Nationwide car insurance review

4.0 / 5 editorial rating

By the Five Star Insurance Reviews editorial team · Updated October 13, 2026

Quick take

Best for: Drivers interested in accident forgiveness
Stands out: Accident forgiveness may be offered (eligibility varies)
Keep in mind: Availability of features differs by state

General overview based on published features. Coverage, discounts and availability vary by state; confirm details with Nationwide. How we rate

At a glance

Sold through	Independent agents, online quotes or by phone
Where available	46 states and DC (not Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana or Massachusetts)
AM Best rating	A+ or A (sources differ)
Usage-based program	SmartRide, and SmartMiles pay-per-mile
Also worth knowing	Accident forgiveness available

Details verified October 2026 from carrier websites, AM Best and published reviews. AM Best ratings and state availability can change, so confirm with the carrier and at ambest.com.

What it does well

Accident forgiveness may be offered (eligibility varies)
Flexible policy customization

Watch out for

Availability of features differs by state

Who it may suit

Nationwide tends to suit drivers interested in accident forgiveness.
Look at other carriers too if this worries you: availability of features differs by state.

Before you buy: check these

Financial strength: Look up the insurer’s financial strength rating from agencies such as AM Best. It shows how likely the company is to pay claims.
Complaint history: Search your state department of insurance and the NAIC consumer insurance search for complaints about the company.
Claims and service: Read recent customer surveys, such as J.D. Power studies, and independent reviews, and ask people who have filed claims.
Coverage details: Compare the same limits and deductibles on every quote, and ask which discounts are applied.

Questions to ask before you buy

Which coverages and limits are included, and which are optional add-ons?
What deductible applies to collision and comprehensive?
Which discounts am I getting, and which could I still qualify for?
How does the price change at renewal, and what could raise it?
How do I file and track a claim?

Compare Nationwide and other quotes

Keep comparing

FAQs

Is Nationwide a good fit for me?

Nationwide tends to suit drivers interested in accident forgiveness. Your quote depends on your own profile, so compare at least three carriers before you decide.

Does Nationwide have the cheapest rates?

No carrier is cheapest for everyone. Rates vary by driver, vehicle and location, so the only way to know is to compare quotes.

How do I get a Nationwide quote?

You can request quotes from several carriers at once through our partner, or visit Nationwide’s own website.

Where is Nationwide available?

46 states and DC (not Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana or Massachusetts). Availability can change, so confirm with the carrier.

How can I check Nationwide’s financial strength and complaints?

Look up financial strength ratings from agencies such as AM Best, and search complaint history through your state department of insurance and the NAIC consumer insurance search. Do this before you buy.