Car insurance rates vary dramatically across the United States and Virginia is no exception. Car insurers use factors like your age, driving history and credit score to calculate how much coverage costs for you – while every insurer weighs these differently; ValuePenguin can give an approximate idea of how much car coverage costs in Virginia.
Virginia drivers must at a minimum carry state minimum limits of $25,000 bodily injury liability per person and $50,000 total property damage per accident as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage also being mandatory. While this coverage provides adequate financial protection, drivers may wish to consider going beyond what’s legally required and adding comprehensive and collision policies for further financial safeguarding.
Although it is possible for drivers in Virginia to operate without car insurance, doing so poses serious financial risk to all parties involved in an accident. One way around this requirement may be paying the Uninsured Motor Vehicle Fee of $500 directly to the Department of Motor Vehicles – however this option should not be pursued as it can lead to license suspension. Instead it would be prudent to shop around and compare multiple quotes using our car insurance calculator tool.
Young drivers in their teens and 20s usually pay the highest Virginia auto insurance premiums due to insurers seeing them as higher risks due to lack of experience driving. To reduce costs further, bundle home and auto policies with one provider and take advantage of discounts such as good student or safe driver discounts.
Drivers with poor credit typically pay more for Virginia car insurance than drivers with excellent scores, because insurers use credit history to assess how likely you are to file claims; those with lower scores tend to file more often. It is essential that you regularly review and raise your score if necessary as doing so can significantly decrease your Virginia car insurance rate.
Your vehicle also plays an impactful role in your Virginia car insurance rates. While the state minimum requires liability coverage for all vehicles, many drivers opt to upgrade their policy with comprehensive and collision coverage for additional financial protection as well as medical payments coverage (MedPay) and roadside assistance for added peace of mind.
Virginia car insurance rates depend on both city and ZIP code, with urban areas often seeing higher premiums due to greater traffic levels and greater risk of car accidents and thefts than more remote regions. Furthermore, cost of living considerations also play a factor; those living in expensive cities such as Richmond will typically pay higher premiums for Virginia auto insurance than residents in smaller communities such as Smithfield.