According to Georgia state insurance regulators, Allstate canraise Auto insurance rates for Georgia drivers in May because astate review of the planned increase won’t be done in time to stopthe higher rates from taking effect.

Under legislation Georgia lawmakers approved in 2008, thecompany can raise rates without the state’s approval, The AtlantaJournal-Constitution reported.

“At this time, it does not appear that the results of theexamination will be determined before the effective date,” StateInsurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens said in a statement. “If thefiling is proven to be excessive, then I will do everything allowedby law to reverse Allstate's actions.”

Last month, Hudgens issued a rare consumer alert after Northbrook,Ill.-based Allstate Insurance Co. filed its plan to raise rates.He’s concerned about the rate increase, he said, and that hisoffice is evaluating whether the planned rate increase is legallyexcessive. He has asked an actuarial firm to examine Allstate’srate increase request.

The new rates, which become effective May 22, could increaserates for some drivers by as much as 58%, Hudgens said, but heexpects the average increase will be about 25%.

According to Allstate spokesman Adam Polak, the number of milesdriven, traffic fatalities and costs associated with repairs havecontributed to an increase in claims and costs to settle them. “Thecompany will cooperate with Hudgens’ office,” he said in astatement. “Should the department’s review raise any questions withour filing, we will work cooperatively to reach agreement on thesequestions and take whatever steps are necessary to comply with thatagreement.”

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