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Washington State’s Minimum Insurance Requirements

Washington law requires all drivers to maintain car insurance in order to legally operate a motor vehicle. Drivers must purchase and maintain liability car insurance that meets the State's minimum requirements. Liability car insurance covers losses that one driver may cause to another driver in an accident. The minimum required liability coverage for Washington drivers is 25/50/10. This means that drivers must carry a minimum of $25,000 in coverage for each person’s injury, $50,000 in coverage for the total injuries of everyone involved in the accident, and $10,000 in coverage for property damage caused by the driver at fault.

 

Fines and Penalties for Not Having Insurance

Drivers who do not maintain car insurance are subject to fines and penalties. Drivers must be able to provide proof of insurance when requested by a law enforcement officer. Failure to provide proof of insurance will result in a $450 fine. In addition, drivers who are cited can also be subject to a $50 reinstatement fee and $25 filing fee if their drivers’ license and/or vehicle registration is suspended as a result of the violation. Furthermore, the vehicle may be impounded and the driver will be responsible for the cost of towing and storage.

 

SR22 Requirements

In some cases, when a driver has been found to be operating a motor vehicle without insurance and/or is convicted of certain violations, they may be required to purchase and maintain an SR22 insurance policy. An SR22 insurance policy is a certificate of financial responsibility that indicates that a driver holds the minimum auto insurance coverage required by the state. An SR22 form does not affect the amount of coverage that a driver carries, however, and it does not provide additional insurance protection. An SR22 policy must be maintained for three years from the date of conviction and failure to maintain it can result in license and registration suspension.

 

Impact of Credit Score on Car Insurance in Washington

Washington is one of the states that does not allow car insurance companies to consider an applicant’s credit score when calculating car insurance premiums. Generally, drivers with higher credit scores will be offered lower car insurance premiums than drivers with lower credit scores but it doesn't happen in Washington. Therefore, it is important for drivers in Washington State to maintain a good driving record in order to get the most affordable car insurance.

 

Impact of Marital Status on Car Insurance

In Washington, as with other states, marital status does affect car insurance premiums. Generally speaking, married couples are offered lower car insurance premiums than single drivers. This is because married couples are received as “economically stable”, which generally leads to fewer accidents. Additionally, married couples will also have access to a multi-car discount.

 

What should Washington Couples do with their Car Insurance Policy During and After Getting Divorced?

Washington couples will need to notify their auto insurance provider of the change in marital status, and may either transfer the policy to the owner of the car or cancel it altogether. If the policy remains in both parties' names, they will be responsible for paying each other's portion of the premiums. They may also need to update the policy information to reflect any changes in address or financial situation as a result of the divorce. It is important to keep both parties informed of any changes that may affect their auto insurance coverage or costs.

 

Car Insurance for Single Parents or Co-Parents and Their Teen Drivers

Single parents or co-parents may be required to purchase and maintain separate car insurance policies for themselves and their teenagers who may be living in the household. Car insurance companies view teen drivers as “high-risk” drivers and as such, will require them to have their own policy and to purchase higher liability limits.

 

Who should cover the car insurance for a teen growing up in two WA households?

The teen's parents should discuss who should pay for their car insurance. Generally, if the car is registered to one parent (or both parents) and they have the title, then they would be the primary holder of the insurance policy. The parent that the car is registered to would usually be responsible for paying the insurance premiums. If the teen is living in two households, the parents could split the cost of insurance between them. Alternatively, the teen may be able to take out a separate policy for themselves if they are 18 or above.

 

Tips for Getting the Best Rates on Car Insurance in Washington

There are several ways in which drivers in Washington can get the best rates on car insurance.

1. Keep a Clean Driving Record: One of the most important things to do is to keep a clean driving record. Insurance companies consider a driver’s past driving record when calculating premium costs so it is important to drive safely and avoid traffic violations.
2. Increase Your Deductible: Increasing your deductible is another way to reduce your car insurance premium costs. The higher deductible amount lowers the risk that the insurance company takes on, which in turn can result in lower premiums.
3. Use Discounts: Insurance companies in Washington offer discounts for a variety of things such as a good driving record, being a homeowner, taking an approved driver safety course, and more. Speak to your insurance provider to find out what type of discounts you may be eligible for.

 

Washington Cities with Lowest Car Premiums and Why

Washington drivers should also be aware of which cities in the state have the lowest car premiums. Bellevue, Pullman, Spokane, and Yakima are some of the most affordable cities in Washington, due to the fact that they have fewer traffic violations, lower personal injury costs, and fewer insurance claims. Additionally, many of these cities are located in areas with less traffic than other Washington cities and towns, which also helps to keep car insurance premiums lower.

 

How Washington compares to other US states for car insurance rates?

Washington's car insurance rates are typically on the higher side when compared to other US states. Factors such as where you live, your driving history, and your coverage can all affect the price of your premium. Washington has stricter requirements than some other states when it comes to vehicle coverage, and as such, premiums tend to be higher in the state. Shopping around to get multiple quotes can help you find the best deal on car insurance in Washington.

 

Cars with Lowest Insurance Premiums in Washington State

1. Honda Fit
2. Subaru Impreza
3. Toyota Corolla
4. Hyundai Elantra
5. Nissan Versa
6. Ford Fusion
7. Chevrolet Cruze
8. Mazda3
9. Kia Forte
10. Volkswagen Jetta

 

Cars with highest insurance premiums in Washington State

1. BMW 7 Series
2. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
3. Porsche Panamera
4. Audi A8
5. Acura RL
6. Chevrolet Corvette
7. GMC Yukon
8. Cadillac Escalade
9. Infiniti QX56
10. Lexus LS460

 

Auto Insurance Exceptions in WA

Washington State has a few exceptions when it comes to car insurance. The state requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance coverage, and the coverage amounts are higher than many other states. Drivers of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) don’t need to purchase liability insurance, while classic cars may only need special coverage.

Other exceptions include:

1. Motorized bicycles or electric-assisted bicycles: Under Washington State law, riders of motorized bicycles or electric-assisted bicycles don’t need to purchase liability insurance for these vehicles.
2. Collector cars: Under Washington State law, owners of collector cars may only need to purchase special liability insurance for these vehicles.
3. Farmers and loggers: Under Washington State law, farmers and loggers don’t need to purchase liability insurance for vehicles used exclusively for agricultural or logging purposes.
4. Non-resident military personnel: Under Washington State law, non-resident military personnel, such as those stationed in Washington for military purposes, don’t need to purchase liability insurance for their cars.
5. Livery vehicles: Under Washington State law, drivers of livery vehicles, such as taxi or limo drivers, don’t need to purchase liability insurance for their vehicles.

 

Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in WA?

Yes, motorcycle insurance is required in WA. Motorcycles must be covered with a minimum bodily injury liability of $20,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. Property damage liability requires a minimum coverage of $10,000. Motorcycles must also carry uninsured motorist coverage of at least $20,000/$50,000.

 

Is Bicycle Insurance Required in WA?

No, bicycle insurance is not required in Washington State. Bicycle owners are not legally required to purchase insurance, however, it is recommended. Insurance provides helpful protection should a bicycle be involved in a crash, stolen, or damaged.

 

Understanding car insurance laws and regulations in Washington is important for drivers in the state. By knowing their state’s minimum insurance requirements, drivers can ensure that they stay in compliance with the law and avoid any fines or penalties. Additionally, it is important to take steps to get the best rates on car insurance, such as keeping a clean driving record, increasing your deductible, and taking advantage of any available discounts. Furthermore, drivers should be aware that certain cities in Washington have lower car insurance premiums than others due to their lower personal injury costs and fewer insurance claims. In case of a divorce and co-parenting they must follow the court order and laws.

 

Warning:  This post is neither financial, health, legal, or personal advice nor a substitute for the advice offered by a professional. These are serious matters, and the help of a professional is recommended as it can impact your future.