Rates for Auto Insurance Climb

Legal residents of Massachusetts face an increase in property damage rates of approximately 30 per cent next year. The request for increase was made yesterday by the casualty companies and is "virtually assured" of approval by the state insurance commission.

Property damage insurance, unlike that involving bodily injury, is not required by law. Rates for drivers in the Boston area under 25 will jump from $64.50 to $83.00 for the same coverage in 1957.

Gardner Campbell, Republican State Representative, immediately called for a special commission to study auto insurance rates and allied matters.