MA SDIP points and how they affect your MA Auto Insurance

The MA Safe Driver Insurance Plan (SDIP) was created in 2006 to replace the old “Step Based” plan that was used prior to competitive auto coming to Massachusetts. The SDIP plan can be a little confusing and most people are unaware how much this rating factor affects their Massachusetts auto insurance policy.car on road

The Merit Rating Board of Massachusetts oversees the SDIP program, and they have designed it in a way that rewards safe drivers while encouraging drivers with a high SDIP score to practice safe driving by requiring them to pay a higher insurance premium. You do have the right to Appeal an MA SDIP Surcharge if you feel you have been wrongfully assessed points.

Accidents and violations are the two types of incidents that will cause points to be applied to your license, and the amount of points assessed depends on the severity of the incident. The schedule of surcharge points is as follows:

Type of Incident:

Surcharge Points

Minor Traffic Violation (Speeding, etc.)

2

Minor At-Fault Accident (claim over $500, under $2,000)

3

Major At-Fault Accident (claim over $2,000)

4

Major Traffic Violation (D.U.I., reckless driving)

5

The more points you have, the higher your insurance premium. Points can accumulate quickly and every incident increases the number of points on your record. Having points on your record increase the premium paid for 4 coverages in your policy: Compulsory Bodily Injury (part 1), Personal Injury Protection (part 2), Damage to Someone Else’s Property (part 4) and Collision (part 7).

Drivers who have had at least 5 years of driving experience and no surchargeable incidents – or exactly one non-criminal traffic violation (speeding, inspection sticker, etc.) over 3 years old – will receive the “98” rating and the Excellent Driver discount. Drivers who have 6 years of clean driving experience will receive a “99” rating and will receive the Excellent Driver Discount Plus which is the best discount available on your auto insurance.

Most auto insurance carriers in Massachusetts abide by the 6-year surcharge model, but there are some companies that only surcharge for accidents/violations that have occurred in the last 3 years.

If you have old tickets or violations, contact your agent to see if there are any other companies that would be best suited for your driving record and needs!

http://www.massrmv.com/MeritRatingBoard/SDIPandYourAutoInsurancePolicy.aspx