DC Auto Insurance
If you have just moved to the District of Columbia or have just earned your license, there are some things to consider before much more time goes by. Most importantly is having the right amount of car insurance so that you stay within the law and remain a safe driver in the state. All states have different auto insurance laws so learn about DC auto insurance requirements below.
The Basics of DC Auto Insurance
First and foremost, it’s important to know that all Washington, DC drivers are responsible for covering damages done to another driver’s vehicle. Liability insurance is mandatory which will cover both bodily injury damage and damage to their vehicle; however it will not cover any damages done to yours. The minimum auto insurance requirements in DC are $25,000/$50,000 of bodily injury liability and $50,000 of property damage coverage. Drivers who fail to carry auto insurance which at least meets these minimum requirements can be subject to serious penalties, fines and even personal liability in a car accident.
In Washington DC, you must also have UIM coverage – Uninsured Motorist Insurance which will cover expenses should someone else cause an accident that doesn’t have insurance to pay for the damages themselves. The policy minimums are as follows: $25,000 in damages for one person; $50,000 for two or more passengers involved in an accident and $10,000 in property damage.
Are DC Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements Enough?
Most drivers opt for coverage far greater than DC minimum auto insurance requirements as $25,000 of coverage is not a whole lot when you consider the cost of medical care and vehicle repairs. In addition to expanded limits of coverage many drivers also opt for collision and comprehensive coverage in order to protect their own vehicles and personal injury expenses in an auto accident. It’s not uncommon for DC drivers to purchase well over $100,000 in policy coverage across all the main types of auto insurance – comprehensive, collision and liability.
How much does auto insurance cost in DC?
How much auto insurance costs in DC will depend primarily on your risk profile but the average annual auto insurance premium for a good driver is typically around $1,750 a year making the District of Columbia the 7th highest state for auto insurance. With premiums over 25% more than the national average it’s extremely important to shop around and compare auto insurance companies.
How can I save money on DC auto insurance?
Thankfully there are over 75 auto insurance companies licensed in DC making the DC auto insurance market very competitive. The trick to finding the best auto insurance rates however will be to shop around and learn how auto insurance works. Before requesting quotes always make sure to read up on the following topics:
- Auto Insurance Discounts
- How Auto Insurance Deductibles Work
- Low Mileage Discounts (especially for those who from home)
- Good Grades Discount for Young Drivers
While most auto insurance companies typically extend discounts during the application process the drivers who understand what questions to ask will always get the better rates.
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