Washington State’s Car Insurance Requirements

Washington State requires drivers to carry certain minimum amounts of car insurance to legally operate a vehicle. Here are the main requirements:

Liability Insurance Requirements

Washington State law mandates that drivers have liability insurance coverage with at least the following limits:

• $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person in an accident.
• $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more people in an accident.
• $10,000 for property damage per accident.

This type of insurance covers the costs if you are at fault in an accident and cause injury or property damage to others.

Optional Coverage

Drivers can also purchase optional car insurance coverages beyond the required liability coverage to enhance their protection:

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and more, regardless of fault. Optional, but insurers must offer it.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: Protects against accidents with drivers lacking sufficient insurance. Optional but must be offered by insurers.
• Collision Coverage: Pays for vehicle damage after an accident, regardless of fault. Often required if leasing or financing.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damage from non-collision events like theft, fire, or hitting an animal. Usually required for financed vehicles.
• Rental Car Reimbursement: Pays for rental car costs while your vehicle is repaired after a covered accident.
• Roadside Assistance: Provides services like towing, jump-starts, and flat tire changes in emergencies.
• Gap Insurance: Covers the difference between your car’s value and loan balance if it’s totaled or stolen. Often required for leased/financed vehicles.
• Custom Parts and Equipment Coverage: Protects aftermarket modifications like custom rims or stereos.
• Medical Payments (MedPay): Covers medical expenses, similar to PIP but with lower limits and no wage coverage.

Proof of Insurance

In Washington State, it is mandatory for drivers to carry proof of insurance or proof of financial responsibility at all times while operating a vehicle. This documentation must be provided to law enforcement officers upon request or if the driver is involved in a traffic stop or an accident.

Acceptable Forms of Proof

Drivers can show any of the following as proof of insurance:

• An insurance card provided by their auto insurance company, either in physical form or a digital copy on a mobile device.
• A certificate of self-insurance issued by the state (for those who meet the self-insurance requirements).
• A certificate of deposit or surety bond of $60,000, which serves as an alternative to traditional insurance.

When Proof of Insurance is Required

1. During a Traffic Stop: If you are pulled over by law enforcement for any reason, such as speeding or a vehicle safety violation, you are required to show proof of insurance. The officer may ask to see your license, registration, and insurance.
2. At the Scene of an Accident: If you are involved in a car accident, whether or not you are at fault, you are legally required to provide proof of insurance to other parties involved as well as to law enforcement officers who arrive at the scene.

Exceptions to Washington’s Insurance Requirements

Some exceptions to the required insurance do exist in Washington.

Motorcycles and Mopeds

Motorcycles and mopeds are not required to carry the 25/50/10 liability insurance coverage. However, motorcycle drivers are still subject to Washington State’s general traffic laws, and obtaining insurance to protect against accidents and liabilities is highly recommended.

Alternative Proof of Financial Responsibility

Instead of carrying traditional liability insurance, a driver in Washington can meet the financial responsibility requirement in two ways:

• Certificate of Deposit: A driver can place a $60,000 deposit with the Washington State Department of Licensing. This deposit acts as a form of self-insurance and can be used to pay damages if the driver is found at fault in an accident.
• Surety Bond: A driver can file a bond of at least $60,000 with a surety company licensed in Washington. This bond serves as a guarantee that funds are available to cover any potential accident liabilities.

Your Next Steps Matter

If you’ve been impacted by a car accident in Washington, Brumley Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today at (833) 832-2727 or complete our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced Seattle car accident attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – get the legal support you need now!