Motorists in Washington can enjoy affordable car insurance rates as the average cost of premiums are notably lower than the US average for both basic liability only and full coverage policies. However, the average cost of full coverage vehicle insurance is a lot cheaper than the country average and the premium gap between liability only and full coverage policies in the Evergreen State is narrower in comparison to many other states.
The ratio of uninsured drivers has been increasing in recent years in WA and currently at 21.7%, which is over nine percent higher than national average. You should consider buying Uninsured Motorist coverage to protect yourself just in case. Intoxicated drivers cause more deaths here than in many other states. In over 50% of fatal accidents, the influence of drugs and alcohol leading to impairment is a contributing factor, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2022.
Washington is one of the top three states with the most auto thefts, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). Even more alarmingly, the number of stolen vehicles has been increasing substantially in recent years. Despite the influence of all these negative factors, automobile insurance rates are still affordable in this state.
These details emphasize the importance of including Collision and Comprehensive coverage in your auto insurance policy within this state. Comprehensive coverage not only covers vehicle theft but also extends to various other risks such as fire, vandalism, and weather related losses. Additionally, collision coverage takes care of damages resulting from accidents to your vehicle, irrespective of fault, which can be particularly valuable given the prevailing rates of uninsured drivers.
Washington State Liability Requirements
The basic limits imposed in this jurisdiction are;
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person.
- $50,000 total for bodily injury or death per accident.
- $10,000 for property damage.
Here is the official website to check updates on these figures, licenses, vehicle registrations and penalties.
Vehicle Insurance Costs in Washington
The average cost of basic liability only car insurance coverage is $515, which is $107 cheaper than the US average. A full coverage policy in the Evergreen State costs on average $1,410, which is $604 cheaper than the country average.
When you’re being mindful of your expenses, opting for the most affordable choice might seem tempting. However, a full coverage policy typically includes higher liability coverage limits as well as Collision and Comprehensive coverage, offering protection for your own vehicle.
Cheapest Auto Insurers in Washington
Typically, the lowest quotes can often be obtained from the following providers across cities in Washington, including Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Vancouver.
- Pemco Insurance
- State Farm
- Geico
- California Casualty
- Capital Insurance Group
Of course, it’s advisable to begin by reaching out to these companies; however, it’s also recommended to obtain several additional quotes. Car insurance rates undergo frequent adjustments, which can swiftly alter the pricing landscape. Furthermore, there’s no assurance that the most competitively priced auto insurance company will automatically provide you with their best rates. Each company has its own criteria for determining who qualifies for the most substantial discounts. It’s possible that you might not meet the criteria for one company but have a stronger chance with another.
Vehicle insurance rates are 21% higher in Seattle and Tacoma but slightly lower in Spokane and similar to the state average in Vancouver.
Important Washington Car Insurance and Driving Facts
- Automobile insurers in Washington state must offer Uninsured Motorist and Personal Injury Protection coverage at below minimum limits but motorists can refuse these options in writing.
- Uninsured motorist bodily injury: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
- Uninsured motorist property damage: $10,000 per accident
- Basic personal injury protection: $10,000 per accident
- Washington is ranked among the states with one of the highest estimated rates of seat belt usage, with approximately 94% of vehicle occupants choosing to buckle up. This practice significantly contributes to the preservation of lives.
- WA laws prohibit anyone from knowingly submitting a false or fraudulent claim for insurance payment or providing fabricated evidence to support such a claim. It is also illegal to create false documents with the intent to back a claim. Violating this law can result in a gross misdemeanor charge, except when the claim exceeds one thousand five hundred dollars, in which case it becomes a class C felony.
- New residents to Washington State are required to obtain a state driver’s license and complete vehicle registration within 30 days from their move to the state.
- This state doesn’t require proof of insurance to register a vehicle. But you still need to follow car insurance requirements.
- In Washington State, using a handheld electronic device while driving, including when stopped at a traffic light, is prohibited. You can only make hands-free phone calls. Engaging in any activity that diverts your attention from safe driving is against the law, which includes actions like eating or applying makeup. There are fines for distracted driving that increase for the second offense. Also, there are separate fines for other distracted driving offenses like eating or grooming.
- Receiving a distracted driving ticket related to cell phone use in WA could lead to an increase in your car insurance premiums. Just like a speeding ticket, this incident is noted on your driving record. The impact on your premiums could be more pronounced if you’re a new or teenage driver, or if you have a history of previous driving violations.
While you may be a skilled driver, the likelihood of accidents rises in states like Washington, where there’s a notable presence of intoxicated and uninsured drivers. Moreover, the prevalence of cell phone usage further distracts motorists, particularly among teenage drivers. Therefore, it’s advisable to thoroughly review your coverage needs. When it comes to automobile insurance, instead of relying solely on trying to pick only the essential coverage, you stand a better chance of cost savings by exploring different options through comparison shopping.