Auto insurance in Washington state

Reader’s Question:

I just want to know if my car insurance rate will go up in Washington state if I receive a ticket. Thanks.

Jasmine

Thank you for asking Jasmine.

The individual insurance providers in Washington state determine their own rates based on their own rating system. Insurance carrier must provide and submit their rate requests to the WA Insurance Commissioner for review. If this State agency is satisfied with the rate information, they will approve the request of the insurance companies.

Insurance providers base car insurance rates on different factors. The base rate is adjusted based on different factors like your age,marital status, driving history,sex, claims history, location, credit history, and the make, model and year of your vehicle etc. When you shop for car insurance, make sure that each company uses these factors differently.

To get more information about the rating system of your insurance company you may contact your insurance agent or the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner with whom they must file their rates with. They will be able to give you information if the violation will increase your premium.

Goodluck!

MariCAR