Find Car Insurance in Tacoma, WA

What You Should Know About Car Insurance in Tacoma, WA

Once a major railroad terminus and industrial hub, this Pacific Northwest city has transformed into a dynamic urban center known for its cultural institutions, revitalized downtown, and proximity to natural landmarks such as Mount Rainier. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with access to waterfront parks, a growing arts scene, and walkable historic neighborhoods. While it retains strong ties to its working-class roots, ongoing investment in infrastructure and education has contributed to its continued growth and appeal.

Automobile travel remains the primary mode of transportation, with major highways such as I-5 and SR-16 providing key regional connections. The local climate, characterized by frequent rain and fog, can create challenging driving conditions throughout the year.

As such, maintaining proper auto insurance is both a legal requirement and a practical necessity in Washington state. While minimum liability coverage is mandated, it often provides insufficient protection in the event of a serious accident. Drivers are encouraged to consider higher coverage limits and additional protections to ensure financial security and compliance with state law.

If you live in Tacoma, it’s always best to make sure you are protected with the best car insurance in Washington. At InsureOne, you’ll find the concierge service you are looking for with customizable plans.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Tacoma, Washington?

The average cost of car insurance in Washington is $159 per month for full coverage, and $48 per month for the basic required minimum liability. In Tacoma, minimum liability averages $50, while full coverage is around $131 per month. Nationwide, the average is $67 for minimum liability and $224 for full coverage.

What Does it Mean if Washington is an At-Fault State?

Washington follows an at-fault (or tort) system for car accidents. This means the driver who causes the accident is legally and financially responsible for the damages.

What That Looks Like:

• The at-fault driver’s insurance pays for the other party’s medical bills, car repairs, and other losses—up to policy limits.
• The injured party can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer or sue for damages.
• Drivers must carry liability insurance to cover these costs.

Why It Matters:

Unlike no-fault states, where each driver’s insurance covers their own injuries, fault must be established in Washington to determine who pays.

To stay protected, Washington drivers should consider higher liability limits and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage—especially if the other driver isn’t properly insured.

Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Washington

Insurers consider several factors when calculating your car insurance quote—location is a major one. If you live in an area with frequent accidents or heavy traffic, you’ll likely pay more. Here’s how average annual rates compare across Washington cities for both minimum and full coverage:

City	Full Coverage Insurance	Liability Insurance Coverage
Tacoma	$131	$50
Seattle	$123	$48
Spokane	$110	$40
Olympia	$105	$41
Kent	$131	$51

How Bundling Your Car and Homeowners Insurance Can Save You Money in Tacoma

We understand the need for reliable coverage alongside fiscal responsibility. Bundling your insurance policies may grant you a discount of 15 to 25%, thereby reducing your premium without compromising on protection.

For those who own a home and a car in Tacoma, bundling your policies with one carrier helps you future-proof your costs and your coverage – and adapts to life’s changes.

Combining your auto coverage and home insurance in one policy will also reduce the paperwork needed to deal with your insurance, on both sides. Your insurer needs to expend less resources on your policy, so they are happy to provide you with a thank you bonus. You’ll also find it easier to pay your bills and make changes when your coverage is all together in one spot.

At InsureOne, our professional and knowledgeable agents will show you how we are a one-stop shop for all your insurance needs.

What Types of Car Insurance Discounts are Available in Tacoma?

Insurance providers often use discounts to differentiate themselves and offer greater value to customers. But which companies offer the most substantial savings, and which discounts will you actually qualify for? Let’s explore some of the common discount opportunities available.

Remember, you don’t need to navigate this process alone—your InsureOne agent is ready to handle the research and present you with multiple tailored options to ensure you receive the best possible coverage and savings.

Discount	What It’s Worth
Good or Safe Driver	10-30%
Telematics	Up to 40%
Paid in Full	5-10%
New Car	10%
Good Student	15%

Notable Car Insurance Laws in Tacoma

Knowing Washington’s car insurance laws is crucial before driving here. Driving without required insurance can result in fines of $550 or more, and providing false proof is a misdemeanor. While some vehicles like motorcycles and certain older cars are exempt from mandatory insurance, drivers are still responsible for any damages they cause. If you’re driving a vehicle registered out of state, you must carry that state’s required insurance and be ready to show proof. Staying informed helps you avoid penalties and stay compliant on the road.

What are the Mandatory Car Insurance Requirements in Tacoma?

Washington law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance with coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $10,000 for property damage. This “25/50/10” coverage pays for damages and injuries you cause to others but does not cover your own injuries or vehicle damage. Drivers must carry proof of insurance at all times, and failure to provide it can result in fines and penalties.

Additional coverages such as personal injury protection, uninsured motorist, collision, and comprehensive insurance are not required but are recommended for greater financial security. Driving without the mandated insurance can lead to fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment. Maintaining proper coverage is essential to comply with state law and avoid these consequences.

What is the Penalty for Driving without Insurance in Tacoma?

The Evergreen State takes the offense of driving without insurance very seriously – and it can get expensive fast, especially if you cause an accident with no insurance. Aside from fines, you could lose your license to drive. If that’s not enough to deter you, a conviction would likely result in the need to carry SR-22 insurance, which labels you a high-risk driver to insurers, meaning your insurance costs will skyrocket. Here are a few of the penalties you could face:

• Fines: At least $550
• Suspended license
• SR-22 insurance
• Community service

If you cause an accident while driving uninsured, you’ll be responsible for paying any damages over $1,000. If you do not pay, you will lose your license to drive.

What Factors Go into My Car Insurance Cost in Tacoma?

We’ve covered several factors influencing your policy quote, such as your location and applicable discounts. Additionally, your premium will be affected by the specific coverage options you choose and the overall limits and deductibles of your policy. For example, including uninsured motorist coverage can impact your cost. Other important considerations include:

• Age: As always, young and inexperienced drivers will pay the most since they have no history behind the wheel. There are plenty of ways teen drivers and their parents can reduce these costs.
• Type of vehicle: The type of vehicle you choose will have an impact on your costs, although typically the color of the car being important is just another auto insurance myth.
• Relationship status: Insurers tend to view people in a committed relationship, such as marriage, as more responsible and may receive a slightly better rate than their single peers.

Typical Driving Conditions in Tacoma

Driving in Tacoma presents a mix of typical urban challenges and weather-related considerations. The city’s major routes, including I-5 and SR-16, often experience congestion during peak commute hours, with the Tacoma Narrows Bridge serving as a key but sometimes bottlenecked connection. Weather plays a significant role, as frequent rain and occasional fog can create slick roads and reduce visibility, while winter months bring light snow and icy conditions, especially on elevated or less-traveled roads.

Drivers should stay informed by using real-time traffic updates from the Washington State Department of Transportation and monitoring local road alerts from Pierce County for hazards like flooding or mudslides. To navigate safely, it’s important to maintain your vehicle—especially tires, brakes, and wipers—and adjust driving habits by reducing speed and increasing following distances during adverse conditions. With preparation and awareness, driving in Tacoma can be managed safely and efficiently.

How Many Car Accidents Happen in Tacoma Per Year?

Driving in Tacoma is usually smooth, although like everywhere, there are the unfortunate fatal accidents. Between 2021 and 23, Tacoma has a total of 81 fatal crashes, with only 23 in 2021 and 35 in 2023.

In 2023, Tacoma reported 8 fatal accidents in the city limits.

CRASH CATEGORY	2023 TOTALS
Total Fatal and Injury	484
Fatalities	35
Distracted Driving	975
Alcohol	222
Pedestrian	99

How Many Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists are in Tacoma?

Washington ranks among the states with a notably high rate of uninsured drivers—approximately one in five motorists lack insurance. To protect yourself financially in the event of an accident caused by an uninsured driver, adding uninsured motorist coverage to your policy is a simple and effective solution. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is essential, as it safeguards you against expenses that your standard policy may not cover. Best of all, adding this protection typically increases your total premium by only about 5%, making it an affordable way to secure greater peace of mind.