Well, as you probably are well aware of, unfortunately, prices are going up for everything. In most states, costs car insurance rates are currently rising. And furthermore, your actions as a policyholder, can affect what you pay, too. For instance, if you add another car, or a newly licensed teenaged driver to your policy, your costs will go up, and conversely, down, if you were to drop a driver in your household.
But there are also other factors that can cause rate increases such as the crashes other people are involved in. Specifically, the cost of these crashes are huge factor driving car insurance rates. For example, drivers living in large metropolitan areas will likely have a higher rate because more cars on the road increase the likelihood of crashes. Furthermore, speeding and distracted driving are factors in many crashes and as whole they cause rates to be higher than they would if people didn’t do these activities.
Car insurance covers more than getting your vehicle fixed after a crash. It also covers the cost of injured peoples’ medical care, lost wages, and any property damage. At present, the cost of medical and auto body repair costs has increased faster rate than inflation.
Car insurance companies are committed to reducing crash rates – a lot of people may not know this, but they fund the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and actively support and promote efforts to combat distracted driving as well as impaired driving. Furthermore, auto insurers offer discounts to policyholders who are willing to take defensive driving courses or drive fewer miles.
Car insurance rates may be what they are, but consumers can take steps to reduce their auto insurance costs by talking to their insurance professional to make sure they’re getting all of the discounts to which they qualify.
If you have been injured in a car accident, or your loved one was killed by a negligent or reckless driver, Kalfus & Nachman can help. Our compassionate legal team can discuss your options and build your case. Every step of the way, we will answer your questions and aggressively uphold your right to a financial settlement. Drivers have a responsibility to obey traffic rules and to drive without distractions. This involves not using a smartphone. With the data showing increasing fatalities from cell phone use, it is important to seek representation as soon as possible after an accident to pursue justice from those responsible. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.