Oregon High Risk Auto Insurance Coverage
In Oregon, there are over 130 different companies licensed to underwrite and sell insurance policies for automobiles and liability. Among the most recognizable names offering high risk car insurance are companies like Esurance, Fidelity National, Geico, Nationwide, Progressive, and State Farm.
The state of Oregon follows a tort system for dealing with auto accidents, meaning that one driver will be found to be at fault and held responsible for the medical bills and property repairs of all other parties involved in an accident. To protect drivers in the state, Oregon has enacted some minimum liability insurance requirements. These include Bodily Injury Liability of $25,000/$50,000 individual/accident, Property damage minimum of $10,000, uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury $25,000/$50,000, and personal injury protection of at least $15,000.
Oregon drivers are required to provide proof of insurance each time they register a vehicle or obtain a light vehicle trip permit. In addition, the state makes random requests of motorists to provide proof of insurance. The information provided by motorists is verified against a state database of insurance policies in effect that is updated by insurance companies. The penalty for providing false information or not carrying the minimum insurance required includes fines, up to a year in jail, suspension of driver's license, and having the vehicle towed at the owner's expense. In addition, those convicted of driving without the minimum required insurance will be required to provide proof to the state that the minimum insurance is in effect for a period of three years and may be subject to higher insurance premiums on their high risk auto insurance.