10 Ridiculous Excuses People Have Given for Not Having Car Insurance 

Living in Washington State, you’re way too familiar with the dreary drizzle and the never-ending debate over the best coffee shop — and the need for car insurance. But it can be a pain to keep your policy up to date. 

You wouldn’t believe how some uninsured drivers come up with the most outlandish excuses for driving without it. Buckle up (because that is mandatory) as you explore ten of the most ridiculous reasons Washingtonians have given for not having car coverage! 

#1: I Thought It Was Optional, Like Seat Belts in the ’80s 

Oh yeah, you read that right! One driver claims that insurance is a “personal choice” — just like wearing seat belts in the 1980s. “It’s about freedom,” they shouted! But, in Washington, car coverage isn’t a retro fashion statement. It’s a legal requirement. The Washington State Department of Licensing provides guidance on mandatory car insurance for drivers in the state. 

#2: My Pet Hamster Ate My Insurance Papers 

In perhaps the most creative blend of pet ownership and procrastination, one driver blamed their uninsured status on a particularly ravenous hamster. According to the driver, their furry friend gnawed through the insurance documents before they could even read them. 

It’s a story straight out of a children’s book. Unfortunately, the Washington State Patrol doesn’t accept “hamster ate my homework” as an excuse for not having a policy. 

#3: I’m a Safe Driver, I Don’t Need Insurance 

This excuse is as old as the automobile itself. The logic goes something like this: “I’ve never had an accident, so why would I need insurance?” It’s like saying you’ve never needed a fire extinguisher to this point, so what’s the point of owning one? 

Safe driving is commendable, but in Washington, being uninsured (and getting in an accident) is a risk to everyone on the road, including that driver who is convinced they’re as invincible as a superhero. 

#4: I’m Saving the Environment by Not Having Paperwork 

In a state known for its eco-consciousness, one driver took the green movement to a new level by declaring their refusal to contribute to “paper waste” through all the documents. “Think of all the trees I’m saving!” they proclaimed. 

Unfortunately, while saving trees is noble, skipping insurance to do so is a misguided sacrifice. Paperless options are widely available, so there’s no excuse for driving without coverage in the name of sustainability. 

#5: I Only Drive to the Grocery Store 

“I don’t really drive that much” is a common refrain among those caught without insurance in Washington. One driver, however, took it a step further by explaining that they only drive a mile to the grocery store and back once a week. 

They assumed this minimal mileage exempted them from the car policy requirement. Unfortunately, Washington law doesn’t have a “quick trip to the store” exemption, so you’d better get that coverage before your next Costco run. 

#6: I Have Psychic Powers to Avoid Accidents 

Okay, this one is a bit crazy. Look, there are some quirky people in Washington (and let’s be honest, the rest of the Pacific Northwest overall). But the idea that you can use your psychic powers to literally dodge another car, an animal on the road, or something else entirely is completely crazy. 

No matter how gifted you might believe yourself to be, even psychics need insurance. Besides, wouldn’t a psychic have seen the ticket for being uninsured coming in the first place? Yeah, that’s… that’s an interesting excuse for sure. 

#7: I Don’t Want the Government Tracking My Car 

Privacy matters. Don’t get that wrong. But the idea that the government is even remotely concerned about the average driver on the road is completely silly — and also technologically impossible. The government simply can’t keep track of everything you do. 

What else did this particular driver cite when they talked about the tracking? They cited everything from the NSA to UFOs in their defense. However, rest assured that having car insurance in Washington won’t result in black helicopters tailing you. It will, however, keep you legally compliant and financially protected. 

#8: I Didn’t Know I Needed Insurance in This State 

New to Washington? Cool! But guess what? You can’t just cruise around without car insurance. Some folks think Washington’s car policy rules are as chill as its coffee scene. Nope! 

Sorry, but not knowing the law isn’t going to save you from trouble. Whether you just got here or have been around forever, you need car insurance. And no, trading a fancy latte won’t get you out of a ticket, even if it’s made with oat milk! So buckle up and get insured. Your car and wallet will thank you! 

Also, it’s just a smart decision to have an active policy for your own financial peace of mind. So don’t neglect it! 

#9: My Last Car Had Insurance, So This One’s Covered, Too 

One driver confidently said, “Well, my old car was insured, so I’m covered, right?” Uh, not quite! Car insurance isn’t like a gym membership that follows you wherever you go. When you get a new ride, the policy doesn’t magically hop over. 

Every car needs its own policy, so if you’ve upgraded your wheels, make sure your insurance is upgraded, too. Don’t be caught thinking your new car came with an invisible insurance plan. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy! 

#10: Insurance Is Just a Scam to Take My Money 

And then there’s the classic conspiracy theorist’s excuse: “Insurance is just a scam to steal my money!” This driver proudly claimed they were sticking it to the system by not paying for something they thought was pointless. But buddy, you don’t live in a no-fault state! 

Hey, it makes sense because rebellion can feel pretty cool. But in Washington, skipping car insurance won’t make you a hero. Instead, you’ll likely end up with big fines and legal headaches. 

Plus, if you get into an accident, you’ll wish that so-called “scam” was there to help you. Being a rebel is fun, but being broke from a crash isn’t! 

No Excuses: Get Cheap Car Insurance in Washington from Vern Fonk 

These excuses for not having car insurance might make for a good laugh, but the consequences of driving without coverage in Washington are no joke. Whether you think you’re saving trees or sticking it to the government, the reality is that car insurance is a critical part of staying safe and legal on the road. Don’t let your own “ridiculous excuse” be the reason you end up in hot water. 

Give us a call today at Vern Fonk for some “no excuses” customer service at (800) 455-8276, visit our local office in your neighborhood, or get a quote online today!