Insurance questions we hear every week in Edmonds

Washington requires liability coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage. Those minimums rarely cover a serious accident, so most agents recommend limits of $100,000/$300,000 or higher.

Insurers must offer personal injury protection (PIP), and you have to reject it in writing if you do not want it. PIP pays medical bills and lost wages for you and your passengers regardless of fault.

We strongly recommend it. A meaningful share of Washington drivers are uninsured, and underinsured motorist coverage protects you when the at-fault driver’s limits are too low.

No. Standard homeowners and condo policies exclude earthquake damage. Earthquake coverage is added by endorsement or a separate policy and usually carries a percentage deductible.

No. Flood damage requires a separate flood policy through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private flood insurer. Many policies have a 30-day waiting period.

An HO-6 policy covers your belongings, personal liability, the interior improvements the HOA policy does not, and loss assessments when the association charges owners for a shared loss or a large master policy deductible.

State law does not require it, but most marinas, including many on Puget Sound, require proof of liability coverage, and lenders require physical damage coverage on financed boats.

A common starting point is 10 to 12 times your income, adjusted for your mortgage, debts, children’s education and existing savings. We walk through the numbers with you rather than using a rule of thumb.

Term life covers a set period, such as 20 or 30 years, and costs less. Whole and other permanent policies last for life and build cash value but cost more. Many families use term for income protection and permanent coverage for specific long-term goals.

No. Washington is a monopolistic state, so most employers get workers compensation through the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). Employers should add stop-gap employers liability, which L&I does not provide.

Contractors registering with L&I must carry general liability insurance and a contractor registration bond. Most also need commercial auto, tools and equipment coverage and L&I workers compensation for employees.

A business owners policy, or BOP, packages general liability, commercial property and business income coverage for small and mid-size businesses, usually at a lower cost than buying each separately.

Online is fine for simple needs. A local agent adds value when your situation is more complex, when you want several companies compared, and when you need help through a claim.

No. Agents are paid a commission by the insurance company. Your premium is generally the same whether you buy through us or directly.