Nationwide SmartMiles: A Comprehensive Guide to Pay-Per-Mile Car Insurance

Nationwide SmartMiles is a usage-based insurance program that helps low-mileage drivers save money by paying only for the miles they actually drive. Instead of paying a fixed annual rate, the program tracks your driving activity to calculate a base rate plus an additional premium based on the miles driven each month. This approach allows drivers to take advantage of significant discounts while maintaining control over their insurance costs.

Benefits

Nationwide SmartMiles offers several key advantages for drivers who want to reduce their insurance premiums. The program provides an average savings of 33% for users who drive less than the average. One of the most helpful features is the 250-mile daily cap, which means Nationwide charges you only for the first 250 miles you drive each day. Any additional miles driven during road trips do not count toward your monthly charges, allowing you to travel without worrying about your premium increasing. The program also prioritizes data privacy by not selling customer data to third parties. Nationwide uses the collected information exclusively to calculate rates and discounts. Additionally, Nationwide is a top-rated insurer for usage-based insurance by J.D. Power, which adds credibility to the program. Drivers who bundle their auto insurance with Nationwide home insurance can receive an extra 5% discount in 12 states.

Use Cases

This product is ideal for drivers who prefer paying monthly instead of annually and have room in their budget to handle variable payments. It works best for people who drive significantly less compared to other drivers. The program is suitable for tech-savvy individuals who are comfortable navigating gadgets and internet interfaces. It is also a good option for safe drivers who are more concerned with getting good discounts than with data security issues. The program is available in most U.S. states except for Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, New York, North Carolina, and Oklahoma. Vehicle compatibility is another important factor. Most cars manufactured after 1996 can use the plug-in device method. Some electric vehicles, diesel, and hybrid models are not compatible with the in-car connection method. Toyota vehicles manufactured in 2018 and after can track miles without a plug-in device. Drivers who want to enroll should verify their car compatibility before signing up.

Pricing (ONLY include if available)

Nationwide SmartMiles does not have a fixed price. The cost varies based on your driving habits and the number of miles you drive each month. The program charges a set base rate plus a mileage premium. Rates can change from month to month depending on your driving behavior. Premiums are billed monthly and deducted automatically if you sign up for paperless billing and automatic payments.

Vibes (ONLY include if available)

Customer experiences with Nationwide SmartMiles vary. Some users report good savings and satisfaction with the program. However, one user reported a less satisfactory experience where the device did not function properly, causing Nationwide to charge a higher rate. Overall, the program is seen as a smart choice for those who drive less and prefer flexible payment options.

Additional Information (ONLY include if available)

Nationwide SmartMiles is a form of pay-per-mile insurance that determines your premium based on your actual driving activity rather than a fixed annual rate. The core of the program involves tracking your mileage to calculate a base rate plus an additional premium based on the miles driven each month. The program offers two methods for monitoring mileage. One method uses a tracking device that plugs into your car's OBD-II port. The other method uses a direct connection through your car's built-in internet, available for eligible smart cars. Once connected, your driving data is sent to Nationwide, which calculates your premium using a set base rate plus a mileage premium. Rates can vary from month to month based on your driving behavior. Nationwide does not sell your data to third parties. Data is used exclusively to calculate your rates and discounts. The program collects information on when you drive, where you go, speed, acceleration, and braking. Nationwide offers another telematics program called SmartRide, which monitors safe driving behavior rather than mileage. However, you cannot use SmartRide while enrolled in SmartMiles. While SmartRide does not affect your rates directly, it may offer discounts of up to 40% for safe driving. If you demonstrate safe driving habits while using SmartMiles, Nationwide offers a renewal discount of up to 10%.

To enroll, you can get a quote online if you are shopping for car insurance. If you are already a Nationwide customer, you can contact your agent or the company to switch your coverage. You must verify compatibility with your car before signing up. Once connected, you must sign up for paperless billing and automatic payments. Nationwide will then deduct your premiums automatically each month. Your monthly rate will change depending on how much you drove the previous month. If you have problems with the device, you can call the company at 1 (855) 421-2688.