Rhode Island’s full-coverage car insurance average is lower than the national average, according to Insurify data. Its liability car insurance costs are also lower. In the Ocean State, liability-only coverage averages $147 per month, compared to the national average of $103.
A 50% increase in fatal traffic accidents from 2022 to 2023 and a high number of alcohol-impaired drivers could contribute to the Ocean State’s insurance costs.1 2
Here’s what you should know about finding car insurance in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island’s average cost of full-coverage car insurance is $220 per month, and liability-only coverage averages $147 per month.
Nearly 44% of all fatal crashes in the state in 2022 involved alcohol, compared to the national average of 30%, according to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation.
In the first nine months of 2023, Rhode Island saw a 50% increase in the number of traffic fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
3 of the cheapest car insurance companies in Rhode Island
Every driver in Rhode Island has a unique situation that affects their insurance needs and rates. But some of the best insurance companies in the state offer more affordable auto rates than others by coverage level and driver profile.
If you want to lock in the best deal, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurers. Below, you can learn about some of the cheapest and best insurance companies in Rhode Island to help you streamline your search.
USAA
Safeco
GEICO
How to get the cheapest car insurance in Rhode Island
You can’t avoid the expense of car insurance, but you can make sure you don’t pay more than you need to for coverage. Consider the strategies below to help you find the best rates for your situation:3
Increase your deductible. In general, a higher collision or comprehensive deductible leads to lower auto insurance premiums. If you can afford a higher deductible, this is a viable route.
Ask for discounts. Many insurance companies offer a lengthy list of discounts, so you can always ask whether you qualify for any.
Consider telematics. Telematics-based coverage uses a device or mobile app to track your driving habits. Many insurers offer discounts just for enrolling, and some reward good driving with premium reductions.
Shop around. Comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies can help you find the cheapest car insurance for your needs. Consider shopping around each year, as the cheapest options will change over time.
Cheapest liability-only car insurance quotes in Rhode Island
After a car accident, liability-only car insurance helps you pay for the damages or injuries you caused to the other driver and their passengers.2
In general, minimum-coverage car insurance is the most affordable option, but it may not include all the coverage you want. You should make sure this coverage offers enough financial protection for your situation. Insurance professionals generally recommend you buy more liability than your state’s minimum required amount.
Rhode Island-based drivers pay a monthly average of $147 for liability-only insurance. The following table provides examples of liability rates from some top insurers.
Cheapest full-coverage car insurance quotes in Rhode Island
Full-coverage auto insurance extends beyond a liability-only car insurance policy to offer significantly more vehicle protection. On top of liability coverage, this type of policy includes comprehensive and collision coverage. If you finance or lease your vehicle, your lender or leasing company will typically require you to buy full coverage. But it’s a good idea to consider full coverage, even if you’re not required to buy it.
After an accident, collision coverage can help you pay to repair your vehicle or purchase a replacement vehicle. If you encounter a different kind of incident, like a fallen tree or natural disaster, comprehensive coverage can help you get back on the road.
Full-coverage policies in Rhode Island cost drivers an average of $220 per month. Here are the cheapest car insurance rates Rhode Island drivers can find to secure affordable full-coverage insurance.
Insurers consider your age when determining premiums.
Teen drivers have the least amount of experience behind the wheel and the highest accident frequency of any age group. This results in the highest costs for auto insurance premiums by driver age.
Most drivers can expect rates to drop off significantly between the ages of 25 and 35 and continue to decline gradually for decades. But the trend tends to reverse slightly around age 70. You might start to see marginally higher auto insurance premiums as a senior driver due to increased accident risk.
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Car insurance requirements in Rhode Island
Rhode Island drivers must carry a minimum amount of car insurance to drive legally in the state. The minimum coverage requirements include the following:
You may decide you want more coverage than the minimum liability coverage required in the state. Common optional coverages that provide more protection include:
Cheapest car insurance in Rhode Island by driving record
Depending on the severity of the offense, making a mistake while driving can affect the cost of your auto insurance for several years.
In general, drivers with incidents — including speeding tickets, driving under the influence, and at-fault accidents — pay more for car insurance than drivers with a clean record. Insurers view drivers with incidents as higher risk, so they increase rates to offset that risk.
For example, Rhode Island drivers with a clean record pay an average of $147 per month for a liability policy. But Rhode Island drivers with a DUI pay a monthly average of $237 for liability coverage.
Where you live in Rhode Island can affect your car insurance rates. The table below shows liability and full-coverage rates for different Rhode Island cities.
Rhode Island car insurance FAQs
You have to consider a lot of factors when determining how much auto coverage you need and what you value in an insurer. Find more information about buying coverage in Rhode Island below.
The overall average cost of car insurance in Rhode Island is $184 per month. Drivers in the state pay $147 per month for liability coverage and $220 for full-coverage car insurance. Your specific rate depends on your insurer, driving record, age, vehicle type, and more.
USAA is the best car insurance company selling coverage in Rhode Island. Other top insurers in Rhode Island include Safeco and GEICO. But the best company for you will depend on your coverage needs and individual driver profile.
Yes. Rhode Island’s average cost of full-coverage car insurance is slightly less than the national average. In the Ocean State, drivers pay $220 per month for full coverage, compared to the national average of $182. Liability costs in the state also trend lower than the national average: $147 versus $103.
No. Rhode Island is an at-fault, or tort, state. If you cause an accident, you — and your insurer — must cover the cost of property damage and bodily injury you cause the other driver and their passengers.