Auto Insurance Rates for the First Quarter of 2004

The rate applications approved during the first quarter of 2004 indicate an average decrease of 10.15%, when weighted by 2002 market share for those insurers making rate changes. These changes incorporate the impacts of recent reforms to the automobile insurance system. The weighted average rate changes for the previous reported quarters were 7.32%, 8.48% and 8.22% for first quarter 2003, second quarter 2003 and third quarter 2003, respectively. Because of the October 2003 rate freeze the only rate approval for the fourth quarter of 2003 was for a single new insurer.

The average cost of auto insurance in Ontario at the end of the first quarter of 2004 was 7.98% higher when compared with the end of the first quarter a year earlier. This calculation is based on the renewal effective dates of the rate changes.  The rate decreases approved in first quarter 2004 become effective in the second quarter of 2004, or later, for renewal business and will affect the average cost of auto insurance at that time.

The approved rate change shown for each insurance company is the average for that particular company. The impact of a rate change on an individual consumer will vary depending on where the consumer lives, the type of car he or she is driving, and other risk characteristics.

The rate changes posted below reflect cost saving measures arising from recent reforms, which are being passed on to consumers in the form of lower rates.

FSCO will continue to ensure that insurance companies' rate changes are reasonable and justified, and that the rates insurers charge are balanced with their ability to meet their future claims costs.

(1)   Introduction of new rate program.  Approved during the 4th quarter of 2003.