Organized in the autumn of 1991, 1st Auto was devised to provide the mutuals industry with an agency to secure personal auto insurance plans for those holding policies. The firm itself is a controlled subsidiary of Wisconsin Reinsurance Corporation which was created in 1931 by ten small town mutual insurance companies in Wisconsin to meet the insurance demands of the traditional Midwestern state.
Since its inception, 1st Auto has grown to provide a significant means of insurance for farm, truck, auto, umbrella, and farm/personal liability. Their commitment to offering quality insurance options and stellar customer service has only grown through the years. If you’re looking for auto insurance, here’s what you can expect from 1st Auto.
What Types Of Coverages Are Offered?
At 1st Auto, expect personal car insurance policies that are designed to meet the day-to-day needs of the average driver. They specialize in offering Liability (bodily injury and property), Collision and Comprehensive, in a way that best serves farmers and individuals living in the rural marketplace, as well as those who live in the surrounding cities and small towns. Aside from basic coverage, drivers can also include coverage for the following:
- Classic cars
- Antique cars
- Travel, Recreational and Utility trailers
- Motor Homes
Additionally, 1st Auto also offers separate insurance policies, including:
- Antique muscle car insurance
- Commercial auto insurance
- Classic car insurance
- Motorhome insurance
- Trailer insurance
- Umbrella Coverage
- Farm Truck Insurance
Umbrella Coverage
Every now and then, personal liability protection is not adequate in protecting your automobile. That’s why 1st Auto offers an umbrella program to address those concerns and make sure you’re protected. The umbrella liability policy provides you with an extra layer of coverage for all vehicles, including those used on your farm, or at a seasonal residence. The 1st Auto umbrella policy also boasts personal injury coverage against incidents such as libel or false-arrest.
What Kind Of Discounts Are Available?
What most drivers really want is a policy that protects them without breaking the bank. 1st Auto has always sought to be affordable to those living in rural areas and the surrounding regions. They offer a variety of discounts to help keep monthly premium costs low, without compromising coverage or protection. You can expect the following discounts from 1st Auto:
- Savings for air-bags
- Savings for vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes
- Mature driver rates for those experienced behind the wheel
- Home and auto bundle discount (15% reduction in rate)
- Student away at school discount
- Safe driving discount
When applying for a policy, each of these factors will be considered in determining your policy price. Other factors that determine price include your geographic location, driving record, age, and credit score.
Is 1st Auto Highly Rated?
1st Auto is not currently rated with J.D. Power. As the company continues to grow in an evolving field, more and more focus will be placed on furthering customer satisfaction to keep pace with bigger national car insurance brands.
While 1st Auto may not be ranked by J.D. Power and Associates, they do have a rating with A.M. Best regarding financial strength. Recently, A.M. Best upgraded the financial strength of the company to B++ (Good) from B+ (Good). They also received an issuer credit rating upgrade up to “bbb” from a lower-ranking of “bbb.” This action is based on 1st Auto recently becoming a member of the rating unit.
What Do Customers Say?
Most customers find 1st Auto to be highly affordable, which ranks highly in reasons why most drivers choose to sign up with this smaller company, to begin with. Others were pleased with how easy and simple the claims process can be. One user cited having to file a claim on a storm-damaged camper, dreading the process, only to be met with friendly agents who were ready and willing to help without any hassles. At the end of the day, most customers appreciate being treated like people, not just another number. Something 1st Auto excels at, even as many in the industry flounder.
Of course, you do get what you pay for. While 1st Auto may offer cheaper premiums, their customer service isn’t always top-notch. Some customers report non-existent customer service and long wait times. Others complained that 1st Auto isn’t keen on paying out what policyholders are owed, making it difficult to get necessary repairs without having to fork over a bit of dough out-of-pocket. While weighing your options, keep the below things in mind.
Summary Of Pros
- Local agents
- Affordable policy options
- Traditional business hours
- Transparent pricing
- Easy to navigate website
- Online bill pay
- Options for those who dwell in rural areas
Summary Of Cons
- Smaller infrastructure than larger brands
- Long call wait times
- Fewer driving discounts
- No rewards for customer loyalty
At the end of the day, it is important to choose a car insurance provider who checks every box and brings peace of mind. Bonus points if premiums are well within budget. 1st Auto and Casualty has plenty of options for those who find the right coverage option for their car or farm!