West Auto Insurance: The Best Coverage For Your Car

Bristol West Insurance Group provides non-standard auto insurance for high-risk drivers. This includes drivers with low credit, no insurance history, DUIs, or traffic violations. As a subsidiary of Farmers Insurance, Bristol West offers coverage in most states across the US, excluding Alaska, Hawaii, North Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington DC, and West Virginia. While Bristol West's rates are higher than average, the company provides multiple policy options and discounts for high-risk drivers, making it a good choice for those who struggle to get coverage elsewhere.

High-risk drivers

• A history of accidents, whether or not they are at fault
• Traffic violations, including speeding tickets, DUI or DWI convictions, and reckless driving
• Lack of driving experience, particularly in the case of teen drivers
• Lapses in insurance coverage
• Poor credit score

Some of the best insurance companies for high-risk drivers include:

• State Farm: State Farm is the largest auto insurer in the US and offers excellent customer satisfaction. It provides coverage in all 50 states and has an A++ financial strength rating from AM Best.
• USAA: USAA is highly rated for customer satisfaction and offers competitive rates, but is only available to military members, veterans, and their families.
• Erie: Erie offers some of the lowest premiums for high-risk drivers, but is only available in 12 states.
• Geico: Geico has the lowest rates for high-risk drivers, particularly those with speeding tickets, and is available in all 50 states.
• Progressive: Progressive was one of the first companies to specialise in insuring high-risk drivers and offers competitive rates, as well as roadside assistance.
• Nationwide: Nationwide has some of the cheapest rates for drivers with severe speeding tickets and offers a usage-based insurance program.

Discounts and benefits

AM West Auto Insurance offers a range of discounts and benefits to its customers. One of the key benefits is the ability to bundle insurance policies, such as homeowners and auto insurance, which can lead to significant savings. Customers who bundle their auto and home insurance policies can save up to 23% on both policies. Additionally, those who bundle their auto and renters insurance can save up to 5% on both.

AM West also offers discounts for safe driving habits and maintaining a good driving record. This includes reduced rates for drivers without accidents, violations, or claims, as well as incentives for those who drive less than 7,500 miles per year. Young drivers can also benefit from discounts, such as good student discounts, where students under 25 with a B average or higher may be eligible for lower rates.

Another way to save is by taking advantage of multi-vehicle discounts. Insuring multiple cars under the same policy can lead to reduced rates for each vehicle. Furthermore, AM West offers loyalty discounts for long-standing customers, with the amount saved depending on the duration of the customer relationship.

The company also provides discounts for those who pay their policy in full, as well as for those who enrol in automatic funds transfer or electronic recurring payments. Additionally, opting for paperless billing and e-delivery of policy documents can result in further savings.

For those with specific safety equipment in their vehicles, such as factory-installed airbags, anti-theft devices, anti-lock brakes, or passive restraints, AM West offers additional discounts.

Non-standard insurance

Insurance companies typically divide their coverage into three risk tiers: preferred, standard, and non-standard. Preferred customers are considered the least risky and pay the lowest premiums, while non-standard customers are considered the riskiest and pay the highest premiums.

There are various reasons why a driver may need to purchase a non-standard auto insurance policy. These include:

• A history of accidents or moving violations, such as DUIs or reckless driving.
• Multiple traffic violations, such as speeding tickets.
• Being a young or new driver with little to no driving history.
• Poor credit history.
• Lapse in insurance coverage or no prior coverage.
• Owning a rare car, luxury supercar, or a car with a salvage title.
• Needing an SR-22 form to drive and obtain insurance.

Some large insurance companies offer non-standard policies alongside their preferred and standard tiers. Some smaller insurance companies specialize in providing non-standard insurance at more affordable rates. Examples of companies that offer non-standard insurance include Bristol West, Direct Auto, and State Farm.

Customer satisfaction

• Claims satisfaction: How satisfied are customers with the handling of their insurance claims? Do they feel their claims were resolved fairly and efficiently?
• Ease of interaction: How easy is it for customers to communicate with the company? Are the company's policies and procedures straightforward and transparent?
• Customer service: How do customers perceive the overall treatment and support they receive from the company? Are the company's representatives knowledgeable, helpful, and responsive?
• Trustworthiness: Do customers perceive the company as honest and reliable? Do they believe the company has their best interests at heart?
• Digital experience: How user-friendly and functional are the company's digital platforms, such as their website and mobile app? Are these platforms secure and easy to navigate?

Various surveys and studies have been conducted to evaluate customer satisfaction with auto insurance companies. Here are some key findings:

• The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey: USAA, State Farm, and GEICO ranked as the top three insurance companies overall. USAA received the highest ratings in most categories, including claims satisfaction, customer service, and willingness to recommend.
• J.D. Power's Auto Claims Satisfaction Study: Amica Mutual ranked first in this study, followed by The Hartford and Erie Insurance. USAA also consistently performs well in J.D. Power's studies but is often not officially ranked due to its limited eligibility.
• Consumer Reports' Car Insurance Ratings: USAA, Amica Mutual, and NJM Insurance Company (NJM) are among the top-rated companies. These companies are praised for their excellent claims handling and customer service.
• Forbes Advisor's Analysis: Nationwide, USAA, Travelers, and Erie are rated as the top four auto insurance companies based on costs, coverage options, complaint data, and collision repair grades.

When choosing an auto insurance company, it is essential to consider your specific needs and circumstances. Compare quotes from multiple companies, explore their coverage options, and read third-party reviews to make an informed decision. Remember, the best company for you may not be the cheapest, but one that offers a balance of affordability and exceptional customer satisfaction.

Financial stability

Bristol West's financial stability is further bolstered by its position as part of the Farmers Insurance Group. As a member of a larger insurance group, Bristol West benefits from increased financial resources and stability, providing reassurance to its policyholders.

The company's financial stability is particularly noteworthy given its focus on non-standard and high-risk insurance. Bristol West caters to drivers who may struggle to obtain coverage from other companies due to factors such as driving history, credit score, or lack of insurance history. By offering coverage to these individuals, Bristol West assumes a higher level of risk. However, their financial stability rating indicates that they have the financial resources to manage and mitigate these risks effectively.

In addition to its financial stability, Bristol West also offers a range of coverage options tailored to the needs of high-risk drivers. These options include ridesharing coverage, non-owner policies, and SR-22 certification, which certifies that a driver has the required liability insurance for their vehicle. Bristol West's financial stability, combined with their specialised coverage options, makes them a reliable choice for individuals who may have limited insurance options elsewhere.

While Bristol West's rates tend to be higher than average, their financial stability ensures that policyholders can have confidence in the company's ability to fulfil its financial obligations. This stability is a crucial factor in choosing an insurance provider, as it provides peace of mind and assurance that claims will be paid out as needed.

Frequently asked questions