Auto insurance. Washington (WA).Insurance companies base auto rates on a variety of factors. The premium you pay consists of a "base rate". The base rate is adjusted based on factors such as your age, sex, marital status, driving pattern, claims history, location, credit history, and the make, model and year of your vehicle. When you shop for auto insurance, remember that each company uses these factors differently. How to reduce your rates Shop around Each insurance company has unique financial goals and costs. As a result, it isn’t uncommon to find rate differences between companies for the exact same coverage. The cheapest insurance may not provide you with the degree of coverage you need. It is a good idea to discuss your coverage with your agent or insurance company. Select the right car The type of auto you own has a direct influence on your insurance costs. Before you buy an auto, check with your agent or broker to find out how much it will cost to insure. Select higher deductibles The amount of the deductible you select will affect your auto rate. For example, you may save money by increasing your collision and comprehensive deductibles from $100 to $500. To help keep your premiums down, you may want to think about paying for smaller claims yourself and using your insurance to only pay for larger claims. Special discounts Ask each agent or company if they offer special discounts. They often offer discounts to young drivers who are good students or who have completed a driver’s education course. Many companies will give you a discount on your auto premiums if you also insure your house through the same company. They also offer discounts to seniors who complete the "55-Alive" program. Eliminate duplication Your coverage may overlap in some areas, such as medical, collision, and uninsured motorist property damage. Ask your agent or broker to explain your coverage and advise you if you are duplicating coverage. Buying collision/comprehensive coverage If you don’t think you could afford to fix your car yourself if it was involved in an accident, you may want to carry collision and comprehensive coverage. These coverages protect owners of expensive and late-model autos against the cost of repairs. Though coverage may increase your rates, you may want to think about it if the difference in what you pay would exceed your ability to pay the repair bills. Your lender may require these coverages until you’ve paid off your car. What to do if you can’t find auto coverage Some drivers have a hard time obtaining insurance. This can result from a number of factors, including a poor driving record, type of vehicle, claims history, experience, etc. If your driving record prevents you from obtaining a policy in the non-standard market, your agent or broker will contact the Automobile Insurance Plan on your behalf. More than 55 years ago, the Washington State Legislature created this plan to provide auto insurance coverage to high-risk drivers who are unable to find coverage. To qualify for this special coverage, you must:
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