West Virginia drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. This coverage pays for other people’s medical expenses and property damage when you cause an accident. In addition to liability insurance, West Virginia drivers are required to buy underinsured motorist coverage, which covers you in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver.
The cost of car insurance in West Virginia is generally lower than the national average. However, the rates can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. These factors include the car you drive, your age, your driving habits, and the type of policy you choose.
Insurance companies in West Virginia use proprietary rating systems to calculate the risk of insuring you. These systems factor in a number of factors, including your credit history and claims history. They also take into account the model of your car. Some models are viewed as more dangerous to insure, which can raise the cost of your premiums.
You can find cheap car insurance in West Virginia by bundling your insurance policies. Many companies offer discounts for multiple vehicles and a low deductible. Other ways to save are to pay your premiums in advance or schedule automatic payments. Also, most companies offer a discount for safe drivers.
Drivers can also save money by buying a full coverage policy. While not required, a full coverage policy covers your vehicle if it is stolen or destroyed. It also includes collision and comprehensive coverage. But be sure to read your policy carefully to make sure you are getting the best deal. Choosing a higher deductible can help you to offset the costs of your policy. If you are a low-mileage driver, using a usage-based insurance policy might be more affordable.
West Virginia drivers can get a discount for taking an accident prevention course. The savings are renewable for up to three years. Whether you’re a married driver or a single woman, you can take advantage of this discount.
One of the most common factors that contributes to high auto insurance rates is speeding tickets. In West Virginia, drivers who receive a ticket can expect to see an increase of up to 17% in their annual premiums.
Another driver factor that contributes to higher costs is having a DUI on record. Unlike most states, drivers in West Virginia are able to still compare quotes from various insurers, even if they have a DUI on their record. Depending on the nature of the offense, the cost of your car insurance may increase by more than double.
West Virginia drivers can also get discounts for having a clean driving record. If you’ve maintained a clean record for at least five years, you can keep your insurance costs low. There are also discounts available for married drivers and for drivers over 55 who have taken an accident prevention course. Buying a policy from a regional company can offer cheaper rates than national companies.
Using MoneyGeek’s car insurance calculator is a great way to get an estimate on how much your policy would cost. The West Virginia car insurance calculator considers your age, coverage levels, and the specifics of your vehicle. With the information you provide, the calculator will estimate your car insurance costs by the month and year.