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Auto Insurance Buyer's Guide for Washington

How to Shop

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Step 1. Understand What Factors Affect Your Rates

Become an informed insurance consumer. Each insurance company in Washington takes a slightly different approach to setting rates for auto insurance, with the approval of the State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. The basic facts - who you are, where you live and what you drive – are used by all insurance companies. Many companies will ask about previous claims and traffic tickets, annual mileage, zip code, and even your education and occupation.

Insurance companies are allowed to use an insurance credit score to set your rates, but may not use credit to cancel or non-renew your policy.

Drivers With No Accidents	VS.	Drivers With 2 or More Accidents
Average rate increase = $1,000

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Step 2. Decide How Much to Buy

Choose your coverage with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a family with teens, buying enough coverage is a balancing act. Start by comparing rates for the same coverage you have today – or the minimum limits for Washington, which are 25/50/10. If you recently bought a home, but haven’t increased your policy limits, it’s time to think about upping your limits to protect your investment. If you're a renter, minimum limits of liability may be enough for now.

Why Buy Comprehensive Coverage?

Rank
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

State
Michigan
Washington
Illinois
Ohio
Maryland

Cars Stolen
42,151
37,622
33,887
33,779
28,393

Learn more about coverages

Source: National Insurance Crime Bureau.

Step 3. Shop Smart and Save

Comparison quotes give you choices for saving. Washington ranks 17th in the country for the cost of insurance, so any savings you find from comparison shopping can be well worth your time. Most insurance companies change their rates annually, making it a good idea to compare your own rates every year. We provide a quick way to check for new rates from local auto insurers, including Safeco, Progressive and The Hartford. Each company has discounts and payment plans that could save you hundreds on your insurance bill.

Get Quotes From These Top Washington Companies

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Step 4. Learn How Auto Insurance Really Works

We help you navigate your policy, so you can understand your coverage before you buy a new one. Insurance companies base your rate on the personal information you provide either online or by phone, including your driving record, a credit-based insurance score, and your claims history. To get an apples-to-apples comparison, not just an estimate, you must provide detailed facts about your cars, your coverage and your drivers. The more accurate your information, the more accurate your quote.

It’s fast and it’s free. Once you answer these questions, we give you comparison quotes from the Washington companies we represent. You save time – and find out quickly whether you can save money.