The effects of a choice auto insurance plan on insurance costs

Choice auto insurance would let drivers choose between traditional auto insurance and a no-fault plan. This report estimates how choice auto insurance would affect auto insurance costs in each state. The authors analyze the cost effects of a choice between tort and absolute no-fault in each of the states that now relies on the traditional tort system. (Absolute no-fault means that motorists neither recover nor are liable for noneconomic loss for any auto accident injury). For states that already have some form of no-fault auto insurance, the authors consider a plan offering a choice between the state's current no-fault plan and absolute no-fault. Key findings are that if insurance premiums are proportional to compensation costs, drivers who choose absolute no-fault should save about 60 percent on their premiums for personal injury coverage. The plan will have little effect on drivers who opt for coverage under their state's current system.