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High Gas Prices Could Mean Lower Insurance Rates

Driving less? Tell your insurer

June 11, 2008

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Gasoline now averages over $4 a gallon. That's the bad news. The good news is, your car insurance may be eligible for a discount.

The Consumer Federation of America has released an analysis showing that consumers who are driving less, because of the high cost of fuel, could save an average of 5 to 15 percent on their automobile insurance rates -- about $47 to $142.

"Auto insurance rates are partially based on how much you drive and how you use your car," said J. Robert Hunter, Director of Insurance for CFA and former Texas Insurance Commissioner and Federal Insurance Administrator.

"If you drive less to save money on gas, these driving changes might mean that you qualify for immediate insurance rate relief," he said. "We encourage all Americans to act now to save money by calling their insurance company or agent and asking if they qualify for an immediate rate reduction."

The CFA analysis shows a number of specific that Americans who are driving less can save money on automobile insurance, including:

• If You have Stopped Driving Your Car to Work or School Your insurance classification has changed from "Drive to Work" to "Pleasure." Savings could be 10 to 15 percent.

• If You are Driving Only to a Train or Bus Station, Not All the Way to Work or School Your insurance classification may change from the "Drive to work" mileage category. Savings could be 5 to 10 percent.

• If You Have Consolidated Trips and are Driving Much Less This reduces your miles driven per year. Savings could be 5 to 10 percent.

"While these savings will vary based upon the specific auto coverage you have, it is certainly worth a call," said Hunter. "Simply explain the actions you are taking to drive less and estimate how many fewer miles you are driving a month," he said. "Tell the agent or company representative that you want the cheapest rate they have for drivers reflecting your new driving circumstances."

In a letter sent earlier this week, CFA has called on the nation's governors to act immediately to require insurance companies to lower their rates as Americans drive less.

"As Americans drive less because of the price of gas, fewer claims will be filed with insurance companies," said Hunter. "Whether this will mean windfall profits for insurers or rate cuts for the consumers is up to Governors and state regulators to determine," he said. "We ask that each state immediately call hearings to determine the right auto insurance prices under the changed driving situation."

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