In 2010, the last period for which reliable data is available, the average annual premium for auto insurance in Washington D.C. was $2,282, compared to a national average of $1,538 for that year.
Annual Changes
Annual premiums dropped 6% in 2010 compared to 2009 in the District of Columbia. Reliable prior data is not available, but in general auto insurance prices in the United States have fallen in recent years. There is no local or Federal government involvement in setting insurance rates for the District of Columbia. Insurance companies are free to set their own rates and it is therefore best to use this site to check trends and obtain quotes that will guarantee the lowest possible premiums for auto insurance in the District of Columbia.
Seasonal Changes
2010 was a very volatile year for auto insurance premiums in the District of Columbia. Rates hit a peak in May after minor rises every month from the beginning of the year. Average annual premiums then fell to a new low for policies issued in June, and after a slight rise in July a new low was reached in August. That rate went up in September, back down again in October, and stayed relatively stable throughout the winter. Fluctuations like this illustrate the importance of checking trends and rates to get the lowest possible annual premiums.
Insurance Requirements
The minimum insurance requirements in Washington, D. C. include personal liability coverage of $25,000 per person and a $50,000 limit per accident, while the minimum property damage liability coverage is only $10,000. Additional uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident is mandatory. Under the tort system in the District of Columbia, one party is held liable for all damages aso that higher limits are recommended in order to protect assets in the event of a lawsuit.
Advice for Getting the Best Deals
Major national and local insurers issue auto policies in the District of Columbia. Each company uses different methods of determining rates, and it is impossible to predict which firms will offer the lowest prices. Obtaining multiple quotes from reliable insurance companies that are rated A or higher by A. M. Best is highly recommended, and the J. D. Power consumer satisfaction ratings for each company should also be considered.
Obtaining multiple quotes and monitoring prices through this site at regular intervals is the best way to find the lowest rates for auto insurance in the District of Columbia.
