Washington State Car Insurance Minimums
Washington State sets a baseline level of insurance for motor vehicle operators. However, the damages in more severe Seattle car accidents may exceed these limits. A Seattle car accident lawyer at Elk & Elk can help you navigate the minimum coverage every vehicle owner in Washington state must carry and options for financial recovery.
Minimums for Car Insurance in Washington State
Many drivers opt for additional coverage above Washington state’s mandatory minimum liability coverage. Optional insurance may provide personal protection in a car accident to cover your injuries or protect against legal action by an injured driver. However, the Washington State Department of Licensing lists the following car insurance minimums:
- Bodily injury or death of an individual in any one accident: $25,000
- Bodily injury or death of two individuals in any one accident: $50,000
- Harm or destruction of property in any one accident: $10,000
You may seek the cost of damages in a Washington state car accident up to the maximum coverage a driver carries from the insurance company. When your damages exhaust these limits, exploring other options is necessary to offset your costs in an auto accident.
What Are the Alternatives to Minimum Insurance Requirements in Washington State?
If you choose not to purchase automobile insurance, you may apply for a certificate of deposit as a form of insurance coverage in Washington state. Before approval, you must submit a Financial Responsibility Application and Affidavit for review by the Department of Licensing. Additional documentation is necessary to receive a certificate of deposit, which must be a minimum of $60,000.
Auto owners may also secure a liability bond in place of insurance. The surety bond company providing the bond must be licensed to do business in Washington State. The bond must be equal to $60,000.
Owners of more than 26 vehicles may qualify for self-insurance. Drivers must present proof of self-insurance for a fleet vehicle.
Exceptions to Washington State Car Insurance Minimums
Insurance coverage is not necessary if you operate the following vehicles with these registrations:
- State or publicly-owned automobiles
- Carrier with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission
- Moped or motor scooter
- Horseless carriage at least 40 years old that is primarily a collector vehicle in good running order
Visitors to Washington state who drive personal vehicles should carry at least the minimum insurance coverage required by the state where the automobile is registered.
Minimum Insurance Requirements for Motorcycles in Washington State
Motorcyclists in Washington state must carry the same car insurance minimums as other drivers operating a personal vehicle on the highway. Motorcycle accidents may cause severe, life-changing injuries. Insurance minimums may be inadequate to cover damages resulting from a motorcycle crash.
Motorcyclists also face additional insurance challenges when filing motorcycle accident claims. Being proactive in interactions with insurance adjusters is vital to protect your claim against negative bias.
Recovering Damages in Washington State Car Accidents
Recovering compensation following a car accident can be challenging when your injuries are severe, surpassing Washington state car insurance minimums. Working with a Seattle car accident lawyer can offer insight into alternative avenues of seeking compensation for your costs.
In severe accidents, filing a claim with your insurance company may be an option, depending on the coverage you carry. Filing a personal injury lawsuit against the driver may also provide financial relief for damages you incur from an accident.
Your best interests and discovering your options for economic recovery following a Washington state car accident are priorities. Schedule a free consultation with a Seattle car accident lawyer with our firm today.