Connecticut Insurance Department Commissioner Andrew N. Mais called on insurers to consider lowering personal vehicle premiums and adjust commercial hired and non-owned auto insurance in light of the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The emergency social distancing has resulted in fewer vehicles on the road, less miles being driven and reduced exposure to traffic accidents,” said Commissioner Mais. “Those are some of the factors that influence insurance premiums and consumers and businesses need financial relief.”

In a Department Notice released today, the Connecticut Insurance Department is requesting that all insurance companies offering Auto and Motorcycle Liability Insurance coverage in Connecticut work to make sure premiums reflect the reduced risk during the shelter-in-place period. This will provide much needed relief to individuals and businesses facing financial hardship during this difficult time.

Personal Auto Insurance Premiums: The Department is aware one of a few insurers offering a premium credit to their auto customers reflecting reduced exposure to automobile accidents. The premium reductions could be accomplished through premium credits and could be implemented immediately. A filing could be made after-the-fact without penalty. The Department also encourages consumers to contact their insurers to request consideration for reduced auto premiums related to their reduced driving related to Covid19.

Hired and Non-owned Vehicle: The Department encourages insurers to assist business owners, and restaurants in particular, who have had to begin deliveries by affording them coverage for those who request commercial Hired and Non-owned automobile insurance to protect their businesses, at least until the Governor’s Emergency Order has been lifted. The Department would also like to remind these sorts of delivery businesses that as an alternative to purchasing commercial auto insurance, they may want to consider partnering with ‘gig’ delivery businesses as another possible delivery source.

Consumers, insurers and brokers with questions can contact the department directly by email at cid.pc@ct.gov or by calling the Department at 800-203-3447 or 860-297-3900.

For the most up-to-date information from the State of Connecticut on COVID-19, including guidance and other resources, visit ct.gov/coronavirus. Regular email news updates are available from the Governor’s Office by subscribing online here.