SafeAuto Car Insurance Review (2024)

Direct Auto, an insurance company specializing in high-risk drivers, absorbed SafeAuto in August 2023.

Lindsay VanSomeren
Lindsay VanSomeren
  • 8 years in insurance and personal finance writing

  • Former data scientist for U.S. Geological Survey

Lindsay is a freelance personal finance writer currently pursuing her Series 65 license. She enjoys helping readers learn money management skills that improve their lives.

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Chris Schafer
Edited byChris Schafer
Chris Schafer
Chris SchaferSenior Editor
  • 15+ years in content creation

  • 7+ years in business and financial services content

Chris is a seasoned writer/editor with past experience across myriad industries, including insurance, SAS, finance, Medicare, logistics, marketing/advertising, and many more.

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Konstantin Halachev
Data reviewed byKonstantin Halachev
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Konstantin HalachevVP of Engineering & Data Science
  • 7+ years experience in data analysis

  • Ph.D. in Computational Biology

Konstantin has led data teams across multiple industries, including insurance, travel, and biology. He’s led Insurify’s engineering team for more than three years.

Updated November 11, 2024

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SafeAuto used to offer car insurance policies for drivers who couldn’t buy coverage from traditional insurers, including those with driving infractions on their record. But Allstate — the fourth-largest insurer in the country — purchased the company in June 2021.[1]

SafeAuto continued to operate under its original name until Allstate reshuffled things in August 2023 and combined it with Direct Auto, another of its subsidiary companies.[2] Today, the SafeAuto insurance company no longer exists. Instead, Direct Auto sells and services non-standard policies.

SafeAuto Update

Allstate purchased SafeAuto in 2021 and absorbed it into its subsidiary company, Direct Auto, in 2023. Allstate purchased the company as a strategic business move to grow its size and increase its business income.

Alternatives to SafeAuto insurance

Since SafeAuto insurance is no longer available, you might be looking for other car insurance companies that offer flexible payment options, a Certificate of Financial Responsibility (SR-22), and other types of non-standard auto insurance that SafeAuto was known for.

Here, you’ll find the best car insurance companies that offer similar services to SafeAuto, including the new company it’s operating under, Direct Auto.

And remember, it’s a good idea to get car insurance quotes from several companies to make sure you’re actually getting the lowest rates possible, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve switched companies.

Here’s a look at each of the applicable companies.

Direct Auto: Best for high-risk drivers

Compare personalized, real-time quotes
User Reviews
2.5
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
7.3/10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$97/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$187/mo

All current SafeAuto customers now work with Direct Auto, which handles and renews their policies, so this is the default switch. If you’re interested in taking out a new policy, it’s important to know that Direct Auto also works with people who don’t have a spotless driving record, making it a good choice if you have an at-fault car accident or another type of infraction in your past.

In addition, Direct Auto offers a wider range of insurance products, such as life insurance, roadside assistance, commercial vehicle insurance, and more.

Pros
  • Customers can bundle car insurance with other auto-related products

Cons
  • Not available in all states

Read more driver reviews of Direct Auto
Victor - November 4, 2024
Verified

Misleading Information

I was initially told that I would pay $170 per month, but I'm currently paying $209 per month.

Judith - November 1, 2024
Verified

I wouldn't recommend this company if you don't want to shop for insurance regularly

They started with a decent rate, then doubled it. They wanted $200 per month for a 60-year-old driver with no accidents or tickets for the minimum insurance! It's ridiculous.

Vickie - October 31, 2024
Verified

Don't Do It!

They will report your no-fault accident, and your insurance will go up.

Auto-Owners: Best for cheap minimum coverage

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User Reviews
3.7
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
8.5/10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$34/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$73/mo

Auto-Owners may be a good option if you’re looking for a lower rate on a state-minimum policy. It’s the third-cheapest option for liability coverage, according to Insurify data, and it’s available in roughly half of U.S. states.

Auto-Owners has a reputation for poor customer satisfaction, with numerous negative reviews, but it does have the strongest possible AM Best financial strength rating and also offers home and renters insurance.

Pros
  • High customer satisfaction

  • Multiple discounts

Cons
  • Only available in 26 states

Read more driver reviews of Auto-Owners
Debra - November 3, 2024
Verified

Excellent

They keep raising prices.

Scotty - November 2, 2024
Verified

They are a bunch of crooks. My policy has increased every single time, and I've only had one small claim.

They are a bunch of crooks. My policy has increased every single time, and I've only had one small claim.

Dana - October 31, 2024
Verified

Average

Ask many questions to cover all aspects of the policy.

USAA: Best for military members and families

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User Reviews
3.6
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
9.4/10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$45/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$99/mo

If you’re looking for top-notch customer service and the best rates — and if you’re a current or former military member, contractor, or the relative of one — USAA is one of Insurify’s all-around top recommendations for best car insurance. USAA is also a full-service bank, perfect for drivers looking to keep all their financial products under one roof.

USAA can also underwrite SR-22 policies.

Pros
  • High customer satisfaction

  • Low premiums

  • SafePilot program rewards good driving with up to 30% discount

Cons
  • Only available to active-duty military, veterans, military spouses, or children of service members or veterans

  • No 24/7 customer phone support

  • Customer reviews are mixed for service and claims processing

Read more driver reviews of USAA
Martin - November 11, 2024
Verified

Price Shopping

I have been with USAA for over 60 years. Obviously, I've been very happy. Since I don't drive very far, I have been seeing advertisements for lower prices. However, I have no plans of leaving USAA.

Rena Sabine - November 8, 2024
Verified

Disappointing and inflexible service

My experience with this company has been disappointing, especially this second time around. I would suggest considering other options. From my recent interactions, they have been dismissive and argumentative. I have already started finalizing my next premium with another company. I'm perplexed as to how they receive praise when they treat clients in this manner.

Tom - November 7, 2024
Verified

A Large Company Managed Inefficiently

I would recommend considering other options. My experience with them was not positive, even after being a customer for over 50 years.

How Direct Auto insurance works

Like other insurance companies, Direct Auto Insurance collects insurance premiums from policyholders in exchange for insurance coverage. But Direct Auto offers flexible payment options, a unique selling point.

For example, you don’t need a checking account or credit card to obtain Direct Auto insurance and can make premium payments in cash at a physical location. You also have the option to select your payment due date to ensure it works for your budget.

Direct Auto insurance coverage

Direct Auto provides various car insurance coverage options to protect you, your car, and other drivers on the road. Find an outline of each coverage option below:

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/x/169fdfde11/liability-coverage.svg

    Liability coverage

    Liability insurance pays for bodily injury and property damage to other drivers if you cause an accident.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/150x150/d7333ddf2e/car-and-driving-96x96-orange_046-car-accident.svg

    Collision coverage

    Collision insurance pays for damage to your car following an accident with another car or object.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/x/665da91bf7/comprehensive-coverage.svg

    Comprehensive coverage

    If your car incurs damages due to an event other than an accident, like vandalism or a hailstorm, comprehensive coverage pays for damages.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/x/5285c4cd74/uninsured-or-underinsured-motorist-coverage.svg

    Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

    Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage pays for damage to your car if someone with insufficient insurance coverage causes an accident. It also applies when you’re the victim of a hit-and-run.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/150x150/6e8574d854/insurify-icons-auto-gold-96x96_013-family.svg

    Personal injury protection coverage

    Personal injury protection (PIP) covers your and your passengers’ medical costs and funeral expenses, regardless of fault.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/100x100/9997698e9e/emergency-roadside-service.svg

    Towing coverage

    Towing coverage reimburses you for towing costs, up to a coverage limit.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/150x150/f82464c85b/car-sharing-96x96-orange_048-car-key.svg

    Rental reimbursement coverage

    Rental reimbursement coverage reimburses you for rental car costs if you need one temporarily following damage from a covered event.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/x/4c9753bdbe/medical-payments.svg

    Medical payments coverage

    Medical payments coverage pays for your and your passengers’ medical costs in a car accident, no matter who’s at fault. This may also cover medical costs if you incur injury while walking, riding in someone else’s car, or taking public transportation.

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Direct Auto car insurance cost by state

Each state sets its own minimum requirements for the insurance you need to carry while driving, and prices for insurance also vary by state. Find the average rates for full-coverage and liability-only car insurance with Direct Auto for 15 states below.

State
Direct Auto Average Quote
State Average
Alabama$54$60
Arkansas$185$121
Delaware$151$150
Florida$161$157
Georgia$151$152
Louisiana$117$133
Michigan$147$172
Mississippi$159$91
North Carolina$55$55
Ohio $85$73
Pennsylvania$95$93
South Carolina$152$169
Tennessee$68$73
Texas$131$120
Virginia$89$101
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.

SafeAuto insurance FAQs

These are confusing times for drivers with SafeAuto auto insurance policies, but you don’t need to worry. Insurers are continually changing, and that can create new opportunities. Included here are answers to some common SafeAuto questions to help you out.

  • Does Direct Auto own SafeAuto?

    Technically, yes. Direct Auto’s parent company, Allstate, purchased SafeAuto in 2021. In 2023, Allstate merged SafeAuto into Direct Auto, with everything now operating under the Direct Auto umbrella.

  • When did SafeAuto stop writing car insurance policies?

    SafeAuto had stopped writing new policies for customers by August 2023, when another insurer, Direct Auto, absorbed the company.

  • What is the average cost of Direct Auto insurance?

    The national average cost of a Direct Auto car insurance policy is $187 for full coverage and $97 for liability coverage. Direct Auto is unique in that it offers to work with you on your monthly payment. You can choose from several payment plans, with several different payment options available, including paying in cash.

  • Is Direct Auto good at paying claims?

    Direct Auto has an A financial stability rating from AM Best, which shows that it’s generally able to pay claims, although it could still improve in this area. Independent reviews aren’t available about how good its claims process is, but Direct Auto does have a higher-than-average number of complaints lodged with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

  • How do you cancel your SafeAuto car insurance policy?

    You can cancel your SafeAuto car insurance policy by contacting your insurance agent or the customer support team at 1 (800) 723-3288.

Sources

  1. PR News Wire. "SafeAuto Insurance agrees to join Allstate."
  2. LinkedIn. "SafeAuto’s Post."
Lindsay VanSomeren
Lindsay VanSomeren

Lindsay VanSomeren is a freelance personal finance writer living in Suquamish, WA. Her work has appeared with FICO, Credit Karma, The Balance, and more. She enjoys helping people learn how to manage their money better so they can live the life they want.

Chris Schafer
Edited byChris SchaferSenior Editor
Chris Schafer
Chris SchaferSenior Editor
  • 15+ years in content creation

  • 7+ years in business and financial services content

Chris is a seasoned writer/editor with past experience across myriad industries, including insurance, SAS, finance, Medicare, logistics, marketing/advertising, and many more.

Featured in

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Konstantin Halachev
Data reviewed byKonstantin HalachevVP of Engineering & Data Science
Headshot of Konstantin Halachev, VP of Engineering at Insurify
Konstantin HalachevVP of Engineering & Data Science
  • 7+ years experience in data analysis

  • Ph.D. in Computational Biology

Konstantin has led data teams across multiple industries, including insurance, travel, and biology. He’s led Insurify’s engineering team for more than three years.

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