More Drivers "Going Bare" Behind the Wheel
by Michael Bauch
Several hundred thousand drivers nationwide dropped their auto insurance in 2008 but continue to drive their cars, according to a newly released report by the Insurance Research Council (IRC), a group funded by the insurance industry. This dangerous and unlawful practice, known as "going bare," is mainly due to the economic hard times our country is going through.
The report, Uninsured Motorists, 2008 Edition, noted a "strong correlation" between the percent of uninsured motorists and unemployment: a one-percentage point increase in unemployment is associated with an increase of more than three-quarters of a percentage point in the rate of uninsured drivers. The report forecast that the current percentage of uninsured drivers in the U.S. is expected to rise from 13.7 percent in 2007 to 16.1 percent in 2010.
Carinsurance.com, which sells directly to consumers via the Internet, reported that states are also seeing increases in license and vehicle registration suspensions because of drivers with no insurance. Several states have added mandatory uninsured/underinsured coverage requirements to policies issued by companies issuing policies within their states.
Car insurance shoppers are desperately looking for ways to cut their expenses in these difficult economic times. The unfortunate fact is, "Responsible drivers who purchase insurance end up paying for injuries caused by uninsured drivers," said Elizabeth A. Sprinkel, senior vice president of the IRC.
Considering the need to pinch pennies nowadays, how can you improve your chances of getting that better deal?
Shop Around
It's worth your time and effort to look for the best deals. But don't stop there.
- Look for discounts. Got anti-lock brakes, air bags, or other safety devices in your car? You might be able to get discounts because you're safety-conscious. Some insurers give discounts if you have a safe driving record or if you're a student.
- Reduce coverage on older or less expensive cars. Got an older car? Don't over-insure it. Some cars are old or inexpensive enough to repair that you might not need to carry comprehensive or collision damage--just the minimum required by your state.
- Switch to a higher deductible. The deductible is the amount you have to pay before your insurance kicks in. Higher deductibles usually mean lower premiums. You'll have to pay more in case of an accident, but for safe drivers with very few claims, the savings can really add up.
Insurance companies can also look more closely at the type of car you drive and such key factors as your credit history and occupation. Call it the "new math" of auto insurance: insurers now have the computing power to pinpoint risk and match it to specific car prices.
No driver need invite disaster by remaining underinsured or uninsured. This is an excellent time of year to find a better deal. "If you're a better driver, your rates are likely to fall," says Bob Hartwig, president of the Insurance Information Institute.
Sources
Insurance Research Council, Economic Downturn May Push Percentage of Uninsured Motorists to All-time High
Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine, Reprinted on MSN Money, The New Math of Car Insurance
Smart Borrower Center--Tools to Help You Borrow Better, 5 Ways to save on car insurance
About the Author
Michael Bauch is a freelance writer in New York City (mfbauch2@yahoo.com). He writes about a variety of financial and investment topics.
Use the tabs above for more information about:
Homeowners Insurance, Car Insurance, or Life Insurance.
