When shopping for car insurance, most drivers focus on price and coverage. But one often-overlooked feature can make a huge difference in how much you pay – and how you drive.
If you’re considering Nationwide as your insurer, one of its standout features is the SmartRide program.
This unique telematics-based discount tool not only helps you save money but also encourages safer driving habits.
In this article, we’ll explore why SmartRide may be the most valuable feature Nationwide offers and how it sets the company apart in the crowded world of auto insurance.
What Is SmartRide?
SmartRide is a usage-based insurance (UBI) program from Nationwide that rewards you with discounts for driving safely. When you sign up, you agree to let Nationwide monitor your driving behavior through a mobile app or plug-in device. It tracks key habits like:
- Miles driven
- Hard braking
- Acceleration patterns
- Idle time
- Night driving
Based on how well you drive, you can receive up to 40% off your car insurance premium at renewal time. The best part? You get a 10% discount just for enrolling.
Why SmartRide Stands Out
Unlike many insurers that rely on broad demographic data to set your rates, SmartRide takes a personalized approach.
That means your premium is based more on how you drive rather than who you are. If you’re a cautious, low-mileage driver, you can reap significant savings that traditional plans wouldn’t offer.
Additionally, the SmartRide program is a discount-only model. That’s important because your rate won’t go up based on your driving behavior – it can only go down. This makes it a risk-free option for drivers who are confident in their habits.
How Much Can You Save?
Nationwide’s SmartRide can reduce your premium by up to 40%. Here’s how that could look based on average full coverage rates:
| Driver Type | Nationwide Average (Full Coverage) | Max SmartRide Discount | Potential New Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clean Record | $176 | 40% | $105.60 |
| Teen Driver | $338 | 40% | $202.80 |
| Senior Driver (60s) | $116 | 40% | $69.60 |
These savings stack up fast. Over a year, a clean driver could save around $840 just by driving safely and using SmartRide.
What Makes SmartRide Better Than Other Programs?
Some insurers offer similar UBI programs, but they come with strings attached. For instance:
- Rate Increases: Some providers may increase your rate if your driving behavior is deemed risky.
- Limited Transparency: Not all UBI programs provide real-time feedback or clear insights into how your behavior impacts your score.
- Harder to Qualify for Maximum Discount: Some companies make the top-tier discounts nearly impossible to reach.
Nationwide’s SmartRide avoids these pitfalls. It offers:
- Real-time feedback via a mobile app.
- A guaranteed 10% sign-up discount.
- No penalty for poor driving—just fewer rewards.
- Clear criteria on what’s being monitored.
Encouraging Safer Driving Habits
SmartRide doesn’t just save you money; it helps make you a better driver. By seeing how often you brake hard or accelerate quickly, you can adjust your habits accordingly.
This doesn’t just help your wallet – it also reduces your chances of getting into an accident.
If you share your vehicle with a teen or new driver, SmartRide can even be a teaching tool. Many families use the app to coach young drivers and keep them accountable behind the wheel.
How to Get Started with SmartRide
Signing up is easy. Once you enroll in a Nationwide car insurance policy, you can activate SmartRide through:
- Nationwide’s Mobile App: Simply download and log in.
- Telematics Device: Some users may receive a plug-in device instead of using the app.
You’ll track your driving for a period of about 4-6 months. At the end of the program, your discount is locked in and applied to your policy renewal.
Who Should Consider SmartRide?
SmartRide is ideal for:
- Drivers with clean records.
- People who drive fewer miles each year.
- Safe, cautious drivers.
- Families with teen drivers who want added oversight.
- Anyone looking to lower their insurance costs without sacrificing coverage.
Even if you don’t qualify for the full 40%, most drivers still receive at least a 15%–20% discount – which is substantial over time.
Bonus: Combine with SmartMiles for More Savings
Nationwide also offers another innovative feature called SmartMiles, a pay-per-mile insurance policy. If you’re a low-mileage driver (e.g., remote worker or retiree), SmartMiles might make more sense.
In fact, you can use both programs together in some cases. SmartMiles keeps your base premium low, and SmartRide adds a discount based on how safely you drive.
The Bigger Picture: Why SmartRide Gives Nationwide the Edge
SmartRide is just one reason why Nationwide consistently earns high customer satisfaction scores. In the 2024 J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction Study,
Nationwide ranked 4th out of 21 insurers – ahead of many competitors, including AAA. Add in a low complaint ratio according to the NAIC, and it’s clear that Nationwide backs up their features with service.
Compare that to AAA, whose insurance offerings vary by region. While some local clubs offer strong coverage, others fall short.
If you want a consistent, nationwide experience with meaningful savings opportunities, Nationwide – and especially SmartRide – deserves serious consideration.
Final Thoughts: Why SmartRide Is Worth It
In a market where insurance premiums are rising and customer loyalty is harder to earn, Nationwide’s SmartRide gives drivers a tangible way to take control of their costs. It’s user-friendly, risk-free, and highly rewarding if you practice safe driving.
If you’re looking for a policy that not only protects you but also rewards your good habits, Nationwide’s SmartRide program is the clear winner.
You don’t need to drastically change your driving style – just drive smart, track your progress, and enjoy the savings.
Whether you’re a seasoned commuter, a cautious weekend driver, or a parent teaching a teen the rules of the road, SmartRide could be the smartest move you make all year.