USAA SafePilot Review: Pros, Cons, & Alternatives (2024)

What You Should Know About USAA

Discover the comprehensive guide to the USAA SafePilot car insurance discount program, an innovative usage-based auto insurance solution. Explore its features, pros, cons, and alternative options for making well-informed decisions. Gain a clear understanding of how SafePilot functions, the driving behavior-based discounts it offers, and its advantages over other telematics programs.

Take the first step towards finding the best insurance rates for your needs by entering your zip code below. By comparing quotes from top insurance providers, you can ensure that you get the most competitive rates available. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to save on your auto insurance premiums. Start comparing quotes now and make a smart financial decision today.

What is the USAA SafePilot program?

SafePilot is an app offered by USAA insurance to promote safe driving habits resulting in up to a 20 percent discount on your next six-month policy renewal. The app determines whether you’re a certain type of bad driver or whether your safe driving habits warrant a discount.

Several of the top auto insurance companies collect your driving information for only 90 days, and you get only one chance to try for a discount.

SafePilot is different.

SafePilot continually records your driving habits and adjusts your discount to be used on your next six-month policy period. The discount can vary from policy period to policy period.

You can use your USAA login to view each of your trips. SafePilot records the following driving habits:

• Your vehicle location
• Whether you are driving during the day or night
• Hard braking
• Any hands-free calls you make
• How often and for how long you handle your phone
• If you are the driver or the passenger

USAA believes safe driving is important and uses SafePilot to decrease the number of those that are distracted drivers. Also, many fatal accidents happen late at night.

USAA is committed to this belief. In 2018, more than 2,800 people were killed, and 400,000 were injured through some form of distracted driving, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports.

SafePilot especially encourages teen driver safety. If the entire family participates in these efforts to reduce distracted driving, you will have for sure earned your discount.

One downside, however, is that SafePilot is always collecting data in the background, no matter if the app is open or not on your smartphone. This can cause your phone battery to deplete, or you could use all of your data plan.

If you choose to use SafePilot, be sure to keep a phone charger in the car and consider an unlimited data plan with your cell service provider.

USAA keeps your data private and safe and uses it only for further research. Telematics is just beginning. In fact, USAA is adding features to SafePilot to collect data when you are in an accident.

For more on USAA insurance, take a look at some of our USAA home and car insurance reviews & ratings.

Who is eligible for USAA SafePilot?

The USAA SafePilot Car Insurance Discount is available to USAA members who meet the following criteria:

• USAA Membership: To be eligible for the SafePilot discount, you must be a USAA member. USAA membership is available to active-duty and retired military personnel, as well as their eligible family members. USAA also extends membership to certain honorably discharged veterans and cadets or midshipmen at U.S. service academies.
• SafePilot Enrollment: In order to participate in the SafePilot program and be eligible for the discount, you must enroll in the program through the USAA mobile app. The app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices, making it accessible to most USAA members.
• Safe Driving Habits: To qualify for the discount, you must exhibit safe driving habits and accumulate points through the SafePilot program. The number of points you earn will determine the percentage of the discount you are eligible for, ranging from 5% to 30% off your car insurance premiums.

It’s important to note that the SafePilot discount is not available in all states and may vary depending on your location. It’s best to check with USAA directly or refer to the terms and conditions of the program for specific eligibility requirements in your state.

USAA Insurance Coverage Options

What does the SafePilot discount cover?

The USAA SafePilot Car Insurance Discount covers a wide range of safe driving behaviors, giving you multiple opportunities to earn points and potentially lower your car insurance premiums. Here are some of the key behaviors that may be eligible for the discount:

• Safe Speeding: If you consistently obey posted speed limits and avoid speeding violations, you may earn points towards the discount. By driving at safe speeds, you not only reduce the risk of accidents but also demonstrate responsible driving behavior, which is rewarded by the SafePilot program.
• Smooth Acceleration and Braking: Abrupt acceleration and braking can increase the risk of accidents and wear down your vehicle faster. The SafePilot program encourages smooth and gradual acceleration and braking, rewarding drivers who exhibit careful and responsible driving habits.
• Distraction-Free Driving: Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone while driving, can significantly increase the risk of accidents. The SafePilot program promotes distraction-free driving by rewarding drivers who avoid using their mobile devices while behind the wheel.
• Nighttime Driving: Driving at night can be more challenging due to reduced visibility. The SafePilot program incentivizes safe nighttime driving by rewarding drivers who limit their driving during nighttime hours and exercise caution when driving in the dark.
• Mileage: The SafePilot program also takes into consideration the number of miles you drive. If you drive less frequently or keep your mileage low, you may earn points towards the discount. This is especially beneficial for drivers who commute less or use their vehicles sparingly.

Other USAA Insurance Coverage

Whether you’re looking to protect your home, assets, or loved ones, USAA has a variety of insurance products designed to meet your needs.

Home Insurance: USAA provides homeowners insurance with coverage options to safeguard your residence and belongings. Explore their policies to ensure your home is protected against unforeseen events.

Life Insurance: Secure the financial future of your loved ones with USAA’s life insurance offerings. With various life insurance products, you can choose a plan that aligns with your long-term goals.

Property and Renters Insurance: If you’re renting a property, USAA offers renters insurance to protect your personal belongings. Additionally, property insurance options are available for various types of properties.

For detailed information on these insurance options, please visit the official USAA website or contact their customer service. Keep in mind that insurance needs vary, and USAA aims to provide comprehensive solutions tailored to your unique requirements.

USAA Insurance Rates Breakdown

Various factors influence the premiums you pay, and being aware of these elements can help you navigate the insurance landscape effectively. Below are key considerations for determining insurance costs:

• Type of Coverage: Different types of coverage (e.g., auto, home, life) come with varying premium costs. Assess your needs to determine the appropriate coverage type.
• Policy Limits: The coverage limits you choose significantly impact your premium. Higher coverage limits typically result in higher premiums, but they offer increased protection.
• Deductible Amount: Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Opting for a higher deductible often leads to lower premiums.
• Risk Factors: Insurers assess your risk profile, considering factors such as your age, occupation, and lifestyle. Certain risk factors may result in higher premiums.
• Claims History: A history of frequent claims may lead to increased premiums. Maintaining a claims-free record can positively influence your insurance costs.
• Credit Score: In some cases, insurers use credit scores to assess risk. A higher credit score may contribute to lower premiums.
• Location: Where you live can impact insurance costs. Areas prone to natural disasters or high crime rates may result in higher premiums.
• Vehicle Information (for Auto Insurance): The make, model, and year of your vehicle, as well as its safety features, can influence auto insurance premiums.
• Coverage Add-Ons: Additional coverage options and policy add-ons contribute to the overall cost. Evaluate the necessity of add-ons based on your individual needs.
• Discounts: Inquire about available discounts. Factors like bundling policies, safe driving records, or loyalty to an insurance provider can lead to cost savings.
• Payment Frequency: The frequency at which you make payments (e.g., annual, semi-annual, monthly) can impact the overall cost of insurance.
• Comparison Shopping: Obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers. Comparison shopping allows you to find the most competitive rates for your desired coverage.
• Policy Renewal: Regularly review and update your policy during renewal periods. Life changes and adjustments to coverage needs can influence costs.

By considering these factors, individuals can make well-informed decisions regarding insurance coverage, ensuring they strike a balance between adequate protection and manageable premiums.

USAA Discounts Available

Insurance providers often offer various discounts to help policyholders save on premiums. Understanding the available discounts can lead to substantial cost savings. Explore the potential discounts offered by insurance providers, including those available with USAA SafePilot:

• Multi-Policy Discount: Bundling multiple insurance policies (e.g., auto and home insurance) with the same provider can result in a multi-policy discount.
• Safe Driver Discounts: Maintaining a clean driving record and demonstrating safe driving habits may qualify you for a safe driver discount.
• Good Student Discount: Students with good academic records may be eligible for discounts. This is particularly common for auto insurance.
• Military and Veteran Discounts: Many insurance providers, including USAA SafePilot, offer discounts to military personnel and veterans. Verify eligibility for these specialized discounts.
• Anti-Theft Device Discount: Installing anti-theft devices in your vehicle or home may lead to a discount on your insurance premiums.
• Safety Features Discount (Auto Insurance): Vehicles equipped with safety features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control may qualify for lower premiums.
• Home Security Systems Discount: Having security systems in place, such as alarms and surveillance, can contribute to discounts on homeowners insurance.
• Claims-Free Discount: Maintaining a claims-free history over a certain period may make you eligible for a discount on your premiums.
• Loyalty Discounts: Remaining with the same insurance provider for an extended period may result in loyalty discounts.
• Paperless Billing Discount: Opting for paperless billing and electronic communication with your insurance provider may lead to cost savings.
• Defensive Driving Course Discount: Completing a defensive driving course can qualify you for discounts on your auto insurance premiums.
• Membership Discounts: Membership in certain organizations or groups may make you eligible for discounts. Check with your insurance provider for applicable affiliations.
• Renewal Discounts: Some insurers, including USAA SafePilot, offer discounts upon policy renewal as a gesture of appreciation for continued business.
• Low Mileage Discount (Auto Insurance): Drivers who cover fewer miles annually may qualify for a low mileage discount.
• Good Credit Discount: Maintaining a good credit score may result in discounts on insurance premiums.
• Occupation-Based Discounts: Certain professions may be eligible for occupation-based discounts. Inquire with your insurance provider for specific details.

Understanding the discounts available and assessing your eligibility for these cost-saving opportunities can help you optimize your insurance coverage while keeping premiums affordable.

Evaluating Claims Handling: USAA SafePilot

Ease of Filing a Claim

USAA SafePilot offers a streamlined and convenient claims process for its customers. You can file a claim through multiple channels, including online, over the phone, or through the mobile app. This flexibility ensures that you can report incidents and initiate the claims process in a way that suits your preferences and schedule.

Average Claim Processing Time

USAA SafePilot is committed to providing efficient and prompt claim processing. While specific processing times can vary depending on the complexity of the claim and other factors, the company aims to resolve claims swiftly. Customers generally benefit from relatively quick claim settlements, helping them get back on the road without unnecessary delays.

Customer Feedback on Claim Resolutions and Payouts

USAA SafePilot has garnered positive customer feedback regarding its claim resolutions and payouts. Many policyholders have expressed satisfaction with the fairness and transparency of the claims settlement process. USAA’s commitment to excellent customer service reflects in its handling of claims, earning the trust of its members.

Unleashing Innovation With USAA SafePilot Digital and Technological Features

Mobile App Features and Functionality

The USAA SafePilot mobile app is a key component of this innovative usage-based auto insurance program. The app offers a range of features designed to improve your driving habits and provide insights into your performance. It continually records your driving habits and offers real-time feedback, making it a valuable tool for safe driving improvement.

Online Account Management Capabilities

USAA SafePilot provides robust online account management capabilities, allowing policyholders to access and monitor their driving data, discounts, and policy information. Through the online portal, you can easily track your progress, view trip details, and manage your policy preferences, enhancing the overall user experience.

Digital Tools and Resources

In addition to the mobile app and online account management, USAA SafePilot offers a variety of digital tools and resources to help you make informed decisions about your auto insurance. These resources may include educational materials, safety tips, and insights into your driving behavior. USAA’s commitment to leveraging technology for safer driving is evident in its comprehensive digital offerings.

How USAA Ranks Among Providers

USAA SafePilot is an insurance program offered by USAA, known for providing financial services and insurance primarily to the military community and their families. The focus of SafePilot is on usage-based auto insurance, utilizing telematics to monitor driving behavior and offer discounts based on safe driving habits.

• Geico: USAA SafePilot’s emphasis on safe driving aligns with Geico’s commitment to affordable coverage. Geico’s broad market presence may appeal to a wider audience.
• State Farm: USAA SafePilot’s telematics-based approach may attract those seeking personalized discounts, while State Farm’s agent-driven model appeals to customers valuing face-to-face interactions.
• Progressive: Progressive is a major player in the insurance industry, offering a range of products, including usage-based insurance through their Snapshot program.
• Allstate: USAA SafePilot competes with Allstate Drivewise in the telematics space, with differences in target demographics and military-focused benefits.

The Bottom Line: USAA SafePilot

USAA SafePilot is a fantastic initiative that goes beyond just providing insurance discounts. It promotes safer driving habits and offers a tangible way to reduce premiums for responsible drivers. Policyholder highly recommend it to anyone looking to save on insurance while becoming a better and safer driver.

The USAA SafePilot Car Insurance Discount is a unique program that rewards safe driving habits and offers the potential for significant savings on your car insurance premiums. By enrolling in the program and accumulating points through safe driving behaviors such as obeying speed limits, smooth acceleration and braking, distraction-free driving, and limiting nighttime driving, you can potentially lower your car insurance rates. Additionally, USAA offers other discounts such as multi-vehicle, multi-policy, good student, defensive driving, and accident-free discounts that may further reduce your premiums.