The cost of auto insurance is expected to rise by just 0.5 percent in 2006, the smallest increase in six years, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Average cost for auto insurance nationwide for 2006 is estimated at $867–an increase of just $4 per vehicle from last year despite record vehicle-related losses arising from the 2005 hurricane season, New York-based I.I.I said.

That projected increase represents a continued slowdown from 2005 when auto insurance costs rose by 2.5 percent.

“The cost of auto insurance is increasing by about one-sixth the rate of inflation and little more than a single gallon of gasoline,” said Robert Hartwig, senior vice president and chief economist of the I.I.I.

He added, “Many people who, for example, drive safe cars, have excellent safety records and good credit-based insurance scores may see their rates go down, often by 3-to-5 percent or about $25 to $50 per vehicle. This is welcome news for drivers who have been battered by record high gas prices over the past year.” he said.

Mr. Hartwig cited the declining number of auto accidents, safer cars, new auto theft technology, fraud-fighting efforts and graduated licensing laws for teen drivers as additional key factors contributing to the cost slowdown.

However, he observed that rising costs for medical care and vehicle repairs as well as defense costs and jury awards remain a problem, according to I.I.I.'s analysis.

In an interview, Mr. Hartwig opined that the current steep rise in gasoline prices would have only a marginal impact in future on private passenger auto and commercial auto rates.

“One might expect to see people driving less and trading down to smaller, more efficient vehicles that cost less to insure,” he said, but he questioned whether the risks of high speed driving would be impacted.

“Whether Americans will slow down, I'm doubtful,” he remarked, although he thought gas prices might cause people to drive less. He noted that some insurers are offering cheaper rates to persons who purchase hybrid gas-saving vehicles.

Commercial auto livery and delivery fleets, Mr. Hartwig said, will likely work to do more efficient routings and burn less fuel, which could reduce mileage.

A spokesman for the nation's largest auto insurer, Allstate, said the company at this point sees no impact from gasoline prices.

Special Reports /

Slight Rise In Auto Premiums Seen

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