10 States Experience Greater than Average Rate Increases

Consumers in 10 states saw rate increases greater than the 3.4% national average. In addition to the top 5 states listed, rates were up more than 3.4% in Iowa, Missouri, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania. There were 11 states with decreases and 9 states where the change was less than one percent.

U.S. Car Insurance Rates Continue to Increase

Indiana	6.7%
Arkansas	6.1%
Rhode Island	4.9%
Texas	4.3%
Nevada	4.0%

North Carolina	-8.7%
New Hampshire	-4.1%
Tennessee	-3.7%
Louisiana	-3.6%
Delaware	-3.3%

Insurance.com RateWatch for Car Insurance reports changes in actual car insurance quotes. This quarter, the lowest car insurance quotes, on average, were up $62, an increase of 3.4% over the prior quarter, rising from $1,831 to $1,893 per year. This marks the second quarter of rate increases in 2008, reversing the trend of decreases in 2007.

"Higher medical costs and repair expenses are driving the increase. This price increase marks the beginning of a trend that may last through 2009, but could be reversed if higher oil prices lead to a long-term change in driving habits."

- Sam Belden, Insurance.com
VP, Strategic Alliances

About RateWatch for Car Insurance

RateWatch is a leading indicator of trends in auto insurance rates. It analyzes the lowest average car insurance rates quoted to consumers who compared rates at Insurance.com in the 2nd quarter.
This quarter’s increase is troubling for consumers because it comes as a result of rising claims costs - which are essentially passed along to consumers in the form of rate increases.
The rate quotes in this study came from more than a dozen leading auto insurers in 46 states and the District of Columbia. AK, HI, MA and NY are not included.

Insurance Tips to Help You Save

Don't Over-Insure Your Car. If you're driving an older car to save money, reconsider Comprehensive and Collision coverage - it may not be cost effective. Insurance only pays for your car's actual cash value (or fair market value), so Comp and Collision may not be worth keeping on an older car that has depreciated considerably.
Lower Mileage Discount. Many drivers are working from home, car pooling or taking public transportation a few times a week to save money. Tell your insurance company of any change in driving habits, because driving less could save you additional money on premiums. Many companies offer a lower mileage discount if you drive less than 10,000 miles each year.
Be a Smart Online Shopper. Comparison shopping online can save you time and money. Just make sure you understand whether you're getting a "quick quote," which is just an estimate, or a bindable online auto insurance quote. There can be a big difference between an estimate and the final rate.