Workers Compensation Insurance for Montana
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Understanding Workers' Comp Insurance
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Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Montana
Running a business in Montana requires much more than focusing on profits, innovation, and growth. It also involves taking care of the people who make that success possible—your employees. One of the most important aspects of employee protection is workers’ compensation insurance. This type of insurance serves as a safety net for both employees and employers. For employees, it provides essential support in the event of a work-related injury or illness. For employers, it helps prevent costly lawsuits and provides a structured system to handle workplace injuries fairly and efficiently.
Understanding Montana’s workers’ compensation system is vital for any business owner. Knowing who needs coverage, how benefits work, the claims process, and the penalties for non-compliance will help ensure that you operate legally and protect both your team and your business from unnecessary risk.
Legal Framework and Employer Obligations in Montana
Montana’s workers’ compensation system is governed by state law under the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) and its Employment Relations Division. The law mandates that any employer with one or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance, unless an exemption applies. This includes full-time, part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees.
Montana’s coverage requirements are strict. For high-risk industries like construction, every employer must maintain coverage even if they have only one employee. The rules also extend to non-residents performing work within Montana, meaning that businesses bringing in workers from out of state must ensure they are covered under Montana’s system.
Some workers may be exempt from coverage requirements, such as domestic workers, certain real estate agents, or newspaper carriers. However, employers can voluntarily provide coverage for these workers if they choose. Federal employees, railroad workers, and maritime workers are covered by separate federal programs.
Independent contractors represent a special category in Montana. To be classified as an independent contractor, a person must either carry their own workers’ compensation insurance or hold an Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC) issued by the DLI. If an employer hires someone without this certification or proper insurance, the employer could be held responsible for any workplace injury claims.
Montana employers can meet their insurance obligations in two main ways. They can either purchase a policy from a licensed insurer or qualify to become self-insured if they meet the state’s financial and regulatory standards. Employers unable to secure insurance through the private market can obtain coverage through the Montana State Fund, which serves as the insurer of last resort.
Failure to carry workers’ compensation insurance when required can lead to significant penalties. Uninsured employers may face fines, legal liability for employee injuries, and loss of legal protections that normally shield them from civil lawsuits related to workplace accidents. Compliance is therefore not only a legal duty but also a moral responsibility to safeguard workers and the business itself.
Purpose and Core Principles of Workers’ Compensation Coverage in Montana
Montana’s workers’ compensation system operates under a “no-fault” principle. This means that employees who are injured or become ill due to their work can receive benefits regardless of who caused the incident. In exchange, employees generally waive their right to sue their employer for negligence, except in extreme circumstances involving intentional harm.
This arrangement protects both parties. Employees gain quick access to medical treatment, rehabilitation, and wage replacement without having to endure lengthy legal battles. Employers benefit from predictable costs and protection from potentially devastating lawsuits.
Coverage extends to any injury or illness that arises out of and in the course of employment. This includes immediate accidents, such as slips or machinery injuries, and long-term occupational diseases, such as repetitive stress injuries, respiratory conditions, or hearing loss from workplace exposure.
The system also provides support for families if a worker loses their life as a result of a job-related incident. Dependents receive compensation to help replace lost income, ensuring financial stability during a difficult time.
The ultimate goal of the Montana workers’ compensation system is to create balance and fairness—ensuring employees receive necessary care and compensation while employers maintain predictable, manageable costs and liability protections.
Scope of Benefits in Montana
The benefits provided under Montana’s workers’ compensation insurance are designed to address the financial, medical, and emotional impact of workplace injuries and illnesses.
Medical benefits cover all necessary and reasonable medical treatments directly related to the injury or illness. This includes hospital care, surgeries, physical therapy, prescriptions, and rehabilitation. Employers and insurers are responsible for these costs, ensuring that employees do not bear the financial burden of medical treatment resulting from a work-related condition.
Wage-replacement benefits, or disability benefits, are another key component. If an employee cannot work due to their injury, they are eligible for temporary total disability (TTD) benefits. These typically amount to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage and continue until the employee is cleared to return to work or reaches maximum medical improvement.
If an employee can work but only in a reduced capacity or earns less during recovery, they may receive temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits to supplement lost income.
Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits are available when an employee sustains a permanent impairment but is still able to perform some type of work. The amount depends on the severity of the impairment, the affected body part, and the worker’s pre-injury wage.
In cases where a worker is permanently and totally disabled and cannot return to any form of employment, permanent total disability (PTD) benefits are provided, often continuing for the remainder of the worker’s life.
If a work-related injury or illness results in death, dependents receive death benefits. These typically include a portion of the worker’s wages and compensation for funeral and burial expenses.
Vocational rehabilitation services are also available for workers who cannot return to their former jobs due to their injuries. These services help employees develop new skills and find suitable employment aligned with their abilities and health conditions.
The Claims Process in Montana
When an employee suffers a work-related injury or illness, time is critical. The employee should report the incident to their employer as soon as possible. Although Montana allows a certain period for reporting, failure to do so promptly could lead to delays or denial of benefits.
Once the employer is notified, they must submit a First Report of Injury to the Department of Labor & Industry and their insurance carrier. The insurer will then begin investigating the claim to confirm eligibility and determine whether the injury occurred within the course of employment.
If the claim is approved, the insurer begins paying for medical care and any applicable wage-replacement benefits. If denied, the employee can file a formal claim with the Montana Workers’ Compensation Court. Disputes are often resolved through mediation or hearings before an administrative law judge.
Clear documentation is crucial throughout this process. Employers and employees alike should maintain accurate records of medical reports, wage statements, correspondence, and any communications with the insurer. Transparency and timely reporting help ensure that legitimate claims are resolved efficiently and fairly.
Cost Factors of Workers’ Compensation Insurance in Montana
The cost of workers’ compensation insurance in Montana depends on several variables, each reflecting the level of risk associated with a particular business or industry.
Industry classification plays one of the largest roles. Businesses in high-risk industries such as logging, mining, or construction generally pay higher premiums than those in low-risk fields such as professional services or retail. The classification rate is determined by the type of work employees perform and the relative risk of injury in that occupation.
Another major factor is payroll size. Premiums are typically calculated based on payroll per $100, so the more employees a company has—or the higher their wages—the larger the total premium will be.
Claims history is another critical element. Employers with frequent or severe claims face higher premiums through an experience modification rate (MOD). Maintaining a strong safety record, providing employee training, and enforcing safety programs can help reduce premiums over time.
Other variables influencing cost include workplace safety measures, company size, and geographic location. For example, businesses operating in rural or high-risk environments may pay more due to additional hazards or limited access to medical facilities.
On average, small businesses in Montana may pay a modest monthly premium for workers’ compensation coverage, but costs vary significantly depending on the factors above. Investing in safety and proper training remains one of the most effective ways to keep insurance costs manageable.
Penalties for Non-Compliance in Montana
Montana enforces strict penalties for employers who fail to secure required workers’ compensation insurance. An uninsured employer can face fines and may be ordered to pay back premiums retroactively. The state may assess penalties equal to twice the premium that would have been paid over the past three years or a flat minimum fine, whichever is greater.
In addition to financial penalties, non-compliant employers may become personally liable for all medical expenses and lost wages resulting from employee injuries. They also lose the legal protection that normally prevents employees from suing them for workplace injuries.
Employers who misclassify workers as independent contractors without proper certification may also face fines, back payments, and potential liability for claims. Maintaining compliance not only avoids penalties but also strengthens the relationship of trust between employers and their employees.
How the Workers’ Compensation Process Works in Montana
When an employee in Montana is injured on the job or develops an occupational disease, the process for obtaining benefits follows a specific sequence. The first step is for the employee to report the injury to their employer as soon as possible. Montana law requires that employees give written notice within 30 days of the injury. The notice should include details such as the date, time, place, and nature of the incident.
Once the employer is notified, they must file a First Report of Injury or Occupational Disease with their insurance carrier or the Montana Department of Labor & Industry’s Employment Standards Division. Typically, this report must be filed within six days after receiving notice from the employee.
The insurer then reviews the claim to determine its validity. If the claim is accepted, benefits begin promptly. Wage-loss benefits typically start after the fifth full day of disability. If the insurer denies the claim, the worker may appeal through the state’s dispute resolution and mediation system, and, if necessary, bring the case before the Montana Workers’ Compensation Court.
The process is designed to be fair, transparent, and efficient, ensuring that injured workers receive timely medical care and wage replacement while giving employers due process.
Medical and Wage-Loss Benefits in Detail
Medical care is one of the most important benefits under Montana’s workers’ compensation system. All necessary medical treatment required to treat a work-related injury or occupational illness is covered. This includes physician visits, hospital care, surgeries, diagnostic tests, prescription drugs, prosthetics, and rehabilitation services. In certain cases, long-term or nursing care may also be covered.
Employers or their insurance carriers typically have the right to choose the treating physician. However, injured employees may request a change of physician under certain conditions. Medical providers must follow the state’s fee schedules and treatment guidelines, which are intended to control costs and ensure appropriate care.
In terms of wage replacement, Montana’s system provides several types of disability benefits. Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits are paid when the employee cannot work at all. Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits apply when the worker returns to limited duty or reduced hours and earns less than before the injury. Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits are paid when a worker sustains a lasting impairment but can still work in some capacity. Permanent total disability (PTD) benefits are for workers whose injuries prevent them from performing any kind of gainful employment.
In cases where an employee dies as a result of a work-related injury, dependents are entitled to death benefits, including ongoing weekly payments equal to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, along with funeral and burial expenses.
Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Programs
Montana places a strong emphasis on rehabilitation and returning injured workers to productive employment. The goal is to help injured employees regain their independence and re-enter the workforce as soon as medically possible.
Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, vocational counseling, skills retraining, and job placement assistance. If an employee cannot return to their previous occupation due to physical limitations, vocational rehabilitation programs help them transition into new types of work that match their abilities.
Return-to-work programs benefit both employers and employees. For workers, it offers continued income, emotional support, and faster recovery. For employers, it reduces claims costs, minimizes productivity losses, and helps maintain workplace morale. Many Montana employers develop light-duty or modified-duty positions to facilitate employees’ gradual return to work while adhering to medical restrictions.
Employer Responsibilities and Compliance
Employers in Montana must carry workers’ compensation insurance from either a private insurer, the Montana State Fund, or through self-insurance if they meet the financial and administrative requirements. Failure to maintain proper coverage can lead to severe penalties, including fines, back payment of premiums, and personal liability for injury costs.
Employers are also required to post notices about workers’ compensation coverage in visible workplace locations and to educate employees about their rights and responsibilities. Prompt reporting of injuries is critical — delays can increase claim costs and may lead to disputes.
Accurate payroll records, correct job classifications, and timely communication with the insurer are key to maintaining compliance. Employers should also review their policies regularly and audit their payroll data to avoid discrepancies that could lead to overpayment or penalties.
Cost of Workers’ Compensation Insurance in Montana
The cost of workers’ compensation insurance in Montana varies based on several factors. Premiums are calculated using the employer’s total payroll, the classification codes assigned to each type of work performed, and the company’s experience modification rate (EMR).
High-risk industries such as logging, construction, and manufacturing tend to have higher classification rates than low-risk occupations like clerical work or retail. The EMR adjusts premiums based on the employer’s past claims history. A company with fewer or less severe claims than average can benefit from a lower EMR and reduced premiums.
Maintaining accurate employee classifications, minimizing workplace hazards, and promptly reporting injuries can help employers manage their insurance costs effectively. Additionally, many insurers offer discounts or credits to businesses that implement strong safety programs and demonstrate consistent claims management performance.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating without required workers’ compensation coverage in Montana is a serious violation of state law. Employers who fail to maintain coverage may be subject to significant financial penalties. In addition to fines, they may be held personally liable for the full cost of any injury claims filed by employees during the period of non-coverage. The state may also issue stop-work orders or pursue legal action until the employer becomes compliant.
Non-compliance not only risks financial ruin but can also damage an employer’s reputation and ability to bid for future contracts, especially in industries that require proof of insurance.
Unique Aspects of Montana’s System
Montana’s workers’ compensation system has several unique characteristics compared to those in other states. The Montana State Fund serves as an insurer of last resort, providing coverage to employers who cannot obtain insurance from private carriers. The state also allows qualified employers to become self-insured if they can demonstrate the financial stability to cover potential claims.
The Montana Department of Labor & Industry’s Employment Standards Division oversees the system, ensuring compliance, processing claims, and providing mediation services for disputes. Before a case proceeds to the Workers’ Compensation Court, it typically goes through mediation to encourage resolution without litigation.
Another distinguishing feature is Montana’s focus on medical cost control through standardized provider fee schedules and treatment guidelines. This structure ensures consistency in care while keeping costs manageable for insurers and employers.
Employee Rights and Responsibilities
Employees in Montana have the right to a safe workplace and to receive workers’ compensation benefits if they suffer a work-related injury or illness. They also have specific responsibilities that affect their eligibility for benefits.
An injured employee must promptly report the injury, follow prescribed medical treatment, cooperate with the insurer’s investigation, and provide necessary documentation. Failure to report the injury within 30 days or to comply with medical recommendations may jeopardize the claim.
Employees should keep detailed records of their injury, medical visits, lost wages, and communications with the employer or insurer. This documentation is invaluable if disputes arise over benefit eligibility or payment amounts.
Workers should also understand that by accepting workers’ compensation benefits, they typically waive their right to sue the employer for negligence related to the injury. This trade-off ensures timely benefits but limits civil remedies.
Employer Strategies for Managing Risk and Reducing Costs
Employers in Montana can take several proactive steps to manage workers’ compensation exposure and reduce insurance costs. Establishing a strong safety culture is the most effective way to prevent injuries and lower premiums over time. Employers should implement comprehensive training programs, enforce safety protocols, and conduct regular workplace inspections.
Accurate job classifications are equally important. Each employee should be correctly assigned to the appropriate class code that reflects the actual work performed. Misclassifications can lead to overpayment or penalties following an audit.
Employers should also report all injuries promptly to their insurer. Early intervention helps ensure proper medical treatment and faster recovery, which reduces the overall cost of claims. Maintaining open communication among the employer, injured worker, physician, and insurer can also prevent misunderstandings and disputes.
A well-structured return-to-work program can further reduce costs by allowing employees to resume modified duties while they recover, minimizing lost-time claims and promoting employee well-being.
Types of Benefits Available Under Montana Law
Montana’s workers’ compensation system offers multiple categories of benefits to support injured employees. These include medical, wage-replacement, disability, death, and rehabilitation benefits.
Medical Benefits
Medical benefits cover all necessary care required to cure or relieve the effects of a workplace injury or occupational illness. This includes hospitalization, surgery, therapy, medication, medical devices, and rehabilitation services. The injured employee does not pay deductibles or copayments for approved treatment.
Wage-Replacement Benefits
When an employee’s injury prevents them from working, they may receive temporary disability benefits. Temporary Total Disability (TTD) applies when the worker cannot perform any job duties during recovery. Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) is paid when the worker can return to work in a limited capacity but earns less than their regular wages.
Under Montana law, wage-replacement benefits typically equal two-thirds of the worker’s gross average weekly wage, subject to the state’s maximum benefit limits.
Permanent Disability Benefits
If a worker’s injury causes permanent impairment, they may qualify for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) or Permanent Total Disability (PTD). PPD is awarded when the employee can still work but has a lasting reduction in physical ability or earning capacity. PTD applies when the employee is unable to perform any gainful employment. The amount and duration of these benefits depend on the severity of the disability, the part of the body affected, and the worker’s earning history.
Death Benefits
If a workplace injury or illness results in death, the worker’s dependents may receive benefits. This includes weekly payments based on a percentage of the deceased worker’s average wage and reimbursement for funeral and burial expenses. Dependents may include spouses, children, or others financially supported by the worker at the time of death.
Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Programs
Montana’s workers’ compensation law emphasizes vocational rehabilitation and return-to-work assistance. Employers and insurers are encouraged to provide opportunities for injured workers to return to productive employment as soon as medically possible. This may involve modified job duties, retraining, or educational programs designed to match the employee’s new abilities.
Return-to-work programs are beneficial for both parties: employees regain stability and purpose, while employers reduce claim costs and retain skilled workers.
The Claims Process and Time Limits
When a workplace injury occurs, the employee must promptly notify their employer. The employer then has the responsibility to file a First Report of Injury with their insurer and the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. The insurer must investigate and determine whether to accept or deny the claim within a specific period.
If the claim is approved, the insurer begins paying benefits, including medical expenses and lost wages. If it is denied, the employee may appeal through administrative channels.
Montana law requires that workers file their claim within one year of the injury or diagnosis of an occupational disease. Missing this deadline can result in loss of eligibility for benefits.
Employer Responsibilities and Coverage Options
Employers in Montana must ensure compliance by purchasing workers’ compensation insurance from a licensed private carrier or the Montana State Fund. Large, financially stable employers may apply for self-insurance status, assuming full responsibility for claims.
Employers must also correctly classify employees, maintain accurate payroll records, and verify the independent contractor status of any exempt individuals. Failure to do so may lead to fines, criminal charges, or loss of legal protections under the exclusive remedy rule.
Employers are also encouraged to foster safe work environments, maintain incident records, and provide safety training. Doing so not only prevents injuries but can also reduce insurance premiums through a favorable claims history and experience modification rating.
Cost Drivers, Premiums, and Classification
Workers’ compensation insurance premiums in Montana are influenced by several factors. These include the size of the employer’s payroll, the nature of the business, job classifications, and the company’s history of workplace injuries.
High-risk occupations—such as logging, construction, and mining—have higher premium rates compared to office or administrative roles. Employers with frequent claims will also pay more, as insurers assess risk based on past performance.
Accurate classification of employees is critical. Misclassifying a high-risk job as a low-risk one can lead to penalties and back payments. Conversely, maintaining a clean safety record and implementing preventive measures can reduce premiums over time.
Employers who wish to further manage costs can implement loss-control strategies such as safety training, routine inspections, and health programs. These measures not only improve workplace safety but also enhance productivity and morale.
Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Assistance
Montana’s workers’ compensation law encourages rehabilitation to help employees return to meaningful employment following an injury. Rehabilitation services may include job training, ergonomic adjustments, or education programs that prepare workers for new roles consistent with their physical limitations.
Employers can offer light-duty or transitional work arrangements that allow employees to earn wages while recovering. This approach helps reduce the duration of disability claims and improves overall workforce stability.
Managing Disputes and Hearings
Despite best efforts, disputes sometimes arise between injured workers, employers, and insurers. Common areas of disagreement include the cause of an injury, the extent of disability, or the necessity of specific medical treatments.
Montana’s workers’ compensation system provides structured processes for resolving these disputes. Initially, parties may attempt informal resolution or mediation through the Department of Labor and Industry. If the issue remains unresolved, it may proceed to a formal hearing before the Montana Workers’ Compensation Court. Both sides present evidence such as medical records, witness testimony, and employment documentation.
The court’s decision may be appealed to higher judicial bodies if either party disagrees with the outcome. Open communication, proper documentation, and early resolution efforts often prevent disputes from escalating.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Montana imposes significant penalties on employers who fail to maintain required coverage. Uninsured employers may face fines and could be held personally liable for the full cost of an injured worker’s benefits. Penalties can reach several times the amount of the unpaid premiums or a substantial statutory fine.
Additionally, uninsured employers lose the protection of the exclusive remedy rule. This means an injured worker can sue the employer directly for damages, including pain and suffering, which are normally excluded under workers’ compensation. Repeat offenders may face criminal charges or business license suspension.
Employers who misclassify employees or falsify insurance records can also face civil penalties and increased scrutiny from state regulators.
Special Considerations for Employers and Employees
Independent contractor relationships must be carefully managed. A valid Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate is essential for avoiding liability. Employers should request proof of certification and retain copies for their records.
The statute of limitations for filing claims is another key consideration. Injured workers generally have one year to file, although exceptions may exist for latent occupational diseases or delayed symptom recognition.
Medical benefits for many claims may be limited to a specific timeframe after injury—often five years—unless reopened under specific conditions. Workers and employers should be aware of these limitations when managing long-term care or settlements.
In some cases, employees and insurers may agree to settle claims through a lump-sum payment instead of ongoing benefits. Such settlements require approval by the Workers’ Compensation Court to ensure fairness and compliance with Montana law.
Why Workers’ Compensation Insurance Matters
For employees, workers’ compensation ensures access to medical care and financial stability during recovery from workplace injuries. It provides a safety net that covers lost wages, rehabilitation, and long-term disability without the need for lengthy litigation.
For employers, carrying proper insurance reduces legal exposure and provides predictable costs for workplace injury claims. It also demonstrates a commitment to employee welfare and compliance with state law. The exclusive remedy protection offered by coverage helps employers avoid potentially devastating lawsuits while maintaining good relationships with their workforce.
Practical Guidance for Employers
Employers in Montana can maintain compliance and control costs by focusing on proactive safety management. This includes thorough training programs, regular hazard assessments, and prompt reporting of all workplace injuries. Properly documenting claims, cooperating with insurance adjusters, and supporting return-to-work initiatives can significantly reduce claim durations and overall costs.
Maintaining transparent communication with employees about safety policies and claim procedures also builds trust and reduces disputes. Employers should routinely review their insurance classifications, payroll records, and exemption certificates to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Advice for Employees
Employees should understand their rights under Montana’s workers’ compensation laws. If injured at work, the first step is to report the injury to the employer as soon as possible. Keeping detailed records of medical treatments, missed workdays, and related expenses can support a successful claim.
Employees should also follow medical advice carefully and participate in any approved rehabilitation or return-to-work programs. If a claim is denied or benefits are delayed, workers have the right to request mediation or a hearing before the Workers’ Compensation Court. Consulting an experienced attorney can help navigate complex or disputed claims.
Does Montana require workers' compensation insurance?
Yes — under Montana law, essentially every business with one or more employees is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
This requirement covers full-time, part-time, seasonal or occasional employees.
There are a limited number of exemptions — for example, certain sole proprietors, partners, independent contractors, or commission-based salespeople may be excluded under specific circumstances — but for a standard employer-employee relationship, the coverage is mandatory
Not having the required insurance can lead to penalties and liability for the employer in Montana.
How much is workers' compensation insurance in Montana?
In Montana, the cost of workers’ compensation insurance varies significantly depending on factors like the size of the business, its payroll, how risky the work is, and the employer’s claims history. On average, small businesses in Montana pay about US $73 per month, which translates to roughly US $878 per year.
It’s important to realise that this is just an average. For example, businesses in low-risk industries (like desk jobs) might pay as little as a few dollars a month, while high-risk industries (say roofing, trucking, or construction) may pay several hundred dollars per month.
The premium is calculated using your payroll (the higher the payroll, the higher the premium), your industry’s classification code (how dangerous the work is), your claim history (past injuries raise your cost), and other underwriting criteria (like location and whether the business has safety programs).
If you’d like, I can check what the range of rates is for your specific industry in Montana (for example, construction vs office work) so you can see how your business might compare.
How to get Montana workers' compensation insurance?
If you're operating a business in Montana and want to secure workers’ compensation insurance, here’s how to proceed in a practical, step-by--step way:
First, determine whether your business is required to carry workers’ compensation coverage. In Montana most employers with one or more employees must have it, including part-time and seasonal workers.
Some categories of workers and owners (for example sole proprietors without employees, certain commissioned salespeople) may be exempt; you’ll want to verify whether your business qualifies.
Next, choose your method of obtaining the coverage. You have three main pathways in Montana: you can purchase a workers’ compensation policy from a private insurer authorized in Montana, you can obtain coverage via the state-fund (the state’s fund that covers employers who may not be able to get private coverage), or if your business is large and meets strict financial conditions you may apply to self-insure.
Once you’ve picked a method (say you go with a private insurer), you contact an insurer or insurance agent, submit the required information about your business: payroll, number of employees, job classifications, and so forth (these factors determine your premium). The insurer will quote a rate based on risk class, payroll, history of claims, etc.
What insurance is required in Montana?
In the state of Montana, any vehicle that is registered to be used on public roads must be covered by a liability insurance policy meeting certain minimum limits. Specifically, the law requires coverage for bodily injury and death: at least $25,000 for injury or death of a single person in one accident, and $50,000 when two or more persons are injured or die in the same accident. In addition, there must be at least $20,000 of property-damage liability coverage for damage to other people’s property in any one accident.
You must also carry proof of this insurance when driving, and the state has a system in place to verify insurance coverage electronically for law-enforcement stops.
It’s important to note that while those are the minimum required coverages, they apply only to liability (i.e., damage you cause to others); the law does not require you to have coverage that pays for damage to your own vehicle (collision or comprehensive) or covers your own injuries—those are optional, though your lender may require them if your vehicle is financed.
If you drive without the required liability insurance in Montana, you face serious consequences—from fines to possible jail time, license suspension, and problems registering your vehicle until proof of insurance is provided.
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