When it comes to car insurance, finding the right provider can be a challenge. You want affordable rates, reliable coverage, and excellent customer service—all without breaking the bank. The General is a well-known insurer that specializes in high-risk drivers, offering competitive rates and flexible payment options.
But is The General the right choice for you? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore:
- Who The General is best for
- Coverage options and discounts
- Real customer experiences
- How it compares to competitors
- Pros and cons
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether The General fits your insurance needs.
Who Is The General?
The General is a specialty auto insurance provider that primarily serves drivers who may struggle to get coverage elsewhere. This includes:
- High-risk drivers (DUIs, speeding tickets, accidents)
- First-time drivers
- Drivers with poor credit
- Those needing SR-22 or FR-44 filings
Founded in 1963, The General has decades of experience in non-standard auto insurance. It’s now part of PGC Holdings Corp, which also owns other insurance brands.
Why Choose The General?
- Fast approvals – Some drivers get insured in under two minutes.
- Flexible payment plans – Pay in installments with no credit check.
- SR-22 & FR-44 filings – Helps drivers regain their licenses after violations.
- Competitive rates for high-risk profiles – Often cheaper than traditional insurers.
The General’s Coverage Options
The General offers standard auto insurance policies along with some unique add-ons. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Liability Insurance (Required in Most States)
- Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others.
- Meets state minimum requirements.
2. Collision & Comprehensive Coverage
- Collision – Pays for damage from accidents.
- Comprehensive – Covers theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.
3. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection
- Protects you if an at-fault driver has no or insufficient insurance.
4. Medical Payments (MedPay) & Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- Covers medical expenses after an accident, regardless of fault.
5. Non-Owner Car Insurance
- For drivers who don’t own a car but need liability coverage.
6. SR-22 & FR-44 Certifications
- Helps high-risk drivers meet legal requirements after violations.
How Much Does The General Cost?
The General’s rates vary based on:
- Driving record (DUIs, accidents, tickets increase premiums)
- Location (urban areas often cost more)
- Vehicle type (luxury cars = higher rates)
- Coverage level (minimum liability vs. full coverage)
Average Monthly Rates
| Driver Profile | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Clean record | 100−100−150 |
| 1 speeding ticket | 120−120−180 |
| 1 DUI | 200−200−300 |
| SR-22 required | 150−150−250 |
Note: These are estimates—actual quotes may vary.
Discounts to Lower Your Premium
- Safe driver discount (for accident-free periods)
- Multi-car discount (insure multiple vehicles)
- Defensive driving course discount (reduces rates for completing a course)
- Paid-in-full discount (save by paying upfront)
The General’s Customer Service & Claims Process
Customer Reviews: What Real Users Say
Pros:
- Quick approvals for high-risk drivers.
- Helpful SR-22 filing process.
- Affordable payment plans.
Cons:
- Some complaints about slow claims processing.
- Higher-than-average complaint ratio (per the NAIC).
How Claims Work
- Report a claim online, via app, or by phone.
- An adjuster reviews the damage.
- Get repairs done at a network shop or your preferred mechanic.
- Receive payment (minus deductible).
Tip: The General’s mobile app makes claims and policy management easier.
The General vs. Competitors
| Provider | Best For | Average Monthly Cost | SR-22 Support? |
|---|---|---|---|
| The General | High-risk drivers | 100−100−300 |  Yes |
| Progressive | Competitive rates | 90−90−250 | Yes |
| State Farm | Good drivers | 80−80−200 | Yes |
| Dairyland | Multiple violations | 120−120−350 | Yes |
The General is best if:
You have a DUI or multiple violations. You need SR-22/FR-44 quickly. You want low down payments.
Consider competitors if: You have a clean record (cheaper options exist). You want faster claims processing.
Final Verdict: Is The General Worth It?
Who Should Get The General?
- High-risk drivers needing quick, affordable coverage.
- Those who require SR-22 or FR-44 filings.
- Drivers with poor credit or limited budgets.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
- Drivers with clean records (better rates at State Farm or Geico).
- Those who prioritize fast claims service.
The Bottom Line
The General fills a crucial gap in the insurance market by offering second-chance coverage for drivers who’ve had setbacks. While it’s not the cheapest or fastest for everyone, it’s a lifeline for high-risk drivers who need reliable, state-compliant insurance.
Want a quote? Visit The General’s website for a fast, no-obligation estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is The General a legitimate insurance company?
Yes, The General is a licensed insurer operating in all 50 states.
2. Does The General offer full coverage?
Yes, including collision, comprehensive, and liability.
3. How fast can I get insured with The General?
Some applicants get coverage in under 2 minutes.
4. Does The General offer roadside assistance?
Yes, as an optional add-on.
5. Can I cancel my policy anytime?
Yes, with no cancellation fees in most cases.
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