SafeAuto insurance review: Policies for motorists with less-than-perfect driving records

A smiling couple in a car fasten their seatbelts before a drive.Image: A smiling couple in a car fasten their seatbelts before a drive.
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Editors’ take: SafeAuto can be a solid auto insurance provider for people with less-than-stellar driving records. But its customer complaint rate is also higher than comparable providers.


SafeAuto auto insurance at a glance

Availability Available in many but not all states
J.D. Power customer satisfaction ratings Not available

Rate of complaints in 2022 (National Association of Insurance Commissioners)

More than usual for insurance companies of its size in the market, according to data as of April 2023
How to get an insurance quote Online or over the phone
How to submit a claim Online or over the phone with a claims representative

Pros

  • Offers high-risk car insurance
  • Provides SR-22 certification forms
  • Flexible payment options

Cons

  • Not available in every state
  • High rate of customer complaints

What you need to know about SafeAuto auto insurance

Founded in 1993 in Columbus, Ohio, SafeAuto Insurance Group provides auto insurance that focuses on affordable state minimum coverage and policies for drivers with less-than-stellar driving records.

SafeAuto offers policies in many but not all states for auto, commercial, home, life, motorcycle and renters’ insurance.

Offers high-risk car insurance

If you have a poor driving record, limited driving history or other factors that determine your risk level, an auto insurance company may deem you high risk and require you to carry a high-risk car insurance policy. High-risk auto insurance can be hard to find in some states, and SafeAuto stands out for its easy-to-access policies. 

Provides SR-22 forms

An SR-22, also known as a “certificate of financial responsibility,” is a document that is filed with your state to prove you have the minimum liability insurance coverage required by the laws in your state.

Your state may require you to file an SR-22 if you have been cited for driving without a valid license or have a record that includes risky driving behavior like repeat traffic violations or a DUI or DWI.

High number of complaints

In 2022, SafeAuto auto insurance received a high rate of complaints — much more than the market average for companies of its size, according to National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) data as of April 2023.

Auto coverage offered by SafeAuto

SafeAuto provides several standard coverage options and a few more specialized ones that focus on motorists with less-than-perfect driving records. SafeAuto car insurance may not cover general car maintenance, items inside a stolen vehicle, cars for shows or performance or cars used for business or ridesharing.

Remember that all options may not be available in all states.

Here’s a look at what SafeAuto may provide:

  • Collision coverage
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • High-risk coverage
  • Full coverage — includes liability, comprehensive and collision coverage, and additional items like roadside assistance, towing, rental car reimbursement and additional medical expenses.

Auto insurance discounts offered by SafeAuto

SafeAuto’s available discounts are relatively standard compared to other auto insurance companies. These discounts may not be available in all states, so be sure to check with SafeAuto to find out more about what may be available to you.

Here are some of SafeAuto’s auto insurance discount options:

  • Multi-policy
  • Multi-car
  • Paid in full
  • Continuous proof of prior insurance
  • Homeowner
  • Over 55          
  • Defensive driver

Common question: Who is SafeAuto owned by?

SafeAuto Insurance Group was acquired by The Allstate Corporation, via its National General subsidiary, in 2021.

Common question: Is SafeAuto the cheapest?

SafeAuto says it provides cheap insurance for cars and drivers with less-than-perfect driving records. The cost of your insurance premium may depend on a number of factors that affect car insurance rates, including your location, age, driving record, claims history and the coverages and deductibles you select.

Check with SafeAuto to make sure coverage is available in your state, and be sure to shop around before committing to a provider.

Not sure if SafeAuto auto insurance is right for you? Consider these alternatives.

  • Geico: Auto insurance from this company could be good for someone looking for a wide range of discounts.
  • Travelers: This insurance company offers coverage options like a decreasing deductible and new-car replacement.

About the author: Sarah Sidlow is a freelance writer and editor based near Detroit. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Georgetown University. Sarah’s work has appeared in Luxembourg’s national newspaper, Washington City Paper… Read more.