Guides / Coverage basics
What do liability limits like 50/100/50 mean?
How to read split limits, and why state minimums are often too low.
Liability limits are usually written as three numbers, in thousands of dollars. They set the most your insurer will pay for damage and injuries you cause.
Reading the numbers
- First number: bodily injury per person (50 = $50,000)
- Second number: bodily injury per accident, for everyone injured (100 = $100,000)
- Third number: property damage per accident (50 = $50,000)
Why minimums can fall short
Every state sets minimum limits, and some are quite low. A serious crash can easily exceed them, and you can be personally responsible for costs above your limits. Many consumer advocates suggest considering higher limits, especially if you own a home or have savings to protect.
Questions to ask
- What would it cost to raise my limits one step?
- Does an umbrella policy require minimum auto limits?
- Do my uninsured motorist limits match my liability limits?
Nearly every state requires liability insurance; New Hampshire is a notable exception with different financial responsibility rules. Check your state insurance department for current requirements. Trusted Auto Insurers is not an insurer, agent or broker and takes no commissions.