When you need car insurance in Washington, it’s important to take the time to find the best provider. Car insurance is different from state to state, and there are a variety of factors that can affect your rates. You can use an insurance calculator to estimate how much it will cost to purchase a policy.
The average premium for full coverage in Washington is $1,371 per year. Depending on the type of vehicle you drive and your location, the rates can vary. There are also a variety of discounts you can receive. These include the good driver discount, student discounts, and others. If you are a homeowner, you may also be eligible for a discount.
Your driving history is one of the largest factors that can affect your car insurance rate. For example, DUI convictions can increase your rate by over 33%. In addition, your credit score plays a role. People with low credit have higher car insurance rates than those with high credit. Some insurance companies may not offer quotes to those who have been in an accident or received a traffic infraction. However, if you have a history of avoiding accidents, you can qualify for a lower premium.
Another factor that impacts your insurance rate is your age. For example, drivers who are 19 years old pay about 2.3 times more for insurance than drivers who are 40. This is because teens are more likely to get into automobile accidents than any other generation. Drivers who are middle-aged can also find lower rates than younger drivers.
Drivers who are over the age of 55 may need to take an approved course on accident prevention. Taking an accident prevention course can help you qualify for a discount.
Having good credit is also a factor that can help you save on car insurance in Washington. A credit score of average or above is recommended. Those with poor credit can see a significant increase in their insurance rates. Even though the state does not require drivers to have underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage, it’s a good idea to buy it. Similarly, you can add emergency roadside assistance to your insurance.
The amount of liability you need to carry can also influence your rate. Most drivers in Washington are required to carry at least $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage and $10,000 in property damage liability. Purchasing a higher deductible or taking a comprehensive and collision insurance policy can help you keep your premiums lower.
You can compare insurance companies in Washington by using an online car insurance calculator. The company you choose will be based on the type of coverage you want, your age and your driving record. It can take about ten to fifteen minutes to request personalized quotes from insurance providers.
Once you have a few quotes, you can compare them and choose the best one. You should also shop for auto insurance at renewal time. Many insurers offer discounts for people who drive a certain number of miles or take an approved accident prevention course.