Property-casualty insurers say a new law increasing auto liability rates for Maryland drivers could drive away consumers, while agents’ groups say while that may occur, the changes also will better protect clients injured in an accident.

As agent groups in Maryland await word of who will be their next insurance commissioner, they are hoping Ralph S. Tyler’s successor mirrors his open communication style.

Insurance Agents & Brokers Service Group has announced its new officers for the 2009-2010 administrative year. The IA&B is a partnership of agents’ associations in Delaware, Maryland and Pennsylvania.