You check your mailbox or email, and there it is — a higher car insurance bill. But you didn’t file a claim, get a ticket, or buy a new car. So what gives?
At our Glenpool agency, this is one of the most common questions we get:
“Why did my auto insurance go up when I haven’t done anything different?”
Let’s break down the real reasons behind rate increases — and what you can do about them.
The 5 Most Common Reasons Auto Insurance Rates Increase
1. Inflation and Repair Costs
The cost to repair vehicles has skyrocketed — parts, labor, and even paint are all more expensive than they were a year or two ago.
2. More Severe Accidents Nationwide
Insurance is a pool of risk, and nationwide trends matter. There’s been a rise in distracted driving and high-speed accidents, which affect everyone’s rates.
3. Higher Medical and Legal Costs
If someone is injured in an accident, the cost of medical care and potential lawsuits continues to climb — and insurance companies adjust premiums to reflect that risk.
4. Natural Disasters and Storm Claims
In Oklahoma, severe weather can lead to more claims for things like hail damage or flooding — which can drive up auto insurance costs in your area, even if you weren’t personally affected.
5. Insurance Company Adjustments
Carriers regularly review their risk and claim data by ZIP code, driving history, and vehicle type. Even changes you don’t see behind the scenes can cause a premium shift.
But I Didn’t Do Anything Wrong!
You’re right — and that’s frustrating. But insurance pricing is based on trends, not just individual behavior. Think of it like gas prices: you may drive the same, but prices change anyway.
What You Can Do About It
Review your current policy. There might be opportunities to adjust coverages or deductibles.
Ask about discounts. Good driver, multi-car, telematics (tracking), and safe-driving program discounts can make a big difference.
Shop around. As an independent agency, we can quote multiple companies and see who’s offering the best rates right now.
Bundle your insurance. (Hint: This can lead to serious savings! Check out last week’s blog for more.)
Let’s Review Your Coverage
Not all rate increases can be avoided — but we can help you understand what’s driving yours and make sure you’re not overpaying.
Contact us today for a free, no-pressure review of your auto insurance policy.