
If I don’t own a home, can they still come after me?
Yes. Wages, future earnings, bank accounts, and other assets can be pursued in a lawsuit.
Does full coverage fix this problem?
No. “Full coverage” usually refers to comprehensive and collision. Liability limits are separate and must be increased intentionally.
Final Thoughts
Carrying only Missouri’s minimum auto insurance limits might keep you legal — but it may not keep you financially safe.
A simple policy review could dramatically improve your protection at a relatively low cost.
Before your next renewal, ask yourself:
If I caused a serious accident tomorrow, would my current limits truly protect my family and assets?
If you’d like a professional review of your Missouri auto insurance limits, now is a great time to evaluate your options and protect what you’ve worked hard to build.