California auto insurance rates dropping for first time in years

For the first time in years, California auto insurance rates have dropped for many drivers. We have a look tonight at what's behind this welcome change.



“I don't like it, but I have to pay it.”



And that's probably how most of us feel about auto insurance. But there is good news. The California Department of Insurance reports it has seen the beginning of a possible trend of overall decline in rates for the first time since 1999.



It's not news everyone expects to hear.



“It's something good to hear, rather than hearing about everything going up,” said driver Jill Carmona. “It is surprising.”



Geico rates are down over six percent, AAA is down five percent. State Farm, California's largest auto insurer, lowered its rates by over seven-and-a-half percent last November and another decrease will come next month.



State Farm claims the two cuts will save their customers 325 million dollars. Agent Cindy Pieper says safety results in savings.



“The driving force is maturing,” said State Farm Agent Cindy Pieper. “Typically, they're safer drivers. Cars are becoming safer, better airbags, better steering, better braking, that sort of thing.”



Some experts say it’s higher gas prices that have helped out with rates. It's reduced the number of cars on the road. Therefore, fewer accidents and fewer claims.



And car insurance customers are changing, too.



“To cut the costs the past couple years, people have been raising their deductibles and have not been so quick to file claims. That has helped everyone's rates.”



Pieper adds the type of driver you are and how much you drive your car are just a couple of factors in how much you can save. And of course, it helps if you at least try to save.



“I don't shop,” said driver Dean Savoie. “I know I could get cheaper insurance . . . I’m lazy, I don’t know. I pay it.”



In the end, we all do.