In Washington State the individual insurance companies determine their own rates based on their own internal rating system. Insurance companies must 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.

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.

Most companies apply a surcharge to drivers involved in an accident or convicted of multiple traffic violations. Likewise, the more claims you file, the more likely your rates will increase. So whether one traffic ticket will affect your auto insurance rates depends on your carrier's rating system.

To find out about their rating system contact your insurance agent or the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner with whom they must file their rates with. Your agent should be able to inform, you if one moving violation will make your premiums go up.

If your rates do rise, contact us for an affordable auto insurance rate quote.