Recently, Allstate Insurance decided to use a little known loophole to eliminate the basic concept of prop 103 (rates could NOT be based on zip codes). I found this out upon receiving my renewal notice finding that my comprehensive coverage went up by 331% (that’s not a typo).
I contacted my agent and he had no immediate answer as to why, but added that it affected all policy holders in Coronado, Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, and Nat’l City. Allstate’s 800 number yielded similar results.
I contacted the Ca. Dept. of Ins and found out that there was, indeed, 16 loopholes in the prop 103 legislation. Allstate is using the one that declares the cities affected as “severity bands” thus being able to increase comp rates enormously. Mine went from $52 to $176 for 6 months, based ONLY by where I reside.
Interestingly enough, if you want to save money, go over the bridge…rates in high crime areas such as Logan Heights have not changed (seriously!).
The new rates will show up on your renewal notice when due. If you use Allstate’s on line quote site, you will find that, indeed, if you lived elsewhere (even in the ghetto) you would save on your Allstate policy. To do so, simply enter your correct info (about you and the vehicle), but a fictitious address outside of the effected cities. You’ll be amazed. Glendale Ca. has the highest rates of insurance fraud and claims in the state, BUT, the rates there have not changes!
If this affects you, please contact the CA Dept of Insurance and file a complaint. It’s easy to do so and will only take 5 minutes of your time.
Either way, for me, I’m switching to another company (Wawanessa) as after 28 years w/Allstate (insuring everything I’ve owned in that time) I feel like I’ve been slapped in the face from a company I’ve always trusted and referred people to.
-Chuck Perkins