state farm drive safe and save review
**state farm drive safe and save review: An Independent Review by Blake Insurance Group**
As an independent insurance agent at Blake Insurance Group, I often get asked how to save on auto insurance premiums. One of the most effective programs today is State Farm’s Drive Safe and Save. This innovative program leverages telematics technology to monitor your driving habits and reward you with discounts for safe driving.
Whether in Arizona, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Ohio, Texas, or Virginia, Drive Safe and Save offers a unique opportunity to lower insurance costs while promoting safer driving behaviors. In this review, we’ll dive into how the program works, its benefits, and what you need to know to make the most of it.
How Drive Safe and Save Works
State Farm’s Drive Safe and Save program utilizes telematics technology to monitor and analyze driving behavior. Telematics combines telecommunications and informatics to transmit data from a vehicle to an external system for analysis. In this case, the telematics system collects data about your driving habits, such as acceleration, braking, cornering, speed, and phone usage, and sends it to State Farm’s servers for evaluation.
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The telematics technology used in the Drive Safe and Save program consists of the following components:
**Sensors**: Modern smartphones have various sensors, including accelerometers, gyroscopes, and GPS, which can detect motion, acceleration, and location. These sensors capture data about your driving patterns.
**Mobile App**: The Drive Safe and Save mobile app, available for iOS and Android devices, serves as the primary interface for the program. It collects sensor data from your smartphone and transmits it to State Farm’s servers for analysis.
**Bluetooth Beacon**: State Farm provides a small Bluetooth beacon device that pairs with the mobile app. This beacon helps the app accurately identify which vehicle you are driving, ensuring that your driving data is associated with the correct insured vehicle.
**Data Transmission**: The mobile app securely transmits the collected driving data to State Farm’s servers over a cellular or Wi-Fi connection.
**Data Analysis**: State Farm’s servers analyze the received data using algorithms and machine learning models to assess your driving behavior, identify risky patterns, and calculate your potential discount based on your driving score.
How the mobile app and Bluetooth beacon function
The Drive Safe and Save mobile app and Bluetooth beacon capture and transmit your driving data to State Farm. Here’s how they function:
**App Installation and Setup**: You download the Drive Safe and Save app from the App Store or Google Play Store and log in with your State Farm credentials or driver’s license information.
**Bluetooth Beacon Pairing**: State Farm sends you a Bluetooth beacon device after enrolling in the program. You pair this beacon with the mobile app by following the in-app instructions, which typically involve pressing a button on the beacon to establish the connection.
**Beacon Placement**: The Bluetooth beacon should be placed behind the rearview mirror on your vehicle’s windshield. This ensures that the beacon remains within Bluetooth range of your smartphone while driving.
**Data Collection**: When you start driving with the app and beacon paired, the app uses your smartphone’s sensors to detect and record your driving behavior, such as acceleration, braking, cornering, and speed. The Bluetooth beacon helps the app identify which vehicle you are driving, ensuring accurate data association.
**Data Transmission**: The app periodically transmits the collected driving data to State Farm’s servers over a cellular or Wi-Fi connection.
**Driving Feedback**: The Drive Safe and Save app provides feedback on your driving habits, displaying trip maps and highlighting areas where you can improve, such as reducing hard braking or avoiding phone distractions.
Connected Car option for Ford and Lincoln vehicles
In addition to the mobile app and Bluetooth beacon setup, State Farm offers a Connected Car option for eligible 2020 and newer Ford and Lincoln vehicles. This option allows you to participate in the Drive Safe and Save program without needing a separate mobile app or Bluetooth beacon.
Here’s how the Connected Car option works:
**Vehicle Eligibility**: Most 2020 and newer Ford and Lincoln private passenger vehicles are eligible for the Connected Car option, with a few exceptions (e.g., 2020 Ford Transit Connect, 2020 Ford F-150, 2020 Lincoln Continental, and Ford GT).
**FordPass or Lincoln Way App**: You must have the FordPass or Lincoln Way app installed on your smartphone and have your vehicle added to the “Garage” section of the app.
**Enrollment**: Contact your State Farm agent and express interest in enrolling in the Drive Safe and Save Connected Car program.
**In-Vehicle Agreement**: The next time you turn on your eligible Ford or Lincoln vehicle, you will be prompted to enroll in the program with an in-vehicle agreement. Accept the agreement to complete the setup process.
**Data Transmission**: Once enrolled, your vehicle will automatically transmit driving data, including mileage and driving characteristics, directly to State Farm after each trip. Ensure that data sharing and location services are enabled in your vehicle.
**Discount Calculation**: State Farm will use the received driving data to calculate and update your Drive Safe and Save discount at each policy renewal period, rewarding safer driving habits with higher discounts.
The Connected Car option streamlines the process by eliminating the need for a separate mobile app or Bluetooth beacon, as the telematics data is transmitted directly from your vehicle to State Farm.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Drive Safe and Save
Benefits
**Immediate Discount**: Enrolling in the Drive Safe and Save program provides an instant discount on your State Farm auto insurance premium. This initial discount is typically around 10% just for signing up.
**Potential Savings**: The program can save up to 30% on your auto insurance premiums based on your driving habits. The discount can go even higher in some states, although New York caps it at 30%.
**Encourages Safe Driving**: By monitoring driving behaviors such as acceleration, braking, cornering, speed, and phone usage, the program encourages safer driving habits. This can lead to fewer accidents and safer roads overall.
**No Premium Increases for Bad Driving**: Unlike other telematics programs, State Farm’s Drive Safe and Save does not increase your premium based on poor driving habits. The worst-case scenario is that you receive no discount, but your rates will not increase due to the program.
**Accident Assistance Feature**: The new Accident Assistance feature provides guidance and support in the event of a collision. It helps ensure safety, contacts authorities, arranges a tow truck if needed, and assists in starting a claim. This feature has received positive feedback for comfort and ease during stressful situations.
**Feedback on Driving Habits**: The program offers valuable feedback on your driving habits, helping you understand areas where you can improve. This can benefit new drivers or those looking to enhance their driving skills.
Drawbacks
**Privacy Concerns**: Participating in the program requires continuous monitoring of your driving habits, which may raise privacy concerns for some users. The app tracks various aspects of your driving behavior and location, which some may find intrusive.
**Potential Loss of Low-Mileage Discount**: If you previously received a low-mileage discount, enrolling in Drive Safe and Save may result in losing that discount if the program records higher mileage than initially reported. This could offset some of the Drive Safe and Save discount savings.
**Battery Drain**: The mobile app requires location services to be set to “always allow,” which can lead to increased battery drain on your smartphone. This may be inconvenient for some users.
**Inconsistent Discounts**: The discount you receive can vary from policy period to policy period based on your driving performance. This lack of consistency may be a drawback for those who prefer stable and predictable insurance premiums.
**Setup and Maintenance**: Setting up the Bluetooth beacon and ensuring it remains paired with the app can be a hassle for some users. Maintaining the app and ensuring it functions correctly may require occasional troubleshooting.
**Not Available in All States**: The program is unavailable in California, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island and may not be available in North Carolina, depending on individual circumstances. This limits the availability of the program to specific regions.
Comparison Table: Benefits and Drawbacks of Drive Safe and Save
| Aspect | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate Discount | Instant discount (around 10%) for signing up. | None. |
| Potential Savings | Save up to 30% on premiums based on driving habits. | Discount varies by state (e.g., capped at 30% in New York). |
| Encourages Safe Driving | Promotes safer driving habits, leading to fewer accidents. | None. |
| No Premium Increases | Premiums do not increase due to poor driving habits. | None. |
| Accident Assistance Feature | Provides support and guidance during accidents. | None. |
| Feedback on Driving Habits | Offers valuable feedback to improve driving skills. | None. |
| Privacy Concerns | None. | Continuous monitoring may raise privacy issues. |
| Potential Loss of Low-Mileage Discount | None. | May lose the existing low-mileage discount if higher mileage is recorded. |
| Battery Drain | None. | App requires "always allow" location services, leading to increased battery drain. |
| Inconsistent Discounts | None. | Discounts can vary each policy period based on driving performance. |
| Setup and Maintenance | None. | Setting up and maintaining the Bluetooth beacon and app can be cumbersome. |
| Availability | Available in many states, including Arizona, Alabama, Florida, etc. | Not available in California, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. |
What Drive Safe and Save Tracks
State Farm’s Drive Safe and Save program monitors several key driving behaviors to assess your driving habits and determine your potential discount. These behaviors include:
**Acceleration**: The program tracks how quickly you accelerate. Rapid acceleration can indicate aggressive driving, which is associated with higher risk. Smooth and gradual acceleration is preferred.
**Braking**: Hard braking is monitored as it can suggest tailgating or not paying attention to the road. Frequent hard stops can increase the likelihood of accidents. The app encourages maintaining a safe following distance to avoid sudden stops.
**Cornering**: The program tracks how you take turns. Sharp or quick turns can indicate unsafe driving practices, such as not allowing enough time or clearance for the turn. Smooth and controlled cornering is ideal.
**Speed**: Speeding is a critical factor monitored by the program. The app tracks whether you exceed the speed limit by a significant margin (e.g., 8 miles per hour or more). Driving within the speed limit is crucial for safety and can positively impact your discount.
**Phone Use**: Distracted driving, particularly phone use while driving is closely monitored. The app detects when the phone is used for calls, texting, or browsing while the vehicle is in motion. Minimizing phone use while driving is essential for safety and can help maximize your discount.
Importance of Annual Mileage in Determining Discounts
Annual mileage is a significant factor in determining the discount you receive through the Drive Safe and Save program. The rationale is that the more you drive, the higher the likelihood of being involved in an accident. Therefore, lower annual mileage can lead to higher discounts. Here’s how it works:
**Mileage Tracking**: The program tracks your actual mileage driven. This data is collected through the mobile app and Bluetooth beacon or directly from the vehicle in the case of the Connected Car option.
**Mileage Reporting**: You must provide an odometer reading before each policy renewal, typically every six months. This reading helps State Farm validate the mileage data the app or vehicle collects.
**Discount Calculation**: The discount is calculated based on the total miles driven during the policy period. Lower mileage generally generates a higher discount, indicating less exposure to potential accidents.
**Combining Trips**: To maximize your discount, consider combining trips, carpooling, public transportation, or walking when possible. Reducing the number of miles driven can significantly impact your overall discount.
Signing Up for Drive Safe and Save
Enrolling in State Farm’s Drive Safe and Save program is a straightforward process that can be completed through either the mobile app or the Connected Car option. Here’s a step-by-step guide to signing up for each option:
Mobile App Option
**Download the App**: Text “SAVE” to 42407 to receive a link to download the Drive Safe & Save mobile app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
**Log In**: Open the app and log in using your driver’s license information or statefarm.com user ID and password.
**Accept Consent and Verify Details**: In certain states, you may need to accept the consent to participate, verify your email address, and confirm where you’d like your Bluetooth beacon mailed.
**Receive and Set Up Bluetooth Beacon**: When you receive the Bluetooth beacon in the mail, take it to your car. Open the app, tap “Complete Setup” for your car, and follow the prompts:
– Press and hold the button on the beacon until it briefly lights up.
– In the app, tap the beacon ID that matches the one printed on the side of your beacon.
When the app confirms that the beacon is paired, use the provided sticker to adhere it to your windshield behind the rearview mirror.
– Enter your car’s exact odometer reading in the app.
**Enable Location Sharing**: Ensure your phone’s location services are set to “Always Allow” for the Drive Safe & Save app to record trips accurately.
Connected Car Option (Ford and Lincoln Vehicles)
**Add Vehicle to FordPass or Lincoln Way App**: Add your eligible 2020 or newer Ford or Lincoln vehicle to the “Garage” section of the corresponding FordPass or Lincoln Way app.
**Contact State Farm Agent**: Inform your State Farm agent that you want to enroll in the Drive Safe & Save Connected Car program.
**Accept In-Vehicle Agreement**: The next time you turn on your enrolled vehicle, you will be prompted with an in-vehicle agreement. Accept the agreement to complete the setup process.
**Enable Data Sharing and Location Services**: Ensure that data sharing and location services are enabled in your vehicle’s settings for the program to function correctly.
Importance of Setting Location Sharing to “Always Allow”
Regardless of your enrollment option, setting your phone’s location-sharing preferences to “Always Allow” for the Drive Safe & Save app is crucial. This setting ensures that the app can accurately record trips and monitor your driving behavior, even when the app is running in the background.
If the location-sharing setting is not set to “Always Allow,” the app may not be able to record trips correctly, potentially impacting the discount you receive through the program.
Customer Experiences and Reviews
Positive Feedback from Users
**Significant Discounts**: Many users have reported substantial savings on their auto insurance premiums. For instance, one user on Reddit mentioned receiving a 40% discount after using the Drive Safe and Save program for six months. Another user on the Apple Community forum highlighted that the app worked flawlessly on their iPhone 11, providing sizable discounts over several years.
**Encourages Safe Driving**: The program promotes safer driving habits. Monitoring key behaviors such as acceleration, braking, and phone use encourages drivers to be more mindful and cautious on the road.
**User-Friendly App**: The Drive Safe and Save app is generally well-received for its ease of use. It provides clear feedback on driving habits, including trip maps and driving scores, which help users understand and improve their driving behavior.
**No Risk of Premium Increases**: Users appreciate that the program does not increase premiums based on poor driving habits. This risk-free aspect makes it an attractive option for those looking to save on insurance without fearing rate hikes.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips
**App Performance on Different iOS Versions**: Some users have experienced issues with the app on certain iOS versions. For example, a user on the Apple Community forum reported problems with the app on an iPhone 12 running iOS 15.2, mainly when trips started in their garage. Troubleshooting tips include ensuring that location services, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular data are all enabled and correctly configured.
**Battery Drain**: The requirement to set location services to “always allow” can increase smartphone battery drain. Users should be aware of this and may need to manage their phones’ battery usage accordingly.
**Bluetooth Beacon Setup**: Some users find the setup and maintenance of the Bluetooth beacon to be cumbersome. Ensuring the beacon is correctly paired with the app and appropriately placed in the vehicle is crucial for accurate data recording.
**Inconsistent Discounts**: The discount can vary from policy period to policy period based on driving performance. This lack of consistency may be a drawback for those who prefer stable and predictable insurance premiums.
Real-Life Examples of Savings Achieved
**High Discounts**: A Reddit user reported achieving a 40% discount after six months of using the Drive Safe and Save program, highlighting the potential for significant savings.
**Consistent Savings**: Users on the Apple Community forum have shared experiences of consistently receiving sizable discounts over several years, indicating the program’s long-term benefits for safe drivers.
**Positive Reviews on App Stores**: The Drive Safe and Save app has received favorable reviews on both the App Store and Google Play, with users noting that the app helps them stay on top of their driving habits and achieve savings. The app has a rating of 4.6 out of 5.0 on the App Store and 4.0 out of 5.0 on Google Play.
Comparison with Other Telematics Programs
| Feature/Program | State Farm Drive Safe & Save | Allstate DriveWise | Nationwide SmartRide | Progressive Snapshot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Device | Mobile app and Bluetooth beacon, or Connected Car for Ford/Lincoln | Mobile app | Mobile app | Mobile app or plug-in device |
| Monitored Behaviors | Acceleration, braking, cornering, speed, phone use, annual mileage | Speed, braking, acceleration, time of day, phone use | Acceleration, braking, idle time, miles driven, nighttime driving | Hard braking, time of day, length of trip, distracted driving |
| Potential Discount | Up to 30% (capped at 30% in NY) | Up to 40% | Up to 40% | Average $94 at sign-up, $231 at completion |
| Initial Discount | Yes, 10% | Yes, 3% cashback | Yes, 10% | Yes, $94 |
| Rate Increase for Bad Driving | No | No | No | Yes |
| Availability | Not available in CA, MA, RI; limited in NC | Not available in AR, NY, NC | Not available in AK, CA, HI, LA, NY, PR | Not available in CA |
| Customer Satisfaction | High (4.8/5 on Apple Store, 4.7/5 on Google Play) | Moderate (4.6/5 on Apple Store, 4.2/5 on Google Play) | High (4.6/5 on Apple Store, 4.5/5 on Google Play) | High (4.8/5 on Apple Store, 4.6/5 on Google Play) |
Pros and Cons of Drive Safe and Save Relative to Competitors
Pros
**No Rate Increases for Bad Driving**: Unlike Progressive’s Snapshot, State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save does not increase your premium based on poor driving habits. This makes it a risk-free option for those unsure about their driving behavior.
**High Customer Satisfaction**: The Drive Safe & Save app has high ratings on both the Apple Store and Google Play, indicating a positive user experience.
**Encourages Safe Driving**: The program encourages safer driving habits by monitoring a wide range of driving behaviors, leading to fewer accidents and safer roads overall.
**Initial Discount**: The program offers an immediate discount for signing up, providing instant savings on your auto insurance premium.
**Flexible Enrollment Options**: The program can be used with a mobile app and Bluetooth beacon or through the Connected Car option for eligible Ford and Lincoln vehicles, offering flexibility in how you participate.
Cons
**Privacy Concerns**: Continuous monitoring of driving habits and location may raise privacy concerns for some users. The app tracks various aspects of your driving behavior and location, which some may find intrusive.
**Battery Drain**: The requirement to set location services to “always allow” can lead to increased battery drain on smartphones, which may be inconvenient for some users.
**Setup and Maintenance**: Setting up the Bluetooth beacon and ensuring it remains paired with the app can be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, maintaining the app and ensuring it functions correctly may require occasional troubleshooting.
**Lower Maximum Discount**: Compared to Nationwide’s SmartRide and Allstate’s DriveWise, which offer up to 40% discounts, State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save has a lower maximum discount of 30%.
**Not Available in All States**: The program is unavailable in California, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island and may not be available for specific drivers in North Carolina, limiting its availability.
FAQs Related to State Farm's Drive Safe & Save Program
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