Washington State, known for its breath taking landscapes and natural beauty, requires all drivers to have auto insurance coverage. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive to Mount Rainier National Park or exploring the vibrant cityscape, having the necessary insurance is essential. In this article, we’ll delve into the auto insurance requirements in Washington, optional coverages to consider, available discounts, and important laws for new residents and teen drivers.
Washington Cityscape
Washington State, with its stunning landscapes and abundant natural wonders, is a visual delight. It boasts three national parks and nine national forests, earning its nickname as the Evergreen State. From the picturesque coastlines to the majestic mountains, Washington offers diverse and awe-inspiring sights that make it one of the most eye-catching states in the U.S.
Learn More About Required Auto Insurance in Washington
To legally drive in Washington State, you must have the following mandatory coverage:
Bodily Injury Liability Coverage
$25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
Property Damage Liability Coverage
$10,000.
Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage
$25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
Underinsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage
$10,000 per accident.
Basic Personal Injury Protection
$10,000 per accident.
Optional Coverages in Washington
In addition to the mandatory coverages, there are optional coverages you can consider adding to your auto insurance policy. These include:
- Collision coverage
- Comprehensive coverage
- Rental reimbursement coverage
- Emergency roadside assistance coverage
- Before making a decision, it’s essential to understand each coverage type and evaluate your specific needs to determine the right coverage for your situation.
Car Insurance Discounts in Washington
Saving money on your car insurance is always a plus. In Washington, GEICO provides various discounts to help reduce your insurance costs. Here are a few available discounts:
Multi-Vehicle Discount
Insure multiple vehicles with GEICO and save up to 25%. You can also bundle your auto insurance policy with motorcycle, boat, or RV insurance to maximize your savings.
5-Year Good Driver Discount
If you have at least five years of driving experience, a clean driving record without accidents, and no points on your license, you may be eligible for this discount.
Good Student Discount
Teen or young adult drivers in Washington can qualify for a Good Student Discount if they meet specific criteria, such as having a B average or higher and being enrolled in a full-time academic program.
These are just a few examples of the car insurance discounts offered by GEICO. To explore the full list of available discounts, visit their car insurance discounts page.
Washington Car Insurance Laws for New Residents
If you’re a new resident in Washington State, there are certain requirements you must fulfill:
Driver’s Licenses
Within 30 days of moving to Washington, new residents must obtain a state driver’s license. If you hold a valid out-of-state license, you may not need to take the knowledge test or driving test. However, if you’re under 18, you must provide proof of completion of a driver-training course that meets Washington State standards.
Registering Your Vehicle in Washington
To register your vehicle in Washington, you’ll need the following:
- Manufacturer’s Statement/Certificate of Origin for a new vehicle
- Current title and registration for used vehicles
- Certification of a Washington emissions test if required
- Personal identification for all registered owners
- Odometer reading for vehicles less than ten years old
- Payment for licensing fees and taxes (cash or check)
- It’s important to ensure you meet all the requirements and have the necessary documentation to register your vehicle in the state.
Important Washington Teen Driver Laws
If you’re a teen driver or a parent of a teen driver in Washington, understanding the laws and restrictions is crucial:
- Teens can apply for an instruction permit at 15 if enrolled in a driver’s education class. Without driver’s education, they must be 15½ and pass a knowledge test for a learner’s permit.
- Teens with a learner’s permit must be accompanied by a five-year licensed driver. The permit is valid for one year and can be renewed once.
- Teens who have held a permit for at least six months can apply for an intermediate license at 16. Initially, they can only drive with passengers aged 20 or older. After six months, the restrictions loosen, allowing up to three passengers under 20 until the driver turns 18.
- Teen drivers cannot drive between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM without a licensed driver aged at least 25 accompanying them.
- Full driving privileges are granted when a driver turns 18 and remains incident-free.
- It’s crucial for both teens and their parents to understand and abide by these laws to ensure safe and responsible driving practices.
Conclusion
Auto insurance coverage is a legal requirement for all drivers in Washington State. By understanding the mandatory coverage, optional coverages, discounts, and important laws, you can make informed decisions to protect yourself, your vehicle, and other drivers on the road. Remember to consult with an insurance provider like GEICO to customize your coverage according to your specific needs and explore available discounts for potential savings.
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Car Insurance Quotes Washington State (FAQs)
Yes, all drivers in Washington State are required to have auto insurance coverage.
Driving without insurance in Washington can result in penalties, fines, and potential license suspension.
To find affordable auto insurance in Washington, consider comparing quotes from multiple insurance providers and exploring available discounts.
Yes, insurance providers like GEICO offer various discounts in Washington, such as multi-vehicle discounts, good driver discounts, and good student discounts.