If you're driving in Clearfield, Utah—whether you're commuting down I-15 to Salt Lake City, heading to Hill Air Force Base for work, or just navigating Davis County's growing suburbs—understanding your auto insurance requirements isn't optional. Utah's no-fault insurance system means the rules here work differently than in most states, and as of 2025, the minimum coverage requirements just got higher. Here's everything you need to know about auto insurance in Clearfield, from state mandates to local factors that affect your rates.
What's Required: Utah's New Minimum Coverage Standards
Starting January 1, 2025, Utah increased its minimum auto insurance requirements to keep pace with inflation and rising accident costs. If you're getting a new policy or renewing your existing one, here's what you must carry:
Bodily injury liability coverage of $30,000 per person and $65,000 per accident covers injuries you cause to others. Property damage liability of $25,000 per accident pays for damage you cause to someone else's vehicle or property. And here's where Utah gets unique: you also need $3,000 minimum in Personal Injury Protection, or PIP.
The jump from the old 25/65/15 limits to 30/65/25 might seem small, but it reflects a reality check on what accidents actually cost. A fender bender on I-15 during rush hour can easily exceed the old property damage minimum. These new minimums give you a bit more breathing room, though many insurance experts recommend going higher if you can afford it.
Understanding Utah's No-Fault System and PIP Coverage
Here's what catches most Clearfield drivers off guard: Utah is a no-fault state, which means your own insurance pays for your injuries after an accident, regardless of who caused it. That's where Personal Injury Protection comes in.
Your PIP coverage handles medical expenses, lost wages, and even burial costs if needed. The minimum $3,000 covers most reasonable medical procedures—X-rays, dental work, hospital costs, prescriptions, and rehab. It also pays up to 85% of lost income or $250 per week (whichever is lower) for up to 52 weeks. You'll even get $20 per day for up to a year for household services you can't perform because of your injuries, like mowing the lawn or cleaning.
The trade-off? You can't immediately sue the other driver for minor accidents. To pursue a liability claim in Utah, you need to cross a threshold: either rack up at least $3,000 in medical bills or suffer certain serious injuries. This system keeps smaller claims out of court and typically speeds up the process of getting your medical bills paid.
What Auto Insurance Actually Costs in Clearfield
The good news for Clearfield drivers? Utah's auto insurance rates run about 17% lower than the national average. The average Utah driver pays around $1,524 per year for full coverage—that's roughly $127 per month. If you're sticking with minimum coverage, expect to pay around $332 to $805 annually, depending on your driving record and other factors.
Your specific rate depends on dozens of factors. Clearfield sits right along the I-15 corridor between Salt Lake City and Ogden, which means higher traffic volume than more rural parts of Utah. More cars on the road generally means more accidents and slightly higher rates. Your age, driving history, credit score, the car you drive, and even how far you commute all play a role.
One unique factor in Clearfield: Hill Air Force Base borders the city and employs thousands of people. If you're active military, a veteran, or a family member of someone who served, you likely qualify for USAA insurance, which consistently offers the lowest rates in Utah. For everyone else, Geico typically comes in as the second-cheapest option. State Farm, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance also have strong presences in the area.
Local Factors That Affect Your Clearfield Rates
Clearfield's demographics and location create some interesting insurance dynamics. With a population hovering around 35,000, the city has a relatively young median age of 30.1 years and a median household income of about $75,400. Younger drivers typically pay more for insurance, so if you're under 25, expect rates on the higher end of the spectrum.
The city's position in Davis County matters too. You're sandwiched between two metro areas—Salt Lake City to the south and Ogden to the north—which means many residents commute daily on I-15. Longer commutes and highway driving increase your accident risk profile, which insurers factor into your rates. On the flip side, Clearfield's suburban character means you're not dealing with downtown Salt Lake City's parking headaches or higher theft rates.
Winter weather is another consideration. Utah's winters can be harsh, and Davis County gets its share of snow and ice. Accidents spike during winter months, which is why comprehensive and collision coverage—beyond the state minimums—often makes sense if you're financing a vehicle or want protection against weather-related damage.
The Real Cost of Driving Without Insurance
Utah doesn't mess around with uninsured drivers. A first offense for driving without insurance carries a minimum $400 fine. Get caught again within three years and you're looking at a $1,000 fine. Under Utah Code 31A-22-302, you must maintain coverage on all passenger vehicles for the entire registration period—no gaps allowed.
But the fines are just the start. If you cause an accident without insurance, you're personally liable for all damages and injuries. In a state where the minimum liability limits just jumped to 30/65/25, that should tell you something about what accidents actually cost. One serious accident could financially devastate you for years.
How to Get the Coverage You Need
Start by getting quotes from at least three insurers. If you're military-affiliated, absolutely check USAA first. For everyone else, compare Geico, State Farm, Progressive, and any regional carriers. Don't just look at price—read reviews about claims handling, because that's when your insurance actually matters.
Consider going beyond the minimums. Adding uninsured motorist coverage protects you if someone without insurance hits you. Comprehensive and collision coverage make sense if your car is worth more than a few thousand dollars or if you're still making payments. And consider increasing your liability limits to 100/300/100 or higher—it doesn't cost much more and could save you from financial ruin.
Ask about discounts. Bundling your auto insurance with homeowners or renters coverage typically saves 15-25%. Safe driver discounts, good student discounts, and even discounts for paying your premium in full can all chip away at your costs. And if you work at Hill Air Force Base or for any government employer, some insurers offer additional discounts for civil service employees.
Auto insurance in Clearfield isn't complicated once you understand Utah's no-fault system and the 2025 minimum requirements. Whether you're a Hill AFB employee, a Salt Lake commuter, or someone who's called Davis County home for years, having the right coverage gives you peace of mind every time you merge onto I-15. Take the time to shop around, understand what you're buying, and make sure you're protected for whatever Utah's roads throw your way.
