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

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.