Auto Insurance Rates Remain Low In Maine
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Auto insurance is mandatory in all U.S. states but two, New Hampshire and Wisconsin. But despite being a requirement for most Americans, rates vary state-to-state and person-to-person. A recent report by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ranked Maine as one of the lowest cost per auto insurance compared to all other states.
In 2009, the average auto insurance premium in Maine was $902.85. Louisiana, in comparison, was the highest in the U.S. with an average premium $2,510.87.
There are several reasons why auto insurance rates vary person-to-person and state-to-state. Determining factors include:
- Driving history
- The kind of car you drive
- How old you are
- Your gender
- Your marital status
- Where you live
In general, Maine has low commuter mileage, ultimately making roadways less crowded, resulting in fewer accidents. Nearby, Vermont, New Hampshire and Massachusetts are the 2nd, 5th and 7th lowest respectively.
Insurance companies have recently begun basing their rates on the safety records of the make and model of vehicles as well, including:
- Crashworthiness
- Safety features (i.e. airbags, automatic seatbelts, anti-lock brakes)
- Risk of theft
- Cost to repair
- Age of the vehicle
Getting several tickets or being involved in an accident can also raise insurance rates depending on the severity. Also, cars used for pleasure tend to have lower premiums than those used for business, as the more you drive your car the more likely you are to get into an accident.
Traditionally, males under 25 are considered the highest risk group, and often those under 25 will have higher than average premiums due to the lack of driving experience. The best rates are found for those between the ages of 35-50 with no tickets or prior accidents. In the insurance industry, these drivers are seen as safe and are offered lower premiums.
In Maine, state law requires minimum Bodily Injury Liability limits of $50,000 per injured person up to a total of $100,000 per accident, Property Damage Liability coverage with a minimum limit of $25,000, and a Medical Payments minimum of $1,000. Medical Payments coverage helps pay for medical related expenses for those injured in an accident while riding in or driving your car.
The state of Maine follows a Tort system meaning someone must be found to be at fault for causing the accident, and that person and their insurance company is responsible for all of the damages.
At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, we know that dealing with insurance companies can be difficult. In over 35 years, we have helped over 15,000 injured and disabled Mainers. If you have questions about auto insurance or an injury claim suffered from an accident, call us toll-free at 1-800-CALL-JOE (1-800-225-5563) for a free and confidential consultation. With five convenient offices, a statewide practice, and over 50 legal professionals, the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein can help you sort out the facts of your insurance rates and help you with your injury claim.
The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein – Maine Lawyers Working For Maine People.
