Auto insurance can be difficult to obtain if you have a poor driving record, low credit score, or previous coverage lapses. That’s where The General Auto Insurance stands out. Known for providing coverage to high-risk drivers and individuals who struggle to get insured elsewhere, The General focuses on accessibility, flexible payment options, and fast coverage approval.
This comprehensive review explores The General’s coverage options, pricing, pros and cons, customer experience, and whether it’s the right insurance provider for your needs.
Understanding The General Auto Insurance
The General is a U.S.-based auto insurance provider specializing in coverage for drivers who may be considered high-risk by traditional insurers. The company operates as a subsidiary of American Family Insurance and has built a reputation for offering affordable coverage to drivers with:
- Poor credit history
- Previous accidents
- DUI violations
- Coverage lapses
- Limited insurance history
Unlike many traditional insurers that focus primarily on low-risk drivers, The General emphasizes easy approval and fast policy activation.
Why Choose The General Auto Insurance?
The General’s primary appeal lies in accessibility and convenience. It offers flexible policies designed for drivers who need coverage quickly or who may have difficulty qualifying with other providers.
Key Benefits:
- Accepts high-risk drivers
- Same-day coverage availability
- Low down payment options
- Flexible payment plans
- SR-22 filing support in most states
Because of its risk tolerance, The General often serves as a stepping stone for drivers looking to rebuild their insurance history.
What Does The General Auto Insurance Cover?
The General offers standard auto insurance coverage options available in most states. While policy availability varies by location, core coverage types include:
Liability Coverage
Liability insurance covers damages or injuries you cause to others in an accident. This is typically required by state law.
Includes:
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage pays for repairs or replacement of your vehicle after an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Best for:
- Newer vehicles
- Financed or leased cars
Comprehensive Coverage
This protects your car against non-collision events such as:
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Fire damage
- Natural disasters
- Falling objects
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Provides protection if you’re hit by a driver with insufficient or no insurance coverage.
SR-22 Insurance
The General helps drivers file SR-22 forms required after serious violations such as DUI or reckless driving.
This makes the company particularly attractive for high-risk drivers who must meet legal insurance requirements.
Who Is The General Best For?
The General is not designed for every driver. Its policies are most suitable for specific categories of customers.
Ideal Customers:
- High-risk drivers
- Drivers with poor credit
- Individuals needing SR-22 filings
- Drivers with coverage lapses
- First-time insurance buyers
- People needing quick coverage
Not Ideal For:
- Drivers with excellent records seeking lowest rates
- Customers wanting premium add-ons or luxury coverage
- Drivers looking for extensive discounts
The General Auto Insurance Cost
Pricing is one of the most important considerations when choosing an insurance provider.
Average Premium Estimates
Because The General specializes in high-risk drivers, premiums tend to be higher than standard insurers but lower than many specialty high-risk providers.
Typical cost factors include:
- Driving history
- Age
- Location
- Vehicle type
- Coverage level
- Credit score
Estimated Monthly Costs:
- Minimum coverage: $90–$180 per month
- Full coverage: $160–$350 per month
Drivers with clean records may find cheaper options elsewhere, but high-risk drivers often find competitive pricing with The General.
Discounts Available from The General
While not known for extensive discounts, The General offers several savings opportunities.
Available Discounts:
- Safe driver discount
- Multi-car discount
- Good student discount
- Low mileage discount
- Pay-in-full discount
Discount availability varies by state.
Customer Experience and Claims Process
Customer experience plays a major role in evaluating any insurance company.
Claims Process
The General provides multiple claim filing methods:
- Online claim submission
- Mobile app claims reporting
- Phone claims support
Claims are generally processed quickly, though customer experiences vary depending on location and case complexity.
Customer Satisfaction
The General focuses on accessibility rather than premium customer service. Reviews show mixed feedback:
Positive Feedback:
- Easy approval process
- Fast coverage activation
- Flexible payments
Negative Feedback:
- Higher premiums
- Limited local agent availability
- Basic coverage options
Pros and Cons of The General Auto Insurance
Advantages
✔ Accepts high-risk drivers
✔ Fast approval and same-day coverage
✔ SR-22 filing assistance
✔ Flexible payment plans
✔ Easy online quote process
Disadvantages
✘ Higher premiums than standard insurers
✘ Limited coverage customization
✘ Mixed customer service reviews
✘ Fewer discounts than competitors
The General vs Other Insurance Companies
Compared to major insurers like State Farm or GEICO, The General focuses on accessibility rather than low rates or premium services.
How It Stands Out:
- Easier approval requirements
- Stronger support for high-risk drivers
- Faster policy activation
Where Competitors May Be Better:
- Lower premiums for low-risk drivers
- More coverage options
- Higher customer satisfaction ratings
How to Get a Quote from The General
Getting a quote is simple and can be completed in minutes.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit The General’s website or mobile app.
- Enter vehicle and personal information.
- Select coverage options.
- Review pricing and finalize purchase.
Many drivers can receive instant approval and same-day coverage.
Is The General Auto Insurance Worth It?
The General Auto Insurance is a strong option for drivers who struggle to obtain coverage elsewhere. While it may not offer the lowest rates or premium features, it provides accessible insurance solutions for high-risk individuals.
It’s Worth Considering If:
- You need coverage quickly
- You have a poor driving record
- You require SR-22 filing
- You’ve been denied coverage elsewhere
However, drivers with clean records may find better pricing and service from traditional insurers.
Final Verdict
The General Auto Insurance stands out as a reliable provider for high-risk drivers seeking accessible coverage and flexible payment options. Its focus on quick approval, SR-22 support, and flexible policies makes it a practical choice for drivers rebuilding their insurance history.
While it may not offer the lowest premiums or most comprehensive features, The General serves an important role in the insurance market by providing coverage where other insurers may not.