Auto Insurance Buyer's Guide for Washington

Learn What Drives Your Rate

It starts with you. Your application for a quote begins with basic questions about your age, sex, marital status, driving record, and cars. Why so many questions? Who you are tells an insurer how likely you are to have an accident - and that's the basis of your rate. Plus, many discounts are based on your answers, so the more you share, the more you can save.

Before you buy a policy, the company will verify your personal information using your motor vehicle report, credit report and claims history.

Where You Live Matters

City, suburb or the mountains. Every locale has dangerous intersections and crowded freeways. And the Seattle, Spokane and Yakima areas have some of the highest vehicle theft rates in the country - leading to much higher rates for Comprehensive coverage. But, your zip code is only one piece of the puzzle. Even if you're in a city where rates are high, you can find discounts for carpooling and low annual mileage. And, choosing a car with airbags, anti-lock brakes and a theft-tracking device helps cut your costs.