Bristol West Insurance Review for 2025

This Bristol West insurance review shows $62 per month for high-risk drivers who need liability and SR-22 coverage. Bristol West makes it easy to file SR-22 or FR-44 forms with help from local agents. You can also lower your Bristol West insurance quote with good-driver, safe-driver, or multi-policy discounts.

UPDATED: Sep 19, 2025Fact Checked

Kalyn Johnson

Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster

Kalyn grew up in an insurance family with a grandfather, aunt, and uncle leading successful careers as insurance agents. She soon found she has similar interests and followed in their footsteps. After spending about ten years working in the insurance industry as both an appraiser dispatcher and a senior property claims adjuster, she decided to combine her years of insurance experience with another...

Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster

Brad Larson

Licensed Insurance Agent

Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...

Licensed Insurance Agent

UPDATED: Sep 19, 2025

Advertiser Disclosure

It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right legal decisions.

We strive to help you make confident insurance and legal decisions. Finding trusted and reliable insurance quotes should be easy. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.

Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything legal and insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by experts.

UPDATED: Sep 19, 2025Fact Checked

Free Car Insurance Comparison

Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Bristol West

Auto Min. Coverage Monthly Rate

$62

A.M. Best Rating:

A

Complaint Level:

Low

Pros

  • Medical care coverage up to $10,000
  • 24/7 online claims filing
  • Affordable high-risk premiums

Cons

  • Policy info not available online
  • Not ideal for low-risk drivers

This Bristol West insurance review helps high-risk drivers understand how FR-44 and SR-22 auto insurance keep them on the road after violations. Rates begin at $62 per month, and drivers save 10% with electronic payments. Auto policies also include accident forgiveness, so a first at-fault accident doesn’t lead to a steep jump in premiums.

Bristol West Insurance Rating
Rating Criteria
Overall Score3.5
Business Reviews4.0
Claim Processing3.4
Company Reputation4.0
Coverage Availability4.1
Coverage Value3.3
Customer Satisfaction1.1
Digital Experience3.5
Discounts Available4.7
Insurance Cost3.7
Plan Personalization4.0
Policy Options2.2
Savings Potential4.0
Compare RatesStart Now →

Bristol West, a Farmers Insurance Company, holds an A rating from A.M. Best, ensuring reliable financial strength. Local agents simplify filing requirements, while roadside assistance provides fast help during breakdowns, giving drivers support and peace of mind on the road.

Quick Overview

  • Bristol West supports high-risk drivers with SR-22 and FR-44 filing help
  • Accident forgiveness helps reduce premium spikes after a first claim
  • Local agents provide guidance that simplifies complex insurance processes

Start with the auto insurance guide to understand coverage choices, then use our free comparison tool to see which company offers the best price for you.

Bristol West Insurance Cost Breakdown

The average cost of Bristol West auto insurance can change over time, and it really depends on your age and driving experience. Younger drivers usually get stuck with the highest bills since they’re seen as higher risk, but as you gain experience and keep a clean record, your rates typically start to drop.

For families shopping for auto insurance for teens, paying more than $300 a month can be a real strain. Rates usually start to ease in your twenties as insurers see you as less risky, though they’re still on the higher side. By your 30s, if you’ve kept a clean record, bills often dip below $100.

Seniors often get the lowest rates, though men and women can still see small differences. Most Bristol West auto insurance reviews show that staying safe on the road and keeping a clean record really lowers rates.

Comparing Bristol West Auto Insurance Rates by Coverage

Bristol West lands somewhere in the middle when stacked against other insurers. On average, minimum coverage is about $72 a month, and full coverage is around $185 monthly. That puts it above low-cost choices like Geico or USAA, but still a little less than what you’d pay with Farmers or Allstate.

That’s because Bristol West mainly specializes in auto insurance for high-risk drivers, people who need SR-22 or FR-44 filings, and drivers with a history of violations. Since those drivers are seen as riskier to insure, the rates are a bit higher.

Bristol West vs. Competitors: Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Coverage Level
Insurance CompanyMinimum CoverageFull Coverage
Allstate TablePress Logo$87$228
American Family TablePress Logo$62$166
$72$185
Farmers Tablepress Logo$76$198
Geico TablePress Logo$43$114
Nationwide Tablepress Logo$63$164
Progressive TablePress Logo$50$150
State Farm TablePress Logo$47$123
Travelers TablePress Logo$53$141
USAA TablePress Logo$32$84
Compare RatesStart Now →

Bristol West auto insurance fills an important gap by offering coverage where many companies say no. The company also includes extras like accident forgiveness and roadside assistance, so while it may not be the cheapest option for drivers with clean records, it’s a reliable choice for high-risk drivers who need steady coverage and support.

Comparing Bristol West Auto Insurance Rates Driving Record

Bristol West Insurance Company tends to be more expensive than many of its competitors when driving records take a hit. With a clean record, it’s already higher than budget-friendly companies like Geico or USAA, and after an accident or DUI, the gap widens.

For example, Progressive and State Farm — often counted among the best car insurance companies — keep rate increases modest, while Bristol West jumps more sharply, which can make it tough for drivers with violations to keep premiums affordable.

Bristol West vs. Competitors: Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Driving Record
Insurance CompanyClean RecordOne AccidentOne DUIOne Ticket
Allstate TablePress Logo$87$124$152$103
American Family TablePress Logo$62$94$104$73
$72$108$138$92
Farmers Tablepress Logo$76$109$105$95
Geico TablePress Logo$43$71$117$56
Nationwide Tablepress Logo$63$75$129$75
Progressive TablePress Logo$50$98$75$74
State Farm TablePress Logo$47$57$65$53
Travelers TablePress Logo$53$76$112$72
USAA TablePress Logo$32$42$58$36
Compare RatesStart Now →

The reason comes down to its focus on auto insurance for high-risk drivers. It’s willing to write policies for people with serious infractions when some insurers won’t, but that willingness often comes at a higher cost, especially if you’ve been in an accident before.

In short, Bristol West may not win on price, but it fills a niche for drivers who need coverage after accidents, DUIs, or tickets and can’t easily find it elsewhere. Learn more about what to do if you can’t afford your auto insurance after an accident, infraction, or claim.

Enter your zip code below to view companies that have cheap insurance rates.

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Understanding Bristol West High-Risk Insurance Coverage

Bristol West sets itself apart by specializing in SR-22 insurance and coverage for high-risk drivers. If you’ve had a DUI, several tickets, or a lapse in coverage, they can handle the SR-22 or FR-44 filing your state may require, which makes it easier to stay legal and insured when other companies might turn you away.

SR-22 Insurance Definition Card: Bristol West Insurance Review

Along with that focus, Bristol West still offers the basics: liability to cover injuries or property damage you cause, collision for repairs after an accident, and comprehensive for things like theft, vandalism, or storm damage.

Unlike standard insurers, Bristol West focuses on high-risk drivers with violations or lapses in coverage who need proof of insurance filings.

Michelle Robbins Licensed Insurance Agent

You can also add extras such as medical payments, uninsured motorist protection, roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, and even rideshare coverage if you drive for Uber or Lyft.

Keep in mind, Bristol West only sells auto insurance. If you’re shopping for home or life insurance, you’ll need to go through its parent company, Farmers, where you can find broader options. Compare details in a Farmers Insurance review.

How to Save on Bristol West Insurance

Saving on car insurance with Bristol West isn’t only about stacking discounts. There are plenty of clever tips to pay less for car insurance, and most of them come down to how you manage your policy and your driving habits. Even little tweaks can make a big difference in what you pay each month.

  • Raise Your Deductible: Choosing a $1,000 deductible instead of $500 can knock about 10% off your premium, but it does mean paying more upfront if you ever file a claim.
  • Reconsider Full Coverage: If your car’s value has dropped below $3,000, it might not make sense to keep collision or comprehensive since the payout may be less than what you spend on premiums.
  • Keep Mileage Updated: Driving less than 7,500 miles a year could put you in a lower-risk group, so let Bristol West know if your routine has changed.
  • Cut Unnecessary Extras: If you already have a backup car, you probably don’t need rental reimbursement, and removing it can trim your bill without hurting your coverage.
  • Take a Defensive Driving Course: Taking a state-approved driving course can reduce or eliminate those extra charges from past violations, which is especially helpful if you’re seen as a high-risk driver.

These tips offer an easy way to cut costs without relying solely on discounts. Regularly checking your policy, comparing quotes at renewal, and reaching out to Bristol West insurance customer service can help make sure you’re always getting the best rate possible.

Bristol West Insurance Discounts That Lower Rates

Bristol West car insurance discounts make it easier to save on your auto insurance with a handful of programs that reward safe habits, bundled policies, and wise choices. How much you save really depends on your state and driving record, so the easiest way to know for sure is to check with an agent and see what discounts apply.

  • Multi-Policy Discount: Bundling your auto policy with homeowners or renters insurance can lower your overall premiums. While exact savings aren’t listed, bundling often delivers some of the biggest discounts available to policyholders.
  • Anti-Theft Device Discount: Cars with approved security systems, like LoJack or similar tracking devices, may qualify for lower rates. A more secure car means less risk for the insurer, which can translate into savings.
  • Mature Driver Discount: If you’re 55 or older and take a DMV-approved safe driving course, you could get a break on your premium as long as you keep your record clean. It’s an easy way for older drivers to save.
  • Good Driver Discount: This discount is available for drivers who maintain a record free from accidents or serious violations for a specified period. While the percentage isn’t listed, safe driving almost always pays off in noticeable savings.
  • Non-Owner Discount: If you don’t own a car but still need liability coverage for occasional driving, this discount helps lower your premium. It’s beneficial for people who frequently borrow cars or rent vehicles.

While Bristol West doesn’t publish exact percentages for these programs, stacking a few of them together, including options like low-mileage auto insurance discounts, can lead to meaningful savings. The best way to confirm your eligibility and apply these discounts is to speak directly with an agent using the Bristol West insurance phone number.

Bristol West Insurance Ratings & Consumer Reviews

Bristol West customer service, along with complaint levels and financial strength, provides a clear picture of how the company measures up when you’re deciding on an insurer.

These ratings go beyond numbers; they give you a feel for what to expect when it comes to billing, claims, and overall reliability. For drivers, the real challenge is striking a balance between keeping costs low and feeling confident the company will be there when needed.

Bristol West Insurance Business Ratings & Consumer Reviews
Agency
J.D. Power: LM General Car Insurance ReviewScore: 808 / 1,000
Below Avg. Satisfaction
BBB: LM General Car Insurance ReviewScore: A-
Good Business Practices
Consumer Reports: LM General Car Insurance ReviewScore: 75/100
Mixed Customer Feedback
NAIC: LM General Car Insurance ReviewScore: 2.25
More Complaints Than Avg.
A.M. Best: LM General Car Insurance ReviewScore: A
Excellent Financial Strength
Compare RatesStart Now →

J.D. Power scores Bristol West at 808 out of 1,000, a bit below the industry average, which may point to slower service or uneven claims support. Looking at Bristol West insurance reviews on BBB, the A- rating is more encouraging, showing that while problems do come up, the company usually works to resolve them fairly.

Bristol West insurance reviews on consumer reports place it at 75 out of 100, reflecting mixed experiences that can vary depending on location or policy type.

Shoppers should weigh the NAIC complaint index alongside financial ratings to get the full picture of an insurer’s reliability.

Melanie Musson Published Insurance Expert

The NAIC index comes in at 2.25, over twice the typical complaint level, which points to a higher chance of service frustrations. A.M. Best rates Bristol West an A for financial strength, showing it can meet promises and reliably pay claims.

Bristol West insurance reviews on Reddit add even more perspective to these mixed ratings. One user mentioned that Bristol West quoted them nearly $200 less than other insurers, but the number of negative reviews online made them question if saving money was worth the risk.

Comment
byu/hugletters from discussion
inInsurance

It’s a reminder that while chasing the cheapest car insurance can be tempting, service quality and trust often carry just as much weight when choosing a company.

This is a real review that shows how drivers weigh cost against reliability, reinforcing why both customer feedback and industry ratings matter before making a decision.

Enter your zip code below to view companies that have cheap insurance rates.

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Pros and Cons of Bristol West Insurance

Bristol West has carved out its place by focusing on drivers who may not qualify with bigger insurance companies. If you’ve had a lapse in coverage, accidents, or need filings like an SR-22 auto insurance, this insurer is often willing to take you on when others won’t.

And because it’s part of the Farmers Insurance Group, there’s some extra peace of mind knowing the company has solid financial backing.

  • Broad State Availability: Bristol West is available in more than 40 states, giving high-risk drivers better access to policies than most smaller specialty insurers.
  • Commercial Auto Options: The company goes beyond personal auto coverage and offers small commercial auto insurance, which is especially helpful for contractors or gig workers using their cars for business.
  • Backed by Farmers: With the strength of Farmers Insurance behind it, including an A (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, policyholders know strong financial reserves back their claims.

These are the kdvantages that make Bristol West stand out for people who need coverage that traditional carriers often turn away.

  • Limited Discounts: Compared to larger insurers that roll out 10 or more savings opportunities, Bristol West’s discount selection is much smaller, which means fewer ways to trim high premiums.
  • Mixed Customer Reviews: Consumer Reports gives the company a 75 out of 100, indicating that service quality varies significantly depending on the state and agent you work with.

While it’s a reliable option for high-risk drivers, Bristol West may not always be the most budget-friendly choice. Some shoppers may wish for more savings opportunities, making it even more important to compare rates and request a Bristol West insurance quote before deciding.

Why Bristol West Auto Insurance May Be Right for You

Bristol West Insurance Group has been around since 1973 and now offers coverage in 42 states. It’s built to help high-risk drivers, including individuals who may require an SR-22, have a history of violations, or have been declined elsewhere. That focus makes it a realistic option when other companies won’t write a policy.

What really makes Bristol West different is its reach. While many nonstandard insurers are limited to just a few states, Bristol West has a nationwide presence and the financial backing of Farmers, which has held an A rating from A.M. Best for years. That kind of stability can give drivers more peace of mind.

The Bristol West mobile app also makes things easier, letting you pay bills, pull up digital ID cards, and check claims right from your phone. Its mix of high-risk expertise, strong financial support, and simple policy tools makes Bristol West stand out from many competitors.

Even so, it pays to shop around. Comparing multiple car insurance companies online, using a free quote tool, and taking the time to get multiple auto insurance quotes is the best way to see if Bristol West fits your budget or if another carrier can offer a better deal.

Your Opinion Matters!

Rate your insurance provider and provide share feedback with shoppers just like you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bristol West legitimate?

Yes, Bristol West is a legitimate insurer. Founded in 1973 and operating in 42 states, it specializes in high-risk drivers and is backed by Farmers Insurance, which provides excellent financial stability.

What is the average cost of Bristol West car insurance?

The average cost of Bristol West auto insurance is about $62 per month for minimum coverage and around $166 per month for full coverage, depending on location and driving history.

Is Bristol West a high-risk insurance company?

Yes, Bristol West primarily serves high-risk drivers. It accepts drivers with DUIs, multiple violations, poor credit, or SR-22/FR-44 filing requirements when many insurers decline coverage, while still offering options like comprehensive auto insurance for added protection.

Is Bristol West Insurance good at paying claims?

Bristol West has an A (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, confirming financial strength to pay claims, and its parent company, Farmers, receives above-average claims satisfaction ratings from J.D. Power.

Can I cancel my Bristol West policy anytime?

Yes, Bristol West insurance policies can be canceled at any time. To avoid delays, cancellations must be submitted through a Bristol West agent or customer service representative.

Does Progressive own Bristol West?

No, Progressive does not own Bristol West. Farmers Insurance has owned Bristol West since 2007, allowing it to expand coverage for nonstandard and high-risk drivers.  Check out our Progressive insurance review for a more in-depth comparison.

Is Bristol West cheaper than Progressive?

Progressive is often cheaper for standard drivers, with minimum coverage averaging $50 per month compared to Bristol West’s $62 monthly rate. However, Bristol West may be more affordable for high-risk drivers who need SR-22 filings.

Does Bristol West have a cancellation fee?

Yes, Bristol West usually charges a cancellation fee, often around 10% of the remaining premium. Some states regulate or limit this fee, so amounts vary.

Are Farmers and Bristol West the same company?

Bristol West is part of Farmers Insurance. Farmers brings the financial strength, while Bristol West focuses on helping high-risk drivers get the auto coverage they need.

How can I lower my insurance rate with Bristol West?

Drivers can reduce their Bristol West premiums by enrolling in electronic payments for up to 10% savings, lowering annual mileage, keeping a violation-free record, and dropping collision auto insurance coverage on cars worth less than $3,000.

How reliable is Bristol West Insurance Company?

Bristol West Insurance Group is financially reliable with an A.M. Best A rating, but customer reviews show mixed experiences. NAIC data shows a 2.25 complaint index, which is more than double the industry average.

What states does Bristol West cover?

Bristol West offers coverage in about 42 states, including Florida, Texas, and California. Availability varies, and policies are not offered in every state. Enter your ZIP code to find affordable insurance near you.

What discounts does Bristol West offer?

Bristol West provides savings through multi-policy bundling, anti-theft devices, good driver programs, mature driver courses, and electronic payment discounts of about 10%. Drivers can also benefit from anti-theft auto insurance discounts, and low-mileage drivers may qualify for additional reductions.

Kalyn Johnson

Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster

Kalyn grew up in an insurance family with a grandfather, aunt, and uncle leading successful careers as insurance agents. She soon found she has similar interests and followed in their footsteps. After spending about ten years working in the insurance industry as both an appraiser dispatcher and a senior property claims adjuster, she decided to combine her years of insurance experience with another...

Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster

Brad Larson

Licensed Insurance Agent

Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...

Licensed Insurance Agent

Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything legal and insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by experts.

Free Insurance Quote Comparison

Enter your zip code below to view companies that have cheap insurance rates.

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

<h3>Bristol West Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Age & Gender</h3>