Our nation’s capital isn’t the most driver-friendly, as Washington D.C. is second in the country in longest commute times with drivers spending 155 hours in traffic every year. Not surprisingly, the sheer volume of traffic makes D.C. car insurance more expensive. On average, the annual premium in Washington D.C. is $1,876, eclipsing the national average of $1,502 by a significant amount.
That said, there are many reputable car insurance providers where you might find cheap car insurance in D.C.
Our top picks for cheap car insurance in Washington D.C.
To find the best car insurance providers, we examined many options including AM Best ratings—this signifies a provider’s financial strength and ability to pay claims. We also examined the price, diversity of policy offerings and customer ratings. Below are some of the most affordable and best car insurance providers in the District of Columbia:
Along with excellent service, these providers tout affordability. On average, State Farm, Geico and Progressive sell policies that are among the least expensive, and USAA continues to earn high marks for its outstanding rates and customer service.
Minimum coverage requirements in Washington D.C.
The minimum coverage requirements in Washington D.C. are the following:
- Bodily injury liability of $25,000 per person and up to $50,000 per accident
- Uninsured motorist bodily injury of $5,000 per person, up to $25,000 per accident
- Property liability of $10,000 per accident
- Underinsured motorist bodily injury of $25,000 per person, up to $50,000 per accident
- Underinsured motorist property damage of $5,000 per accident and a deductible of $200
Keep in mind this is the minimum coverage required in Washington D.C. It’s a good idea to have more coverage on hand to help you offset the costs of any medical or legal bills that might come from a serious accident, which can far exceed the benefit limits.
How to save on your car insurance
One of the easiest ways to save on car insurance is to comparison shop among different car insurance companies. This gives you insight into which ones offer the best protection at the lowest cost. To find cheap car insurance in D.C., you can use our comparison tool. It provides the best options relative to your age, zip code and other underwriting factors.
When you comparison shop, study which discounts the provider offers you. Many will do bundling discounts if you move your home or renters insurance over to them. Some insurance providers also offer discounts such as for safe driving, good grades (if you’re a student) and military service.
Frequently asked questions
Does Washington D.C. require car insurance?
Yes, drivers must have car insurance from the moment they register their car through the life of ownership, according to the District of Columbia’s Compulsory/No-Fault Motor Vehicle Insurance Act. If you don’t maintain coverage, you could get fines.
Is car insurance more or less expensive in Washington D.C.?
Washington D.C. is among the most expensive areas for car insurance in the country. Most of this has to do with the influx of traffic, which increases the risk ratios.
Who offers cheap D.C. car insurance?
State Farm, Geico and Progressive are three of the least expensive options available. If you qualify for USAA, check it out because its rates are low and the company delivers outstanding customer service.
Which factors influence the costs of car insurance?
Your age, driving history, the car you drive, your annual mileage and where you live are some of the many factors that car insurance companies use to determine your risk profile and premium.
Are there other options if my credit isn’t the greatest or if I’ve had driving problems in the past?
The District of Columbia Automobile Insurance Plan is available for drivers who might not qualify for insurance coverage through a traditional provider. To join this plan, you must have a District of Columbia driver’s license and a vehicle registered within Washington D.C.
The post The Best Cheap Car Insurance Companies in Washington D.C. 2019 appeared first on The Simple Dollar.
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