A better system on auto insurance

Despite having one of the nation's lowest fatality rates, Massachusetts has an outrageously high accident claim rate (one possible explanation is that fatalities are hard to fake). Moreover, we have a remarkably low uninsured motorist rate, largely because of our territorial cross-subsidies; and our Division of Insurance is woefully understaffed.

Now for the good news. There is a way of achieving substantial savings: a choice-no-fault plan that would allow consumers to choose policies with broader coverage, faster compensation, reduced incentives for fraud, and greater incentives for cost-saving safety devices.

As for the savings, a series of congressional reports projects an average Massachusetts statewide reduction of approximately one-third, and even better -- approximately 40 percent -- for low-income and typically urban motorists. This would be a truly consumer-oriented and long-overdue reform.

If we are sincere in dealing with the Commonwealth's affordability, high cost of living, and competitive status, especially in these times of rising fees, fines, and taxes, we must consider allowing motorists -- and constituents -- voluntary access to a more efficient system.

JOHN HAYES Belmont