Is general auto insurance legitimate?

[LeJulia]

Yes, The General Auto Insurance is a legitimate and fully licensed insurance carrier operating across the United States. Owned by American Family Insurance, a major industry group, it is regulated by state insurance departments and holds strong financial stability ratings, including an A- (Excellent) rating from AM Best. This indicates a strong ability to pay customer claims. The company is licensed to sell policies in 47 states and Washington, D.C., specializing in coverage for higher-risk drivers, which often results in premiums 25% to 50% higher than the national average for standard drivers.

Aspect	Detail	Implication for Legitimacy
Parent Company	American Family Insurance	Backed by a large, reputable insurance group.
AM Best Rating	A- (Excellent)	Independent assessment of strong financial health.
State Licenses	47 states & D.C.	Legal authorization to operate and sell insurance.
NAIC Number	17426	Unique identifier in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners database.
Market Niche	Non-standard, high-risk drivers	Legitimate business model serving a specific segment.

Its legitimacy is further evidenced by its long-standing market presence and compliance with all state-mandated coverage requirements. Customer reviews on platforms like WalletHub and the Better Business Bureau present a mixed but real-world picture: many customers appreciate the accessibility for those with DUIs, accidents, or lapses in coverage, while common criticisms center on higher premium costs and variable claims service experiences. This feedback pattern is typical for insurers specializing in non-standard risks.

For a driver with a clean record, The General will likely be a more expensive option compared to giants like State Farm or GEICO. However, its legitimate role is to provide a crucial service for drivers who may have few other options. When obtaining a quote, it's essential to compare it with other non-standard carriers like Dairyland or Infinity to ensure you are getting the most competitive rate for your specific risk profile.

[StTessa]

I needed insurance fast after my DUI. Other companies either denied me or quoted insane prices. The General gave me a policy same day. Yeah, I’m paying about $40 more a month than my old rate, but I’m legally covered to drive. The process was straightforward on their website. For someone in my situation, they were a real, workable solution. You just have to go in knowing you’re paying for the higher risk.

[Heidi]

Let’s break down what “legitimate” really means here. Financially, they’re sound, with a solid rating from AM Best. That’s a key indicator—it means they have the money to pay out if you have a claim. Legally, they’re licensed in almost every state. Their business model is specifically geared toward drivers with past issues: tickets, accidents, or no prior insurance. Because these drivers file more claims on average, the premiums are structurally higher. So while their costs are above average, that’s a function of their risk pool, not a scam. It’s a specialized, legitimate service for a niche market.

[Ruby]

My brother used them for a couple of years after a few at-fault accidents. He always said, “They’re the real deal, but you pay for it.” He never had trouble with his ID cards or proof of insurance. When he finally cleaned up his record and shopped around, he switched to a cheaper company. The General served its purpose for him during that rough patch. It’s like a financial lifeline—not the cheapest, but it keeps you on the road legally when your options are limited.

[DeJaxon]

As someone who recently shopped for insurance with a less-than-perfect record, I can confirm The General is a legitimate option. I got quotes from three companies that serve high-risk drivers. The General’s quote was in the middle, not the highest or lowest. Their website clearly shows they’re part of American Family Insurance, which added to my trust. Customer reviews I read were polarized—some praised easy setup, others complained about claims handling. This mix seems genuine for this industry segment. My takeaway? They are a bona fide company, but they are a premium-priced solution for a specific need. Always compare their quote with at least two other non-standard insurers before deciding.