Feeling left out of the auto insurance savings party? If you’re a safe driver and haven’t yet checked out the latest telematics programs, you might be missing out on hundreds per year in discounts—just for sharing your driving data. In 2025, insurers are pulling out all the stops to win over cautious motorists with usage-based (UBI) programs that reward smooth braking, no late-night rides, and minimal phone use. But which carriers are actually giving you the biggest bang for your buck… and which ones might be quietly tracking your every move?

How Telematics Works: Trade Privacy for Premium Discounts

Telematics, also known as usage-based insurance (UBI), means letting your insurance company monitor your driving habits through your smartphone or a plug-in device. The payoff? Discounts ranging from 10% up to a staggering 40%, depending on how—and how much—you drive. But before you jump in, it’s vital to know exactly what gets tracked and how that data can affect your rates… or even your privacy.

Most telematics programs track:

• Hard braking and acceleration
• Time of day (late-night driving is riskier)
• Mileage
• Phone use behind the wheel
• Some programs record location, weather, and vehicle diagnostics

This data is crunched to generate a driving score. The higher your score, the bigger your savings. But beware: with some insurers, risky behaviors not only mean smaller discounts—they can actually raise your rates[1][2].

2025’s Top Telematics Programs: Who’s Really Paying Safe Drivers?

1. Allstate Drivewise

Maximum Discount: Up to 40%
Instant Sign-Up Bonus: Yes (5-10%)
Device: App only (plug-in phased out)
Pros: Real-time alerts, crash notifications
Cons: Rates can go up for risky driving
Availability: Most states (excl. AK & CA)[2][1]

2. Nationwide SmartRide

Maximum Discount: Up to 40%
Instant Sign-Up Bonus: 10%
Device: App or plug-in
Pros: Rates can only go down, never up; focus on night-time driving
Cons: Not available in AK, CA, HI, LA, NY
Cost: Free for policyholders[2]

3. State Farm Drive Safe & Save

Maximum Discount: Up to 30% each renewal
Instant Sign-Up Bonus: None
Device: App, Alexa integration, or connected car
Pros: Rates won’t go up for unsafe driving (except mileage changes in some states)
Cons: No bonus at sign up; mileage tracking can impact low-mileage discounts
Availability: Almost all states[2]

4. Geico DriveEasy

Maximum Discount: Up to 25%
Instant Sign-Up Bonus: Yes (varies by state)
Device: App
Pros: Simple enrollment, useful feedback
Cons: Typical discount closer to 10%[1]; location data is tracked
Availability: 37 states + DC[2]

5. Progressive Snapshot

Maximum Discount: Up to $231/year average
Instant Sign-Up Bonus: About $94 at enrollment
Device: App or plug-in device
Pros: Road test option to preview savings
Cons: Rates can go up for risky driving; lowest satisfaction in J.D. Power’s 2024 UBI study
Availability: Most states (excl. CA)[2]

6. Liberty Mutual RightTrack

Maximum Discount: Up to 30%
Instant Sign-Up Bonus: Yes (varies)
Device: App or plug-in device
Pros: Tracks advanced car features like adaptive cruise
Cons: Some privacy concerns due to detailed data[1][5]

How Much Can Safe Drivers Really Save?

While maximum discounts sound enticing, most drivers typically see real-world savings of around $100-$250/year[1]. Young drivers and families with multiple drivers on the policy often score the biggest cuts, sometimes $245+ per year. Root Insurance, a telematics-only carrier, claims to save customers an average of $900/year compared to traditional policies—but eligibility and savings depend on a trial period and their tight underwriting[2].

Many insurers sweeten the deal with immediate enrollment bonuses, like Nationwide’s 10% discount just for signing up. But be vigilant: the bigger the initial carrot, the more aggressive the tracking may be later. Always read the fine print and check if discounts can turn into surcharges.

Step-by-Step: Maximize Your Telematics Savings

• Compare Programs: Start with Allstate, Nationwide, State Farm, Geico, Progressive, and Liberty Mutual. Root and Metromile are options for tech-savvy drivers.
• Check Sign-Up Bonuses: Some insurers give instant rewards.
• Ask About Rate Increases: Nationwide and State Farm won’t raise your rates for risky driving; others might.
• Review What Data Is Tracked: Look for transparency about location, phone use, and vehicle diagnostics.
• Monitor Your Driving: Use app feedback to improve your driving and maximize your score.
• Appeal Decisions: If your score tanks unfairly, ask if the program allows appeals or resets[1].

Urgency Alert: Insurers routinely update their telematics terms, so deals can disappear fast! If you want those sweet discounts, enroll soon—especially before renewal rate hikes hit in 2026.

Privacy vs. Savings: What You Need to Know Before You Opt In

Sharing driving data feels like a small price for big savings, but consider:

• Data Retention: How long does the insurer keep your data?
• Third-Party Sharing: Can your driving info be sold or used by others?
• Opt-Out Flexibility: If you quit the program, does everything reset—or does your driving history haunt you?

Consumer Reports urges drivers to do their homework before enrolling, and to confirm the privacy policy and penalties for “bad driving”[1]. Some insurers, including Allstate, Farmers, Liberty Mutual, and Nationwide, give a small discount for signing up, but may track more than just your miles.

Want maximum savings with minimal risk? Nationwide SmartRide and State Farm Drive Safe & Save are your best bets for discounts-only (no penalty), while Progressive and Allstate offer higher max rewards (and higher risk of rate hikes).

Expert Tips: Squeeze the Most Out of Telematics

• Drive during daylight: Night driving is penalized in most programs.
• Go easy on the brakes: Hard stops = lower scores.
• Keep your phone down: Insurers are merciless about distracted driving.
• Choose your program carefully: Prioritize those with capped penalties and flexible opt-out policies.
• Review your discount regularly: Telematics deals change often—don’t get locked into a weak discount.

Your Move: Take Action, Grab Savings, Protect Your Data

Ready to cash in? Don’t wait for your next renewal. Compare telematics programs today and enroll with the carrier that matches your driving style—and privacy comfort. Discounts are often available instantly, and safe drivers could save serious cash (plus bragging rights). Remember, top deals can change or disappear with little notice, so act before insurers tighten their terms or cap discounts in the next cycle.

FOMO Alert: If your insurer doesn’t offer a competitive telematics program, switching could save you hundreds. Safe drivers, this is your moment—just balance the price vs. the privacy.