What Is Bodily Injury Liability?
Bodily injury liability is a core component of auto insurance that pays for injuries sustained by other people when you're at fault in an accident. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and sometimes legal fees if a lawsuit is filed.
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Why Do Limits Matter?
Insurance limits determine how much the insurer will pay before you're responsible for the remaining costs. If you're in an accident that causes $200,000 in injuries and your policy limits are $100,000/$300,000, you'll pay the first $100,000 out of pocket, while the insurer covers the next $100,000. If the claim exceeds your limits, you could face massive personal liability.
Typical Bodily Injury Limit Structures
Most policies are written as two numbers: per person and per accident. A common structure is $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident, meaning the insurer will pay up to $100,000 for each injured individual and a total of $300,000 for all injuries in a single claim.
Common Limit Options
- 50/100 – $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident
- 100/300 – $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident
- 250/500 – $250,000 per person / $500,000 per accident
- 500/1,000 – $500,000 per person / $1,000,000 per accident
How to Decide the Right Limit for You
Consider the following factors:
- Net Worth – Higher limits protect your assets if a lawsuit seeks more than the policy pays.
- Vehicle Value – A high‑value car increases the likelihood of costly medical bills.
- Driving Frequency – More time on the road raises exposure to risk.
- State Minimums – Some states require a minimum limit; exceeding it is optional but wise.
Risk Assessment Checklist
- Do you own a home or business that could be targeted in a lawsuit?
- Are you a frequent commuter or delivery driver?
- Do you have significant savings or investments you'd like to protect?
State Minimum Requirements
Every state mandates a minimum bodily injury liability limit, but these are often insufficient for real-world injury costs. Below is a quick reference table of typical state minimums.
| State | Minimum Per Person | Minimum Per Accident |
|---|---|---|
| California | $25,000 | $50,000 |
| Texas | $30,000 | $60,000 |
| Florida | $10,000 | $20,000 |
What Happens If You're Underinsured?
Being underinsured can lead to:
- Out‑of‑pocket medical bills that exceed your policy limits.
- Legal fees for defending against lawsuits.
- Potential judgments that can be pursued against your personal assets.
Supplementary Coverage Options
To bridge gaps, consider:
- Umbrella policies – add an extra layer of liability protection (often $1M or more).
- Higher bodily injury limits – upgrade to 250/500 or 500/1,000 if your assets warrant it.
- Medical payments coverage – covers your own medical expenses regardless of fault.
Key Takeaway
Select a bodily injury liability limit that exceeds your estimated maximum exposure and aligns with your personal risk tolerance. A higher limit reduces the chance of personal financial loss if a severe injury claim arises.