Insurance Center

Auto insurance is one of those things that seems to be a pain to pay for sometimes. It's expensive, and if you're one of those safe drivers who goes year in and year out without ever being involved in an accident, it might seem like you are throwing that money away.

But it's not optional: You must purchase at least the minimum level of insurance as prescribed by local law. Beyond that minimal level, you are free (encouraged, in fact) to choose additional coverage at your discretion.

The District of Columbia requires that every registered motor vehicle, or those with reciprocity stickers in DC, must have valid vehicle insurance. You are required to maintain this coverage as long as the vehicle is registered.

If there is a lapse in your insurance coverage, you are subject to fines. Be sure that you do not cancel your insurance until your vehicle tags have been surrendered to the DMV and you get a receipt for the return of your plates.

If you have outstanding insurance fines, the DMV will help you set up a payment plan that will help you pay down the fines with an initial deposit and then monthly payments over six months.

Minimum Liability Requirements

To maintain legal insurance, you must at least have coverage in the following amounts:

• Property damage liability: $10,000

• Third-party liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident

• Uninsured motorist bodily injury: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident

• Uninsured motorist property damage: $5,000, subject to $200 deductible

You must keep your insurance policy current. If your insurance coverage should lapse or be terminated, your plates and registration must be brought back to the DMV.

Proof of Insurance

If you are stopped by the police, under DC law, you are required to show your driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance. When you purchase your insurance coverage, you should receive a card or document from your insurance company that contains the name of the insurance company, your policy number, the name of the insured, and the length of coverage for the policy.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) issues citations to drivers who do not have proof of insurance. The proof of insurance law applies to all motorists who drive in the district, no matter where their car is registered or where their driver's license was issued.

The DC Department of Insurance and Banking (DISB) has a Web site where you can download a free brochure, Get Smart About Your Insurance Coverage. It has lots of useful tips and good advice about choosing the right level of insurance and the importance of understanding the details of your coverage.