Mich. Gov. Whitmer Announces Savings for Drivers Under Auto Insurance Reform Law

LANSING, Michigan, Nov. 18 -- Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, D-Michigan, issued the following news release on Nov. 17, 2021:

Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced drivers should expect lower costs and more savings for their auto insurance policies over the previous year. Under the new auto insurance reform signed into law by the governor, drivers should see even greater savings on the PIP medical portion of their policies on average between 25 to 62 percent depending on which coverage options they choose this year. Governor Whitmer also reminded drivers who have let their auto insurance lapse that time is running short take advantage of purchasing insurance penalty-free before the January 1, 2022, deadline.

"Michigan drivers called for relief from high auto insurance rates for decades, and I am pleased that this bipartisan legislation has resulted in savings, increased consumer protections, and more consumer choices than ever before," said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. "Drivers are able to choose the coverage level that best meets their families' needs and budget, and even those who'd like to keep unlimited coverage, which provides the nation's most generous benefits, are still saving money."

The lower premiums will save drivers more money on top of the expected refund that will be distributed after the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association (MCCA) voted unanimously to grant the governor's request to deliver refund checks to every Michiganders with auto insurance.

"One of the most important consumer protections is the uninsured driver amnesty period, which helps drivers who have let their insurance lapse purchase insurance without paying a penalty or increased premium - but they must apply before January 1, 2022," said Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox. "Starting on January 1, drivers can once again be charged a penalty or increased premium after a lapse in coverage, so we strongly encourage all uninsured drivers to contact an agent or insurer today to apply."

Michigan's new auto insurance law has been in effect for more than a year, and the state continues to promote consumer protections, assist families with access to care concerns, and review rates filed by auto insurers. Aggregated data from rate filings approved under the new law show that the average statewide Personal Injury Protection (PIP) medical reductions exceeded the statutory requirements in 2020, and that those savings have further increased in 2021, even when rates are adjusted for the increased mandatory Bodily Injury (BI) coverage level.

Table can be found here: https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90640-572536--,00.html

In addition to the reductions listed above, Michigan has seen:

* An estimated $1 billion in auto insurance savings back in the pockets of Michiganders;

* A 27% reduction in rates across the market, according to Insure.com, which means Michigan is no longer the most expensive state for auto insurance;

* Increased market competition, with 36 new companies or affiliates entering the auto insurance market in Michigan to date;

* A 61% decrease in the annual Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association assessment, with assessment surplus refunds being prepared; and

* More than 66,000 previously uninsured Michiganders have purchased auto insurance coverage without fee or penalty under the law's amnesty period.

Consumers with questions or concerns about auto insurance can contact DIFS Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 833-ASK-DIFS (833-275-3437), visit Michigan.gov/AutoInsurance, or by filing a complaint online at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents.