District of Columbia Auto Insurance Requirements

The District of Columbia is considered a "Tort" state, which means that you, as a driver, are financially responsible for any property damages and personal injury you may cause during an accident. In addition, you may opt to add on "No-Fault" benefits, meaning everyone involved in an accident is responsible for their own damages.

DC law requires every person who registers a vehicle have valid vehicle insurance. State minimum requirements are outlined in the table below, and apply to all drivers, whether or not No-Fault benefits are purchased.

With the No-Fault system, you can purchase personal injury protection (PIP). This covers you and your passengers for medical expenses, loss of wages, and funeral expenses. PIP also relieves the other driver of some liability.

If you are stopped by the police, DC law requires you to provide proof of insurance, regardless of where your vehicle is registered. This is usually in the form of an insurance policy card or other document which states the name of your insurance company, the policy number, names of insured drivers, and the policy's expiration date.

For added protection, DC drivers can also purchase collision, comprehensive and medical payment options to compliment their auto insurance policy.

You may want to consider purchasing limits of coverage higher than those required by law to protect your assets or property, as you may be personally responsible for any damages above the policy limits.

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Auto Insurance for Leased Vehicles in DC

Most leasing companies in the District of Columbia typically require drivers to maintain insurance coverage which exceeds the minimums set by DC law. This is to protect you financially, as well as your leasing company, should they be held partly responsible. Most leasing companies will recommend the following amounts of insurance coverage:

• Bodily injury liability coverage: $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident
• Property damage liability coverage: $50,000
• Comprehensive and collision coverage: $500 maximum deductible

Special Insurance Considerations for Drivers in DC by City

• Washington, DC

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Contacts for Auto Insurance Information In The District of Colombia

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Last Updated: August 19, 2010