How Auto-Insurance Rates are Determined in NC
Serge Semirog
One of the most common questions we get from our clients after an auto accident: will my auto-insurance rate go up?
Let's look at how the rates are set in North Carolina. Underwriting is the process by which an insurance company considers your application and evaluates your driving record and other factors to see if you meet its guidelines.
Insurance companies use a variety of factors to determine each driver's level of risk.
Each company will use its own underwriting guidelines to decide whether or not to insure a driver voluntarily. Some of the most common factors that will affect your rate are: your driving record, where you live, type of car you drive, how often you drive and your patterns of driving.
Your Driving Record
Your driving record will have the largest impact on your insurance premium. North Carolina insurance points are charged for at-fault accidents and convictions for moving violations that occur within the last 3 years (your experience period).
Where You Live
The area you live in will also affect your rate. Insurers will consider vehicle and population density, road conditions, repair rates, hospital and medical costs, and the number of accidents and other claims in a particular area. Normally, urban areas have higher rates than rural areas.
Type of Automobile
The likelihood of theft, cost of repair and replacement, and the style of vehicle (sports car, SUV, station wagon, etc.) will influence your premium. For example, a sports car will normally have a higher premium than a family sedan.
Household Members
When the individuals residing in your house have bad driving records, the insurance company knows it has an increased risk. The insurance company will consider that risk when underwriting the policy, because generally any family member residing in the same household will be considered an insured under the liability provisions of the insurance policy. Anyone driving your covered vehicle with permission is also covered by your policy.
For more information you can always contact the NC Department of Insurance.