Allstate Auto Insurance Review: An Affordable Option for Low-Mileage Drivers

This auto insurer is a good fit for: Motorists who don't drive often who can take advantage of the Milewise option.

Allstate auto insurance at a glance

Monthly premium costs:

• 35-year-old female with clean driving record: $231.50
• 35-year-old male with clean driving record: $229.75
• 35-year-old female with one accident: $340.83
• 18-year-old male with clean driving record: $664.92

Coverage options:

• Collision
• Comprehensive
• Liability
• Medical payments
• Uninsured/underinsured
• Roadside coverage
• Personal injury protection
• Rental reimbursement
• Personal umbrella policy
• Rideshare insurance

Top perks

Milewise provides savings for infrequent drivers

People who don't drive much may be able to save money with Milewise. Instead of standard premiums, policyholders pay per mile they travel as well as a flat daily rate.

Discounts for good driving

Allstate's Drivewise program means safe drivers can get discounted premiums. To take advantage, a driver needs to plug Allstate's device into their vehicle. They'll get an initial reduction just for installing it. Then, every six months, their premiums will go down a bit more if they've driven responsibly.

In-person support from agents across the country

Unlike many insurers, such as Geico, which have a limited number of agents, Allstate has an extensive nationwide network of professionals ready to help motorists get the coverage they need. Allstate is a great choice for those who want in-person support.

Claim satisfaction guarantee

Allstate's Claim Satisfaction guarantee is unique. If for any reason a policyholder isn't happy with the way the insurer handles their claim, they'll be eligible for a credit of up to six months' worth of premiums -- no questions asked.

What could be improved

Premiums are on the high side

Allstate was more expensive than many competitors, especially for young drivers and motorists with an accident on their record. The insurer's accident surcharge was substantially larger than many other insurers. And its price for an 18-year-old male driver was nearly double the cost of a policy from some competitors, including Geico.

When looking for an auto insurer that offers the lowest price premiums: Geico's coverage costs far less than Allstate. But keep in mind, Geico doesn't have a large network of insurance agents who can help drivers find their perfect policy.

When looking for another insurer that provides in-person support: State Farm has a network of 19,000-plus agents and like Allstate, it offers coverage in all 50 states. The insurer has a strong reputation and has been in business for just over a century.

Allstate's premiums aren't as low as some competitors, especially for young drivers. Its accident premium was also well above what other insurers charge. Geico added about $72 to the monthly premiums for a motorist who'd been in a recent accident, but Allstate upped the price by around $109. This could be a big concern for those looking for the best cheap auto insurance, or if low premiums are a top priority.

See how Allstate car insurance rates compares to the national averages across the auto insurance industry. These rates are broken out by common driver profile but you're specific quote can vary.

Allstate's discounts are similar to many of the best car insurance companies. Motorists whose vehicles are equipped with certain safety features can save money, as can good students or drivers who are accident free. Here are some of the ways drivers can save on Allstate premiums.

• New car
• Multi-policy
• Anti-lock brake
• Anti-theft device
• Smart student
• Responsible payer
• EZ pay plan (automated payments)
• Allstate eSmart for paperless statements
• FullPay (paying the premium annually, in full)
• Safe driving club
• Early signing

Policy types

• Auto
• Classic car
• Mexico auto
• Motorcycle
• Roadside
• Off-road
• Motorhome
• Rideshare
• Boat
• Snowmobile

Allstate offers all of the standard coverage options. It also offers rideshare insurance, called Ride for Hire, which is more comprehensive than other rideshare policies. It protects the driver while their rideshare app is active and after they've accepted a trip or are en route to pick up passengers.

Coverage types

• Collision
• Comprehensive
• Liability
• Medical payments
• Uninsured/underinsured
• Roadside coverage
• Personal injury protection
• Rental reimbursement
• Personal umbrella policy

Allstate's coverage options don't differ much from competitors, but the insurer's Claim Satisfaction guarantee is unique. If a motorist isn't satisfied with their claim experience for any reason, the insurer will provide a premium credit for up to six months.

Allstate received mixed reviews from customers. In the latest J.D. Power U.S. Auto Insurance Study, it scored above average in several regions, but below average in several more. The insurer has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. And, because it guarantees claim satisfaction with its premium credit if a customer isn't happy, the company clearly stands behind its promise to provide protection.

Allstate is best for:

• People who drive infrequently and can save with Milewise
• Drivers who want in-person support from an insurance agent
• Motorists who don't mind paying more for a guarantee of trouble-free claims

Drivers may want to consider Geico if low cost is most important, or State Farm if they want in-person support from an insurer with a strong reputation in the business.