Maryland Mandatory Liability Insurance Limits Explained

If you drive in Maryland, you need to know the Maryland mandatory liability insurance coverage limits. These are the minimum amounts the state requires to cover injuries or damage you cause in an accident. Without them, you risk fines, license suspension, or even legal trouble.

As of 2026, Maryland law sets specific minimums for bodily injury and property damage. These numbers aren’t just suggestions, they’re legal requirements to keep you and others protected on the road.

What Maryland’s Mandatory Liability Insurance Covers

Maryland requires liability coverage to protect others if you’re at fault in an accident. This includes bodily injury liability and property damage liability.

Bodily injury liability covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs for people injured in an accident you cause. Property damage liability covers repairs or replacement for vehicles or property damaged in the accident.

The state also mandates uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage at the same limits. This protects you if the other driver is at fault but doesn’t have enough, or any, insurance.

The Current Minimum Limits in Maryland (2024)

Maryland’s minimum liability limits are often written as 30/60/15. Here’s what that means:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person
• $60,000 for bodily injury per accident (total for all injured parties)
• $15,000 for property damage per accident

These limits are set by the Maryland Insurance Administration. They apply to all registered vehicles in the state.

Why These Limits Matter for You

These limits exist to ensure drivers can cover basic costs in an accident. Without them, you could be personally responsible for thousands in damages.

Maryland is an at-fault state. That means the driver who causes the accident is financially responsible. If your coverage is too low, your personal assets could be at risk.

Higher limits are often recommended. The state minimums may not cover all expenses in a serious accident.

Bodily Injury vs. Property Damage: What’s the Difference?

Bodily injury liability covers costs related to injuries. This includes hospital bills, rehabilitation, and even funeral expenses in fatal accidents. It applies to the other party, not you or your passengers.

Property damage liability covers repairs or replacement of the other driver’s vehicle or property. This could include fences, buildings, or other structures damaged in the accident.

Both are required in Maryland. You can’t legally drive without both types of coverage.

Maryland’s Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Requirement

Maryland requires uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage at the same 30/60 limits as liability. This kicks in if the at-fault driver has no insurance. Underinsured motorist coverage applies when their limits are too low to cover your damages.

The state also mandates uninsured motorist property damage coverage with a $15,000 minimum. This protects your vehicle if an uninsured driver hits you.

About 12% of Maryland drivers are uninsured according to recent estimates. Without this coverage, you’d have to pay for your own repairs out of pocket.

What Happens If You Drive Without Insurance in Maryland?

Driving without insurance in Maryland triggers immediate penalties. The first offense carries a $150 fine plus an $8 restoration fee. Your vehicle registration will also be suspended.

Subsequent offenses bring higher fines and possible license suspension. You’ll need to file an SR-22 certificate to reinstate your driving privileges.

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration can also impound your vehicle. You’ll pay towing and storage fees on top of the fines.

How to Prove You Have Coverage

You must show proof of insurance when registering your vehicle. The Maryland MVA accepts digital or paper insurance cards.

Law enforcement can request proof during traffic stops. If you can’t provide it, you may receive a citation.

Your insurance card should include your policy number, effective dates, and coverage limits. Keep it in your vehicle at all times.

When the State Minimum Isn’t Enough

The 30/60/15 limits may not cover all costs in a serious accident. Medical bills for severe injuries can easily exceed $30,000 per person. Property damage from a totaled luxury vehicle could surpass $15,000.

If you have significant assets, consider higher limits. A lawsuit could target your savings or home if damages exceed your coverage.

Lenders often require higher coverage for financed vehicles. They want to protect their investment in case of an accident.

How to Check or Update Your Policy

Review your declarations page to confirm your current limits. This document outlines your coverage amounts and deductibles.

Contact your insurance agent to adjust your limits. They can provide quotes for higher coverage options.

Compare quotes from multiple insurers annually. Rates vary significantly between companies. The Maryland Insurance Administration offers resources for comparing providers.

Common Mistakes Maryland Drivers Make

Assuming the state minimum is enough is a frequent error. Many drivers don’t realize medical costs can far exceed $30,000 per person.

Another mistake is letting coverage lapse between policies. Even a one-day gap can trigger penalties.

Some drivers reject uninsured motorist property damage coverage to save money. This can be costly if an uninsured driver totals your car.

Maryland vs. Neighboring States: How We Compare

Maryland’s 30/60/15 limits match Virginia’s requirements. Both states also mandate uninsured motorist coverage at the same levels.

Pennsylvania requires higher bodily injury coverage at 15/30/5. Washington D.C. has higher limits at 25/50/10.

Maryland’s uninsured motorist requirements are more comprehensive than some neighbors. The 12% uninsured driver rate is slightly above the national average.

Where to Get the Official Rules

The Maryland Insurance Administration website has the most current requirements. They publish updates if the state changes minimum limits.

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration provides insurance verification information. They outline the penalties for driving without coverage.

Local insurance agents can also clarify state requirements. Many offer free policy reviews to ensure compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions