In a world where unpredictability is the only certainty, having a reliable insurance provider is not just a safety net but a necessity. One such trusted name in the American insurance landscape is National General Insurance. Known for its broad coverage options and customer-centric policies, National General Insurance offers a range of products tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals, families, and businesses.
This in-depth blog post explores the history, coverage options, benefits, and unique features of National General Insurance, along with tips on choosing the right policy and maximizing your protection.
What is National General Insurance?
National General Insurance (NGI) is a prominent American insurance company headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Originally established as the Motors Insurance Corporation in 1920, it has evolved over the decades into a full-service insurance provider offering auto, home, RV, health, and other specialty insurance products.
As a subsidiary of The Allstate Corporation, National General benefits from the backing of one of the largest insurance groups in the country, combining financial stability with comprehensive coverage solutions.
Key Coverage Areas Offered by National General Insurance
National General provides an impressive variety of insurance products to cater to a wide customer base. Below are the core areas of coverage:
1. Auto Insurance
National General is particularly well-known for its auto insurance. Coverage options include:
- Liability insurance
- Collision and comprehensive coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist protection
- Medical payments and personal injury protection
- Roadside assistance and rental reimbursement
Additionally, NGI offers special auto insurance for high-risk drivers, including SR-22 filings.
2. Homeowners Insurance
Their home insurance plans cover:
- Dwelling protection
- Personal property coverage
- Liability protection
- Additional living expenses
- Optional add-ons for natural disasters (e.g., floods, earthquakes)
3. RV and Motorhome Insurance
As a leader in recreational vehicle insurance, NGI provides policies for:
- Class A, B, and C motorhomes
- Travel trailers and campers
- Comprehensive, collision, and liability coverage
- Optional total loss replacement and emergency expense coverage
4. Health Insurance
NGI offers short-term health insurance and accident & critical illness plans. These are ideal for individuals who are between jobs or need temporary health coverage.
5. Small Business Insurance
This includes commercial auto insurance, general liability, and property insurance tailored for small enterprises.
6. Flood Insurance
Offered through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), this coverage is essential for homeowners in high-risk flood zones.
Unique Features and Benefits
1. SmartDrive App
NGI’s SmartDrive app rewards safe driving habits with discounts. It tracks driving behavior such as speed, braking, and time of day.
2. Dynamic Claims Process
The company provides 24/7 claims support and an intuitive digital interface, making it easy to file claims and track progress.
3. Discount Opportunities
National General Insurance offers various discounts, including:
- Multi-policy discount
- Safe driver discount
- Low mileage discount
- Paperless billing discount
4. High-Risk Auto Insurance
One of NGI’s strong suits is its willingness to insure high-risk drivers, including those with previous DUIs or lapses in coverage.
5. Customizable Policies
With NGI, policyholders can tailor their coverage to include additional protections such as accident forgiveness, vanishing deductibles, and more.
Customer Experience and Reviews
National General Insurance generally receives mixed to positive reviews. Customers often highlight:
- Strengths: Competitive rates, easy claims process, excellent RV insurance
- Areas for Improvement: Some reviews mention inconsistencies in customer service and higher premiums for high-risk policies
It’s worth noting that NGI holds an A- (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, indicating strong financial health and ability to meet policyholder obligations.
How to Choose the Right National General Insurance Policy
1. Assess Your Needs
Understand what you need protection for—whether it’s your vehicle, home, or health. NGI has options for each.
2. Get a Quote
Visit their official website or contact a licensed agent to get personalized quotes based on your profile.
3. Compare Coverage Options
Review what each policy offers and compare with similar providers. Look for added benefits like roadside assistance or emergency expense coverage.
4. Check for Discounts
Ensure you ask about all applicable discounts to lower your premium.
5. Review Policy Terms Carefully
Understand the deductibles, exclusions, and claim limits before signing up.
Claims Process: What to Expect
- Immediate Notification: Report the incident through the NGI website, mobile app, or hotline.
- Claim Assessment: An adjuster is assigned to assess the damage or incident.
- Documentation: Submit photos, police reports, and other supporting documents.
- Resolution: Receive payment or service as per the policy agreement.
National General vs. Other Insurance Providers
When compared with providers like Geico, Progressive, and State Farm:
- Pros: Strong RV insurance offerings, good for high-risk drivers, flexible coverage options
- Cons: May not offer the lowest premiums, especially for standard auto policies
Final Thoughts
National General Insurance is a versatile and reliable provider that excels in auto, RV, and high-risk driver insurance. With a history of nearly a century and the support of Allstate, NGI is well-equipped to provide quality service and financial protection. While it may not always be the cheapest option, its specialized offerings and flexible plans make it a valuable choice for many policyholders.
If you’re in the market for dependable insurance with a broad range of customization options and benefits, National General Insurance deserves your consideration.