If you haven’t been in an accident or filed an auto insurance claim, it’s reasonable to expect your rates to remain the same. However, your premiums depend on a wide range of factors, so your renewal might come with higher prices even if you’ve been a model driver. Below are just a few of the reasons your car insurance rates might go up.

5 Reasons for Higher Auto Insurance Rates

1. You Got a Ticket

To insurance companies, a traffic violation is a sign that you’re more likely to cause an accident they’ll have to pay for. Even relatively minor traffic tickets can cause your auto insurance rates to spike, although you can offset the effect by taking an approved safe driving course.

2. You’ve Moved to a New Area

Crime rates and local road conditions also have a major impact on your car insurance premiums. Even moving just a few miles away can cause your rates to increase, especially if you have comprehensive coverage.

3. Claims for Your Vehicle Have Increased

Auto insurers collect safety data covering almost every vehicle on the market. If the make and model you own is involved in more accidents or causes more damage in a collision, the insurance company may charge more to cover their risk.

4. Changes in Local Weather Patterns

Comprehensive auto insurance protects against hailstorms, severe wind, and falling trees, so your local weather might have a significant impact on your premiums. If your area has experienced more extreme weather events or serious storms, your insurer might offset the cost with a rate increase.

5. The Insurer Paid Out More Claims Than Usual

One of the most common reasons for rate increases isn’t actually related to your personal circumstances. If an insurance company had to pay out more claims than expected in a year, they’ll often increase rates across the board to ensure they have enough to protect their policyholders.

Finding the right auto insurance policy at the best possible price isn’t always easy, so let the experienced agents at Crothers Insurance Agency in Rising Sun, MD, do it for you. For over 85 years, they’ve helped residents of Cecil County protect themselves from the unexpected with policies tailored to their unique needs. To get in touch and request a free quote, visit their website or call (410) 658-5200.