Plymouth Rock launches e-mail reminder program

Plymouth Rock Assurance recently began offering a free e-mail reminder program for all Massachusetts drivers, even those who aren't insured with the company.

Simply by registering online, drivers will receive e-mail notices when their license and registration are up for renewal and their vehicles are due for inspection. This service is particularly useful because last fall, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles made the decision to stop sending paper-based reminders to drivers when it was time to renew their licenses.

Although the change is intended as a cost saving measure for the state, it's likely to make remembering to renew licenses and registration more difficult for drivers. The MYLES program, short for Make Your Life Easier Services, offers periodic e-mail reminders to all drivers in Massachusetts. For policyholders, other benefits include a savings pass that offers discounts on car care and accessories and access to an online account that allows customers to view, print, and pay bills online.

"At Plymouth Rock we strive to deliver not just an insurance product, but a group of services that make our customers lives easier. Ultimately it's all about value and MYLES is a prime example of Plymouth Rock's commitment to finding new and innovative ways to provide our customers with more than just insurance," Hal Belodoff, president of Plymouth Rock Assurance Corporation, said in a statement.

If you are a Massachusetts driver and would like to learn more about the program or sign up for MYLES, visit Plymouth Rock here.

--Bridget O'Sullivan

Auto Insurance Savings Tips

Bay State consumers mistakenly believe they have no control over the cost of their auto insurance. Not true. As of April '08, drivers in Massachusetts now have the opportunity to lower their auto insurance premiums by shopping around, driving safely and taking advantage of group discounts.

Still, there's always room for more savings. Here are our top 10 ways to reduce your auto insurance rates.

* JOIN A GROUP
Are you a member of a credit union or civic organization? In recent years, many insurers have offered discounts to groups to attract new customers. As a member of the Consumer United network, you will be able to save 10% off your car insurance rates.

* BUNDLE YOUR PLANS
Insurance companies that offer other kinds of coverage, like home or life insurance, can be a source of additional savings. For example, Consumer United members get 20% off Bunker Hill home coverage rates if they sign up for Plymouth Rock auto insurance.

* EXCEL IN COLLEGE
As a Consumer United member, Plymouth Rock offers an additional 5% off to college students who maintain a 3.0 GPA or B+ average while in school. To receive the discount, submit your transcript to Consumer United when signing up.

* TAKE DRIVER'S ED
Insurance companies usually cut customer rates for those who have completed a driver's training, or driver's ed, program. Plymouth Rock offers an additional 5% reduction in rates with standard driving training. To qualify, the customer must provide a certificate of course completion.

* DITCH TOW SERVICE
If you're already a member of an auto club like AAA (American Automobile Association), there's a good chance you already have access to free tow service. Cut the option on your insurance and save some cash.

* ASK FOR SENIOR DISCOUNT
If you're at least 65, you're eligible for 25% discount on your premium, according to the Division of Insurance. To qualify, you must have at least six years of driving experience and your car must be for personal use, not business travel.

* CUT PERSONAL INJURY
According to the Massachusetts Division of Insurance, it might be worth reducing the personal injury coverage of those named on your auto insurance policy, especially if you already have medical and disability insurance.

* RIDE THE T
If you take the bus or T to work on a regular basis, and your car stays in the driveway, most insurers offer a premium discount of as much as $75.

* DROP COLLISION
Are you driving an older model car? If so, you may want to kick your collision coverage to the curb. Before you shop for insurance, find how much your car is worth using a service like Kelly Blue Book.

* ENSURE MULTIPLE CARS
Some insurance companies will extend discounts on some fees to customers who buy coverage for more than one vehicle.

Want to learn more? Check out this "Ways To Save" guide from the Automobile Insurers Bureau of Massachusetts. Meanwhile, click here to get a quote.

Demystifying Deregulation

Our advice to people looking to take advantage of the new auto insurance deregulation perks? Shop till you drop.

Consumers mistakenly believe they have no control over the cost of their auto insurance. This simply isn't true. As of April 2008, drivers in Massachusetts now have the opportunity to lower their auto insurance premiums by shopping around, driving safely and taking advantage of group discounts.

For the past 30 years, state regulators have set auto insurance rates and carefully restricted the types of insurance coverage folks could buy. Under the new “managed competition” system, insurance companies are free to set their own rates.

"It's going to take a lot of legwork," notes Deirdre Cummings, legislative director for the Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group, to the Boston Globe. "We are completely changing the way people are buying auto insurance in Massachusetts."

As a Consumer United member, you're entitled to 10% off the rates from our service partner Plymouth Rock Assurance. But that's just the start.

Want to learn more? Check out this "Ways To Save" guide from the Automobile Insurers Bureau of Massachusetts. Meanwhile, click here to get a quote.