Car Insurance In Maine 2026: Laws, Costs, Requirements & Companies

Car insurance in Maine is important because it protects drivers, passengers, and everyone on the road. Maine law requires drivers to carry car insurance, so having the right coverage is not optional; it is necessary.

Maine has unique factors that make car insurance especially important. Many areas are rural, roads are narrow, and long driving distances are common. Harsh winters, snow, ice, and fog increase accidents, especially on back roads and highways. With over 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, I understand these local challenges and how the right car insurance coverage can help keep Maine drivers safe and protected.

Does Maine Require Car Insurance?

Maine requires drivers to have car insurance. If you own or drive a vehicle in Maine, you must carry active insurance to legally drive on the road. This rule helps make sure that drivers can pay for damages or injuries if an accident happens. Driving without insurance can lead to fines, license suspension, and other serious penalties.

Car insurance in Maine is meant to protect both you and others on the road. If you cause an accident, insurance helps cover repair costs and medical expenses. It also gives you financial protection in case you are hit by a driver who does not have enough insurance.

How Much Insurance Should You Get In Maine?

In Maine, drivers must carry a minimum amount of car insurance to legally drive. The required coverage includes $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, $25,000 for property damage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage with the same limits.

While these minimum limits meet the law, they may not be enough for serious accidents. Many drivers choose higher coverage or add options like collision and comprehensive insurance for better protection. Getting more coverage can help protect your savings and give you peace of mind on the road.

How Much Is Car Insurance In Maine?

Car insurance rates in Maine depend on factors like your age, driving record, and location. The type of vehicle you drive can also affect how much you pay. Choosing basic coverage usually costs less than higher coverage options.

Here’s a breakdown of average annual car insurance costs in Maine for different driver profiles:

• Low-Income Drivers: Affordable low-income car insurance options are available, with average monthly minimum coverage policies starting at approximately $72 per month.
• Drivers With A Speeding Ticket: Drivers in Maine who have a speeding ticket usually pay higher insurance rates. The average cost of minimum coverage is $55 per month.
• Senior Drivers: Drivers aged 65 and older may pay around $75 monthly for full coverage and about $36 per month for minimum coverage.
• Young Drivers: Young drivers may pay around $190 monthly for full coverage and about $91 per month for minimum coverage.
• Drivers With Old Cars: Drivers in Maine who own old cars often pay less for insurance because their vehicles usually cost less to repair or replace. The average monthly full coverage cost is $60.

These figures are general estimates and can vary depending on the insurer and your personal driving profile.

Which Car Insurance Companies Operate In Maine?

Here are some of the major car insurance companies that operate in Maine:

• State Farm
• Progressive
• GEICO
• Allstate
• Liberty Mutual
• Travelers
• Farmers Insurance
• USAA
• MMG Insurance
• Auto-Owners Insurance

These insurance companies offer many coverage options and savings for drivers in Maine. Each company has different benefits, prices, and features. Comparing policies can help you find coverage that fits your needs and budget.

How To Get Lower Insurance Premiums In Maine

Car insurance in Maine is generally lower than in many other states, but there are still ways to reduce your premiums even more. Here are some simple strategies to lower your car insurance premiums in the state:

Bundle Policies: Some insurance companies give discounts if you combine your car insurance with other policies, like home or renters insurance. This can save you more than just having separate policies.

Maintain a Safe Vehicle: Cars with strong safety features, anti-theft devices, or low repair costs often get lower premiums. Choosing a car with good safety ratings can reduce your insurance rates.

Adjust your Coverage for your Needs: If you drive less or have an older car, you may not need full coverage. Tailoring your policy to your actual needs instead of automatically choosing high limits can lower costs.

Loyalty & Usage-Based Discounts: Some insurers reward long-term customers with lower rates. Others offer discounts if you use an app to track safe driving. Showing safe driving habits can directly reduce your premiums.

Maine State Driving Laws

Driving laws in Maine are designed to keep everyone safe on the road. They explain how drivers should behave, what is allowed, and what isn’t. Knowing these rules helps you avoid fines and drive with confidence across the state.

Seat Belt Law

Everyone in the car must wear a seat belt, including passengers in the back seat. Not wearing one can lead to fines.

Hands-Free Phone Law

Maine drivers cannot hold a phone while driving. You must use hands-free devices, like Bluetooth or a speakerphone, to talk or text. This law is aimed at reducing distracted driving.

Move Over Law

If you see emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or highway maintenance vehicles with flashing lights, you must move over or slow down to give them space. It’s to protect workers and first responders.

New Teen Driver Restriction

Young drivers under 18 face stricter rules, such as limits on night driving and passenger numbers. These rules help reduce accidents among new drivers.

Stop For School Buses

Drivers must stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing. This law is strictly enforced to keep children safe when boarding or leaving the bus.

Maine Car Insurance Contact Information

Knowing where to go for car insurance or vehicle problems in Maine can make things much easier. Here’s a list of important state agencies and what they can help you with.

Maine Bureau Of Insurance (BOI)

Phone: 1-800-300-5000

Website: maine.gov/pfr/insurance

Use the Bureau of Insurance if you have questions about your auto insurance policy, need help understanding your coverage, or want to file a complaint or dispute against your insurance company.

Maine Bureau Of Motor Vehicles (BMV)

Phone: 1-800-423-9000

Website: maine.gov/sos/bmv

Contact the BMV for all matters related to driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, renewing registration, and other vehicle-related paperwork or services.

Maine Department Of Transportation (MaineDOT)

Phone: 207-624-3000

Website: maine.gov/mdot

Use MaineDOT if you want information about state highways, road conditions, closures, construction, or to report road issues such as potholes or damaged signs.

Common Maine Car-Related Crimes And Fatalities

It’s important for Maine drivers to be aware of the car-related crimes that happen most often on the state’s roads. Below is a clear overview of the common car-related crimes and accident risks you should know of.

Drunk Driving (DUI/DWI)

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime. It increases the risk of accidents and can lead to fines, jail time, and license suspension.

Distracted Driving

Using a phone, eating, or doing other things while driving can cause crashes. This is a growing problem, especially with texting while driving.

Speeding-Related Accidents

Driving too fast is one of the main causes of fatal crashes in Maine. Speeding reduces your reaction time and makes accidents more severe.

Reckless or Aggressive Driving

Tailgating, weaving through traffic, or road rage can cause accidents and injuries. Maine law treats aggressive driving seriously to protect everyone on the road.