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The Safeco Rewind Program

By on March 26, 2012 in
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It is well known that a single speeding ticket or at-fault auto accident can have an adverse effect on car insurance premiums. Some insurance companies offer future forgiveness programs, but the Safeco Rewind program allows immediate relief by waiving higher insurance rates.

Instant Forgiveness Program

The Safeco Rewind program allows drivers with a setback on their record to keep their insurance rates more affordable. This is accomplished by participation in a vehicle monitoring process. The driver enrolls in the program and is given a device that records the vehicle’s activity.

The device plugs into the car and records everything from mileage and acceleration to fuel efficiency and vehicle location. This is valuable information that insurance companies use to place drivers in a statistical category. Those who sign up for the program enjoy immediate benefits because the program applies to existing speeding tickets or other moving violations.

The program is free and there are no hidden charges applied to the policy. The Rewind program is available in many locations and can be instituted by contacting a licensed Safeco agent. The idea is to give otherwise responsible drivers the second chance they deserve and keep these drivers happy Safeco customers. The Rewind program is different than other insurance vehicle monitoring programs such as Progressive Snapshot, The Hartford Truelane, and State Farm Drive Safe and Save.

Welcome to Safeco Field

Safeco Field: Home of the Seattle Mariners

Eligibility Requirements For Drivers

Those who have at least a one-year policy that includes the required liability insurance plan will be considered for the program. Drivers must have no more than two qualifying setbacks on their record. The vehicle being insured must be compatible with the program requirements, but most passenger vehicles manufactured after the mid 1990′s are eligible.

The evaluation period lasts about four months. During this period of time, drivers with an installed device will be able to check online for results of their driving history. Safeco Insurance will also monitor the data carefully to see if the driver is eligible for lower risk premiums.

Type Of Data Collected

The Rewind program device collects information about the vehicle mileage, where the car is driven, how much rapid acceleration is experienced, and how often maximum brake force is applied. The built-in SIM card automatically transmits this data to the insurance company. Safeco Insurance uses the data to help determine where accidents are likely to occur.

When the evaluation period is up, drivers will be notified of their safety score. If the score is acceptable, drivers will be eligible for the lower risk insurance rates currently enjoyed by favored policyholders. Safeco will apply these rates to the current insurance policy even though the moving violation is still on record.

Safe Driver

Permanent Waiver Of Vehicle Incident

If Safeco determines the driver has operated his or her vehicle in a safe manner, permanent forgiveness of the existing violation is offered. Unlike many other insurance companies, Safeco does not require a driver to complete as many as three years of safe driving before becoming eligible for lower insurance premiums. The program can only be completed once, but many drivers will save money by taking advantage of this unique opportunity.

The Safeco Rewind program is designed to give drivers who have a nearly perfect record the chance to avoid a rate increase solely because of a single accident or moving violation. Interested parties can contact a Safeco agent for all the details about enrolling in the evaluation study. Accident forgiveness can be immediate, with no monetary penalty for minor road incidents.

About Safeco

Safeco insurance is sold more than 40 states and has been in business for more than 85 years. They have more than 3,000 employees to serve their customers. Safeco is now a member of the Liberty Mutual Group, which in an insurer BestCarInsuranceCompanies.net offers in many states.

How low are Safeco rates? Enter your zip code on our site to compare free quotes from top companies and see who offers you the coverage you need at the lowest possible price.

photos by: alexabboud & dlprager
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Honda CR-V vs. Ford Escape Insurance Rates: Which is Cheaper?

By on March 19, 2012 in
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Two compact SUV models that compete with each other are the Ford Escape and the Honda CR-V. Both vehicles offer drivers a range of accessories and luxuries with good fuel economy. The CR-V was significantly revised for 2012 while the 2013 Escape is a big leap forward for Ford.

The fuel consumption is a money saving area that draws customers to compact SUV models while still offering much greater utility than a sedan and all-wheel drive capability. Yet another aspect that is often unnoticed in the benefits of these models is SUV insurance rates. When making a Honda CR-V vs. Ford Escape insurance rate comparison, prices tend to be fairly comparable with some exceptions.

Comparing CR-V and Escape Safety Ratings

When comparing Honda CR-V vs. Ford Escape insurance rates it is important check the safety rating of each vehicle. Safety ratings are used in assessing insurance rates for vehicles. According to “US News Reports”, the Honda CRV and the Ford Escape have safety ratings of 7.9 out of 10 for the Ford, and 8.1 for the Honda. This small difference is barely noticeable when insurers issue policies for these vehicles.

Another aspect insurance underwriters look at for policies is the incidence of theft for the vehicles. If a vehicle has a high rate of theft, policies tend to be higher, especially in geographic regions where auto theft has high rates of occurrence.

The Escape has a higher rate of theft than the CR-V, according to research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This results in slightly higher rates for insurance policies on the Ford Escape.

The Ford Escape and the Honda CRV offer many modern safety features including front and passenger side airbags, shatter-resistant glass, anti-lock brakes and for certain models, parking sensors and rear-backing cameras. These safety features can help lower insurance costs.

Rates Vary Depending on the Driver and Where They Live

An important factor to consider when comparing insurance rates for the Ford Escape and the Honda CR-V is the driver’s record and place or residence. Companies based rates on the driver risk of being in an accident and vehicle theft rates. DUI convictions, too many tickets, at-fault accidents, or moving violations can result in much higher insurance rates, regardless of the safety features for the vehicle.

As mentioned prior, if the auto is to be insured in geographic regions with high rates of auto theft, rates increase. For more information on this topic, see our article on Worst Cities for Auto Theft.

Get SUV Insurance Quotes

Are Honda CR-V vs. Ford Escape insurance rates comparable for you? Regardless of which vehicle you own, get free quotes by entering your zip code on our site now. You can compare rates from top insurers and find your insurance solution.

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State Farm Drive Safe and Save Program

By on March 15, 2012 in
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A large number of insurance companies offer certain incentive programs for safe drivers. State Farm, the nation’s largest auto insurer, is no exception. The State Farm Drive Safe and Save Program allows policyholders to report their vehicle mileage and cut the cost of monthly premiums significantly. It is another example of a vehicle diagnostic program than can help insurers more accurately access driver risk and reward safe drivers with potentially lower rates.

Other auto insurance company offering vehicle monitoring device programs include the Progressive Snapshot discount and The Hartford TrueLane program. These programs can make pay-as-you-go car insurance a reality.

Less Mileage Means Fewer Accidents

Those who drive fewer miles each month are less likely to be involved in an accident. Vehicle owners can report their mileage each and every month to State Farm and receive future discounts on liability, collision and other auto insurance coverage. The State Farm Drive Safe and Save Program is currently available in:

- Alabama
- California
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Texas

Most drivers operating a vehicle equipped with OnStar® can qualify for the program. The car’s odometer reading is reported by OnStar® to the insurance company, which then offers the insured a lower premium on the next renewal date. Alternatively, drivers can report their mileage themselves to the company or use the State Farm In-Drive® in-vehicle service system where eligible. When using the Drive Safe and Save Program with In-Drive®, State Farm claims that drivers can save up to 50 percent on their rates.

Using The Vehicle Diagnostics

Drivers maintaining an enrollment with the OnStar® Vehicle Diagnostics program can have their car’s mileage reported automatically to State Farm. In some states the Drive Safe and Save Program involves using a device that is plugged into the vehicle and reports the mileage to the insurance company on a monthly basis.

This In-Drive device also reports acceleration, braking and fuel efficiency. All of these statistics are important to State Farm because the company is able to place safer drivers in a lower risk category.

Substantial Savings For Safe Drivers

In California, drivers participating in the program enjoy an immediate five percent savings on their auto insurance compared to a more traditional State Farm auto policy. After several months of information gathering, drivers may save as much as 10 percent on their annual premiums. These discounts are applied upon renewal of the policy.

In Michigan, customers participating in the program will see similar savings when their policy is up for renewal. Those who drive less than 10,000 miles per year will receive as much as a 12 percent discount on liability, collision and comprehensive insurance rates.

Texas drivers may save as much as seven percent if they drive less than 10,000 miles per year. Savings may be less if the vehicle owner is currently enrolled in a low mileage program and this mileage total is exceeded in any one calendar month.

Increased Savings With Other Incentives

State Farm offers a number of incentives for good drivers. The Drive Safe and Save Program will reduce monthly insurance premiums for most vehicle operators, but those who insure more than one car, combine their auto and homeowner’s insurance, or are accident-free will save even more.

The low mileage discount offered by State Farm is possible because statistics gathered over the years indicate the probability of an accident is directly related to the number of miles driven. Many families own several cars, but one of the vehicles may accumulate mileage much more slowly than the others. One car might be used only for shopping, taking kids to school, and running errands.

This particular vehicle is far less likely to become involved in an accident. It therefore makes sense to enroll in a low mileage program that rewards the policyholder with substantial savings on insurance premiums.

The State Farm Drive Safe and Save Program is ideal for those who do not exceed 10,000 per year on their vehicle. Enrollment in the program can be completed online through the insurance company or licensed agent.

Get A State Farm Quote Now

At BestCarInsuranceCompanies.net, we offer State Farm auto insurance in many states, along with many other top brands. Enter your zip code now to compare free quotes from leading insurers in your state.

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Why GEICO Loves the Gecko

By on March 12, 2012 in
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GEICO has come a long way since Warren Buffett’s company Berkshire Hathaway purchased the company in 1995. And the Gecko®, the Cavemen, and other advertising campaigns have played a big roll in the company’s growth.

GEICO Facts

In the 90s, GEICO made a push to gain greater national visibility through advertising. In 2000 the Gecko® made its debut which was followed by the “So easy a Caveman can do it” ad campaign in 2004. In 2002, GEICO passed the 5 million policyholder mark. 10 years later, GEICO has more than 11 million policyholders. This is very impressive growth in the saturated, competitive world of insurance.

In 1995, GEICO spent $20 million on advertising. In 2011, Geico spent about $900 million on advertising. This includes buys on television, the Internet, radio, direct mail, magazines, billboards, and many other forms of media. The company has no intentions of slowing down in 2012. In fact, in February 2012 GEICO experienced its largest policyholder gain in a single month with 130,000 new policies.

Super Boat Racing
Creative Commons License photo credit: theSuperStar

What Sets GEICO Apart

GEICO has benefited from advertising campaigns that stand out. Its gecko mascot “Martin” is a cute gold dusty day gecko with a Cockney accent. With so much coming at consumers, it’s difficult for company messages to resonate. Traditionally insurance advertisements emphasized the company’s stability and trust. GEICOs unique and humorous approach made and impact and got attention, which is what companies want (as long as it is not negative).

In recent years, GEICO’s competitors have started to develop more humorous campaigns of their own. Allstate, Farmers, and State Farm have all made inroads in this regard. But none of these larger companies have experienced the type of growth that GEICO has.

Quick Online Quotes

GEICOs advertising has helped funnel business onto its website and call-centers. Its direct-to-consumers sales model is more efficient and cost-effective than paying agent commissions. This has helped the company make billions in profits and puts its profits into more advertising.

GEICO is well positioned to continue to grow as more consumers obtain online insurance quotes. According to Warren Buffett, nearly ¾ of insurance quotes the company provides are now done online.

GEICO sells policies in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. At BestCarInsuranceCompanies.net, we match insurance shoppers with the companies that can provide the coverage they need at the lowest available price. To compare GEICO’s rates with other carriers, simply enter your zip code on our site. You can lock in your lowest rate and save!

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Chevy Malibu Insurance

By on March 8, 2012 in
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The Chevy Malibu is a mid-size sedan that is all-new for the 2013 model year. The car combines new fuel-efficient technologies and a sportier appearance with the comfort and power of a mid-size sedan.

The good news for owners is that Chevy Malibu insurance is not as likely to dip as deeply into a person’s pocket as it might the driver of another vehicle, in large part due to the number of safety features in the vehicle. The addition of theft deterrent systems helps to make the car a serious win for drivers looking for an inexpensive policy.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu
Creative Commons License photo credit: sarahlarson

Though the styling and price of any car are usually the first factors a driver considers, the cost to insure a vehicle can play a large factor in the costs to operate it. Chevy Malibu insurance generally has low rates, which makes driving them not only enjoyable to drive but affordable to operate.

Malibu Safety

Chevy Malibus tend to come with a number of safety features already installed, and that kind of protection to the occupants of the car go into insurance rate calculations. Safety measures inside the car prevent injury, and they all come standard with the Chevrolet Malibu. The Malibu was one of the safest sedans of 2012 and was named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The 2012 Malibu has six very important safety features, in its six air bags, which are located in the front of the vehicle and in each of the passenger doors. Additionally, each seat comes with a lap and shoulder belt. Combined, the belts and air bags protect driver and passengers in the case of an accident, meaning fewer pay-outs for insurance companies and minimal insurance costs being placed on to Malibu owners.

Other Safety Features Protect You and Your Wallet

The StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System helps a driver keep the Malibu on the road even in foul weather or when other factors of the road would require quick maneuvering. Accidents due to slipping or sudden turns are greatly reduced by the control system and the car’s anti-lock brakes, and this factors in to lower the cost of insuring a Chevy Malibu.

2013 Chevy Malibu Eco
Creative Commons License photo credit: phil denton

This car also comes with a theft deterrent system that protects the car and any belongings inside. Should someone attempt to break into the vehicle, the horn and flashing lights will immediately draw attention to the car and the would-be thief.

With any car, the safety rating is as important, if not more so, than the safety features available. These ratings demonstrate that the car’s various features actually prevent accidents and protect would-be passengers. Midsize sedans tend to fare very well in the safety department and insurance rates can be relatively low. To learn more, see our Toyota Camry vs. Honda Accord insurance rates article.

Insurance For Your Malibu

This continued showing of safety and relatively low theft rates keeps the Chevy Malibu insurance costs low, even after years of ownership, making it a cost-smart car model from an insurance perspective. Whether you have a Malibu or any other model, to view premium rates now from leading insurers, simply enter your zip code on our site.

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