The insurer has for years given discounts of up to 30 per cent for vehicles with both driver and passenger air bags. Since all cars now have air bags, State Farm decided to base the rate discount on which makes and models generated the fewest injury claims from accidents. Vehicles with air bags that offer the least protection to occupants will receive 20 per cent discounts. But I'll be smashing into people, killing and maiming them at a much higher rate than if I were in a smaller car. Research has shown that light trucks, including SUVs and pickups, are more likely than cars to kill the other driver in a crash.
Trucks tend to weigh more, have higher hoods and stiffer frames than cars.
So the increased severity is offset by the decreased frequency. California, Pennsylvania and New Jersey must approve these changes. They do not apply in Massachusetts, Texas and North Carolina, which have state-mandated insurance programs. We welcome your feedback. All rights reserved.