Auto Insurance

Bodily Injury Liability (BI)

Auto liability coverage that pays for injuries you cause to other people in an at-fault accident.

Last reviewed: May 2026 · Editorial methodology

Definition

Bodily injury liability pays for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and legal defense costs when you injure another person in an at-fault accident. It is written as two numbers — for example, 50/100 means $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident. Every state except New Hampshire requires minimum BI limits, but state minimums (often 25/50) are dangerously low given hospital costs. Insurance experts typically recommend at least 100/300 in BI limits, and households with significant assets should pair that with an umbrella policy. If a judgment exceeds your BI limit, creditors can come after your savings, investments, and future wages.

Where this term matters

Auto Insurance →Umbrella Insurance →

Tip

Glossary definitions are educational. Always check your own policy language — insurers can define common terms differently from one another. When in doubt, request a written explanation from your agent.

Related terms

Property Damage Liability (PD)Auto liability coverage that pays for damage you cause to another person's vehicle or property.Split LimitAn auto liability structure with separate caps for per-person BI, per-accident BI, and property damage.Combined Single Limit (CSL)A single dollar cap covering both bodily injury and property damage liability in one combined amount.Liability CoverageCoverage that pays for bodily injury and property damage you cause to others — protects your assets.Umbrella PolicyExcess personal liability coverage above auto/home/boat limits — starts at $1M for $150–$400/year.

Related guides

Source: Cover Forge USA editorial team|Last verified: May 2026|Methodology
Definitions are educational and may be simplified. Always refer to your policy contract and consult a licensed agent for terms that affect coverage decisions.
CF

Cover Forge USA Editorial Team

Editorial Lead

This article was researched and written by the Cover Forge USA editorial team against federal sources (NAIC, CMS, FEMA, DOL, SSA, state DOIs) and standard policy forms. Bylines organize content by topic — they do not assert individual licensure. See our editorial-policy for details.

Reviewed June 2026

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This site provides general educational information only and is not a substitute for professional insurance advice. All rates, data, and coverage details are estimates and may not reflect your actual premiums. Insurance availability and pricing vary by state, insurer, and individual risk factors. Always consult a licensed insurance professional in your state before making coverage decisions.

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