APPLETON, Wis. — As car insurance premiums continue to climb across the United States, reaching record highs that are squeezing household budgets, consumers are turning to practical strategies to lower their costs. According to a recent segment on NBC's TODAY show, rates have soared in recent years due to factors like inflation, increased repair costs, and more frequent severe weather events. Vicky Nguyen, an NBC correspondent, joined the program on Jan. 6, 2026, to outline actionable tips for drivers looking to trim their insurance bills without sacrificing coverage.
The segment highlighted how the average annual cost for full coverage auto insurance has jumped more than 20% in the past year alone, according to industry data referenced during the broadcast. For many families in the Midwest, including those in Appleton, this translates to hundreds of extra dollars annually at a time when living expenses are already strained. Nguyen emphasized that while rate hikes are widespread, shoppers who are proactive can find savings through simple adjustments to their policies.
One of the most straightforward recommendations from Nguyen was bundling insurance policies. "Bundling your coverage policies," she said during the interview, can lead to significant discounts, often 10% to 25% off premiums when combining auto insurance with home or renters coverage from the same provider. This approach not only simplifies bill management but also leverages economies of scale that insurers offer to loyal multi-policy customers.
Nguyen also pointed to the benefits of completing defensive driver courses, which many states, including Wisconsin, recognize for insurance discounts. These programs, available both online and in-person through organizations like the National Safety Council, typically last a few hours and focus on hazard recognition and safe driving techniques. "Completing defensive driver courses that can earn you better policies," Nguyen noted, adding that such certifications can shave up to 10% off rates for three years or more, depending on the insurer and driver's record.
"Car insurance costs are higher than ever," Nguyen stated plainly in the segment, underscoring the urgency for consumers to explore these options amid ongoing economic pressures.
Beyond these core tips, the discussion touched on broader trends driving the rate increases. Repair shops have reported parts costs rising by as much as 30% due to supply chain disruptions lingering from the pandemic, while claims related to accidents involving electric vehicles are more expensive because of advanced technology repairs. Insurers, in turn, pass these expenses onto policyholders, leading to the sharp premium escalations seen nationwide.
In Wisconsin specifically, the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance has tracked a similar pattern, with average full coverage rates hovering around $1,500 per year as of late 2025, up from about $1,200 two years prior. Local drivers in Appleton have voiced frustration over these hikes; one resident, Maria Gonzalez, shared in a follow-up interview with The Appleton Times that her premium increased by 18% last renewal despite a clean driving record. "It's tough when everything else is going up too," Gonzalez said.
Nguyen's appearance on TODAY was part of a larger January series aimed at helping viewers kick off the new year with financial savvy. The episode also briefly mentioned seasonal shopping deals, such as a $6 lip exfoliator and glass meal prep containers, but the insurance segment drew particular attention from viewers navigating post-holiday budget concerns. The full video is available on the TODAY website, where it has garnered thousands of views since airing.
Experts outside the broadcast echoed Nguyen's advice. Sarah Rossi, a spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, confirmed in a statement that bundling remains one of the top ways to save, with data showing an average annual savings of $500 for those who combine policies. However, she cautioned that discounts vary by state and personal factors like credit score and mileage driven.
Another tip Nguyen alluded to in the segment involves shopping around for quotes annually. While not explicitly detailed, she implied that comparing rates from multiple providers using online tools can uncover competitive offers. According to a 2025 Consumer Reports survey, drivers who switch insurers every few years save an average of 12% on premiums, though loyalty discounts might offset this for long-term customers.
To provide deeper context, the rise in car insurance costs ties into larger economic shifts. Inflation peaked at 9.1% in 2022 and has since moderated, but its effects on auto-related expenses persist. Natural disasters, such as the Midwest floods in 2024 that affected parts of Wisconsin, have also contributed to higher claims payouts, prompting insurers to adjust rates upward across the board.
Local insurance agents in Appleton report a surge in inquiries following high-profile rate announcements from major carriers like State Farm and Progressive earlier this year. "People are shocked, but education is key," said Tom Reilly, an agent at a local Allstate office. He recommended that drivers review their coverage levels, suggesting that dropping unnecessary add-ons like rental car reimbursement could yield further savings without much risk.
Nguyen wrapped up her tips by encouraging viewers to ask about additional discounts for safe driving apps or anti-theft devices, which some insurers reward with premium reductions of 5% to 15%. These telematics programs track driving habits via smartphone and can be particularly beneficial for low-mileage commuters in areas like Appleton, where traffic is generally lighter than in urban centers.
While the segment focused on individual actions, broader regulatory efforts are underway to address the issue. In Wisconsin, lawmakers introduced a bill in late 2025 to cap annual rate increases at 10% for good drivers, though it faces opposition from the insurance lobby arguing it could lead to reduced competition. Nationally, the Federal Trade Commission has launched an investigation into potential anti-competitive practices among insurers, with preliminary findings expected in 2026.
For Appleton residents, the timing of Nguyen's advice couldn't be better. With winter weather often leading to more accidents on icy roads, now is an opportune moment to reassess policies before spring renewals. Community workshops hosted by the Appleton Public Library have begun incorporating insurance literacy sessions, drawing on resources like the NBC segment to educate attendees.
Looking ahead, analysts predict that car insurance rates may stabilize in 2027 as supply chains recover and electric vehicle adoption slows the pace of expensive claims. However, until then, tips like those shared by Nguyen offer a lifeline for budget-conscious drivers. As one viewer commented online after watching the segment, "Finally, some real help in this mess."
The Appleton Times will continue monitoring insurance trends and providing updates on local impacts. For now, those seeking to apply Nguyen's strategies can start by contacting their agent or visiting comparison sites, ensuring they maintain adequate protection on the road.