National General Auto Insurance: Competitive Pricing with Mixed Customer Satisfaction
National General Insurance, owned by Allstate since 2021, offers competitively priced auto insurance through independent agents nationwide. The insurer provides standard coverage options, including liability, collision, comprehensive, medical expenses, personal injury protection, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Optional coverages are available for higher-tier policies, such as accident forgiveness and roadside assistance. A notable benefit includes a lifetime guarantee on collision repairs performed at partner repair shops and $500 in emergency expense coverage for roadside incidents away from home.
The company's pricing is below the national average, notably benefiting drivers with prior citations, at-fault accidents, or DUIs. Full coverage premiums average $179 monthly compared to the national average of $193, while liability-only coverage is $95 monthly relative to $102 nationally. Drivers with DUIs pay an average of $290 with National General, compared to $311 nationally. However, National General’s rates are higher for teen drivers compared to some competitors.
Financially, National General holds a strong A+ rating from A.M. Best since its acquisition by Allstate, indicating solid financial stability and creditworthiness. Conversely, its customer satisfaction metrics lag behind many peers. The 2024 J.D. Power U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study ranks National General 19th out of 21 insurers, with higher-than-average complaint volumes, though these complaints are declining annually.
Comparative market analysis shows that insurers like Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, State Farm, and Progressive often outperform National General in terms of customer satisfaction and pricing—particularly for teen drivers. State Farm offers lower overall premiums and broader discount opportunities, despite having a lower Better Business Bureau rating. Progressive's pricing for full coverage is competitive and features fewer consumer complaints.
National General offers several discounts and a telematics program (DynamicDrive) that tracks driving behaviors such as speed and phone use to adjust premiums accordingly upon renewal. Coverage tiers vary from Custom360 Signature, with standard options and customizable deductibles, to the more extensive Custom360 Elite tier with optional coverages.
Claims processing is available 24/7, with minor claims potentially resolved within 48 hours and more complex claims taking longer. Customers can engage with claims representatives via online chat, email, or phone. The company's claims handling timeline and service accessibility are important considerations.
While National General’s financial stability and discounted premiums appeal to higher-risk drivers, potential customers should weigh these benefits against comparatively low customer satisfaction and limited discounts for younger drivers. Independence from Allstate’s direct sales model through reliance on independent agents defines its market positioning.
Overall, National General serves drivers seeking affordable insurance who may have past infractions, but might not be the best choice for customers prioritizing claims satisfaction, teen driver rates, or extensive discount options. Market participants should consider other large insurers with stronger customer service metrics and competitive pricing when evaluating options.