Washington Auto Insurance | Quotes for WA
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Guide to Cheap Car Insurance in Washington
Washington State, not to be confused with the District of Columbia, is the only state named after a president. It was admitted into the Union as the 42 nd State in 1889. Washington is well known for its agricultural products such as apples, berries, nuts and wheat, as well as cattle and timber. It also has other claims to fame in that Microsoft is based in Washington, as well as Boeing and Starbucks. Washington is a beautiful, temperate state that draws thousands of transplants every year. Its cost of living is a bit higher than the national average, as are the prices for Washington auto insurance.
Driving in Washington State
Driving in Washington State is relatively easy, as the state has excellent roads, however it does have a few natural hazards. The state receives the most rain of anywhere else in the country, and its winters are cold with lots of sleet, fog and snow, so roads can be slick and treacherous. Accidents peak during October through January, when the most ice is on the roads. Also, deer strikes have become very common in suburban areas, as the cities such as Seattle expand into the outlying country. However, the biggest driving problems in Washington are the people. Washington’s accident rate is staggering, which is one reason why Washington auto insurance is expensive. This also doesn create cheap insurance for young drivers .
Facts and Figures About Washington
- Washington State registered 102,859 vehicle collisions in 2009, which is a very high accident. Of these collisions, 453 resulted in a total of 459 fatalities. The majority of crashes were in the urban areas of Seattle, Tacoma and Yakima.
- A total of 45,899 vehicles were stolen in 2009, and Washington State is listed as 6 th on the list of most theft-prone states. Yakima, Washington was listed as number nine on the most vehicle theft-prone urban areas. These factors raise the prices of car insurance in Washington substantially.
- Washington is listed as 24 th on the listing of states with the least-expensive auto insurance in 2009. Average six-month policies with liability coverage only were $618.
Required Car Insurance in Washington
Every driver in Washington State is required to carry basic liability coverage on their vehicle, whether it is drivable or not, and whether their license is suspended or not. Proof of valid local insurance is required to renew a driver’s license or vehicle registration, and being caught driving uninsured will bring fines, possible towing of the vehicle, and eventually loss of the person’s license and license plates if they do not obtain coverage. Auto liability coverage is required in the amounts of 25/50/10, which breaks down into maximum payouts of:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, per incident
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per incident, total
- $10,000 in property damage liability coverage per incident, total
Carry More than the Minimums
Washington drivers are not required to carry uninsured motorist or personal injury protection coverage, but these kinds of insurance are recommended. Carrying more than the minimum is also recommended, to avoid the insured driver from being liable for large damage sums if a major accident occurs. Collision and comprehensive are not required, either, unless the person’s vehicle is leased or financed, which is a requirement by the financier. Lowering the deductible on these types of coverage can bring the monthly payments down significantly, while maintaining coverage integrity.
Getting Cheap Washington Auto Insurance Quotes
There are many options for getting discounts on Washington auto insurance quotes. The state requires that insurers offer discounts to those who have completed driver’s education classes, good students, and for bundling insurance policies from the same company. Drop any redundant coverage such as medical payments if you have health insurance, and install anti-theft features on your vehicle, such as car alarms and wheel locks to decrease your risk of theft, and therefore your total insurance cost.
Finding cheap Washington auto insurance quotes can be a challenge, even for those with spotless driving records. The state insurance commission recommends that residents compare policy prices in order to find the most cost-effective auto coverage. Our service allows you to compare multiple quotes from several different companies in Washington State simultaneously. Let us help you find the right policy for your needs and your pocketbook.
car insurance companies in washington state
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