Car Insurance

Editorial: Get ready for new auto insurance law

(SHE BOY GAN PRESS) - If you haven’t looked over your automobile insurance policy for a while, now would be a good time to check it because new rules on insurance coverage take effect June 1.

Passed in the last legislative session, the new law mandates that all drivers have insurance and also sets the minimum level of liability insurance that must be carried.

The law also requires that drivers have proof of insurance available if they are stopped by police for a traffic violation or if they are involved in an accident. The fine for not having insurance at all could run $200 and the fine for not being able to immediately show proof of insurance is $10, according to guidelines set by the Wisconsin State Patrol. Local governments are free to set their own enforcement rules and fine structure, however.

The easiest way to have proof of insurance handy is to put the card you get from your insurance company that shows your premium is paid in the glove compartment or center console. That way it’ll always be handy if you get stopped.

When you’re checking your policy, look to see the level of coverage provided.

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