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Alaska Statistics Summary | Statistics |
---|---|
Road Miles 2015 | Total in State: 16,129 Vehicle Miles Driven: 5,045 Million |
Vehicles 2015 | Registered: 783,169 Total Stolen: 2,046 |
State Population | 737,438 |
Most Popular Vehicle | F150 |
Percentage of Motorists Uninsured | 15.40% State Rank: 11th |
Driving Deaths | Speeding (2008-2017) Total: 253 Drunk Driving (2008-2017) Total: 207 |
Average Premiums 2015 (Annual) | Liability: $539.68 Collision: $350.81 Comprehensive: $137.26 Combined Premium: $1,048.60 |
Cheapest Provider | State Farm Mutual Auto |
Home to a range of wildlife, beautiful mountains, and a sun that sometimes never sets, Alaska is a unique and beautiful state to live in. Not so beautiful is the fact that everyone living in Alaska has to have auto insurance to drive around Alaska’s terrain. Researching the auto insurance industry is hard work, and most of us will spend hours pouring over different websites and reviews.
How do you know what auto insurance is right for you? The options are overwhelming, but we will help you reach this important decision with our comprehensive guide.
We will look at auto insurance coverage, providers, state rules, and much more. Want to start comparing rates today? Use our FREE online tool above to compare rates in your area.
Table of Contents
It can be hard to pay thousands each year for an auto insurance plan you don’t fully understand. Alaska requires all drivers to have insurance, but it can be overwhelming to pick out the best coverage and rates.
We want you to know what you are paying for, so we have explained major coverage types, rates, and Alaska insurance companies.
Keep reading to learn all about Alaska auto insurance.
The law requires drivers to have minimum coverage for auto insurance in Alaska on their car. This liability coverage ensures that in an accident, drivers can pay off the costs for property damage and injuries.
Alaska is an at-fault state. What does this mean?
The person who is at-fault in an accident is responsible for paying the costs of anyone injured in the accident as well as property damages. If you have insurance, your provider will cover losses up to your minimum liability amount.
Below is an explanation of the 50/100/25 minimum auto insurance that Alaska requires.
Alaska’s minimum amount for people’s injuries is higher than the property damage minimum, showing that Alaska rightfully places a higher value on people rather than property.
Take note, though, that Alaska’s required insurance only covers the MINIMUM amount. This amount may quickly run out in an accident, which is why it is smart to purchase more than minimum auto insurance for the best protection. The good news is that Alaska is one of the best states for minimum auto insurance.
Take a look at how minimum coverage costs vary from state to state.
Because of Alaska’s auto insurance requirements, the law requires all drivers to have forms proving financial responsibility. Proof of financial responsibility is basically proof that you have Alaska’s required minimum liability auto insurance coverage.
Acceptable forms of proof of financial responsibility can be the following:
You must have at least one form of financial security on your person while operating a vehicle. If you are pulled over in a traffic stop or you are in an accident, you must have proof of financial security, car registration, and a driver’s license.
Alaska may suspend your license if you don’t have auto insurance and are caught driving,
You will have to fill out an SR-22 form if you have a suspended license for breaking Alaska’s auto insurance law. An SR-22 form will likely raise your rates.
The easiest way to avoid suspended licenses and increased rates is by having auto insurance in the first place. Next, we will look at auto insurance premiums in Alaska.
You might have heard the term per capita disposable income before. Basically, a per capita disposable income is the amount of money a person has to spend (or save) after his or her taxes have been paid.
Alaska’s average per capita income is $49,756.
This means Alaskans have $4,146 to spend per month on running a household. This includes rent/mortgage payments, health insurance, groceries, and other expenses.
On average, Alaskans pay $1,050 a year for auto insurance. That’s $87 a month going to auto insurance.
To put this into perspective, the average annual rate for auto insurance countrywide is $981. This means Alaska’s auto insurance rate is HIGHER than the national average! As well, if you add in additional coverage, that yearly amount grows even larger.
We know Alaskans are already paying more for auto insurance, so make sure to shop around for the best rates so that prices don’t hike up even further.
Coverage Type | Annual Costs (2015) |
---|---|
Liability | $539.68 |
Collision | $350.81 |
Comprehensive | $137.26 |
Combined | $1,048.60 |
The above data is from one of the leading sources on the matter, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. You can expect auto insurance rates in Alaska to be significantly higher for 2019 and on.
Don’t forget! While having the required insurance is important, you should also have additional coverage. If there is an accident, you will be glad for the extra coverage you purchased.
Want to learn more about extra coverage? Up next, we have explained the different types of auto insurance coverage that you can add to a basic insurance plan.
Loss Ratio | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 |
---|---|---|---|
Medical Payments (MedPay) | 78% | 81% | 83% |
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UUM) | 46% | 53% | 50% |
Med Pay, Uninsured, and Underinsured Motorist coverage are optional in the state of Alaska. You should still have coverage, though, even if it is tempting to skip them.
These coverage are some of the most important coverage in case of an accident. If uninsured drivers are in an accident, they will likely go bankrupt before being able to pay off the costs from an accident. What does this mean for you? It means that if someone else is the at-fault driver, they will be unable to pay for your medical bills and property damage.
In Alaska, 15.40 percent of motorists are uninsured. This places Alaska as 11th in the U.S. for uninsured drivers!
This number gets scarier when you consider that these uninsured drivers can cause an accident BUT BE UNABLE to pay for property repairs and injuries.
Let’s dig a little deeper into the data and look at loss ratios. What do the loss ratio numbers mean? Basically, companies with high loss ratios (over 100 percent) are losing money. These companies are paying out too many claims and risk going bankrupt.
On the other hand, companies with low loss ratios are not paying out enough claims.
If you look at the table for Alaska’s loss ratios, you will see that Med Pay’s loss ratios have increased slightly over the years. Uninsured and Uninsured loss ratios have remained mostly steady.
This is good news. In 2015, the top U.S. insurance companies had loss ratios that ranged from 94 to 112 percent. While Alaska is below these numbers, it’s Medpay ratio is slowly creeping up.
So what should you take away from this section? Get Med Pay and Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage AND avoid companies with high or low loss ratios.
We’ve already talked about how minimum coverage isn’t enough. But what should you add? Looking at all the options can be overwhelming, especially when you consider added expenses.
That’s why we’ve collected a list of some of the best, affordable auto insurance rates to add to your plan. This coverage is cost-effective and useful in case of an accident or other mishaps. Learn more here: where can I compare several affordable auto insurance rates.
List of additional coverage options (click on each one to learn more):
These coverage options would all be great to add to your policy. You can add one or several, so make sure to pick the ones that are best for you.
Did you know that gender can sometimes play a role in your auto insurance rates? Even though it shouldn’t, there are clear differences between rates for males and females.
Company | Married 35-year-old female annual rate | Married 35-year-old male annual rate | Married 60-year-old female annual rate | Married 60-year-old male annual rate | Single 17-year-old female annual rate | Single 17-year-old male annual rate | Single 25-year-old female annual rate | Single 25-year-old male annual rate |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Allstate F&C | $2,133.71 | $2,133.71 | $2,037.18 | $2,037.18 | $5,100.22 | $6,679.06 | $2,407.00 | $2,634.39 |
Geico General | $2,118.66 | $2,053.39 | $1,999.69 | $1,902.76 | $4,667.64 | $5,955.63 | $2,094.53 | $2,247.33 |
Progressive Direct | $1,846.21 | $1,631.16 | $1,551.21 | $1,588.18 | $6,507.31 | $7,248.95 | $2,075.99 | $2,053.77 |
State Farm Mutual Auto | $1,340.30 | $1,340.30 | $1,200.62 | $1,200.62 | $4,158.63 | $5,390.65 | $1,578.13 | $1,615.68 |
USAA | $1,439.39 | $1,435.84 | $1,341.61 | $1,334.71 | $4,660.59 | $5,168.23 | $2,065.08 | $2,188.18 |
A common belief is that females always pay more than males. In reality, females usually pay more than males for auto insurance.
Some insurers are working to rid themselves of gender bias. You can see Allstate has more similar rates for males and females, with 35-year-olds and 60-year-olds paying the EXACT same rate!
Age also plays a part in determining rates. In general, the younger you are, the more you pay.
Where you live also plays a role in your insurance costs.
Below, we have listed the most and least expensive places for auto insurance. Scroll through to see where your ZIP code is on the list.
ZIP Code | City | Annual Average |
---|---|---|
99501 | ANCHORAGE | $3,074.22 |
99502 | ANCHORAGE | $3,086.19 |
99503 | ANCHORAGE | $3,074.51 |
99504 | ANCHORAGE | $3,132.74 |
99505 | JBER | $3,012.68 |
99506 | JBER | $2,988.70 |
99507 | ANCHORAGE | $3,083.15 |
99508 | ANCHORAGE | $3,101.13 |
99513 | ANCHORAGE | $3,074.22 |
99515 | ANCHORAGE | $3,072.50 |
99516 | ANCHORAGE | $3,056.41 |
99517 | ANCHORAGE | $3,068.87 |
99518 | ANCHORAGE | $3,080.49 |
99519 | ANCHORAGE | $2,853.72 |
99529 | ANCHORAGE | $3,074.22 |
99530 | ANCHORAGE | $3,068.87 |
99540 | INDIAN | $3,026.69 |
99545 | KONGIGANAK | $2,699.37 |
99546 | ADAK | $2,772.23 |
99547 | ATKA | $2,770.44 |
99548 | CHIGNIK LAKE | $2,774.57 |
99549 | PORT HEIDEN | $2,774.57 |
99550 | PORT LIONS | $2,529.87 |
99551 | AKIACHAK | $2,757.14 |
99552 | AKIAK | $2,776.74 |
99553 | AKUTAN | $2,768.36 |
99554 | ALAKANUK | $2,765.86 |
99555 | ALEKNAGIK | $2,772.87 |
99556 | ANCHOR POINT | $2,730.16 |
99557 | ANIAK | $2,776.74 |
99558 | ANVIK | $2,773.22 |
99559 | BETHEL | $2,781.80 |
99561 | CHEFORNAK | $2,768.35 |
99563 | CHEVAK | $2,765.86 |
99564 | CHIGNIK | $2,768.34 |
99565 | CHIGNIK LAGOON | $2,774.57 |
99566 | CHITINA | $2,803.40 |
99567 | CHUGIAK | $3,124.36 |
99568 | CLAM GULCH | $2,714.65 |
99569 | CLARKS POINT | $2,782.22 |
99571 | COLD BAY | $2,769.72 |
99572 | COOPER LANDING | $2,709.97 |
99573 | COPPER CENTER | $2,803.40 |
99574 | CORDOVA | $2,729.94 |
99575 | CROOKED CREEK | $2,776.74 |
99576 | DILLINGHAM | $2,770.80 |
99577 | EAGLE RIVER | $3,111.36 |
99578 | EEK | $2,768.35 |
99579 | EGEGIK | $2,774.57 |
99580 | EKWOK | $2,778.06 |
99581 | EMMONAK | $2,765.86 |
99583 | FALSE PASS | $2,772.52 |
99585 | MARSHALL | $2,765.86 |
99586 | GAKONA | $2,807.55 |
99587 | GIRDWOOD | $2,894.79 |
99588 | GLENNALLEN | $2,803.40 |
99589 | GOODNEWS BAY | $2,768.35 |
99590 | GRAYLING | $2,771.15 |
99591 | SAINT GEORGE ISLAND | $2,766.60 |
99599 | ANCHORAGE | $3,074.51 |
99602 | HOLY CROSS | $2,767.62 |
99603 | HOMER | $2,737.91 |
99604 | HOOPER BAY | $2,759.63 |
99605 | HOPE | $2,706.57 |
99606 | ILIAMNA | $2,766.27 |
99607 | KALSKAG | $2,754.35 |
99608 | KARLUK | $2,529.87 |
99609 | KASIGLUK | $2,781.80 |
99610 | KASILOF | $2,709.61 |
99611 | KENAI | $2,691.18 |
99612 | KING COVE | $2,760.52 |
99613 | KING SALMON | $2,767.91 |
99614 | KIPNUK | $2,768.35 |
99615 | KODIAK | $2,529.87 |
99620 | KOTLIK | $2,763.78 |
99621 | KWETHLUK | $2,765.55 |
99622 | KWIGILLINGOK | $2,766.81 |
99623 | #N/A | $2,800.27 |
99624 | LARSEN BAY | $2,529.87 |
99625 | LEVELOCK | $2,766.27 |
99626 | LOWER KALSKAG | $2,762.74 |
99627 | MC GRATH | $2,765.27 |
99628 | MANOKOTAK | $2,771.83 |
99630 | MEKORYUK | $2,765.55 |
99631 | MOOSE PASS | $2,706.57 |
99632 | MOUNTAIN VILLAGE | $2,763.78 |
99633 | NAKNEK | $2,750.95 |
99634 | NAPAKIAK | $2,765.55 |
99636 | NEW STUYAHOK | $2,771.83 |
99637 | TOKSOOK BAY | $2,776.74 |
99638 | NIKOLSKI | $2,768.36 |
99639 | NINILCHIK | $2,710.25 |
99640 | NONDALTON | $2,766.27 |
99641 | NUNAPITCHUK | $2,780.70 |
99643 | OLD HARBOR | $2,529.87 |
99644 | OUZINKIE | $2,529.87 |
99645 | PALMER | $3,091.71 |
99647 | PEDRO BAY | $2,766.27 |
99648 | PERRYVILLE | $2,774.57 |
99649 | PILOT POINT | $2,772.50 |
99650 | PILOT STATION | $2,762.74 |
99651 | PLATINUM | $2,768.35 |
99652 | BIG LAKE | $3,072.96 |
99653 | PORT ALSWORTH | $2,766.27 |
99654 | WASILLA | $3,072.96 |
99655 | QUINHAGAK | $2,754.35 |
99656 | RED DEVIL | $2,768.35 |
99657 | RUSSIAN MISSION | $2,765.86 |
99658 | SAINT MARYS | $2,763.47 |
99659 | SAINT MICHAEL | $2,754.67 |
99660 | SAINT PAUL ISLAND | $2,775.31 |
99661 | SAND POINT | $2,761.00 |
99662 | SCAMMON BAY | $2,765.86 |
99663 | SELDOVIA | $2,737.91 |
99664 | SEWARD | $2,723.28 |
99665 | SHAGELUK | $2,771.15 |
99666 | NUNAM IQUA | $2,763.78 |
99667 | SKWENTNA | $2,763.76 |
99668 | SLEETMUTE | $2,765.55 |
99669 | SOLDOTNA | $2,682.68 |
99670 | SOUTH NAKNEK | $2,772.79 |
99671 | STEBBINS | $2,754.67 |
99672 | STERLING | $2,697.41 |
99674 | SUTTON | $3,060.28 |
99675 | TAKOTNA | $2,765.27 |
99676 | TALKEETNA | $2,748.05 |
99677 | TATITLEK | $2,729.94 |
99678 | TOGIAK | $2,770.80 |
99679 | TULUKSAK | $2,780.70 |
99680 | TUNTUTULIAK | $2,781.80 |
99681 | TUNUNAK | $2,776.74 |
99682 | TYONEK | $2,809.91 |
99683 | TRAPPER CREEK | $2,773.04 |
99684 | UNALAKLEET | $2,755.14 |
99685 | UNALASKA | $2,747.41 |
99686 | VALDEZ | $2,721.92 |
99688 | WILLOW | $2,957.31 |
99689 | YAKUTAT | $2,473.28 |
99690 | NIGHTMUTE | $2,781.80 |
99691 | NIKOLAI | $2,770.51 |
99692 | DUTCH HARBOR | $2,744.61 |
99693 | WHITTIER | $2,833.93 |
99694 | HOUSTON | $2,957.31 |
99701 | FAIRBANKS | $2,885.50 |
99702 | EIELSON AFB | $2,812.87 |
99703 | FORT WAINWRIGHT | $2,876.16 |
99704 | CLEAR | $2,770.55 |
99705 | NORTH POLE | $2,827.17 |
99709 | FAIRBANKS | $2,808.39 |
99712 | FAIRBANKS | $2,876.34 |
99714 | SALCHA | $2,880.20 |
99716 | TWO RIVERS | $2,848.08 |
99720 | ALLAKAKET | $2,770.11 |
99721 | ANAKTUVUK PASS | $2,761.70 |
99722 | ARCTIC VILLAGE | $2,781.61 |
99723 | BARROW | $2,808.39 |
99724 | BEAVER | $2,771.15 |
99726 | BETTLES FIELD | $2,795.61 |
99727 | BUCKLAND | $2,762.74 |
99729 | CANTWELL | $2,791.41 |
99730 | CENTRAL | $2,746.75 |
99731 | FORT GREELY | $2,824.49 |
99732 | CHICKEN | $2,828.96 |
99733 | CIRCLE | $2,794.05 |
99736 | DEERING | $2,762.74 |
99737 | DELTA JUNCTION | $2,824.49 |
99738 | EAGLE | $2,828.96 |
99739 | ELIM | $2,749.95 |
99740 | FORT YUKON | $2,795.61 |
99741 | GALENA | $2,761.39 |
99742 | GAMBELL | $2,755.14 |
99743 | HEALY | $2,811.56 |
99744 | ANDERSON | $2,816.00 |
99745 | HUGHES | $2,773.22 |
99746 | HUSLIA | $2,771.15 |
99747 | KAKTOVIK | $2,768.66 |
99748 | KALTAG | $2,768.35 |
99749 | KIANA | $2,761.70 |
99750 | KIVALINA | $2,765.86 |
99751 | KOBUK | $2,765.86 |
99752 | KOTZEBUE | $2,757.55 |
99753 | KOYUK | $2,746.84 |
99754 | KOYUKUK | $2,753.07 |
99755 | DENALI NATIONAL PARK | $2,798.16 |
99756 | MANLEY HOT SPRINGS | $2,768.06 |
99757 | LAKE MINCHUMINA | $2,776.10 |
99758 | MINTO | $2,784.76 |
99759 | POINT LAY | $2,785.45 |
99760 | NENANA | $2,789.17 |
99761 | NOATAK | $2,765.86 |
99762 | NOME | $2,746.84 |
99763 | NOORVIK | $2,763.78 |
99764 | NORTHWAY | $2,828.96 |
99765 | NULATO | $2,778.82 |
99766 | POINT HOPE | $2,765.86 |
99767 | RAMPART | $2,767.62 |
99768 | RUBY | $2,773.31 |
99769 | SAVOONGA | $2,755.14 |
99770 | SELAWIK | $2,765.86 |
99771 | SHAKTOOLIK | $2,753.07 |
99772 | SHISHMAREF | $2,755.14 |
99773 | SHUNGNAK | $2,765.86 |
99774 | STEVENS VILLAGE | $2,773.22 |
99775 | FAIRBANKS | $2,836.65 |
99776 | TANACROSS | $2,828.96 |
99777 | TANANA | $2,792.81 |
99778 | TELLER | $2,751.55 |
99780 | TOK | $2,828.96 |
99781 | VENETIE | $2,781.61 |
99782 | WAINWRIGHT | $2,777.14 |
99783 | WALES | $2,746.84 |
99784 | WHITE MOUNTAIN | $2,752.03 |
99785 | BREVIG MISSION | $2,746.84 |
99786 | AMBLER | $2,761.70 |
99788 | CHALKYITSIK | $2,795.61 |
99789 | NUIQSUT | $2,779.85 |
99790 | FAIRBANKS | $2,876.34 |
99791 | ATQASUK | $2,773.31 |
99801 | JUNEAU | $2,391.42 |
99811 | JUNEAU | $2,391.42 |
99820 | ANGOON | $2,335.97 |
99821 | AUKE BAY | $2,391.42 |
99824 | DOUGLAS | $2,351.46 |
99825 | ELFIN COVE | $2,370.52 |
99826 | GUSTAVUS | $2,355.81 |
99827 | HAINES | $2,357.96 |
99829 | HOONAH | $2,348.11 |
99830 | KAKE | $2,348.31 |
99832 | PELICAN | $2,348.31 |
99833 | PETERSBURG | $2,351.30 |
99835 | SITKA | $2,371.90 |
99836 | PORT ALEXANDER | $2,371.90 |
99840 | SKAGWAY | $2,370.50 |
99841 | TENAKEE SPRINGS | $2,348.31 |
99901 | KETCHIKAN | $2,438.02 |
99903 | MEYERS CHUCK | $2,472.61 |
99918 | COFFMAN COVE | $2,438.02 |
99919 | THORNE BAY | $2,456.86 |
99921 | CRAIG | $2,484.84 |
99922 | HYDABURG | $2,465.25 |
99923 | HYDER | $2,468.39 |
99925 | KLAWOCK | $2,490.45 |
99926 | METLAKATLA | $2,490.80 |
99927 | POINT BAKER | $2,455.82 |
99928 | WARD COVE | $2,438.02 |
99929 | WRANGELL | $2,471.16 |
Anchorage ZIP codes pop up multiple times, which makes sense as Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska. Surprisingly, Alaska’s capital, Juneau, made it onto the list of least expensive ZIP codes. We have also listed the least and most expensive Alaska cities for auto insurance.
City Name | Annual Average |
---|---|
ADAK | $2,772.23 |
AKIACHAK | $2,757.15 |
AKIAK | $2,776.74 |
AKUTAN | $2,768.36 |
ALAKANUK | $2,765.86 |
ALEKNAGIK | $2,772.87 |
ALLAKAKET | $2,770.11 |
AMBLER | $2,761.70 |
ANAKTUVUK PASS | $2,761.70 |
ANCHOR POINT | $2,730.16 |
ANCHORAGE | $3,065.05 |
ANDERSON | $2,816.00 |
ANGOON | $2,335.97 |
ANIAK | $2,776.74 |
ANVIK | $2,773.22 |
ARCTIC VILLAGE | $2,781.61 |
ATKA | $2,770.44 |
ATQASUK | $2,773.31 |
AUKE BAY | $2,391.43 |
BARROW | $2,808.39 |
BEAVER | $2,771.15 |
BETHEL | $2,781.80 |
BETTLES FIELD | $2,795.61 |
BIG LAKE | $3,072.96 |
BREVIG MISSION | $2,746.84 |
BUCKLAND | $2,762.74 |
CANTWELL | $2,791.40 |
CENTRAL | $2,746.75 |
CHALKYITSIK | $2,795.61 |
CHEFORNAK | $2,768.35 |
CHEVAK | $2,765.86 |
CHICKEN | $2,828.96 |
CHIGNIK | $2,768.34 |
CHIGNIK LAGOON | $2,774.57 |
CHIGNIK LAKE | $2,774.57 |
CHITINA | $2,803.40 |
CHUGIAK | $3,124.36 |
CIRCLE | $2,794.05 |
CLAM GULCH | $2,714.65 |
CLARKS POINT | $2,782.22 |
CLEAR | $2,770.55 |
COFFMAN COVE | $2,438.02 |
COLD BAY | $2,769.72 |
COOPER LANDING | $2,709.97 |
COPPER CENTER | $2,803.40 |
CORDOVA | $2,729.94 |
CRAIG | $2,484.84 |
CROOKED CREEK | $2,776.74 |
DEERING | $2,762.74 |
DELTA JUNCTION | $2,824.49 |
DENALI NATIONAL PARK | $2,798.16 |
DILLINGHAM | $2,770.80 |
DOUGLAS | $2,351.46 |
DUTCH HARBOR | $2,744.61 |
EAGLE | $2,828.96 |
EAGLE RIVER | $3,111.36 |
EEK | $2,768.35 |
EGEGIK | $2,774.57 |
EIELSON AFB | $2,812.87 |
EKWOK | $2,778.06 |
ELFIN COVE | $2,370.52 |
ELIM | $2,749.95 |
EMMONAK | $2,765.86 |
FAIRBANKS | $2,856.65 |
FALSE PASS | $2,772.52 |
FORT GREELY | $2,824.49 |
FORT WAINWRIGHT | $2,876.16 |
FORT YUKON | $2,795.61 |
GAKONA | $2,807.55 |
GALENA | $2,761.39 |
GAMBELL | $2,755.14 |
GIRDWOOD | $2,894.79 |
GLENNALLEN | $2,803.40 |
GOODNEWS BAY | $2,768.35 |
GRAYLING | $2,771.15 |
GUSTAVAS | $2,355.81 |
HAINES | $2,357.96 |
HEALY | $2,811.56 |
HOLY CROSS | $2,767.62 |
HOMER | $2,737.91 |
HOONAH | $2,348.11 |
HOOPER BAY | $2,759.63 |
HOPE | $2,706.57 |
HOUSTON | $2,957.31 |
HUGHES | $2,773.22 |
HUSLIA | $2,771.15 |
HYDABURG | $2,465.25 |
HYDER | $2,468.39 |
ILIAMNA | $2,766.27 |
INDIAN | $3,026.70 |
JBER | $3,000.69 |
JUNEAU | $2,391.43 |
KAKE | $2,348.31 |
KAKTOVIK | $2,768.66 |
KALSKAG | $2,754.35 |
KALTAG | $2,768.35 |
KARLUK | $2,529.87 |
KASIGLUK | $2,781.80 |
KASILOF | $2,709.61 |
KENAI | $2,691.18 |
KETCHIKAN | $2,438.02 |
KIANA | $2,761.70 |
KING COVE | $2,760.52 |
KING SALMON | $2,767.91 |
KIPNUK | $2,768.35 |
KIVALINA | $2,765.86 |
KLAWOCK | $2,490.45 |
KOBUK | $2,765.86 |
KODIAK | $2,529.87 |
KONGIGANAK | $2,699.37 |
KOTLIK | $2,763.78 |
KOTZEBUE | $2,757.55 |
KOYUK | $2,746.84 |
KOYUKUK | $2,753.07 |
KWETHLUK | $2,765.55 |
KWIGILLINGOK | $2,766.81 |
LAKE MINCHUMINA | $2,776.11 |
LARSEN BAY | $2,529.87 |
LEVELOCK | $2,766.27 |
LOWER KALSKAG | $2,762.74 |
MANLEY HOT SPRINGS | $2,768.06 |
MANOKOTAK | $2,771.83 |
MARSHALL | $2,765.86 |
MC GRATH | $2,765.27 |
MEKORYUK | $2,765.55 |
METLAKATLA | $2,490.80 |
MEYERS CHUCK | $2,472.61 |
MINTO | $2,784.76 |
MOOSE PASS | $2,706.57 |
MOUNTAIN VILLAGE | $2,763.78 |
NAKNEK | $2,750.95 |
NAPAKIAK | $2,765.55 |
NENANA | $2,789.17 |
NEW STUYAHOK | $2,771.83 |
NIGHTMUTE | $2,781.80 |
NIKOLAI | $2,770.51 |
NIKOLSKI | $2,768.36 |
NINILCHIK | $2,710.25 |
NOATAK | $2,765.86 |
NOME | $2,746.84 |
NONDALTON | $2,766.27 |
NOORVIK | $2,763.78 |
NORTH POLE | $2,827.17 |
NORTHWAY | $2,828.96 |
NUIQSUT | $2,779.85 |
NULATO | $2,778.82 |
NUNAM IQUA | $2,763.78 |
NUNAPITCHUK | $2,780.70 |
OLD HARBOR | $2,529.87 |
OUZINKIE | $2,529.87 |
PALMER | $3,091.71 |
PEDRO BAY | $2,766.27 |
PELICAN | $2,348.31 |
PERRYVILLE | $2,774.57 |
PETERSBURGH | $2,351.30 |
PILOT POINT | $2,772.50 |
PILOT STATION | $2,762.74 |
PLATINUM | $2,768.35 |
POINT BAKER | $2,455.82 |
POINT HOPE | $2,765.86 |
POINT LAY | $2,785.45 |
PORT ALEXANDER | $2,371.90 |
PORT ALSWORTH | $2,766.27 |
PORT HEIDEN | $2,774.57 |
PORT LIONS | $2,529.87 |
QUINHAGAK | $2,754.35 |
RAMPART | $2,767.62 |
RED DEVIL | $2,768.35 |
RUBY | $2,773.31 |
RUSSIAN MISSION | $2,765.86 |
SAINT GEORGE ISLAND | $2,766.60 |
SAINT MARYS | $2,763.47 |
SAINT MICHAEL | $2,754.67 |
SAINT PAUL ISLAND | $2,775.31 |
SALCHA | $2,880.21 |
SAND POINT | $2,761.00 |
SAVOONGA | $2,755.14 |
SCAMMON BAY | $2,765.86 |
SELAWIK | $2,765.86 |
SELDOVIA | $2,737.91 |
SEWARD | $2,723.28 |
SHAGELUK | $2,771.15 |
SHAKTOOLIK | $2,753.07 |
SHISHMAREF | $2,755.14 |
SHUNGNAK | $2,765.86 |
SITKA | $2,371.90 |
SKAGWAY | $2,370.50 |
SKWENTNA | $2,763.76 |
SLEETMUTE | $2,765.55 |
SOLDOTNA | $2,682.68 |
SOUTH NAKNEK | $2,772.79 |
STEBBINS | $2,754.67 |
STERLING | $2,697.41 |
STEVENS VILLAGE | $2,773.22 |
SUTTON | $3,060.28 |
TAKOTNA | $2,765.27 |
TALKEETNA | $2,748.05 |
TANACROSS | $2,828.96 |
TANANA | $2,792.81 |
TATITLEK | $2,729.94 |
TELLER | $2,751.55 |
TENAKEE SPRINGS | $2,348.31 |
THORNE BAY | $2,456.86 |
TOGIAK | $2,770.80 |
TOK | $2,828.96 |
TOKSOOK BAY | $2,776.74 |
TRAPPER CREEK | $2,773.04 |
TULUKSAK | $2,780.70 |
TUNTUTULIAK | $2,781.80 |
TUNUNAK | $2,776.74 |
TWO RIVERS | $2,848.08 |
TYONEK | $2,809.91 |
UNALAKLEET | $2,755.14 |
UNALASKA | $2,747.41 |
VALDEZ | $2,721.92 |
VENETIE | $2,781.61 |
WAINWRIGHT | $2,777.14 |
WALES | $2,746.84 |
WARD COVE | $2,438.02 |
WASILLA | $3,072.96 |
WHITE MOUNTAIN | $2,752.03 |
WHITTIER | $2,833.94 |
WILLOW | $2,957.31 |
WRANGELL | $2,471.16 |
YAKUTAT | $2,473.27 |
OTHER | $2,800.27 |
With so many auto insurance companies clamoring for new customers, it can be hard to know which company is sincere in offering you the best rates AND the best coverage. The last thing you want is for your hard-earned money to pay for bad coverage and overly expensive rates.
That’s why we have looked through the biggest auto insurance companies in Alaska to help provide you with much-needed information.
We’ve covered company ratings, complaints, and much more.
So let’s get to it!
You might be wondering, what exactly is an AM Best Rating? Basically, an AM Best rating determines a company’s financial strength. Look below for the AM financial ratings of the largest insurance companies in Alaska.
Company Name | A.M. Best Rating | Direct Premiums Written | Loss Ratio | Market Share |
---|---|---|---|---|
State Farm Group | A++ | $133,816 | 77.95% | 28.55% |
USAA Group | A++ | $83,687 | 68.67% | 17.86% |
Geico | A++ | $82,637 | 68.23% | 17.63% |
Allstate Insurance Group | A+ | $59,507 | 45.56% | 12.70% |
Progressive Group | A+ | $50,922 | 67.86% | 10.86% |
Liberty Mutual Group | A | $16,337 | 63.73% | 3.49% |
Country Insurance & Financial Service Group | A+ | $14,042 | 65.14% | 3.00% |
Hartford Fire & Casualty Group | A | $10,332 | 66.49% | 2.20% |
Tiptree Financial Group | NR | $4,938 | 20.10% | 1.05% |
Horace Mann Group | NR | $4,748 | 67.08% | 1.01% |
State Total | $468,681 | 67.54% | 100.00% |
As we discussed before, a company shouldn’t have a high (over 100 percent) loss ratio OR a low loss ratio. Some companies, like Tiptree, are extremely low on their loss ratio, but most of the companies have a good loss ratio. Additionally, none of the companies are in danger of going bankrupt because of a high loss ratio.
The data below shows the number of complaints and complaint ratio for the top ten providers in Alaska. Bear in mind, though, that complaints do not necessarily mean a company is bad. Rather, it is how a company addresses complaints and customer satisfaction that matter most. You don’t make it onto the top ten provider list unless you are doing something right.
Top Providers of Auto Insurance in Alaska | Company Complaint Ratio 2017 | Total Complaints 2017 |
---|---|---|
State Farm Group | 0.44 | 1,482 |
Allstate Insurance Group | 0.5 | 163 |
Progressive Group | 0.75 | 120 |
Country Insurance and Financial Service Group | 0.44 | 15 |
Horace Mann Group | 0.79 | 11 |
Hartford Fire and Casualty Group | 4.68 | 9 |
Geico | .007 | 6 |
Liberty Mutual Group | .007 | 6 |
Tiptree Financial Group | 0.55 | 2 |
USSA Group | 0 | 2 |
Company | Annual Average | Compared to State Average | Percentage Compared to State Average |
---|---|---|---|
Allstate F&C | $3,145.31 | $391 | 12.44% |
Geico General | $2,879.95 | $126 | 4.37% |
Progressive Direct | $3,062.85 | $309 | 10.08% |
State Farm Mutual Auto | $2,228.12 | -$526 | -23.61% |
USAA | $2,454.20 | -$300 | -12.22% |
A few major companies, such as USAA and State Farm Mutual, have averages that are BELOW the national average. Allstate and Geico are above the national average, but not shockingly so. If their rates were higher, Allstate and Geico may not have made it onto the list of the biggest companies in Alaska.
At some companies, how far you drive each day CAN have an effect on your rates.
Company | Commute and Annual Mileage | Annual Average Cost |
---|---|---|
Allstate | 25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage. | $3,207 |
Allstate | 10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage. | $3,084 |
Progressive | 10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage. | $3,063 |
Progressive | 25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage. | $3,063 |
Geico | 25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage. | $2,916 |
Geico | 10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage. | $2,843 |
USAA | 25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage. | $2,496 |
USAA | 10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage. | $2,412 |
State Farm | 25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage. | $2,289 |
State Farm | 10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage. | $2,167 |
While there aren’t any huge leaps in cost, a longer commute can add just over a hundred dollars at companies like State Farm.
While it can be tempting to purchase the lowest coverage because of the lower cost, a higher level of coverage protects you significantly better. Let’s take a closer look at the coverage price differences at Alaska companies.
Group | Coverage Type | Annual Average |
---|---|---|
Allstate | High | $3,386 |
Allstate | Medium | $3,244 |
Allstate | Low | $3,164 |
Farmers | High | $4,460 |
Farmers | Medium | $4,123 |
Farmers | Low | $3,947 |
Geico | High | $3,065 |
Geico | Medium | $2,848 |
Geico | Low | $2,692 |
Liberty Mutual | High | $5,558 |
Liberty Mutual | Medium | $5,267 |
Liberty Mutual | Low | $5,051 |
Nationwide | High | $2,693 |
Nationwide | Medium | $2,633 |
Nationwide | Low | $2,644 |
Progressive | High | $4,463 |
Progressive | Medium | $4,039 |
Progressive | Low | $3,722 |
State Farm | High | $4,325 |
State Farm | Medium | $4,089 |
State Farm | Low | $3,896 |
Travelers | High | $3,804 |
Travelers | Medium | $3,770 |
Travelers | Low | $3,515 |
USAA | High | $2,294 |
USAA | Medium | $2,198 |
USAA | Low | $2,146 |
By shopping around at different companies, you can get a high level of coverage for only a little more than low-level coverage. For example, there is only a $148 difference between low and high coverage at USAA.
Company | Credit History | Annual Average |
---|---|---|
Allstate | Good | $2,757 |
Allstate | Fair | $2,961 |
Allstate | Poor | $3,718 |
Geico | Good | $2,522 |
Geico | Fair | $2,845 |
Geico | Poor | $3,273 |
Progressive | Good | $2,852 |
Progressive | Fair | $2,992 |
State Farm | Good | $1,609 |
Progressive | Poor | $3,344 |
State Farm | Fair | $1,993 |
USAA | Good | $1,832 |
State Farm | Poor | $3,083 |
USAA | Fair | $2,189 |
USAA | Poor | $3,342 |
A bad credit score is detrimental when purchasing auto insurance. Auto insurance companies will usually determine rates by examining your credit score. If you have good credit, you will usually receive better rates.
In the state of Alabama, the average credit score is 668. This score is just slightly below the 2017 national credit score of 675.
The data also shows that just one DUI or accident can cause your rates to skyrocket. For example, a DUI at Geico will send your annual cost up over $2,000!
Learn more about The penalties for a DUI conviction in Alaska.
Clearly, your credit score plays an important part in determining your auto insurance rates. Up next, we will cover another important factor that insurers use to determine rates — your driving record.
Group | Driving Record | Annual Average |
---|---|---|
Allstate | Clean record | $2,511 |
Allstate | With 1 accident | $3,541 |
Allstate | With 1 DUI | $3,542 |
Allstate | With 1 speeding violation | $2,988 |
Geico | Clean record | $2,059 |
Geico | With 1 accident | $3,044 |
Geico | With 1 DUI | $4,320 |
Geico | With 1 speeding violation | $2,096 |
Progressive | Clean record | $2,741 |
Progressive | With 1 accident | $3,513 |
Progressive | With 1 DUI | $2,911 |
Progressive | With 1 speeding violation | $3,087 |
State Farm | Clean record | $2,031 |
State Farm | With 1 accident | $2,425 |
State Farm | With 1 DUI | $2,228 |
State Farm | With 1 speeding violation | $2,228 |
USAA | Clean record | $1,928 |
USAA | With 1 accident | $2,474 |
USAA | With 1 DUI | $3,232 |
USAA | With 1 speeding violation | $2,183 |
At many of these companies, a single DUI or accident will increase your rates astronomically. If you keep a clean driving record, it will keep your rates down!
Domestic | Foreign | Total Number of Licensed Insurers |
---|---|---|
4 | 397 | 401 |
You might be wondering what the difference is between domestic vs. foreign insurance. Basically, domestic insurance is formed under Alaska law, but foreign insurance is formed under the laws of any state in the U.S.
State laws are often confusing. Often, what is legal in one state isn’t legal in another. So how do you know what is legal in Alaska? If you are new to Alaska, you need to familiarize yourself with Alaska’s driving laws.
After all, the last thing you want is a fine for breaking a driving law that you didn’t know existed!
Don’t fear! We have put together a list of all the important driving laws you need to know. From insurance coverage rules to seat belt laws, we cover it all. So keep scrolling to learn more.
As we’ve stated before, Alaska requires every driver to have auto insurance. According to the NAIC, insurers in Alaska must file auto insurance policies with the Alaska Insurance Department before using auto insurance. This is to make sure the policy complies with state laws. Don’t worry, though, your insurer will take care of the filing.
Alaska state law requires you to have the minimum liability insurance coverage.
Keep reading to learn about high-risk insurance and what to do if you need high-risk insurance.
The last thing anyone wants is increased premiums. Unfortunately, if you are in an accident, you may be required to fill out an SR-22 form to purchase high-risk insurance. Below are some of the reasons for mandatory high-risk insurance:
If you are required to purchase high-risk insurance, bear in mind that some insurers may refuse to insure you.
If you are refused auto insurance coverage, you must turn to the Alaska Automobile Insurance Plan.
The DMV advises using the Alaska Automobile Insurance Plan as a LAST resort because insurance is more expensive through the plan. Make sure to shop around at providers for high-risk insurance before turning the Alaska Automobile Insurance Plan.
The best way to have low-cost insurance in Alaska is to have a clean driving record. Currently, Alaska does not offer a government-sponsored insurance program for low-income drivers. Although there are still plenty of ways to cut down costs, so don’t be discouraged.
Ask your provider about the following discounts:
Want to save more? Make sure to shop around at providers to find the best, cost-effective rates.
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Did you know windshields can crack and shatter just from the cold? In Alaska, temperatures can drop to -70 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s significant potential for shattered windshields!
Unfortunately, in Alaska, there are no laws requiring insurers to replace or repair windshields.
This doesn’t mean insurers won’t cover it! If you have comprehensive insurance, there is a good chance that your insurer will replace or repair your windshield. Once again, the better your insurance, the better benefits you will have.
As in every state in the U.S., insurance fraud is a crime in Alaska. To prevent insurance fraud, Alaska has a fraud bureau working to catch criminals who commit insurance fraud.
According to the IIHS, there are two ways to commit insurance fraud:
The video below further explains examples of insurance fraud.
Committing insurance fraud in Alaska can lead to jail time, fines, community service, and other penalties. To avoid this happening to you, don’t make false claims or add “extra” onto your claim. It’s simply not worth it.
If you are in an accident, you only have a certain amount of time to file a claim. If you don’t file a claim in time, you won’t receive the money you are owed. This time begins running out the day of your accident. Check below to see the amount of time you have to file claims.
Don’t wait! Years pass quicker than one would think, so don’t put off filing that claim!
In the state of Alaska, the law requires insurers to fully disclose all policy information to their clients. This is to prevent benefits from being conveniently “forgotten” at the time of a claim. It also prevents insurers from ignoring your claims.
While this law is useful, the best way to avoid being taken advantage of is to know your policy inside and out.
Stay with us, because we are now going to dive into Alaska’s licensing laws for vehicles.
Because Alaska requires all drivers to have insurance, there are strict penalties in place for driving without auto insurance. We understand that auto insurance can be expensive, but a look at the penalties below may convince you that writing a check each month for insurance is a better option.
The penalties for driving without insurance in Alaska include:
While Alaska doesn’t have fines, you automatically LOSE your license. You go from driving without insurance to not being able to drive at all!
If you do have auto insurance, you need to make sure you have proof of insurance. Below are the acceptable proofs of insurance:
Anytime law enforcement pulls you over, you must provide proof of insurance. You must also provide your car’s registration and your driver’s license.
If you break Alaska’s auto insurance laws by driving without insurance, your car’s registration will not be suspended, but Alaska WILL suspend your license. As well, it doesn’t matter if you are the at-fault driver or not. The penalty for being in an accident without insurance is the same — losing your license.
Teens in Alaska can start driving with a learner’s permit as young as 14 years old. Teens must meet the requirements below to receive a license or a restricted license.
Requirement | Period |
---|---|
Mandatory Holding Period | 6 months |
Minimum Supervised Driving Time | 40 hours (10 of which must be at night or in inclement weather) |
Minimum Age | 16-years-old |
Young drivers in Alaska with restricted licenses must also follow the rules listed below.
Restriction | Details | Restriction Lifted |
---|---|---|
Nighttime restrictions | 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. | 6 months or until age 18 (minimum age: 16 and 6 months) |
Passenger restrictions (family members excepted unless noted otherwise) | No passengers younger than 21-years-old | 6 months or until age 18 (minimum age: 16 and 6 months) |
Let’s move on from teen drivers to older drivers, another age group that has special requirements.
In Alaska, older drivers must renew drivers licenses every five years, the same as the general population. However, there are some special rules in place for 69-year-olds and older.
So if you are an older driver, you have to go in person to renew your license AND you have to schedule a visit with an eye doctor.
If you want to drive in the rugged state of Alaska, you need auto insurance. If you recall, Alaska requires you to have the following minimum liability insurance.
You must contact your provider so that your provider can change your rates if necessary and provide you with updated insurance cards. As a new resident, this task is a must on your to-do list.
Alaskans must renew their licenses every five years. This doesn’t mean you need to make a trip to the DMV every time.
In Alaska, residents can renew their licenses online or through the mail every other renewal. That’s ten years without a trip to the DMV!
Be warned, though, that proof of adequate vision IS required at every IN-PERSON renewal. This isn’t a big deal when you consider that this requires an eye-doctor visit every ten years. Especially because you should be going to an eye doctor more frequently than once a decade!
Negligent driving in Alaska is when a person endangers other people and property through risky driving. While negligent driving isn’t a crime in the state of Alaska, you can pay up to $300 in fines if you are convicted.
Negligent driving will also add SIX points to your driving record.
Remember, a bad driving record will also increase your rates. To avoid paying more, avoid reckless driving to keep both yourself and others safe on the road.
If you don’t know the rules of the road, you risk breaking the law. In addition to fines, you will likely have points added to your record that will increase your rates. To avoid losing more of your hard-earned money, continue reading to learn about Alaska’s rules of the road.
Alaska is an at-fault state. This means that the person who is at-fault in an accident is responsible for paying the costs of anyone injured in the accident AND property damages.
If you don’t have insurance or the right coverage, an accident can quickly drain your resources if you are at fault. This is why it is important to make sure your coverage matches your needs, and that you purchase more than the minimum requirements.
If you are traveling SLOWER than the speed limit, the law requires you to keep to the RIGHT of the roadway. Simple enough, right?
The move over laws in Alaska are also fairly simple. In Alaska, you are required to move over for stopped vehicles. We’ve listed some of these vehicles below. The best rule of thumb is that whenever you see a stopped vehicle, move over.
If you are working on the side of the road, the last thing you want is cars whizzing by when you step out of your vehicle. Alaska created the move over law so that law enforcement and other workers can do their work in a safe area.
Speeding tickets are common, but no-one likes to get one. Make sure to familiarize yourself with Alaska’s speed limits, so that you aren’t stuck paying a speeding ticket.
Type of Roadway | Speed Limit |
---|---|
Rural Interstates | 65 mph |
Urban Interstates | 55 mph |
Other Limited Access Roads | 65 mph |
Other Roads | 55 mph |
Take note that these are only the MAX speed limits for each road type. Speed limits vary from roadway to roadway, so pay attention to traffic signs.
Alaska wants drivers on its roads to be safe. That is why there are rules in place about buckling up in the car. Avoid a fine and stay safe by reading the rules below.
Regulation | Enforcement |
---|---|
Effective Since | September 12, 1990 |
Primary Enforcement | Yes; effective since May 1, 2006 |
Age/Seats Applicable | 16+ years old in front seat |
1st Offense Max Fine | $15 plus fees |
Keeping children safe in cars is also one of Alaska’s priorities. If you have children, follow the rules below to protect them in the car.
Type of Car Seat Required | Age |
---|---|
Rear-Facing Child Restraint | Younger than one-year-old or less than 20 pounds |
Forward-Facing Child Restraint | One to three years old and more than 20 pounds |
Child Booster Seat | Four through 15 years who are either shorter than 57 inches or who weigh more than 20 but less than 65 pounds |
Adult Belt Permissible | Four through 7 years who are at least 57 inches or 65+ pounds; 7 through 15 who are shorter than 57 inches or weigh less than 65 pounds |
If you violate a car seat law, you face a fine of up to $50, plus fees.
There are no state laws about riding in the cargo areas of pickups but make sure you exercise caution to maintain the safety of both others and yourself.
Read also about child safety seat laws in Alaska.
You might be familiar with ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft. Working for these companies requires ridesharing insurance and usually a vehicle inspection.
If you are thinking of ridesharing, make sure to ask your provider if they provide ridesharing insurance. If not, you may be forced to find a different insurer for ridesharing insurance.
Currently, the state of Alaska does not have any laws managing the use of automated vehicles. You might be wondering what an automated vehicle is. While self-driving cars may come to mind, usually an automated vehicle is simply the use of features like cruise control.
Alaska has strict laws in place about drunk driving. In 2017, there were 22 alcohol-related fatalities in Alaska.
Here’s what you need to know about DUI laws in Alaska:
Below, we have collected the specific penalties in place for drunk-driving.
DUI Penalty | First Offense | Second Offense | Third Offense | Fourth Offense |
---|---|---|---|---|
License Revoked | 90 days | One Year | Three Years | Five Years |
Jail Time | Mandatory minimum is 72 consecutive hours | Mandatory 20 day minimum | Mandatory 60 day minimum | Mandatory 120 days minimum |
Fine | $1,500 minimum +$200 license reinstatement fee | $3,000 minimum +$500 license reinstatement fee | $4,000 minimum | $10,000 minimum |
Other | SR-22 liability insurance required for 5 years Possible attendance at ASAP endorsed treatment program Mandatory interlock 1 year | SR-22 liability insurance required for 10 years Mandatory interlock 2 years | SR-22 liability insurance required for 20 years 3 year interlock | SR-22 liability insurance required for life 3 year interlock if licensed restored |
Ouch! Drunk driving in Alaska will cost you thousands in fines, jail time, and license suspension. You will also be required to purchase SR-22 insurance, which will increase your insurance rates. The price is simply not worth it. So save that extra drink until after you get home.
Alaska doesn’t have a specific law against marijuana-impaired driving. This doesn’t mean you won’t get in trouble for driving while under the influence of marijuana.
Law enforcement can charge you with impaired driving. This may result in fines, jail time, and other penalties.
Since the invention of the smartphone, distracted driving has become JUST as dangerous as driving under the influence. That text can wait until you get home! Below are Alaska’s rules about distracted driving.
Hand-Held Ban | Young Driver Cell Phone Ban | Texting Ban | Enforcement |
---|---|---|---|
No | No | All drivers | Primary |
Primary enforcement simply means that an officer can pull you over JUST for texting on your phone.
You now have a good understanding of the laws in Alaska, so let’s jump into some of the must-know driving facts in Alaska. There are unique risks to owning and operating a vehicle in Alaska, and it can be difficult to know what all these risks are.
If you know the risks of the road, it will help keep you keep a wary eye out on Alaska’s rugged roads for the major risk factors.
No-one wants to be in an accident, so we have covered everything you need to know about vehicle theft, risky behavior, EMS response time, and other facts.
Did you know that certain cars are stolen more than others? Though if you are unlucky enough to have your car stolen, your auto insurance may pay your stolen car. Below are the most popular makes and models of cars stolen in Alsaka.
Vehicle Make and Model | Year | Total Stolen |
---|---|---|
Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) | 2003 | 147 |
Ford Pickup (Full Size) | 2004 | 95 |
GMC Pickup (Full Size) | 1997 | 58 |
Honda Civic | 2000 | 56 |
Honda Accord | 1993 | 46 |
Dodge Pickup (Full Size) | 1998 | 44 |
Ford Explorer | 1994 | 31 |
Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee | 1999 | 28 |
Ford Pickup (Small Size) | 2000 | 22 |
Chevrolet Pickup (Small Size) | 1998 | 20 |
Where you live is also an important part of the risk factor in vehicle theft. The FBI has collected data on 2013 vehicle theft by city, which we included below.
City | Motor Vehicle Theft |
---|---|
Anchorage | 869 |
Bethel | 45 |
Bristol Bay Borough | 6 |
Cordova | 2 |
Craig | 1 |
Dillingham | 12 |
Fairbanks | 103 |
Haines | 2 |
Homer | 10 |
Juneau | 36 |
Kenai | 18 |
Ketchikan | 6 |
Kodiak | 19 |
Kotzebue | 33 |
Nome | 6 |
North Pole | 6 |
North Slope Borough | 15 |
Palmer | 5 |
Petersburg | 3 |
Seward | 5 |
Sitka | 12 |
Skagway | 0 |
Soldotna | 8 |
Unalaska | 5 |
Valdez | 4 |
Wasilla | 43 |
Wrangell | 1 |
Risky and harmful behavior plays a large role in fatality rates. We will look at Alaska’s fatalities and some of the issues that contribute to accidents, such as speeding and underage drinking.
One of the first statistics we are are going to delve deeper into is traffic fatalities. The table below shows the number of deaths per road type from 2013-2017.
Road Type | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rural | 33 | 42 | 33 | 53 | 45 |
Urban | 18 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 33 |
Unknown | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Total | 51 | 73 | 65 | 84 | 79 |
There are actually more fatalities on rural roads, usually due to the higher speeds that are reached on rural roads compared to urban roads. Person type also shows trends in fatalities, such as vehicle type and pedestrian versus occupant.
Passenger Type | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger Car Occupants | 10 | 19 | 8 | 16 | 22 |
Light Pickup Truck Occupants | 6 | 14 | 14 | 18 | 13 |
Light Utility Truck Occupants | 11 | 7 | 9 | 18 | 11 |
Large Truck Occupants | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
Other/Unknown Occupants | 6 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 8 |
Van Occupants | 0 | 2 | 6 | 6 | 2 |
Bus Occupants | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Motorcyclists | 9 | 8 | 11 | 6 | 6 |
Pedestrians | 6 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 14 |
Bicyclists and Other Cyclists | 1 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
Other/Unknown Non-occupants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
State Total | 51 | 73 | 65 | 84 | 79 |
Crash type is also an important factor in fatality rates.
Crash Type | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Single Vehicle | 33 | 41 | 41 | 57 | 51 |
Involving a Large Truck | 4 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 5 |
Involving Speeding | 22 | 18 | 22 | 36 | 26 |
Involving a Rollover | 17 | 21 | 15 | 33 | 20 |
Involving a Roadway Departure | 32 | 43 | 36 | 64 | 48 |
Involving an Intersection (or Intersection Related) | 8 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 18 |
Total Fatalities (All Crashes) | 51 | 73 | 65 | 84 | 79 |
Up next, crash statistics by counties in Alaska.
County Name | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Anchorage Borough | 17 | 25 | 26 | 21 | 18 |
Bethel Census Area | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 4 |
Denali Borough | 1 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 4 |
Fairbanks North Star Borough | 7 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 12 |
Kenai Peninsula Borough | 4 | 6 | 6 | 11 | 6 |
Matanuska-Susitna Borough | 11 | 14 | 15 | 20 | 21 |
Southeast Fairbanks Census Area | 2 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 1 |
Valdez-Cordova Census Area | 2 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 0 |
Wade Hampton Census Area | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 1 |
Speeding is a major contributor to fatalities in Alaska. Keep scrolling to see the number of speeding fatalities in each county.
County Name | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aleutians East Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Aleutians West Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
Anchorage Borough | 8 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
Bethel Census Area | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
Bristol Bay Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Denali Borough | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Dillingham Census Area | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Fairbanks North Star Borough | 3 | 5 | 3 | 7 | 5 |
Haines Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Juneau Borough | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Kenai Peninsula Borough | 2 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 4 |
Ketchikan Gateway Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Kodiak Island Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Lake And Peninsula Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Matanuska-Susitna Borough | 5 | 2 | 11 | 7 | 4 |
Nome Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
North Slope Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Northwest Arctic Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Prince Of Wales-Outer Ketchikan Census | |||||
Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Sitka Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Skagway-Hoonah-Angoon Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Skagway-Yakutat-Angoon Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Southeast Fairbanks Census Area | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
Valdez-Cordova Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
Wade Hampton Census Area | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
Wrangell-Petersburg Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Yakutat Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Another major contributor to crash fatalities is drunk driving. Below, we’ve taken a look at the fatalities involving an alcohol-impaired driver.
County Name | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aleutians East Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Aleutians West Census Area | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 |
Anchorage Borough | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 5 |
Bethel Census Area | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Bristol Bay Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Denali Borough | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Dillingham Census Area | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Fairbanks North Star Borough | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 1 |
Haines Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Juneau Borough | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Kenai Peninsula Borough | 1 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 0 |
Ketchikan Gateway Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Kodiak Island Borough | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Lake And Peninsula Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Matanuska-Susitna Borough | 2 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 6 |
Nome Census Area | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
North Slope Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Northwest Arctic Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Prince Of Wales-Outer Ketchikan Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Sitka Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Skagway-Hoonah-Angoon Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Skagway-Yakutat-Angoon Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Southeast Fairbanks Census Area | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
Valdez-Cordova Census Area | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
Wade Hampton Census Area | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
Wrangell-Petersburg Census Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Yakutat Borough | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
A sobering fact of drunk driving is that a percentage of these drivers are teens. In 2016, law enforcement arrested 31 underage drivers for drunk driving.
Alaska’s fatality rate for underage drunk driving is 1.4 fatalities per 100,000 people, which is ABOVE the national average of 1.2 fatalities.
Now that we have covered drunk driving fatalities and arrests, let’s jump into EMS response time in Alaska.
When you are injured in an accident, you need help to arrive quickly. Alaska’s EMS response times are listed below, and the numbers look good. It takes less than an hour from the time of the crash to arrive at a hospital.
Location of Incident | Time of Crash to EMS Notification | EMS Notification to EMS Arrival | EMS Arrival at Scene to Hospital Arrival | Time of Crash to Hospital Arrival | Total Fatalities in Crashes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rural | 2.91 min | 13.16 min | 39.33 min | 48.59 min | 47 |
Urban | 0.84 min | 6.18 min | 22.00 min | 28.83 min | 30 |
Do you own more than one car? If you do, you are not alone. The average number of cars Alaskans own is two. Three car households are the next most common, followed closely by those that own a single car.
In Alaska, the average commute is 17 minutes. This number is significantly better than the national average, which is 25.3 minutes. That’s eight minutes less on commute time!
Just over two percent of Alaskans have a super commute that is 90 minutes or more.
So we’ve covered commute time, but what about how people commute?
Quite a few Alaskans drive alone to work, and a few carpooled but, surprisingly, walking to work is also a popular option.
None of Alaska’s cities made it onto INRIX’s scorecard for global traffic. This is great news! It means that even in some of the busiest Alaska cities, the small amount of time spent in traffic is not worth mentioning.
Since Alaska’s average commute time is 17 minutes, it makes sense that Alaskans are not spending time sitting in traffic.
We hope this comprehensive guide has proved useful. Now that you are knowledgeable about Alaska’s insurance and state rules, you are ready to drive through Alaska’s beautiful state. Start comparing auto insurance today by clicking on our FREE online tool and entering your ZIP code!
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