The Fisherman's Dream, Tin Family and Geese in Flight metal sculptures along the Enchanted Highway are impressive to say the least and they make driving I-94 a lot more exciting. The cost for North Dakota auto insurance is remarkable as well. On average, residents of The Peace Garden State paid the least amount for auto insurance in 2007, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.). State law requires drivers to purchase liability insurance, uninsured motorist coverage, underinsured motorist insurance and basic no-fault coverage. With so many coverages to purchase it's remarkable that residents paid an average of $512 for North Dakota auto insurance while the U.S. average was $795. Amazingly, many Sioux Staters can pay well below that average just by shopping around.

Keep Your Head Above Water
Rain, snow and hail can cause flooding which can ultimately damage or destroy property, including your car. Even small amounts of water in your vehicle can cause significant damage. If you have a stockpile of cash in the bank, repairing or replacing your vehicle will be a cinch. If not, comprehensive insurance coverage might be your only option. This insurance covers the cost of damages caused by flooding and also reimburses you for damages from windstorms, animals, fire, theft and vandalism. The average cost of comprehensive coverage for North Dakotans in 2007 was $222, according to the I.I.I., which was quite a bit higher than the U.S. average of $136. However, this cost comes cheap in comparison to what you'd have to pay on your own in the event your car is ruined or destroyed by flood damage.

Stay in Balance
Before you go out and purchase every insurance coverage available take some time to figure out how much insurance you really need. First of all, find out how much your car is worth. Kelley Blue Book or a local car dealer can give you an estimate. If it's only worth $1,000, it might be in your best interest to purchase the minimum amounts. Instead, put the money you would be spending on insurance aside and save up for when you want a new car. Otherwise, insurance companies recommend you have at least $100,000 for bodily injury protection per person and $300,000 per accident on your insurance policy. Purchasing collision and comprehensive coverages will raise your North Dakota auto insurance rates somewhat, but the protection they offer generally outweighs that cost. If you have a car loan, you're more than likely required to purchase collision and comprehensive coverage on top of the State's required minimum coverages, but by shopping around and inquiring about discounts you can lower your North Dakota auto insurance rates.

Lower Rates for America's Friendliest State
Ask your agent if you qualify for any discounts to lower your North Dakota auto insurance rates. Most companies offer savings to senior citizens, good students and to those whose vehicles have safety features installed such as anti-lock brakes and airbags. You might reduce your rate if you take a safe driver course or if your car is equipped with anti-theft devices as well. You can increase your coverage and still have affordable North Dakota auto insurance rates by comparing companies. LocalInsurance can gather several quotes from insurers in your area and send them straight to your computer. This service is fast, free and is sure to get you the best coverage with an affordable price.

To find more information on the auto insurance requirements in North Dakota, visit these useful links: