Washington Auto Insurance
Washington State is different from many other states in that it gives drivers the option of either securing car insurance or putting a deposit down at the Washington State Treasurer’s Office. The deposit allows the driver to drive legally without a valid car insurance policy and must be in the amount of $60,000. Since most people don’t have that kind of money just lying around, however, the majority of Washington residents will opt for traditional car insurance instead.
Those who do choose to carry traditional car insurance will have to make sure that it meets certain minimum requirements put in place by the state. These include at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage for accidents in which one person is injured or killed, $50,000 in bodily injury coverage for accidents in which more than one person is injured or killed, and at least $10,000 in general property damage coverage. These requirements, however, are quite low, and it is strongly suggested that drivers take out more coverage, preferably at least $100,000 total in liability coverage and some combination of comprehensive and/or collision coverage to be adequately protected in the event of an accident.
Average Auto Insurance Rates in Washington State
The average cost of auto insurance in Washington State is approximately $1,280 annually which about 10% less than the national average. This rate, of course, is not what every driver will pay. Those with higher risk profiles (such as poor driving histories, young drivers, and owners of more expensive vehicles) may pay rates that are much higher than average. Conversely, those who are low risk may qualify for many different discounts and much better rates. Your auto insurance rates will depend on a number of factors including your profile, the type of vehicle insured and how much time you spend comparing auto insurance quotes. Drivers who simply go with the first provider they find, without doing a lot of research, often end up paying much higher premiums.
Washington State DUI Laws
One of the big reasons that many people end up paying well above the average premium rate in the state is due to a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI). Having a DUI conviction on your record, even if it was years ago, can cause your premiums to increase significantly. It may also make it difficult for you to find an auto insurance company who is willing to provide coverage. Plus, you will have to suffer the many severe consequences of being convicted with this charge. As such, it is always in your best interest to not drive after consuming alcohol or taking prescription drugs – even if they are prescribed to you. If you do get caught, however, you should contact an experienced DUI attorney in your area to try and minimize the consequences of your charge.
To be charged with a DUI as an adult in Washington, your blood alcohol content must be at or above .08 percent. For drivers under the age of 21, the blood alcohol content only needs to be at or above .02 percent. If you refuse to be tested when the officer pulls you over, your license will be suspended and your insurance rates will go up, even if you do not end up convicted of the charge.
The first time a driver in Washington is charged with a DUI, the punishments he or she will face will depend on the blood alcohol content. If the blood alcohol content is under .15%, the driver will have to spend at least one day in jail. However, in some cases, a judge may sentence the driver to a full year in jail or 15 days of electronic home detection. Drivers will be fined at least $823 plus court costs or possibly as much as $5,000, and their licenses will be suspended for a period of at least ninety days. Once the license is returned, the driver will have a probationary license for a period of five years. Convicted drivers are also typically required to be evaluated for and possibly complete drug and/or alcohol related treatment. Drivers who blow above .15% will face even more stringent punishments.
The good news is that Washington State has a very competitive auto insurance market and even high risk drivers can often find very affordable auto insurance rates. Start your auto insurance comparison search today and find Washington State auto insurance companies in your ZIP code above. The only way to find the best coverage at the most affordable cost is to shop around and compare auto insurance quotes.
