Kristin Pfeffer
Nov 14, 2024
Car insurance rates have been steadily climbing since the mid 1970's, but in the past year we have seen a massive cost increase.
Over the past few decades, car insurance rates have steadily climbed, but recent data shows that the past year has seen an unprecedented spike. According to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, car insurance premiums jumped nearly 21% between February 2023 and February 2024—a dramatic rise not seen since 1976. For many Americans, this surge is adding significant financial strain, compounding an already challenging economic environment.
Several key factors are contributing to this steep increase in car insurance premiums:
1. Higher Vehicle Repair Costs:
Although car repair costs have risen at a slower pace—6.7% over the past year—they remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. A combination of rising auto part prices and mechanic wage hikes, largely due to labor shortages, continues to drive up repair expenses.
2. We Are Getting In More Accidents and They Are More Severe:
The U.S. has also experienced an increase in traffic-related fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 7,000 more people lost their lives in car accidents in 2022 than in pre-pandemic years, bringing the total to 42,795. This rise in fatal crashes has translated into more frequent insurance claims, with insurers reporting losses on 27% of collision claims in 2022, a notable jump from 2021’s 24%.
Risky driving behaviors—such as speeding, texting while driving, and driving under the influence—are major contributors to this uptick.
Severe accidents tend to involve higher repair costs and legal fees, both of which drive insurance rates higher. When claims involve legal representation, insurers typically face larger payouts, further increasing costs.
Car insurance premium hikes aren't distributed evenly across the U.S. Some states are feeling the impact more acutely than others.
Nevada drivers have seen the steepest increase, with rates jumping by 38% between January 2023 and February 2024. The minimum required coverage in Nevada is now the most expensive in the nation. Wyoming also experienced sharp increases, but due to data limitations, it wasn’t fully included in the study.
On the flip side, North Carolina drivers have had the smallest increase, at just 5.5% over the same period. This is largely due to the state’s rate bureau, which negotiates premiums for the entire industry. In 2023, the bureau settled on a modest 4.5% increase for the year, with another 4.5% scheduled for 2024.
As car insurance rates continue to rise, drivers across the country are feeling the financial squeeze. Whether driven by more expensive vehicle repairs or an uptick in severe accidents, the factors pushing premiums upward show no signs of easing. While some states have managed to keep rate hikes in check, most drivers will need to brace themselves for higher bills. In this challenging economic climate, the rising cost of car insurance is just one more burden for American households. Its a good idea to shop around for new Car Insurance anytime you can an increase. A different car insurance company may give you a better deal.