If you're driving in Newport News, you're probably familiar with the daily crawl on I-64 during rush hour or the challenge of navigating Warwick Boulevard when the shipyard shifts change. But here's what you might not know: Virginia just changed its auto insurance requirements in a big way, and if you haven't reviewed your policy lately, you could be underinsured.
Newport News sits in the heart of Hampton Roads, connected by major highways to Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and beyond. It's an independent city with a unique mix of military personnel, shipbuilding workers, and families—all sharing the same congested roadways. Whether you're commuting to the shipyard, heading to Patrick Henry Mall, or just trying to merge onto I-64, understanding your auto insurance isn't just smart—it's essential.
What Changed in Virginia's Auto Insurance Laws
Starting January 1, 2025, Virginia increased its minimum liability coverage requirements. For years, the state required 30/60/20 coverage—that's $30,000 per person for bodily injury, $60,000 per accident, and $20,000 for property damage. Now, the new minimums are 50/100/25. If you're renewing your policy or shopping for new coverage, these higher limits apply to you.
There's another significant change: uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is now mandatory. This wasn't always required in Virginia, but given that plenty of drivers carry only the bare minimum coverage, this protection is crucial. If someone hits you and doesn't have enough insurance to cover your medical bills or car repairs, your UM/UIM coverage steps in to fill the gap.
And if you were one of the drivers who used to pay the $500 uninsured motorist fee instead of buying insurance? That option disappeared in July 2024. Insurance is now mandatory for everyone on Virginia roads.
Why Newport News Drivers Need More Than the Minimum
The new state minimums are better than before, but they're still just minimums. Let's talk numbers. If you cause an accident that seriously injures someone, medical bills can easily exceed $50,000. Emergency room visits, ambulance rides, surgery, physical therapy—it all adds up fast. If your liability coverage maxes out at $50,000 per person, you're personally responsible for anything above that.
Virginia operates under an at-fault system. That means if you're found responsible for an accident, your insurance pays for the other party's damages. The injured party can also sue you directly if their costs exceed your policy limits. Given the traffic density in Hampton Roads and the heavy I-64 commuter flow, the risk of a serious accident isn't theoretical—it's a daily possibility.
The good news? Auto insurance rates in Newport News are actually lower than many other Virginia cities. Average annual premiums range from about $1,671 to $1,882 depending on your coverage level and provider. That's more affordable than Virginia Beach or Norfolk, partly because Newport News has fewer accidents and less traffic congestion than larger metro areas. Still, rates vary widely based on your age, driving record, credit score, and the car you drive.
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Beyond the state-required liability and uninsured motorist coverage, you have several other options worth considering. Collision coverage pays to repair your car if you're in an accident, regardless of who's at fault. Comprehensive coverage handles non-collision damage—think theft, vandalism, hail, or hitting a deer on Route 17.
If you financed or leased your vehicle, your lender will require both collision and comprehensive coverage. But even if you own your car outright, these coverages make sense if your vehicle has significant value. A fender bender repair can easily cost $3,000 to $5,000, and replacing a stolen catalytic converter isn't cheap either.
Medical payments coverage (MedPay) is another smart add-on. This covers medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of fault. It can help with deductibles and co-pays if you have health insurance, or serve as primary coverage if you don't. In Virginia's at-fault system, waiting for the other driver's insurance to pay can take time—MedPay provides immediate coverage for medical bills.
How to Find the Right Coverage at the Best Price
Shopping for auto insurance in Newport News means comparing quotes from multiple providers. Virginia Farm Bureau typically offers competitive rates for minimum coverage, while companies like American Family and USAA (for military families) often provide good value for full coverage policies. But rates vary dramatically based on your individual profile, so what's cheapest for your neighbor might not be cheapest for you.
Look for discounts you might qualify for: bundling home and auto insurance, maintaining a clean driving record, taking a defensive driving course, or installing anti-theft devices. Many insurers offer discounts for military personnel and federal employees—important in a shipbuilding city like Newport News. If you have a teen driver, ask about good student discounts or programs that monitor driving habits through a mobile app.
When comparing quotes, don't just look at the premium. Check the deductibles, coverage limits, and what's actually included. A policy that's $20 cheaper per month but has a $1,000 collision deductible instead of $500 might cost you more in the long run if you file a claim. Read the fine print and ask questions—good agents will explain exactly what you're buying.
What to Do After an Accident
Hopefully you'll never need to use your insurance, but if you're in an accident, knowing what to do matters. First, check if anyone is injured and call 911 if needed. Then exchange information with the other driver: names, phone numbers, insurance details, license plate numbers. Take photos of the damage, the accident scene, and any relevant road conditions or traffic signs.
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, even if you think you weren't at fault. In Virginia's at-fault system, the insurance companies will investigate and determine liability. If the other driver is found at fault, their insurance should cover your damages. If you're at fault, your liability coverage kicks in. Either way, having the right coverage means you're protected.
Auto insurance isn't the most exciting topic, but it's one of those things that matters enormously when you need it. With Virginia's new requirements and the realities of driving in Newport News—I-64 traffic, shipyard commutes, and everything in between—having the right coverage gives you peace of mind. Take the time to review your policy, compare quotes, and make sure you're adequately protected. Your future self will thank you.
