HARTFORD, Conn. — Insurance premiums are going up across the country, and Connecticut is no exception, especially when it comes to auto insurance. 

Across the United States, drivers have seen a nearly 5% increase in insurance costs compared to last year. In Connecticut, premiums have increased on average nearly 10%, according to data from S&P Global. 

Experts say the rate increases are due to inflation, but in Connecticut several factors are also driving up costs. Some have nothing to do with driving at all. An increase in strong storms leads to more storm damage to not only cars but homes too. The state has also seen an increase in crimes involving cars, so insurance companies are factoring in those costs. 

The habits of drivers across the state play a major role in the spike in premiums. Speeding, distracted driving and a surge in wrong-way crashes are mostly to blame. 

RELATED: This is ‘National Stop on Red Week’ | The dangers of red-light running are real

According to data from the state Department of Transportation, 2024 is on pace to be the deadliest year on Connecticut roads, surpassing the 360 deaths in 2022. So far, this year, 192 people have died on Connecticut roads.

Jame Mohs is an associate professor of accounting and taxation at the University of New Haven and says all insurance costs have gone up. He has experienced the surge first hand. 

“My insurance resets in July every year so when it came up, they send me my automatic renewal, and I fell off my chair; 50% (increase) on my house, and 48% on my car. That’s increases over the prior year without having any claims, any damages, accidents, anything; just basic risk protection,” said Mohs. 

Sign up for the FOX61 newsletters: Morning Forecast, Morning Headlines, Evening Headlines

Mohs says the increase in crashes reveals another cost for insurance companies, uninsured drivers. 

“There seems to be a high number of non-insured motorists… As we all know, Connecticut is ‘no fault’ state, so if somebody hits you and it’s not your fault, and they don’t have insurance, your insurance has to pick it up,” said Mohs. 

Experts say the cost of cars themselves also add to the rise in premiums.

“The more technical autos get, all the electronic bells and whistles you have, a lot more sensors and controls and circuitry and computers you have onboard – the more expensive they’re going to be repair as well,” said Mohs. 

However, there are ways you can save money on insurance. 

RELATED: Connecticut auto thefts increased by 33% in 2023: National Insurance Crime Bureau, AAA

Experts recommend the following:

-Bundle insurance policies

-Ask if you qualify for discounts

-Reduce coverage on aging cars

-Shop around for cheaper rates.

-Enroll in defensive driving courses

Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com.

HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS

Download the FOX61 News APP

iTunes: Click here to download

Google Play: Click here to download

Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.

Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.

FOLLOW US ON X, FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM