You asked for a comparison of Connecticut and Massachusetts automobile insurance rates for a 22-year-old male driver. Table 1 shows the average premium and premium by line of coverage for a 22-year-old male driver.

TABLE 1: AVERAGE AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE PREMIUM

*From highest to lowest premium.

Connecticut and Massachusetts have different systems for the regulation of automobile insurance rates. Liability and uninsured and underinsured motorist rates in Connecticut are subject to the prior approval of the insurance commissioner (CGS § 38a-389 (d)). Other rates (e. g. , collision and comprehensive) must be filed with her and can be used without prior approval. All automobile insurance rates in Massachusetts are fixed and established by the commissioner (MGL ch. 175E. § 5).

Connecticut permits auto insurers to classify risks in any reasonable manner to establish rates and minimum premiums, but changes in territorial classifications are subject to prior approval (CGS § 38a-686(b)(3)). Risk classifications in Massachusetts are fixed and established by the commissioner (MGL ch. 175 § 113B). And, while Connecticut permits classification based on gender and martial status, Massachusetts does not.

Massachusetts auto insurers actively offer group discounts. The commissioner must approve the discount program. Discount program marketing is not popular in Connecticut.

Connecticut uses the tort liability system to compensate accident victims who are injured by negligent drivers. Massachusetts uses a no-fault system. An accident victim's right to compensation from reckless drivers is restricted. Most "non-serious" injuries are covered by personal injury protection (PIP) insurance all drivers must purchase.

Lastly, many large auto insurers such as the Hartford, Travelers, Progressive, and Allstate do not write business in Massachusetts. They view the state's rate settings requirement as anti-competitive.

JH: eh