Auto Insurance News Archive for July, 2009

California Insurance Bill Irks Consumer Group
by Jeanny Hopper

Consumer advocates are crying foul over a proposed bill filed at the state legislature regarding car insurance claims and preferred repair shops. Lawyers and experts representing Consumer Watchdog say that Assembly Bill 1200 (AB 1200) would allow insurance companies to “steer” policyholders and claimants towards the providers’ preferred body shops. They contend that this is against an existing law that prohibits insurance companies from pushing clients to auto repair shops under contract with the insurers. In the past, the group has also been very vocal when it comes to issues about insurance. Under the proposed bill, insurance firms can recommend … (more) July 23, 2009
Insurance Research Shows Coupes Safety Different
by Jeanny Hopper

A recent research conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety revealed surprising findings regarding the safety of several car models. The institute is a car safety laboratory funded by several key insurance companies to study the safety and roadworthiness of the cars that Americans drive. According to many experts, the IIHS treated and tested different car models, sedans and coupes alike, as one. Popular brands like the Ford Focus and the Honda Civic, which have coupe and sedan makes, were often assumed as a single car model. In recent years, however, the institute has taken to testing coupes and … (more) July 22, 2009
Experts Say Cheap Car Insurance Still Possible in Bad Economy
by Jeanny Hopper

The lagging economy has left many Americans no choice but to cut back on certain expenses, car insurance included. To save money, many drivers are choosing to raise their deductibles in an effort to cut insurance costs. Worse still, some motorists have opted to drop their policies altogether. Industry analysts say that in most states, as many as one out of every five drivers has no insurance. This presents problems for many motorists who have to deal with the recession as well as uninsured drivers on the road. Auto insurance is mandatory in 48 states. Wisconsin is set to be … (more) July 22, 2009
One Year to Go before Wisconsin Requires Insurance
by Jeanny Hopper

Having car insurance is mandatory in 48 states. The only ones holding out are New Hampshire and Wisconsin. Come June 1 of next year, Wisconsin drivers will be required to present proof of insurance if enforcers and troopers ask during routine traffic stops. Last month, the state legislature agreed to include provisions for mandatory car insurance in the state budget for next year. Despite this, there are still portions of the new policy that remain confusing to many experts and motorists. Industry analysts say that the state has to fine-tune enforcement guidelines before the new mandate takes effect next year. … (more) July 21, 2009
Texans to See New Behavior-based Insurance
by Jeanny Hopper

A new insurance scheme in the state of Texas that considers the motorist’s driving habits is creating fuss over the technology it employs. Following other states like California, Nevada, and Alabama, Texas has also recently revealed the existence of a behavior-based insurance program offered by several companies. The new insurance program rates premiums based on the driving behavior of policyholders. While not mandatory, the new scheme has caught on with drivers who feel that they can benefit from lower premiums by the way they drive. Many Texans are also warming up to the idea of an insurance program that considers … (more) July 21, 2009
Insurance Experts Share Money-Saving Tips
by Jeanny Hopper

In a time when every American wants to spend less and save more, even important expenses are overlooked. Data from recent surveys have revealed that more drivers are considering dropping their auto insurance policies to save on their expenses. With some 20 percent of motorists on the road uninsured, the rising figures are adding to the worries of many government agencies and insurance analysts. Some state report that one out of every five driver does not have updated insurance. With nearly all states requiring some sort of car insurance, Americans can see more car accidents involving uninsured motorists. Experts warn … (more) July 20, 2009
More Insurance Experts Give More Tips
by Jeanny Hopper

The economic crunch is making more Americans worried about their financial health and day-to-day expenses. Across the nation, families are figuring out ways to scale back on unnecessary expenses and maximize savings. Unfortunately, some drivers are choosing to drop their insurance policies to save money. Experts warn that there is a growing trend of more uninsured drivers on the nation’s roads and highways. Some states have reported that one out of every five drivers is uninsured. Getting involved in a serious accident with uninsured drivers can lead to thousands of dollars more in out-of-pocket expenses for insured motorists. Saving money … (more) July 20, 2009
California Pay-as-you-drive Insurance Irks Insurance Companies
by Jeanny Hopper

What was initially hailed as a groundbreaking insurance system in California is now attracting strong flak from many vocal figures in the car insurance industry. While the concept of a pay-as-you-drive insurance scheme is not new to Americans, California is poised to become the first state to fully implement the system for all drivers. Earlier this year, state officials revealed ongoing tests to assess the viability of a prepaid or by-the-mile car insurance scheme. California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner pointed out the many benefits that the new system would offer drivers, including lower premiums. Advocates and supporters of the system … (more) July 19, 2009
Insurance Data Show Hybrids Get More Tickets
by Jeanny Hopper

Here’s something to think about: recent research conducted by insurance experts have revealed that hybrid car owners are more likely to get traffic tickets than owners of regular cars. They are also more expensive to repair. The research shows that on average, hybrid drivers garner an average of 0.38 moving violations for every 100,000 miles driven. Regular vehicles get an average of only 0.25. Insurance experts say that because of hybrid cars’ great fuel economy, more drivers go on pleasure trips or trips not related to their occupation. On average, most hybrid owners drive some 10,500 miles per year when … (more) July 19, 2009
“Stop Eating and Start Driving!” Insurance Experts Say
by Jeanny Hopper

Apparently, eating and driving just don’t mix. A recent research conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute and the federal government has revealed that majority of car accidents were caused by driver distractions. In fact, some 65 percent of near-crashes were found to be caused by distractions inside the vehicle. 80 percent of car crashes, on the other hand, were found to be the result of some form of driver distraction. Realizing the need for stricter regulations, some states have implemented new laws banning the use of mobile phones and other electronics while driving. Coming up with a law to … (more) July 18, 2009
Insurance Cuts Set for North Carolina Drivers
by Jeanny Hopper

Motorists in North Carolina now have something to be happy about. In the recent developments over the negotiations between the state government and insurance companies, over one millions drivers will be getting refunds. That’s not all the good news. Motorists can also expect lower premium rates until 2011, state officials say. With the rising unemployment rate and no end in sight yet for the economic recession, many Americans are looking for new ways to cut back on expenses and maximize savings. Wayne Goodwin, North Carolina’s Insurance Commissioner, says that as part of the settlement with the North Carolina Rate Bureau, … (more) July 18, 2009
Safe Drivers Get Cheaper Rates, Experts Say
by Jeanny Hopper

Car insurance specialists are warning many Americans against dropping their policies in light of the severe economic environment. Recent statistics are indicating a higher percentage of uninsured drivers on the roads. Traditionally, the number of uninsured motorists coincides with the unemployment rate. With the unemployment rate expected to reach 10 percent by next year, experts fear more uninsured motorists on the nation’s highways and roads. Industry analysts say that with no end in sight for the economic recession, the U.S. can see more uninsured drivers behind the wheel. As a precaution, they are suggesting that motorists undergo re-education courses or … (more) July 17, 2009
Driving Classes Offered to Cut Premiums
by Jeanny Hopper

With the increasing clamor for lower car insurance premiums, more states are taking charge and giving drivers better opportunities to slash insurance costs. Online driving courses are fast becoming popular in many states especially now because of the poor economy. Experts say that online driving classes designed and offered by various companies in collaboration with the DMV, are making things easier for many motorists. Online programs are available in about 25 states to date and more states are considering allowing them. Drivers who enroll in these defensive driving classes can access the program through the internet. Considered as refresher courses, … (more) July 17, 2009
Tips to Cut Insurance Costs Revealed
by Jeanny Hopper

With the economy not showing any concrete signs of recovery despite the Obama administration’s subtle claims, many Americans are digging deeper into their pockets, searching for more money. For the rest of the nation with pockets that don’t go as deep, however, cutting back on expenses is the way to go. In desperation, some drivers are resorting to dropping their insurance policies to save some money. Not a wise move, experts say. Statistically speaking, the nation’s unemployment rate is closely followed by the number of uninsured drivers on the road. With the number of jobless Americans rising every day and … (more) July 16, 2009
Teen Drivers can Get Lower Premiums, Experts Say
by Jeanny Hopper

Having a teen driver in the family does not only increase stress levels, it can also put a hole in a parent’s wallet. Statistics show that drivers under the age of 21 are more likely to get in car accidents than adults. In fact, studies have shown that drivers aged 16 to 19 are four times more likely to be involved in car crashes. With that in mind, car insurance experts are recommending several steps for parents to cut down on insurance costs. Specialists say that a good foundation is always the key for lower premiums. Teaching a teenager to … (more) July 16, 2009
Lawyers Necessary after Accident, Experts Say
by Jeanny Hopper

Recent studies have suggested that the number of uninsured drivers coincides with the nation’s unemployment rate. With more and more Americans losing their jobs every day, some industry analysts are predicting rising numbers of uninsured and underinsured motorists on American roads and highways. Having valid car insurance is necessary in almost all states. Insurance providers allow drivers to use their vehicles and not worry about any expenses should they get into accidents. Insurers offer different policies and coverage, depending on the age group, driving record, location, and vehicle of a motorist. Added options like comprehensive and collision coverage can also … (more) July 15, 2009
Oklahoma Government Offers Car Insurance Tips
by Jeanny Hopper

The continuing global economic downturn and the recession are forcing many Americans to cut down on unwanted expenses. Unfortunately, some drivers have resorted to dropping their insurance policies despite stiff fines and possible jail time. To help motorists cope with the economic situation without having to drop their policies, Oklahoma’s Insurance Department has set some guidelines on saving money and cutting insurance costs. The suggestions came as a response to a rapid rise in the number of uninsured and underinsured Oklahomans. Teen drivers are often considered as relatively inexperienced drivers and are prone to high insurance premiums. However, young motorists … (more) July 15, 2009