Washington auto insurance

Reader’s Question:

What is the fine/penalty for driving without insurance in Washington?

Dave

Thank you for asking Dave.

Anyone driving a motor vehicle must have an insurance liability policy in Washington state, a certificate of deposit, liability bond or be self-insured. Purchasing liability insurance on your car is the most common way of showing financial responsibility.

If you are caught driving a motor vehicle without having proof of meeting the requirements of the mandatory insurance law you are committing a major traffic offense. This violation of the law is punishable by a minimum of $250 fine. There are other fees and assessments associated in this that can be added to this fine so it typically costs about $450.

A public safety and education assessment may be part of the penalty also. A ticket for driving without insurance is like any other traffic violation and will become part of your Washington driving record.

Goodluck!

MariCAR