Uncover the Truth About Direct Auto Car Insurance

Direct Auto Car Insurance Review

Direct Auto Insurance is specifically designed for high-risk or non-standard drivers who often face challenges in finding affordable auto insurance. It offers non-standard coverage that fills a significant gap in the market. With a history dating back to 1993 and now part of Allstate's subsidiary National General, Direct Auto has been serving drivers in some states.

You can easily navigate the Direct Auto website in both English and Spanish. Once you obtain coverage, the mobile app enhances account access. However, it's important to note that its availability is limited to certain states.

Pros and Cons

One of the major pros of Direct Auto is that it offers accessible options for high-risk drivers. It also has strong online resources that make it convenient to quote and manage your coverage. On the other hand, a significant con is that it is only available in a limited number of states. Additionally, it is not rated by JD Power due to its relatively short history, and its rates are not competitive for drivers with clean driving records.

Plans Available

Through Direct Auto car insurance, you can get coverage similar to that of big auto insurers. The plans include liability insurance, which covers the other party's property damage and bodily injury costs if you're at fault. Collision insurance protects your car in case of an incident with another vehicle or object. Comprehensive insurance covers non-collision-related damages such as weather, theft, or hitting an animal.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage ensures you're protected in an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver. Medical payments coverage takes care of your medical expenses in a car accident. Direct Auto also offers options for towing coverage and rental car reimbursement for qualified events.

Cost

If you're a high-risk driver, you'll likely pay more for car insurance coverage with Direct Auto. Compared to standard insurers like Progressive, State Farm, and GEICO, Direct Auto may offer lower rates for high-risk drivers but is non-competitive for those with standard driving records. For example:

Young drivers (25 and under) pay an average of $234 monthly with Direct Auto, while the industry average is $484. Middle-aged drivers (25-29) pay $129 monthly with Direct Auto compared to $265 in the industry. Senior drivers (70+) pay $104 monthly with Direct Auto versus $242.67 in the industry.

Discounts

Direct Auto offers various discounts to help you save on your policy. You can earn a discount by being a safe driver and avoiding traffic tickets and accidents. Purchasing multiple insurance products at once also qualifies you for a discount. Other discounts include multi-car discounts, vehicle equipment discounts for cars with certain security features, prior coverage savings, homeowner discounts, welcome back discounts, and affinity discounts for being a member of an affiliated organization.

How to Purchase and Manage Your Policy

You can purchase Direct Auto car insurance online, over the phone, or by speaking with an agent at a physical location. To get a quote online, visit the official Direct Auto website, enter your ZIP code, and click "Start Quote Now." If available in your location, provide information about your driving history and vehicle. You can then purchase a policy through the website.

You can also buy Direct Auto car insurance by calling 877-463-4732 or finding an agent through the website and meeting with them in person. Once you've purchased the policy, you can manage it online or through the mobile app. You can also pay your bill online using the Quick Pay function.

How to File a Claim

If you need to file a claim with Direct Auto, you have several options. You can log into your online account and file a claim, call 1-800-Direct Auto (1-800-723-3288) to reach the claims department, or use the online chat function available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET or 24/7 with a virtual assistant.

When filing a claim, make sure to provide relevant details such as the location, time, and date of the incident, as well as contact information of all parties involved.

Customer Reviews and Support Experience

Direct Auto stands out with its multifaceted support experience. You can reach out through chat, telephone, and in person at a physical agency. It gets an A+ grade from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), but the reviews on its BBB page average 1.12 stars. On Trustpilot, it receives an average of 1.7 stars. Additionally, it received a 7.09 on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners' company complaint index.

Direct Auto's parent company, National General, receives an A+ (Superior) rating from AM Best for financial stability.

Direct Auto Car Insurance vs. Its Competitors

When compared to other popular auto insurance companies:

Direct Auto vs. GEICO Auto Insurance: Direct Auto is designed for high-risk drivers and offers high-risk insurance options. GEICO has a longer history and more riders but may have higher rates. Read our GEICO auto insurance review.

Direct Auto vs. Liberty Mutual Auto Insurance: Direct Auto is attractive for those with poor driving records, while Liberty Mutual offers more extensive coverage options and a longer list of riders and discounts. Read our Liberty Mutual auto insurance review.

Direct Auto vs. USAA Auto Insurance: Direct Auto is available to a wider range of drivers, including high-risk ones. USAA is exclusive to military members and their families and offers competitive rates. Read our USAA auto insurance review.

Direct Auto Car Insurance FAQ

Who owns Direct Auto? As of 2021, Direct Auto was acquired by Allstate through its subsidiary National General.

Is Direct Auto a standard insurance company? No, Direct Auto is a non-standard insurance company that writes policies for high-risk drivers.

What states offer Direct Auto car insurance? Direct Auto is available in Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. It may not offer direct coverage for other states but will help you find an alternative.

Does Direct Auto offer SR-22 filings? Yes, Direct Auto offers SR-22 filings and car insurance for drivers who need it.

What factors affect my Direct Auto car insurance rates? Like other insurers, Direct Auto bases rates on your driving record, location, vehicle safety features, and more.