Washington Auto Insurance Laws
Auto Insurance Laws and Trends in WA
In the state of Washington, there are several ways for a driver to prove financial responsibility. Financial responsibility is needed to show that a driver has the ability to pay expenses if they are held responsible for a motor vehicle collision. One way to prove this responsibility is to take out a $60,000 certificate of deposit or a $60,000 bond. However, the most common way, with good reason, is to purchase a liability auto insurance policy.
Whether you own a private vehicle or you are renting a vehicle, you need liability auto insurance. If you're renting a vehicle, you can also choose to purchase collision and comprehensive insurance for approximately $7-$14 per day to cover any physical damage to the rental car. There are some exceptions to this rule, however. Drivers who own motorcycles, antique vehicles, collector vehicles 30 years of age or older, or state -owned vehicles do not require this proof of financial responsibility.
Additional options for auto insurance in Washington
Policy holders can choose to exclude other drivers who reside in their household from driving their vehicles. This may be because these drivers have poor driving records or have had their driving privileges revoked. The policy holder just needs to remember that if the excluded driver does happen to get behind the wheel of their vehicle and causes an accident, any damages will not be covered by the insurance policy.
Average cost of auto insurance in Washington
Washington is the 17th most expensive state for auto insurance premiums. The average premium is $839, slightly higher than the national average of $817. This rate has been steadily decreasing over the last few years. Some of the reasons for the decrease in rates are because more and more drivers are inserting anti-theft and safety devices into their vehicles. This helps to deter car thieves and vandals.