2008 Mass Auto - NEW!

  Confused about Massachusetts Auto Insurance?

 LETTER FROM DENNIS

2008 Massachusetts Auto Facts

Do you have time to reseach five or ten web sites to find the best deal for your auto insurance?

For the first time in a very long time, Massachusetts drivers will have the opportunity to shop for the lowest auto insurance rates. Drivers whose policies renew on or after April 1, 2008 can take advantage of competitive rates for policies However, a little caution is in order. Are you skipping the research altogether and “accepting” the claims made in televised ads? Some competitors will try to cover their “no name, you are only a number” approach with cute animals, lizards, and hairy men. The fact is, you can’t believe everything you see on television or read on the Internet. Advertising sells one thing: Sizzle, not steak. The goal of most ads is not to inform you, guide you, or help you; the goal is simply to sell you.

In fact, we checked out the price of Geico Insurance (note: they have not filed rates in Massachusetts at this time) in Connecticut and found that in one case, they didn’t offer our recommended limits, and in another case, the Geico rates were not competitive with other companies’.

In the coming weeks, you’ll be hearing all types of numbers touted. The real truth is that your rates will depend on where you live, your driving record, the number of cars you own, the experience of the drivers, coverages you select, and so on. There are more than 100 variables that can go into calculating your premiums. The job of the independent insurance agent is to help you to get all the discounts that you’re eligible for. Not all drivers will receive rate reductions or be eligible for them. The state has also implemented a 10% cap on rate increases for 2008 which, in my opinion, actually defeats the purpose of competion. So drivers with bad records could pay more.

Here are some of the new discounts that will be available. Remember, however, most drivers will not be eligible for every discount. New discounts for Massachusetts in 2008:

• Good Student
• Hybrid Car
• Excellent Driver
• Customer Loyalty
• Multi policy on auto policy

Some selected carriers will also offer:

• Accident forgiveness
• Disappearing deductible

Other concerns to keep in mind: If you move your auto policy from one carrier to another, you may lose your multi-policy discount. Some insurance companies will also be giving a discount on the auto premium if they have both your home and auto policies. However, the new carrier may have a lower auto rate, but a higher homeowner rate. Your independent insurance agent will guide you through the myriad options available to you, ensuring you get the best coverage at the best price.

This agent’s opinion is that when all is said and done, there will be minimal changes in Massachusetts Auto rates for 2008. If you have a relationship of trust and good service with your agent and you are getting good value from them, you may want to leave well enough alone. If not, call your local independent insurance agent. You’ll be glad you did.