Car Insurance in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., a vibrant hub and the U.S. capital, has a bustling auto market with a mix of everyday vehicles and high-end cars like Lamborghinis. However, car insurance in Washington, D.C., can be pricey, with annual premiums averaging around $2,100, making it one of the more expensive places to insure a vehicle in the U.S. If you have a clean driving record with no accidents in the past three years, you can still find affordable coverage with Good To Go Insurance.

Car Insurance Requirements in Washington, D.C.

Every driver in Washington, D.C., must meet or exceed the state’s minimum liability insurance requirements. These limits ensure you can cover damages or injuries caused to others in an accident:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $10,000 for property damage per accident

Coverage for Uninsured Drivers

D.C. law also requires uninsured motorist coverage to protect you if you’re hit by a driver without insurance:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $5,000 for property damage per accident

Drivers must carry proof of car insurance at all times. Failure to show proof can lead to fines, license suspension, and a daily penalty of $7 after 30 days. Driving without coverage is costly, so ensure you’re insured to stay legal on the road.

Auto Insurance Fraud in Washington, D.C.

Like many major cities, Washington, D.C., faces issues with auto insurance fraud, ranging from falsified addresses on policies to staged accidents. A common scam involves claiming fake injuries, such as neck pain, to secure payouts. These fraudulent claims drive up premiums for all drivers. If you suspect fraud, report it to the authorities to help keep rates down. To learn more about auto insurance fraud, explore how it impacts your costs.

Alcohol-Related Accidents in Washington, D.C.

Alcohol contributes to over one-third of the roughly ten weekly auto fatalities in the D.C. metro area. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.08 for standard drivers and 0.04 for commercial drivers. If you see someone driving under the influence, report it to the police immediately—it could save lives. DUI convictions in Washington, D.C., carry severe penalties, which may vary based on BAC level and prior offenses:

• First Offense: 6-month license suspension, fines up to $1,000, and a 90-day jail sentence.
• Second Offense: 1-year license suspension, fines up to $5,000, and a 1-year jail sentence.
• Third Offense: 2-year license suspension, fines up to $10,000, and a 1-year jail sentence.

Tips to Lower Your Washington, D.C. Insurance Rates

High premiums in Washington, D.C., don’t have to be a burden. Follow these tips to reduce your costs:

• Drive Safely: Avoid accidents and violations to maintain a clean record. A good driving history can qualify you for lower rates and discounts. Learn how to avoid car insurance rate increases with safe habits.
• Choose the Right Coverage: Opt for the minimum required coverage if you’re on a budget, but consider additional protection like uninsured motorist coverage for added safety.
• Compare Quotes: Shopping around can save you money. Use compare car insurance quotes online to find the best rates.

Get Affordable Car Insurance in Washington, D.C.

The fastest way to secure cheap car insurance in Washington, D.C., is to compare quotes online. With Good To Go Insurance, you can get up to 10 quotes in about 5 minutes—faster than a drive-thru run. Many drivers save significantly by switching providers, and the process is free with no obligation. Start today with Good To Go Insurance quotes and lower your insurance costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the car insurance requirements in Washington, D.C.?

Drivers must have at least $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury, $10,000 for property damage, and uninsured motorist coverage.

Why is car insurance expensive in Washington, D.C.?

High premiums are due to urban risks like traffic congestion, accidents, theft, and fraud, which increase insurer costs in the area.

What happens if I drive without insurance in Washington, D.C.?

You risk fines, license suspension, and a $7 daily penalty after 30 days without proof of insurance, making it costly to drive uninsured.

How can I find cheap car insurance in Washington, D.C.?

Compare quotes online, maintain a clean driving record, and choose the right coverage. Good To Go Insurance offers free quotes to help you save.