Pandemic Impact on Driving

During the pandemic, there was a massive decrease in the number of active drivers on the road. With many people staying at home, the number of daily car trips dropped by almost half (45% in April of 2020). Commuting to work and school is becoming more common in 2023. Roads are becoming more congested and more hazardous than pre-pandemic times. 

Many drivers have become accustomed to seeing empty roads and they are taking bigger risks. In California specifically, we have seen an increase in accidents and fatalities. Driving under the influence, speeding, and distracted driving are all becoming more common which is contributing to a rise in the severity of accidents. In 2020, CHP officers issued 28,000 citations for speeding over 100 miles per hour which is a 92% increase over 2019. With so much going on in the world, many people are struggling to stay focused on the road.  Alert, sober driving saves lives. We encourage everyone to drive safely.

What Does This Mean for Auto Insurance in CA?

As the number of accidents increase and severity exceeds pre-pandemic level, the cost of claims will also increase. The increased cost of claims will lead to increased premiums as auto insurers try to balance their books to cover their losses.

In California, we have seen many carriers tighten up their underwriting practices for personal auto insurance. 10-15 day underwriting review periods are becoming more common so it is critical for drivers to get quotes early if they are shopping around for new coverage.