Car insurance rates are up 20% nationwide due to more auto thefts, uninsured drivers, other factors

MINNEAPOLIS — Some drivers may be in for a shock when their next car insurance bill arrives. The Consumer Price Index shows car insurance rates have gone up 20% nationwide and that includes Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

If your car insurance is suddenly as much as a car payment, you are not alone. Consumers are feeling the hit nationwide.

Among the reasons:

• Auto thefts are up dramatically.
• People are driving more.
• Auto repairs are getting more expensive because of more…