Root and GasBuddy join up; new telematics course for agents: Insurtech roundup

Root partners with GasBuddy

Usage-based auto insurance insurtech Root has announced a partnership with GasBuddy that will marry the former's trip data with the latter's focus on fuel efficiency. Root provided a trip-tracking software development kit that GasBuddy integrated for the “Drives powered by Root” program. This opt-in program provides notifications on their driving behavior along with tips to improve their gas mileage and lower their driving risk profile. Customers can opt to insurance quotes from Root Insurance Company based on their data.

Cambridge offers certification for agents

Telematics insurtech vendor Cambridge Mobile Telematics is launching a continuing education course for insurance agents that familiarizes them with UBI and telematics. The “Personal Loss Control: How Telematics is Reducing Losses” course gives agents the opportunity to earn hours toward their license renewal, providing one to three credit hours towards license renewal upon completion, depending on the state where the agent holds their license. The course has been accepted in 48 states and Washington D.C., and is pending approval in Massachusetts and Hawaii. Cambridge says its internal research has found about nine in 10 policyholders are interested in learning about UBI, but only about four in 10 have been offered it -- because of a lack of knowledge among agents.

Guidewire adds Hi Marley to Solution Alliance

Hi Marley has joined Guidewire PartnerConnect as a Solution partner. The company provides an AI-enabled texting platform with insurance-specific functionality for claims adjusters. Hi Marley’s Ready for Guidewire integration will enable insurers to integrate it directly into ClaimCenter. Becky Mattick, vice president, Global Solution Alliances, Guidewire, says, “Their platform will provide our joint customers with a seamless and modern communication channel to meet the changing needs of adjusters and the customers they serve.”