Like all states, Washington requires drivers to carry at least the minimum insurance coverage to register and legally operate a vehicle on Washington’s roadways. Failing to carry at least the minimum coverage results in immediate financial penalties of up to $550 in fines and license suspension unless you take prompt action to secure valid insurance. If you’ve been involved in an accident without insurance coverage, you not only face the loss of your driver’s license and significant fines, but you may also be personally liable for an injury victim’s damages. Make sure to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in Lake Stevens for legal guidance and support.
What Is the Minimum Car Insurance Required In Washington?
According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, drivers must carry at least the minimum liability insurance policy with the following coverage:
- $25,000 per person in bodily injury coverage per accident
- $50,000 in total bodily injury coverage per accident (for multiple injury victims)
- $10,000 in property damage coverage per accident
In addition, Washington requires insurers to include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as part of a standard policy. However, drivers may legally opt out of this valuable coverage by signing a waiver.
Less commonly, drivers may choose an alternative to traditional auto insurance with a financial responsibility option by submitting a $60,000 certificate of deposit or liability bond to the Department of Licensing. The state holds this amount to guarantee payment for property damage and bodily injury if the driver causes an accident, using the bond in place of traditional auto insurance.
Washington Drivers Must Carry Proof of Insurance Coverage
All Washington motorists must have proof of valid insurance coverage with them when driving and produce it upon request during a traffic stop, citation, and after a car accident. This proof may be an insurance card showing the policy number, effective date, and expiration date, or a certificate of deposit for their liability bond held by the state.
Optional Additional Insurance Coverage In Washington
Many Washington drivers choose to add additional coverage to their minimum insurance policy for added protection, although this requires higher monthly premiums. Optional coverage includes the following:
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which Washington requires all insurers to offer, this policy allows a policyholder to file a claim against their own policy after an accident caused by an uninsured motorist or when their damages far exceed the limits of the at-fault driver’s coverage
- Collision coverage for damage to a vehicle regardless of fault
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance to cover medical expenses and lost wages to the policyholder after a car accident, regardless of fault
- Comprehensive coverage for non-collision property damage, such as from fallen limbs or vandalism
- Gap insurance to cover the difference between a car’s current market value and the remaining balance of the car loan if the vehicle is totaled in an accident or stolen
- Custom part coverage to cover after-market alterations or additions to a vehicle, such as custom car rims
- Rental car reimbursement coverage to pay for a rental car as needed when a vehicle requires repairs or after an accident until a totaled vehicle is replaced
Some insurance companies also offer roadside assistance coverage for towing, battery changes, flat tire replacement, and other roadside emergencies.
How Can a Washington Car Accident Attorney Help?
Contact Wells Trumbull to learn more about your options for recovering compensation after a Washington car accident, especially if the at-fault party is uninsured, holds additional coverage, or when your damages exceed the limits of the at-fault driver’s minimum insurance coverage.