INSURANCE RATES GOING UP, SMARTPHONES LEADING TO DISTRACTED DRIVING THE CULPRIT

Have you noticed an increase in your car insurance premium?

According to the Washington State Insurance Commissioner’s Office, in 2016, auto insurance rates increased an average of 5.9 percent among the top 20 Washington state insurance companies.

The Washington State Insurance Commissioner’s Office told King5 in Seattle, Washington that the premium hikes were necessary to cover the increase in accidents and claims.

According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, cell phone use is the biggest driving distraction and texting while driving increases a driver’s accident risk by 23 times.

Kenton Brine, President of the NW Insurance Council told King5 that drivers can do their part to slow insurance premium price increases by putting their cell phones down while driving.

Also, if you see an increase in your insurance premium, shop around and price out the different insurance companies. And if you need advice on critical coverage, remember we’re here to talk to.