The state of Delaware has laws and regulations regarding auto insurance for its drivers. It is important that drivers understand these laws so that they can avoid the penalties that can result from a lack of insurance. There are so many options available for drivers to find the best insurance and this makes it easy for them to choose a policy.

Driving Statistics in Delaware

Seatbelt Usage

The state of Delaware has the Click it or Ticket campaign in effect. The program has been going strong for eleven years and seatbelt usage was around 90% in 2011. In 2012, the state has been implementing more programs as a part of Click it or Ticket. Fun events have helped to educate the public about the risks of driving without a seatbelt. Officials have worked to incorporate education programs into the schools and driver training programs to help citizens understand how seatbelts can save lives. Delaware is the 16th state in seatbelt use and the percentages for drivers using a seatbelt have only dropped one percent from 2010. The State of Delaware is hoping to beat its highest record for use, which occurred in 2010. Since dropping one percent in 2011, they are hoping that they are able to get up over 90% in 2012.

Auto Accidents in Delaware

Auto accidents are a fact of life on today's busy Delware roads. In the year 2010, there were 20,697 auto accidents with 103 fatalities. In 2009, there were 18,927 accidents with 102 deaths. The accident rates continue to slowly increase in Delaware. Many of these accidents could have been avoided had drivers paid more attention and followed the rules of the road. A lack of seatbelt use also contributed to many of the fatalities.

Road Conditions

The road conditions in Delaware are often rather busy because the state is so small, yet has large urban areas. In the winter, Delaware gets an average of 20 inches of snow per year. Driving conditions are more hazardous during this period. Reports show that road rage and driving under the influence were the top causes of auto accidents in Delaware.

Auto Theft

The cars that are more frequently stolen in Delaware include the Honda Civic. Officials in Delaware state that this car tops the list for the lack of securtiy features that it offers. They recommend adding anti-theft devices and alarms to help deter thieves.

The top Three Stolen Cars in Delaware

1. Honda Civic

2. Honda Accord

3. Ford Explorer

The rates for auto theft are on a downward trend throughout Delaware. In 2000, there were 3,151 auto thefts in the state. In 2005, there were 2, 349, and in 2010, there were 1,929 auto thefts. These numbers continue to fall as more and more owners are careful about being safe with their vehicles and police are cracking down on car thieves.

Insurance Laws in Delaware

It is important that drivers know and understand the laws pertaining to Delaware auto insurance. All vehicles that are registered in the state must have a minimum amount of liability insurance. Drivers are required to have $15,000 for a single injury or death, $30,000 for two injuries or deaths, and $10,000 for property damage. Drivers must have in their possession at all times their proof of their Delaware car insurance and their policy number. When they are stopped by the police, drivers must furnish their insurance information, or they will be given a citation that could result in fines.

Penalties

Violators of this law are given a penalty fee of $1,500 for the first offense and $3,000 for each offense after that. The driver is also subject to a six-month suspension of their driving privileges. The state of Delaware routinely audits its drivers for insurance coverage. This automatic flagging system flags owners who are found without insurance. Those who are found without coverage are subject to fines and suspensions.

Where to Shop for Car Insurance

There are many car insurance companies in the state of Delaware. Most of the national insurance companies operate in the state and there are also many local offices that can help drivers with their Delaware auto insurance quotes. It is often helpful to get the advice of a good agent when one is deciding on car insurance. This ensures that the driver gets the proper coverage and a good Delaware cheap car insurance rate.

The following insurance companies operate in Delaware:

AAA

Acadia

All State

Geico

Progressive

State Farm

Travelers

Most of these insurance companies offer free Delaware car insurance quotes online. This is a great way to compare rates and get detailed information on the Delaware car insurance ratings. Comparing prices allows drivers to get the best Delaware cheap insurance quotes so that they can save money. It is important that drivers screen the different insurance companies through reading reviews and ratings be sure that the Delaware auto insurance ratings for the company are sound and that the company will meet the driver's needs. This is the best way to check the insurance company to be sure that they can meet the drivers insurance needs.

Monthy Premiums in Delaware

Delaware is one of the more expensive states for insurance premiums. The average yearly cost for auto insurance premiums in 2009 was around $2,203, compared to the national average of only $800 for the same period. This makes Delaware number 20 on the list of most expensive states for insurance. Premiums are typically higher for those who are inexperienced drivers or those who have points against their driver's license. Drivers are considered inexperienced until they have at least five years of driving experience. Once the five years have passed, the driver's insurance premiums will come down to the standard Delaware cheap insurance premiums that some companies offer.

This should give drivers a good start on understanding the rules and regulations for insurance coverage. Drivers should study this information and seek further information from the Delaware Department of Insurance website. Drivers can browse through the different sections of information to educate themselves on the different laws so that they can make informed decisions for their insurance needs. It is important that drivers stay aware of new or amended laws by reviewing the site annually to check for changes.

http://www.delawareinsurance.gov/