New app aims to help drivers lower insurance premiums

ATLANTA — Insurance companies like Progressive, State Farm and Allstate have developed systems that will monitor driving habits in exchange for lower rates, but the Georgia company IVOX and Ford are trying to turn that idea on its head with the app Driverscore.

“The consumer downloads the app through some sophisticated technology that Ford has developed called SDLS,” Ivox CEO Gregg Warren told Channel 2 consumer adviser Clark Howard. “It automatically communicates with the car. It allows them then to pull the data. It then takes the data, and after the first 50 miles, they get a Driverscore.”

The app, which will be available for download by Ford owners in the next couple of weeks, will do more than track driving.

Users will be able to enter their scores into the discount zone, where insurance carriers will bid for their business, which Howard said is great for the consumer.

“I love this because it gives you the immediate power to learn ways to be a better driver and save money at the same time,” Howard said.

Atlanta driver, Stephanie Anderson agrees.

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“If there are other companies willing to take me away for a cheaper rate, I would definitely be interested in something like that,” Anderson told Howard.

According to AAA, the average “low risk” driver spends just over $1,000 each year for car insurance, but that number can increase in a hurry for a family with teen drivers.

Warren said Driverscore will help bring that cost down.

“The problem with kids and teenagers is just that they need experience, and you don't know anything about how you drive until you measure it,” Warren told Howard. “You can end up with some pretty good discounts if your teen shows out to be a very good driver.”

The eventual goal is to make Driverscore available in all vehicles, but Howard said there are steps you can take right now to lower your premiums.

“First, you've got to shop around. My top picks are Amica and USAA. Second, raise your deductible and don’t file claims for the small stuff, and finally, don’t forget to ask for discounts,” Howard said.

Cox Media Group