Nationwide SmartRide is rated 3.5 out of 5 stars by WalletHub editors, based on factors like possible savings and customer reviews. Nationwide SmartRide is an average usage-based insurance program, since it since it has mediocre app reviews but can save drivers up to 40%.
Key Things to Know About SmartRide from Nationwide
- Initial discount of 5%
- Possible savings of up to 40%
- Will not increase premiums for bad driving
- Available everywhere except: AK, CA, HI, LA, MA & NY
- Customer reviews of the app average 3.6 out of 5
What Is Nationwide SmartRide?
Nationwide SmartRide is a usage-based insurance program that monitors a policyholder’s driving habits in order to adjust their premium. Customers who sign up for SmartRide can save up to 40%, including an initial discount of 5%. Nationwide SmartRide never increases premiums for bad driving, so policyholders will never be penalized for trying the program.
Usage-based insurance programs rely on telematics, which is a technology that uses wireless devices to transmit data. Most major insurance companies have introduced telematics programs as a way to give good drivers a discount, since safe drivers are less likely to get into an accident or file a claim.
What Nationwide SmartRide Monitors
- Miles driven
- Braking
- Acceleration
- Idle time
- The time of day that you drive
SmartRide from Nationwide tracks these behaviors using the Nationwide SmartRide smartphone app. The app is available for iPhones and Androids from both the Google and Apple app stores.
Aside from sending information on your driving behavior to the company, the Nationwide SmartRide app includes features such as your estimated discount, driving trends, and personalized feedback. It’s also worth noting that the app’s reviews are average overall. Drivers who have previously been enrolled in a usage-based insurance program from Nationwide may be able to participate by using the company's plug-in device rather than the smartphone app.
Is Nationwide SmartRide Worth It?
Nationwide SmartRide is worth it for safe, low mileage drivers who do not mind being monitored for insurance purposes in return for savings of up to up to 40%. On the other hand, drivers who frequently drive at night or in heavy traffic are less likely to benefit, as are careless drivers. Since Nationwide won’t ever raise your rates for using SmartRide, it’s worth trying the program if you’re comfortable with the company’s data and privacy policies.
Keep in mind that your definition of safe driving might differ from Nationwide’s. Make sure you know what habits SmartRide monitors, and see how they match up with your individual circumstances. For example, if you work the late shift, Nationwide will count your frequent nighttime driving against you.
If you decide that Nationwide SmartRide is worth it for your particular circumstances, you can enroll by contacting your agent or calling 1-877-669-6877. You can also contact Nationwide customer service at 1-877-On Your Side (1-877-669-6877) if you’re unsure whether SmartRide is available in your state.
Nationwide SmartRide vs. Popular Competitors
Insurer | Nationwide SmartRide | Allstate Drivewise | Progressive Snapshot | State Farm Safe and Save |
---|---|---|---|---|
Potential Savings | Up to 40% | Up to 25% rebate | $146 on average | Up to 50% |
Customer Reviews of the App | 3.6 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.4 |
Can Increase Premiums? | Will not increase premiums for bad driving | Will not increase premiums for bad driving | Will increase premiums for bad driving | Will not increase premiums for bad driving |
Methodology
WalletHub editors evaluated Nationwide SmartRide in the following categories:
- Initial savings
- Maximum possible savings
- Average of Google and Apple app ratings
- Whether the program can increase a driver’s premium
- Overall WalletHub editor rating for the entire company
- Ease of accessing privacy and data disclosures
Information was gathered from the company’s website and from customer service representatives. Each factor was weighted equally in order to calculate the program’s final score.