Tough Times Affect “Rules of the Road”

The price of gas isn’t the only thing that keeps changing with today’s tough economy. Drivers also are discovering differences in Registry of Motor Vehicles’ procedures and other important insurance-related requirements. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Your Reminder Is NOT in the Mail

Don’t expect to hear from the Massachusetts RMV when your driver’s license renewal date is getting close, because the registry no longer mails reminder notices. You’re on your own, it seems. But one of E&L’s insurance companies, the Plymouth Rock Assurance Company, can help. Whether or not you are a Plymouth Rock customer, you can sign up for their MYLES e-Reminder Service. With this free service, you’ll be notified via e-mail about a month before your license or registration is due for renewal. You can even be reminded when it’s time to have your car inspected! Sign up!

The Fastest Route is Online

Registry hours, locations and services are increasingly being curtailed due to state government budget cuts. Fortunately, you can handle most transactions online with the added bonus of never having to stand in line. For example, you can:

• Renew your driver’s license. (Unless you renewed by mail last time, in which case you must go to the RMV in person.)
• Renew your registration (Unless otherwise indicated on your renewal.)
• Replace your license
• Renew your state ID
• Request your driving record
• Pay a citation

For a complete list of online transactions, visit MA Registry of Motor Vehicles.

Today You’re at Greater Risk Behind the Wheel

With so many people out of work and unable to pay their auto insurance premiums, there are more uninsured or under-insured drivers on the road today. If you’re in an accident, there’s a good chance that the other driver may have little or no coverage.

For your protection, E&L recommends that you carry the same amount of uninsured/under-insured coverage as you do optional bodily injury coverage. Give your E&L customer service representative a call at: 800-945-1840 or E-mail: to be sure that your policy reflects the realities of these trying times.

• Read all INSURANCE CURRENTS, Summer 2009 Articles