Saturday, March 21, 2009

Seattle Auto Insurance Rates

By Steve Miller

Knowing the minimal requirements by law as well as various other factors that are used to calculate premium rates for Seattle auto insurance coverage is important when searching for the best rates. You can find a great rate for your coverage by knowing what is needed to protect you financially in the event of an accident.

Auto insurance can be difficult to understand. There are many types of coverage available and there are differences in the requirements from state to state. Many Americans also don't know that premiums and rates are calculated based on credit ratings.

When considering purchasing a new auto insurance policy take the time to research what your options are and learn what you can do to save money. Know what insurance requirements need to be met to drive in Washington. The type of your vehicle may affect your premium rates more than your driving record so make an educated auto purchase.

Drivers in Washington pay higher auto insurance premium rates than drivers in most of the other 49 states. One reason for this is the consequences of the harsh cold weather found in this region. Snow can cause cosmetic damage to vehicles, but it can also give you battery problems and freeze the engine.

The minimal insurance coverage required by Washington is called 25/50/10 coverage. This means that all drivers must have $25,000 of bodily injury per person and $50,000 for bodily injury in total after an accident. Additionally drivers must have $10,000 property damage liability coverage to pay for damages.

Washington uses what is called a "tort system" which means that someone must always be found at fault in the accident. After blame is placed, then this person and his or her insurance company are held responsible for paying damages caused by the accident.

Personal Injury Protection or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage are not required by the state regulations. However, since they will protect your property all drivers should contact their insurance providers and ask about adding them to their policy.

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