December 2, 2008

Declining auto theft results in reduced auto insurance rates ― Manitoba Public Insurance
PUB ruling confirms 1 per cent overall decrease

2009 Highlights

• 2009/2010 Premium Changes • Territory Rate Comparison (PDF) • Passenger Vehicle Rates • Total Theft Claims • Total Theft Costs • Complete Rate Application        (PDF E-Book)

Thanks to the success of Manitoba’s immobilizer program and record declines in  theft numbers, vehicle owners can look forward to a one per cent overall reduction in Autopac rates for the 2009-10 insurance year. The Public Utilities Board approved the rate decrease in its ruling today.

This is the second rate decrease in three years, driven largely by dramatic reductions in auto theft within Winnipeg. The ruling means that 619,082 vehicles will pay the same or less when the new rates take effect on March 1, 2009. Because of staggered renewal dates, some vehicle owners will not pay the new rates until February 2010.

“Manitoba’s unprecedented drop in auto theft is due to the tripartite efforts of Manitoba’s mandatory immobilizer program, Winnipeg Police Service’s Auto Theft Unit and Manitoba Justice,” said Marilyn McLaren, President and Chief Executive Officer of Manitoba Public Insurance.

“Despite the volatility of the investment market and the uncertain economic climate, we’re pleased that Manitoba Public Insurance is able to provide Manitobans with rate stability. The overall reduction in Autopac rates since 2007-08 will total 3.6 per cent.”

This year marks the 10th year in the last 11 that Manitoba Public Insurance has held the line or reduced basic Autopac rates without lowering customer service or reducing coverage.  Thefts in the province have fallen by 40 per cent since 2004 and are expected to decrease by another 40 per cent by the end of next year.

"Over 300,000 vehicles in the province now have approved immobilizers, and Manitobans are reaping the financial benefits,” said McLaren.

While today’s PUB ruling approved the one per cent overall rate decrease requested by Manitoba Public Insurance, some customers will pay more due to adjustments applied to various rate groups. Most vehicles will see their premiums change by less than $20 up or down. The average passenger vehicle premium will be $853.

Owners of touring-style motorcycles registered in Winnipeg will experience an average rate decrease of 1.5 per cent, while owners of mopeds and motor scooters will experience a 25 per cent increase.

With the increase, the average moped and motor scooter premium for vehicles with engines of 100-cc or less will be about $146.  Sport bikes registered in Winnipeg will see a 1.9 per cent increase.

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