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Understanding Auto Insurance Rates with Industry Expert Vladan Trifunovic

Written By

Peter O'Neil

Published

Jun 21, 2024

Discover why auto insurance rates are rising and how COVID-19 impacts costs. Gain expert insights and practical advice from industry veteran Vladan Trifunovic in CarOracle’s latest video.

Dive Deep into Auto Insurance with CarOracle

In our latest video, Andrea from CarOracle sits down with Vladan Trifunovic, an insurance industry veteran with over 30 years of experience, to discuss the complexities and trends in auto insurance rates.

Key Topics Covered

Key Topics Covered

  • Rising Insurance Rates:

    • Vladan explains why insurance rates have increased significantly over the past few years. He attributes this rise to the lag between standard inflation rates and insurance premiums, along with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequent inflation.

  • Impact of COVID-19:

    • During the pandemic, driving and claims decreased, leading to premium refunds in states like California. However, post-pandemic inflation and increased auto part costs have driven rates up.

  • State Regulations:

    • Vladan highlights how state regulations, particularly in California, affect the ability of insurance companies to adjust rates promptly. This regulatory process can take years, impacting how quickly insurers can respond to market changes.

  • Auto Parts and Repair Costs:

    • The discussion covers how supply chain issues and increased auto part prices have contributed to higher repair costs, further driving up insurance premiums. Even minor repairs now often require expensive calibrations due to advanced vehicle technology.

  • Consumer Impact:

    • With the average cost of a new car now around $50,000, Vladan underscores the financial burden on consumers. The conversation sheds light on the importance of understanding these factors to make informed decisions about auto insurance.

Why You Should Watch

  • Expert Insights: Gain valuable knowledge from an industry expert who breaks down complex topics into understandable insights.

  • Current Trends: Stay updated on the latest trends affecting your auto insurance rates.

  • Practical Advice: Learn how these changes impact you as a consumer and what you can do to navigate the evolving landscape.

Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of the auto insurance market. Watch the full video on CarOracle's YouTube channel and stay informed about the factors driving your insurance costs.

Insurance Options FAQs

What factors should I consider besides price when shopping for auto insurance?

While price is certainly an important factor when choosing an auto insurance policy, there are several other aspects to consider to ensure you're getting the best coverage for your needs:

Coverage Options: Ensure the policy offers the coverage you need, such as collision, comprehensive, liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and any additional coverages pertinent to your situation.

  1. Customer Service: Look at the insurer's reputation for customer service. You want a company that will handle claims fairly and efficiently. You can check customer reviews or look at ratings from independent organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

  2. Claim Process: Understand the insurer's claim process. Some companies offer easy-to-use digital tools for filing and tracking claims, which can make the process smoother if you ever need to use your insurance.

  3. Financial Strength: You want an insurance company that is financially stable and able to pay out claims. You can check ratings from independent agencies like A.M. Best or Standard & Poor's.

  4. Discounts: While these tie into price, it's worth checking what discounts are available. Some insurers offer discounts for things like bundling policies, having safety features in your vehicle, or being a good driver.

  5. Company Reputation: Consider the company's reputation in the industry. Companies with long histories or positive feedback from current and past customers can often be a safe bet.

Remember, the goal is to get the best value, not just the lowest price. It's about balancing cost with your coverage needs and the service you're likely to receive.

What factors should I consider besides price when shopping for auto insurance?

While price is certainly an important factor when choosing an auto insurance policy, there are several other aspects to consider to ensure you're getting the best coverage for your needs:

Coverage Options: Ensure the policy offers the coverage you need, such as collision, comprehensive, liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and any additional coverages pertinent to your situation.

  1. Customer Service: Look at the insurer's reputation for customer service. You want a company that will handle claims fairly and efficiently. You can check customer reviews or look at ratings from independent organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

  2. Claim Process: Understand the insurer's claim process. Some companies offer easy-to-use digital tools for filing and tracking claims, which can make the process smoother if you ever need to use your insurance.

  3. Financial Strength: You want an insurance company that is financially stable and able to pay out claims. You can check ratings from independent agencies like A.M. Best or Standard & Poor's.

  4. Discounts: While these tie into price, it's worth checking what discounts are available. Some insurers offer discounts for things like bundling policies, having safety features in your vehicle, or being a good driver.

  5. Company Reputation: Consider the company's reputation in the industry. Companies with long histories or positive feedback from current and past customers can often be a safe bet.

Remember, the goal is to get the best value, not just the lowest price. It's about balancing cost with your coverage needs and the service you're likely to receive.

What factors should I consider besides price when shopping for auto insurance?

While price is certainly an important factor when choosing an auto insurance policy, there are several other aspects to consider to ensure you're getting the best coverage for your needs:

Coverage Options: Ensure the policy offers the coverage you need, such as collision, comprehensive, liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and any additional coverages pertinent to your situation.

  1. Customer Service: Look at the insurer's reputation for customer service. You want a company that will handle claims fairly and efficiently. You can check customer reviews or look at ratings from independent organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

  2. Claim Process: Understand the insurer's claim process. Some companies offer easy-to-use digital tools for filing and tracking claims, which can make the process smoother if you ever need to use your insurance.

  3. Financial Strength: You want an insurance company that is financially stable and able to pay out claims. You can check ratings from independent agencies like A.M. Best or Standard & Poor's.

  4. Discounts: While these tie into price, it's worth checking what discounts are available. Some insurers offer discounts for things like bundling policies, having safety features in your vehicle, or being a good driver.

  5. Company Reputation: Consider the company's reputation in the industry. Companies with long histories or positive feedback from current and past customers can often be a safe bet.

Remember, the goal is to get the best value, not just the lowest price. It's about balancing cost with your coverage needs and the service you're likely to receive.

What is the difference between Vehicle Service Contracts and Mechanical Breakdown Insurance, and how are they regulated?

Vehicle Service Contracts (VSC) and Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) both provide coverage for the cost of repairs due to mechanical failures or malfunctions. However, there are key differences between them.

A VSC, often called an extended warranty, is not an insurance product. It's a contract between you and a VSC provider that promises to pay for specific car repairs or services. VSCs usually have restrictions on where the repairs can be done and may only cover certain types of repairs. These contracts are not regulated by state insurance departments.

MBI, on the other hand, is an insurance product. It covers many parts of your vehicle and typically allows you to choose your repair facility. As an insurance product, MBI is regulated by state insurance departments, which provide consumer protections.

Importantly, not all states categorize VSCs and MBIs the same way. In some states, VSCs are regulated as insurance products, while in others they are not. Because of these variations, it's important to understand the specifics of these products and how they are regulated in your state before purchasing. Always research providers and read contracts carefully to know what you're agreeing to.

What is the difference between Vehicle Service Contracts and Mechanical Breakdown Insurance, and how are they regulated?

Vehicle Service Contracts (VSC) and Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) both provide coverage for the cost of repairs due to mechanical failures or malfunctions. However, there are key differences between them.

A VSC, often called an extended warranty, is not an insurance product. It's a contract between you and a VSC provider that promises to pay for specific car repairs or services. VSCs usually have restrictions on where the repairs can be done and may only cover certain types of repairs. These contracts are not regulated by state insurance departments.

MBI, on the other hand, is an insurance product. It covers many parts of your vehicle and typically allows you to choose your repair facility. As an insurance product, MBI is regulated by state insurance departments, which provide consumer protections.

Importantly, not all states categorize VSCs and MBIs the same way. In some states, VSCs are regulated as insurance products, while in others they are not. Because of these variations, it's important to understand the specifics of these products and how they are regulated in your state before purchasing. Always research providers and read contracts carefully to know what you're agreeing to.

What is the difference between Vehicle Service Contracts and Mechanical Breakdown Insurance, and how are they regulated?

Vehicle Service Contracts (VSC) and Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) both provide coverage for the cost of repairs due to mechanical failures or malfunctions. However, there are key differences between them.

A VSC, often called an extended warranty, is not an insurance product. It's a contract between you and a VSC provider that promises to pay for specific car repairs or services. VSCs usually have restrictions on where the repairs can be done and may only cover certain types of repairs. These contracts are not regulated by state insurance departments.

MBI, on the other hand, is an insurance product. It covers many parts of your vehicle and typically allows you to choose your repair facility. As an insurance product, MBI is regulated by state insurance departments, which provide consumer protections.

Importantly, not all states categorize VSCs and MBIs the same way. In some states, VSCs are regulated as insurance products, while in others they are not. Because of these variations, it's important to understand the specifics of these products and how they are regulated in your state before purchasing. Always research providers and read contracts carefully to know what you're agreeing to.

How do auto insurance companies generate revenue and what risks do they face?

Insurance companies, including those offering auto insurance, primarily generate revenue in two ways: through underwriting income and through investment income.

  1. Underwriting Income: This is the difference between the premiums an insurance company collects from policyholders and the amount it pays out in claims and operating expenses. Insurance companies employ actuaries, professionals who specialize in calculating risk, to predict the likelihood and cost of claims. This information is used to accurately set premium prices. If the company collects more in premiums than it pays out in claims and expenses, it makes an underwriting profit.

  2. Investment Income: Insurance companies invest the premiums they collect in various financial instruments to generate returns. These investments are typically in conservative assets like bonds. The income earned from these investments is a substantial source of revenue for insurance companies.

However, it's important to understand that the insurance business is not without risks. If an insurance company miscalculates the frequency or cost of claims, it could suffer financial losses. Similarly, poor investment decisions or a downturn in financial markets can negatively impact the company's investment income.

Insurance companies also face regulatory risks. Changes in laws or regulations can affect their operations and profitability. To protect policyholders, insurance companies are required to maintain a certain level of capital. This ensures they can meet their obligation to pay out claims.

How do auto insurance companies generate revenue and what risks do they face?

Insurance companies, including those offering auto insurance, primarily generate revenue in two ways: through underwriting income and through investment income.

  1. Underwriting Income: This is the difference between the premiums an insurance company collects from policyholders and the amount it pays out in claims and operating expenses. Insurance companies employ actuaries, professionals who specialize in calculating risk, to predict the likelihood and cost of claims. This information is used to accurately set premium prices. If the company collects more in premiums than it pays out in claims and expenses, it makes an underwriting profit.

  2. Investment Income: Insurance companies invest the premiums they collect in various financial instruments to generate returns. These investments are typically in conservative assets like bonds. The income earned from these investments is a substantial source of revenue for insurance companies.

However, it's important to understand that the insurance business is not without risks. If an insurance company miscalculates the frequency or cost of claims, it could suffer financial losses. Similarly, poor investment decisions or a downturn in financial markets can negatively impact the company's investment income.

Insurance companies also face regulatory risks. Changes in laws or regulations can affect their operations and profitability. To protect policyholders, insurance companies are required to maintain a certain level of capital. This ensures they can meet their obligation to pay out claims.

How do auto insurance companies generate revenue and what risks do they face?

Insurance companies, including those offering auto insurance, primarily generate revenue in two ways: through underwriting income and through investment income.

  1. Underwriting Income: This is the difference between the premiums an insurance company collects from policyholders and the amount it pays out in claims and operating expenses. Insurance companies employ actuaries, professionals who specialize in calculating risk, to predict the likelihood and cost of claims. This information is used to accurately set premium prices. If the company collects more in premiums than it pays out in claims and expenses, it makes an underwriting profit.

  2. Investment Income: Insurance companies invest the premiums they collect in various financial instruments to generate returns. These investments are typically in conservative assets like bonds. The income earned from these investments is a substantial source of revenue for insurance companies.

However, it's important to understand that the insurance business is not without risks. If an insurance company miscalculates the frequency or cost of claims, it could suffer financial losses. Similarly, poor investment decisions or a downturn in financial markets can negatively impact the company's investment income.

Insurance companies also face regulatory risks. Changes in laws or regulations can affect their operations and profitability. To protect policyholders, insurance companies are required to maintain a certain level of capital. This ensures they can meet their obligation to pay out claims.

What is uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a part of your auto insurance policy that provides protection if you're in an accident with a driver who either has no insurance (uninsured) or insufficient insurance to cover the damages (underinsured).

Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM) is designed to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages if you're hit by a driver who doesn't carry any auto insurance.

Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM), on the other hand, comes into play when the other driver has insurance, but their liability limits aren't enough to cover the full extent of the damages caused to you or your vehicle. In this scenario, your UIM coverage would help pay for your expenses that exceed the at-fault driver's policy limits.

These types of coverage are especially important because they give you a financial safety net in situations that are out of your control. However, the requirements and limitations of UM and UIM coverage can vary by state and insurance policy, so it's important to review your policy details and state laws.

What is uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a part of your auto insurance policy that provides protection if you're in an accident with a driver who either has no insurance (uninsured) or insufficient insurance to cover the damages (underinsured).

Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM) is designed to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages if you're hit by a driver who doesn't carry any auto insurance.

Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM), on the other hand, comes into play when the other driver has insurance, but their liability limits aren't enough to cover the full extent of the damages caused to you or your vehicle. In this scenario, your UIM coverage would help pay for your expenses that exceed the at-fault driver's policy limits.

These types of coverage are especially important because they give you a financial safety net in situations that are out of your control. However, the requirements and limitations of UM and UIM coverage can vary by state and insurance policy, so it's important to review your policy details and state laws.

What is uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a part of your auto insurance policy that provides protection if you're in an accident with a driver who either has no insurance (uninsured) or insufficient insurance to cover the damages (underinsured).

Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM) is designed to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages if you're hit by a driver who doesn't carry any auto insurance.

Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM), on the other hand, comes into play when the other driver has insurance, but their liability limits aren't enough to cover the full extent of the damages caused to you or your vehicle. In this scenario, your UIM coverage would help pay for your expenses that exceed the at-fault driver's policy limits.

These types of coverage are especially important because they give you a financial safety net in situations that are out of your control. However, the requirements and limitations of UM and UIM coverage can vary by state and insurance policy, so it's important to review your policy details and state laws.

How can I lower my auto insurance rates?

One effective strategy to lower your auto insurance rates is adjusting your deductible. Here are some tips:

  1. Increase Your Deductibles: Opt for higher deductibles to reduce your premium. For example, having a higher deductible for collision coverage can lower your costs since it decreases the insurer's risk.

  2. Balance Comprehensive and Collision Deductibles: Consider a lower deductible for comprehensive coverage, which deals with non-collision incidents like theft or natural disasters, as these claims usually don't impact your driving record or rates.

  3. Review and Adjust Regularly: Periodically reassess your deductibles to ensure they align with your financial situation and risk level.

  4. Leverage Professional Help: An insurance agent can guide you on optimal deductible levels to maximize savings without compromising coverage.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage and reduce your auto insurance rates.

How can I lower my auto insurance rates?

One effective strategy to lower your auto insurance rates is adjusting your deductible. Here are some tips:

  1. Increase Your Deductibles: Opt for higher deductibles to reduce your premium. For example, having a higher deductible for collision coverage can lower your costs since it decreases the insurer's risk.

  2. Balance Comprehensive and Collision Deductibles: Consider a lower deductible for comprehensive coverage, which deals with non-collision incidents like theft or natural disasters, as these claims usually don't impact your driving record or rates.

  3. Review and Adjust Regularly: Periodically reassess your deductibles to ensure they align with your financial situation and risk level.

  4. Leverage Professional Help: An insurance agent can guide you on optimal deductible levels to maximize savings without compromising coverage.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage and reduce your auto insurance rates.

How can I lower my auto insurance rates?

One effective strategy to lower your auto insurance rates is adjusting your deductible. Here are some tips:

  1. Increase Your Deductibles: Opt for higher deductibles to reduce your premium. For example, having a higher deductible for collision coverage can lower your costs since it decreases the insurer's risk.

  2. Balance Comprehensive and Collision Deductibles: Consider a lower deductible for comprehensive coverage, which deals with non-collision incidents like theft or natural disasters, as these claims usually don't impact your driving record or rates.

  3. Review and Adjust Regularly: Periodically reassess your deductibles to ensure they align with your financial situation and risk level.

  4. Leverage Professional Help: An insurance agent can guide you on optimal deductible levels to maximize savings without compromising coverage.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage and reduce your auto insurance rates.

What is gap insurance and when might I need it?

Gap insurance, also known as Guaranteed Asset Protection, is a type of auto insurance coverage that covers the "gap" between the actual cash value of your vehicle and the remaining amount you owe on your auto loan or lease at the time of a total loss.

When you finance or lease a vehicle, you often owe more than the car is worth due to depreciation, especially in the early years of ownership or the lease term. If your vehicle is stolen or totaled in an accident, your traditional auto insurance policy will typically only cover the current market value of the vehicle, which could be less than what you still owe to the lender or leasing company. Gap insurance is designed to cover this potential financial shortfall.

For leased vehicles, gap insurance can be particularly valuable. You're essentially paying for the vehicle's depreciation during the lease term, but the actual depreciation could exceed these estimates. If your leased car is stolen or totaled, the gap insurance would cover the difference between the insurance payout and any remaining lease payments. Many leasing companies actually require lessees to carry gap insurance, with the cost often included in the lease payments. However, it's essential to confirm this when signing a lease contract. In short, whether you're financing or leasing, gap insurance can offer crucial financial protection.

What is gap insurance and when might I need it?

Gap insurance, also known as Guaranteed Asset Protection, is a type of auto insurance coverage that covers the "gap" between the actual cash value of your vehicle and the remaining amount you owe on your auto loan or lease at the time of a total loss.

When you finance or lease a vehicle, you often owe more than the car is worth due to depreciation, especially in the early years of ownership or the lease term. If your vehicle is stolen or totaled in an accident, your traditional auto insurance policy will typically only cover the current market value of the vehicle, which could be less than what you still owe to the lender or leasing company. Gap insurance is designed to cover this potential financial shortfall.

For leased vehicles, gap insurance can be particularly valuable. You're essentially paying for the vehicle's depreciation during the lease term, but the actual depreciation could exceed these estimates. If your leased car is stolen or totaled, the gap insurance would cover the difference between the insurance payout and any remaining lease payments. Many leasing companies actually require lessees to carry gap insurance, with the cost often included in the lease payments. However, it's essential to confirm this when signing a lease contract. In short, whether you're financing or leasing, gap insurance can offer crucial financial protection.

What is gap insurance and when might I need it?

Gap insurance, also known as Guaranteed Asset Protection, is a type of auto insurance coverage that covers the "gap" between the actual cash value of your vehicle and the remaining amount you owe on your auto loan or lease at the time of a total loss.

When you finance or lease a vehicle, you often owe more than the car is worth due to depreciation, especially in the early years of ownership or the lease term. If your vehicle is stolen or totaled in an accident, your traditional auto insurance policy will typically only cover the current market value of the vehicle, which could be less than what you still owe to the lender or leasing company. Gap insurance is designed to cover this potential financial shortfall.

For leased vehicles, gap insurance can be particularly valuable. You're essentially paying for the vehicle's depreciation during the lease term, but the actual depreciation could exceed these estimates. If your leased car is stolen or totaled, the gap insurance would cover the difference between the insurance payout and any remaining lease payments. Many leasing companies actually require lessees to carry gap insurance, with the cost often included in the lease payments. However, it's essential to confirm this when signing a lease contract. In short, whether you're financing or leasing, gap insurance can offer crucial financial protection.

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CarOracle is a California-licensed automotive dealer, License No: 43082, with an autobroker's endorsement, enabling us to represent consumers in the purchase or leasing of new and used vehicles.

©2024 CarOracle. All rights reserved

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CarOracle is a California-licensed automotive dealer, License No: 43082, with an autobroker's endorsement, enabling us to represent consumers in the purchase or leasing of new and used vehicles.

©2024 CarOracle. All rights reserved

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CarOracle Logo

CarOracle is a California-licensed automotive dealer, License No: 43082, with an autobroker's endorsement, enabling us to represent consumers in the purchase or leasing of new and used vehicles.

©2024 CarOracle. All rights reserved

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CarOracle Logo

CarOracle is a California-licensed automotive dealer, License No: 43082, with an autobroker's endorsement, enabling us to represent consumers in the purchase or leasing of new and used vehicles.

©2024 CarOracle. All rights reserved

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