How to get your best auto insurance rates by signing up for carrier telematics and driver tracking

How to maximize your savings

1. Choose a “discount-only” program when possible

Some carriers use telematics only to provide discounts, while others may increase premiums for risky driving behavior. Before enrolling, ask:

“Can my rate go up because of telematics data, or is this a discount-only program?”

Programs such as State Farm Drive Safe & Save generally advertise discounts without surcharge risk, while some versions of Progressive Snapshot and GEICO DriveEasy may affect future rates based on driving scores.

2. Avoid hard braking

Hard braking is one of the biggest factors insurers monitor. Leave extra following distance and anticipate traffic lights and congestion to reduce sudden stops.

3. Limit phone use while driving

Many telematics apps track phone handling and screen interaction during trips. Put your phone in Do Not Disturb mode and use hands-free navigation before starting your drive.

4. Reduce late-night driving

Driving during overnight hours is often viewed as higher risk. If possible, shift routine trips to daytime hours during the monitoring period.

5. Drive fewer miles

Many telematics programs reward lower annual mileage. If you work from home, carpool, or combine errands into fewer trips, you may see larger discounts.

6. Accelerate smoothly

Rapid acceleration can negatively affect telematics scores. Gradual starts and maintaining steady speeds generally produce better results.

Typical savings

Industry estimates commonly place telematics savings in the 5% to 30%+ range, with exceptional drivers sometimes earning even larger discounts depending on the carrier and state.

Examples:

• State Farm Drive Safe & Save: up to 30% savings in many states.
• Progressive Snapshot: many safe drivers earn discounts, though a portion of drivers may see higher premiums if driving behavior scores poorly.
• Nationwide SmartRide, Allstate Drivewise, and similar programs also offer significant discounts for safe driving.

Best candidates for telematics

You are most likely to benefit if you:

• Drive fewer than average miles.
• Rarely drive after midnight.
• Seldom use your phone while driving.
• Have smooth braking and acceleration habits.
• Already have a clean driving record.

Pro tip

Before enrolling, get a baseline quote with and without telematics. Sometimes switching insurers can save more than any telematics discount alone. Then stack telematics with:

• Multi-policy bundling
• Safe-driver discounts
• Homeowner discounts
• Vehicle safety-feature discounts

Combining discounts often produces the lowest overall premium