Is it true that even short gaps in my insurance coverage can cause my auto insurance rates to go up? I recently moved to Alaska and I was wondering if this could be the reason my insurance rates are bigger here than where I came from.

Chuck

Anchorage, AK

Increased auto insurance rates, or in rare cases being denied auto insurance protection, can definitely be due to lack of or gaps in your insurance coverage. Driving without any form of car insurance protection is not very advisable, and is even considered illegal under the financial responsibility laws of many states, since this makes car insurance providers perceive you as a high-risk driver (due to taking the risk of driving without adequate financial protection). There is basis for this as studies have shown that people who pay high amounts for insurance actually drives in a much safer manner as those without.

There could be other factors involved that made your auto insurance rates there in Alaska. It is possible that it is just simply more expensive to get insurance there in your new location as compared to the old one. If you did not change providers, it is also possible that your comprehensive insurance clause became more expensive due to increased likelihood of accidents caused by snow-storms, skidding in ice and other natural events that may cause damage or loss of your vehicle.

Did you change to a more expensive vehicle? This could also affect but if nothing much has changed other than that you relocated and did not have coverage for an extended span of time, the gap in your coverage could have definitely increased your rates.