Expenses of auto insurers are slightly lower than they were 10 years ago.

That organization, which is also financed by auto insurers, provides information to help the companies set rates.

Until now, however, auto insurers have not systematically attacked the problem.

And thanks to some changes in state laws in 2003, more auto insurers are now doing business there.

California is one state that does not allow auto insurers to use credit history to calculate a customer's rate.

A few auto insurers are now also giving discounts to nonsmokers.

Replacement air bags are expensive - usually about $1,000 each - and auto insurers will pay for them only if they come from the manufacturer.

It is financed, after all, by auto insurers, many of which give discounts for taking driver education.

So next time you're feeling stress, call your auto insurer.

For example, an auto insurer collects money every month from its customers in the form of a premium.