Expert: Charles W. Field - 5/17/2004

Question
My mother just purchased a used automobile, a 2001 Chevy Lumina.  She had total coverage on a 1992 Dodge which I persuaded her to drop full coverage on a couple of years ago and just keep liability.  She was paying approx. $260. a year for liability coverage on this 1992 Dodge.  She has never had a wreck.  She had a glass claim many years ago and two towing fees.  She called State Farm to get full coverage on this newly purchased vehicle and they told her that it would be $800.+ per year but only after asking her age which is 80-years-old.  She is still a competent driver, has had this insurance for 30+ years, does not drive out of the community and does not have any sort of accident record.  They also told her that the lower limits of liability were not acceptable and that she must take the lowest ($100.) deductible.  My question is "can insureds with a clean record be penalized for their age and is it legal for them to insist on deductible range and liability coverage amounts?"  

Answer
There may be an age discrimination case here, but since I don't handle them, I can't be of much help. You might try posting your question at www.lawguru.com where it will be sent to attorneys in your state who have indicated they practice in this area.