Ohio Director Reminds Consumers: Driving Less Saves on Auto Insurance

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If gasoline at $4 a gallon has you driving less, one Ohio official says be sure to tell your insurer.

State Insurance Department Director Mary Jo Hudson says many Ohioans have switched to public transportation or car pooling to get to work, and they may qualify for lower car insurance premiums.

Hudson says how much you drive is a key factors used to determine your rates. Insurers typically divide drivers into three categories: those who travel 15 miles or more to work, those whose commute is less than 15 miles, and those who drive mostly for pleasure.

She says when you step down from one category to another, the cost of your policy can be reduced by anywhere from 5 to 15 percent, depending on the insurance company