What Does Liability Insurance Cover?
Liability insurance is required in West Virginia and is the foundation of any auto insurance policy. Learn exactly what it covers, what it doesn't, and how much you need.
What Is Liability Insurance?
Liability insurance pays for damages you cause to other people and their property when you're at fault in an accident. It does not cover your own injuries or damage to your own vehicle. Liability insurance is required by law in West Virginia and is the minimum coverage you must carry to legally drive.
Bodily Injury Liability Coverage
Bodily injury liability pays for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and legal fees for people you injure in an at-fault accident. West Virginia requires minimum bodily injury limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. If your liability limits are exceeded, you're personally responsible for the difference — which is why many drivers choose higher limits.
Property Damage Liability Coverage
Property damage liability pays for damage to other vehicles, buildings, fences, and other property when you're at fault in an accident. West Virginia requires a minimum of $25,000 in property damage liability. With the average new vehicle costing over $40,000, many drivers choose higher limits to avoid personal financial exposure.
What Liability Insurance Does NOT Cover
Liability insurance does not cover: damage to your own vehicle (you need collision coverage), your own medical expenses (you need medical payments or PIP coverage), theft or weather damage to your vehicle (you need comprehensive coverage), accidents caused by uninsured drivers (you need uninsured motorist coverage), or accidents where you're not at fault (the other driver's liability insurance covers your damages).
How Much Liability Insurance Do You Need in West Virginia?
West Virginia requires minimum liability limits of 25/50/25, but most insurance professionals recommend carrying at least 100/300/100 — $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $100,000 for property damage. If you have significant assets, umbrella insurance provides an additional layer of liability protection above your auto and home insurance limits.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage in West Virginia
West Virginia also requires uninsured motorist coverage at the same minimum limits as your liability coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage protects you if you're hit by a driver who has no insurance. Given that approximately 10% of West Virginia drivers are uninsured, this coverage is important. AG Insurance recommends carrying uninsured motorist coverage at least equal to your liability limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does liability insurance cover my car if I'm at fault?
No. Liability insurance only covers damage you cause to others. To cover damage to your own vehicle in an at-fault accident, you need collision coverage.
What is the minimum liability insurance in West Virginia?
West Virginia requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25 — $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage — plus matching uninsured motorist coverage.
Is liability insurance enough in West Virginia?
Minimum liability coverage satisfies the legal requirement but may not adequately protect you financially. A serious accident can easily exceed minimum limits. AG Insurance recommends at least 100/300/100 for most drivers.
How much does liability insurance cost in West Virginia?
Liability insurance costs vary based on your driving record, age, vehicle, and coverage limits. AG Insurance compares 100+ carriers to find the most affordable liability coverage for West Virginia drivers. Call 304-459-2555 for a free quote.
Get a Fast Quote
AG Insurance compares 100+ carriers to find the best rate in West Virginia.
Talk Now — 304-459-2555Get a Fast QuoteRelated Pages
Why AG Insurance?
- Independent agency — we work for you
- Compare 100+ insurance companies
- Local Huntington, WV agent
- Fast quotes & same-day coverage
- Licensed in West Virginia