Compared to other states, several factors affect insurance rates in Kansas State adversely. The coverages required statutorily under the Kansas insurance laws are quite large. The standard 25/50/10 coverage is necessary for personal injury liability and property damage, PIP coverages of more than $12,000 are also needed, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage of 25/50 are compulsory under the insurance law in Kansas State. Hence, the auto insurance rates are already comparatively higher in this state. Several other factors also influence the insurance premium rates quoted by the auto insurance companies in Kansas State.
The most important factors that are scrutinized by insurance companies when you apply for the purchase of insurance coverages are as follows.
- The age of the driver and other members in the household
- Marital status and gender of the driver and other family members
- The driving record of the applicant and other household members included in the application
- The make and model of the vehicle/s in the household
- The age of the vehicle/s offered for auto insurance
- The various type of coverages selected for auto insurance
- The geographical area of the applicant
It is clear from the above factors mentioned that it would be very difficult to change any of them easily. However, you could definitely change some of them at least. For example, the make and models of the vehicles in your home could be selected in such a manner that they are low value cars and used cars, if your income is moderate and you wish to limit your auto insurance at lower levels. If you have a high income and could afford to pay higher insurance rates, you could definitely consider costly sports SUVs and that too, new vehicles. Otherwise, cheaper cars would be ideal to keep the insurance rates as low as possible.
According to Sandy Praeger, Kansas Insurance Commissioner, the major decisions on auto insurance are made by the insurance companies based on underwriting and rating. The factors mentioned above would be considered during the process of underwriting. Once the insurance company had decided to underwrite your auto insurance policy, it would assign you a rating.
The first category is non-standard, which would attract highest premiums. Age is an important factor in the fixing of insurance rates by the insurance companies. Drivers under the age of 25 are considered high risk persons. Even persons with driving history of drunk driving, reckless driving, fair amount of accident records or traffic tickets, and history of poor premium payments are placed in this category.
The second category is termed as standard, in which the drivers considered as moderate risk are placed. Persons in the age group of 25 to 50, married persons, and persons driving family-type cars are included in this category. The insurance rates for such persons would also be moderate.
The last special category is the preferred category. Persons with excellent driving records for the past 3 to 5 years, people in the age group of 50 to 65, and prompt premium payment persons would come under this category and command the lowest insurance rates.
