Skyrocketing Car Insurance Rates Drive Drivers to Pay Repairs in Cash

Paying in Cash for Car Repairs

As car insurance premiums continue to soar, drivers are finding alternative ways to manage their expenses. With rates expected to rise by at least 20% in 2024, many are opting to bypass the claims process altogether and pay for repairs out of pocket. Understanding the Shift: Why Drivers Are Avoiding Claims A recent survey by LendingTree reveals that about 40% of drivers are choosing to skip the traditional claims process, opting instead to handle minor repairs in cash. This trend is largely driven by the fear of increased premiums and…

Read More

Innovative Food Truck Launches “Seagull Insurance” on Isle of Man

"Seagull Insurance" on Isle of Man

In a quirky insurance news twist, Hawkins BBQ, a popular food truck on the Isle of Man, has introduced “seagull insurance” to protect its customers from a particularly pesky problem—theft by herring gulls. Birds swooping in to snatch snacks have become a frequent issue at the coastal pop-ups, sometimes occurring up to three times a week. A Unique Solution Co-owner Charlotte Smith revealed that the introduction of the £1 daily insurance policy aims to ensure that customers can enjoy their meals without fear of losing them to opportunistic seabirds. “We…

Read More

Car Insurance Costs Explode in 2024 with an Overall Jaw-Dropping 26% Hike

rising car insurance costs

Car Insurance Premiums Surge in 2024 Car insurance premiums skyrocketed by an average of 26% in 2024, pushing the national average cost for full coverage to a staggering $2,543 per year. This marks a significant rise from $2,014 in 2023 and $1,771 in 2022. Several factors contribute to this surge: The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that while overall annual inflation was 3.2%, car insurance rates spiked 20.6%. States differ in rate increases, with New Jersey and Missouri seeing hikes of 45.69% and 44.16%, respectively. Florida and California remain among…

Read More

Catastrophe Losses in 2024: A Challenging Year for the Insurance Industry

Challenging Year for the Insurance Industry

2024’s Insurance Industry Turmoil: State Farm and Others Navigate the Aftermath of Hurricanes Debby and Beryl The year 2024 has proven to be a tumultuous period for the insurance industry, with back-to-back natural disasters resulting in substantial financial losses for major insurers. Hurricanes Debby and Beryl have left a trail of destruction across multiple states, posing significant challenges for companies like State Farm and Allstate as they navigate the aftermath. Hurricane Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in Florida’s Big Bend region on August 5, 2024. With maximum…

Read More

Top Insurance Companies: Unpacking Auto Insurance Claims Criticisms

claims adjuster examining car

Top Performers in Auto Claims Handling Amica leads in auto insurance claims handling, securing the top spot in J.D. Power’s 2023 Auto Claims Satisfaction Study with 909 out of 1,000 points. Customers praise Amica for quick and efficient claims processing and excellent customer service. Erie Insurance ranks second with a score of 902. Customers highlight the insurer’s professionalism and fast claims process. Erie offers a unique benefit: Coverage for pets injured in accidents Up to $500 per pet $1,000 per accident State Farm stands out for its user-friendly online claims…

Read More