We all know the problem. Michigan has the highest auto insurance rates in the nation. Thankfully, some new bi-partisan coalitions are leading the way to lower rates statewide. If 49 other states can do it, so can Michigan!
It is estimated that 21-percent of drivers in Michigan are uninsured. A recent EPIC MRA poll found that 81-percent of voters say auto insurance rates in Michigan are too high. And an overwhelming majority dislike the factors insurance companies use to set the rates. They believe educational level, marital status, credit scores and where someone lives are not fair benchmarks. But 91-percent strongly support using driving records and a person’s history of making accident claims as good criteria.
Auto insurance rates were one of the pressing issues we encountered at our most recent Detroit 2020 Town Hall Meeting.
Town Hall Meeting Participant:
"We've been begging, pleading and asking to cut our auto insurance rates!"
Now the debate is no longer limited to partisan politics and Detroit vs. the rest of Michigan. Democratic Mayor Mike Duggan, Speaker of the House Tom Leonard of DeWitt and House Insurance Committee Chair Lana (Tiez) of Brighton, both Republicans, are all on the same team.
Also pushing for reform are Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette, Senate Majority Leader Arlan (Me-cough) and State Representative Tim (Gri-mull).
The various proposals on the table are complicated. This coming Tuesday, at 11pm, Taking Action Reporter Ameera David will explain the differences in her special report, “Michigan Auto Insurance Crisis.”
Reducing rates and reforming the state’s 1973 no-fault system has been tried before. But this time, we hope the will is finally strong enough to do what’s best for Michigan consumers, insurers and people injured in vehicle crashes. As a state, we must come up with a bi-partisan solution to be more competitive!
I’m Mike Murri, Vice Presidwent & General Manager
Broadcast: September 28 - October 1, 2017
