Check with your auto insurance carrier and ask if you are rated as a commuter or as retired. It makes a difference!
For example, I received by auto insurance renewal notification last week, and was astounded to discover that the annual premium had jumped from $822 to $1234 (with no additional add-ons). When I contacted the company (The Co-operators) to inquire as to why the hefty increase (well, it sure was hefty to me!), I was told that some bureaucrat in "head office" had reviewed my policy and decided my postal code indicated I was living in a high-risk area (Halifax Regional Municipality) and that the lower premium had been that for when I lived at my previous address with a different postal code. What astounded me was the fact that I have been living at my current address for the last 7 years! Probably what this unamed bureaucrat isn't aware of, is that the "Halifax Regional Municipality" includes not only the cities of Halifax and Dartmouth, but surounding rural areas to the tune of about 400 square miles. As I pointed out to the rep on the phone, I find it hard to believe that living and driving in a rural area 15 miles outside the city proper constitutes the same risk as living and driving within the city limits or surrounding suburbs.
I contacted Wawanesa Insurance the next day, and for the identical coverage, I was quoted an annual premium of $960. Go figure.
As I pointed out to the Co-Op lady, I have been a customer of The Co-Operators for over 40 years, but as of today, that's all over. I'm sure that really made a big impression on her..NOT! - but, hey..life goes on.
As an insurance agent, I'd really like to get your take on this - thanks.
Have a great day, everyone,
Don
POSTAL CODE! Love that one! Just this morning a client called to tell me she had moved. She moved 3 miles and her auto insurance increased $117.00 every 6 months. OUCH! Just out of curiosity I then checked her new zip code 92264 to my personal zip code (the other Palm Springs zip) and mine would have been $7.00 less every 6 months.
Rule: your car HAS to be insured where it "lives". You cannot insure your auto from a PO box for example to get the better premium rate.
People "scam" insurance companies all the time by saying their cars are "living" in more desirable premium locations. (Like at your office, seems harmless enough right?) Then their claim may not be covered because of FRAUD yes the F-word. Then we see rate increases trickle down to the "honest" ones.
Don, your story reminds me of the person who sits at my desk and states, "Why the increase?" And I say, "you got a ticket last year for speeding, I am happy for you that we just found out about it now and not a year ago, I actually saved you about a thousand dollars".
But in your case Don, possibly your insurance company is trying to slowly "let go" of current insured’s (getting out of the auto insurance part of the business). I see that when it is suddenly difficult to obtain their insurance at the same time they are raising rates. They legally can’t just cancel someone outright. That’s what we did when I was an Agent a few years back for a major carrier (unscramble the letters Strmatfea).
My advice Don, Wawanesa! Definitely a very great company!
I did some comparison shopping, and, while a couple of quotes were lower, I think I'll take your advice and go with Wawanesa - they are a reputable company that has been around for quite some time, and from my inquiries, I have heard nothing but good things about them. Thank you for your input...it was much appreciated!
Have a great one, and think of me at the Dinner
Regarding the dinner...do we light candles or something in memory of those that can't be with us?
I personally had a claim against a wawanesa insured and felt their company (regardless of fault or payout) handled the claim with all the professionalism that could be hoped for. Plus in my business you know I "hear it all" and the worst thing about wawanesa I hear is "They wouldn’t insure me because I have a ticket". That's good. They keep their rates down by accepting applicants with CLEAN records keeping risks low.
Here's a TRUE story that happened TODAY!
Mrs. Trib called in saying she may add a 1994 Cadillac to her policy that now has a 2004 PT Cruiser on it. Right now she is paying $558.36 every 6 months. With the Cadillac her premium will become $546.16 every 6 months. Yes, $546.16 for both cars! She will save $12.00 by adding a second vehicle. Know why?
HER MULTICAR DISCOUNT WILL INCREASE
See, shopping for insurance can drive you crazy. Each insurance company is DIFFERENT. Be careful of the advertisements that say "same coverage’s for less money". That's all it is, coverage’s. What about discounts, service, and claim handling...I could go on and on..and on and on...Okay, as you can see, I love what I do and you have all saved my family from having to hear about "Mom's work" at the dinner table!!!
Candles are ok...but if there are lilies as well, I'm going to be really worried!
Let's just settle for one stiff drink... For those who do not drink...a tall glass of water on the rocks will work!!!
I am sorry for those who planned to be here at the 2nd Annual Dinner, but now have other plans...
This toast is for you. "May your time away from the desert be safe & adventurous one, and may you return in a timely manner, before the Devil knows you have left a place we know as heaven" (David:2007)
David