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Now more than ever it is essential to have a local independent insurance agent. We work for you by reviewing discounts, policy benefits, and compare quotes with multiple insurance companies at your request.
Texas insurance companies have paid out more in auto claims than they have in the trailing years. For the drivers, this means you could see an increase in your monthly auto insurance rates. This rise in monthly premiums may have less to do with you and more to do with inflation combined with population growth in Texas.
One of the contributing factors is the cost to repair newer vehicles that have more airbags, exterior sensors, cameras and media equipment. In the past vehicles have not had all these “bells and whistles” and the rates have only been minimally adjusted to compensate. Combine the cost of these newer parts with inflation, an increase in the total number of accidents, natural disasters, plus flooding; and the outcome for Texans could be a rise in their monthly vehicle ownership costs.
1 – New cars are on the road—and they’re being driven more than ever before
| New cars sold in the U.S. | Miles driven in the US |
|---|---|
| 2014 16.5 million | 2014 3.042 Trillion |
| 2015 17.45 million | 2015 3.148 trillion |
| 2016 17.55 million | 2016 3.2 trillion |
2 – Drivers are more distracted
An estimated 660,000 drivers were using electronic devices while driving during daylight hours. Distracted driving increases the risk of accidents.
| Crashes | Injuries | Fatalities |
|---|---|---|
| 885,000 | 391,000 | 3,477 |
3 – New auto technology protects—at a cost
Adaptive headlamps use sensors to cast beams in the direction of a curve to ensure better visibility. Average repair cost has increased drastically. Check out these examples below:
| Toyota Camry Headlight | Honda Accord Bumper | Acura ILX Distant sensors |
|---|---|---|
| Non-adaptive – $367 | 1996 – 13 parts | 2014 – Didn’t exist |
| Adaptive – $941 | 2015 – 23 parts | 2016 – $1,000 |
4 – Claims have increased across the industry
From 2005 to 2013, the average cost per-paid bodily injury liability claim Increased 32.71%
5. Texas insurance rates were similar when compared to the national average up until recent years
However, the increase in catastrophic weather and hail storms, flooding, combined with the devastation from hurricanes and natural disasters the last few years have led to premium adjustments with all insurance companies in Texas.
Even though you are a good driver and have a spotless record, don’t speed when you’re late. There are many more factors that go into calculating your insurance premium.
What can you do?
If you find your rates are less affordable at renewal, simply contact your local independent insurance agent. We will review your policy and compare quotes with all our companies at your request.
Ask about discounts such as; usage-based insurance, homeowners, good student, safe drivers, condo insurance discounts, hybrid cars, multi-policy and multi-vehicle discounts. If your retired, bike or walk to work you may qualify for the low mile discount. Call us to review your discounts and check your policy for ways you may be able to save on insurance premium and better protect yourself. If you are new to our agency simply click here to start your policy review and quote now.
Do you drive better than your neighbor?
Earn a discount based on your personal driving activity! Get on the right track with this new discount that provides a 5% savings just for signing up, then up to a total 30% discount on your auto insurance after 90 days of safe driving activity.
Why do I need an independent insurance agent?
Independent insurance agents partner with you, along with many different insurance companies, to give you a choice of quotes, coverage levels, and options. The agents at Britton and Britton work for you and offer impartial advice so you can easily navigate options and can select the coverage that is right for you. Our agents often know you on a personal level and they’re on your side. Life changes. Contact us to request your policy review and keep your policy in sync.
No flashy sales pitch, no spam, just real local folks who care about you. If you are new to our agency simply click here to start your policy review and quote now.
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