All states require some insurance coverage of the drivers on their roads. If you are new to a state or spend more than a few months in a different state, it is also important to know what the laws are there as well. In Virginia, the requirement for insurance is set to protect the drivers on the roads and is comparable to the laws in most of the states in the nation.

Virginia’s Minimum Requirements for Auto Insurance

Like most states, Virginia sets minimums for auto insurance coverage that must be met by all drivers. These minimums include:

• $25,000 for each person / bodily injury liability ($50,000 each accident)
• $20,000 damage (property) liability
• Uninsured/under insured motorists $25,000 for bodily injury and $20,000 for property damage liability

These are simply the legal minimums that are set forth. You can and should have more insurance coverage that provides you and your family far more protection in the event of an accident, especially one that causes substantial property damage and serious injuries. An accident can often cause expenses that are considerably higher than what is covered by minimum insurance policies.

Why It Is Important to Gather Details at the Scene of an Accident

Virginia operates under a tort system, which means that there has to be responsibility or blame assigned after an accident. Someone will have to be declared to have been at fault for the accident, which will mean that the expenses incurred during the accident will be paid by that person and his or her insurance company. Understandably, the insurance companies will look for ways to put the blame on the other driver instead.

It is important that you gather as much information at the scene of the accident including any photos that you can take, police reports, injury reports and anything else that will be relevant. The more of a dispute about the accident the longer it may take to settle. That may mean that some things such as auto repairs or replacements and medical bills are not being taken care of in a timely manner.  The experts agree that you should exchange auto insurance information with the other drivers involved, but you should not discuss the accident with strangers nor should you accept blame in any way at that time.

How Virginia Stacks Up Against Other States in the Nation

Nationwide, insurance rates for six months of coverage average nearly $1,530. Virginia’s average insurance policy cost is slightly lower than that average; however, there are many things that can influence that actual price that you pay. Insurance in the more populous areas tends to run slightly higher than in the rural or suburban areas. There are a number of individual factors that will change the amount that you will pay for your insurance as well. These factors include:

• Your age. Younger drivers are often considered higher risks than others, so their premiums are higher.
• Your marital status. Most insurance rates for married couples are lower than for single people because they are seen as “established” and more responsible.
• Your credit score. Many insurance companies will pull your credit history and will base your premium on that information.
• The type of car that you have. Obviously a sporty car will be more likely to be involved in an accident than a family sedan.
• The way that you use your car. The more that you drive, the higher your risk of being involved in an accident.

Ways to Save on Your Auto Insurance in Virginia

There are several ways to save money on the insurance that you are required to carry in Virginia. Of course you can’t do anything about your age, but you can investigate the cost of insurance before you settle on a new auto purchase. In addition, you can enroll in and pass the Defensive Driving School program, which will give you lower insurance rates. The Safe Driver Program also offers lowered rates for those drivers who are free from accidents, citations and other issues.

It is important to review your insurance needs and circumstances before every renewal period instead of just continually buying the same coverage from the same company. If you drive less or have reached a new age group, you could be missing out on major discounts.

The Most Common Reasons for an Insurance Claim to Be Filed

There are certain things that happen more than others. These are the most common reasons that people will file an insurance claim in Virginia:

• Fender benders. By and large the most common insurance claim is for the average fender bender.
• Windshield damage. Birds fly into you while you are driving. The car in front of you kicks a rock back from its tires. Windshields get damaged in a multitude of ways and then must be replaced. Keep in mind that not all policies will cover the cost of these repairs, so always confirm what is and is not covered by your insurance.
• Vandalism. More common in areas with denser populations, vandalism can include scratches, tire damage and other damage. Again, this may not be covered by very basic insurance policies.

It is important that you are covered for the widest range of damages and incidents so that you can get your car repaired without having to come up with large amounts out of pocket.