USAA launches crash detection tech with SafePilot app

USAA announced the introduction of an auto crash detection technology, implemented into its SafePilot app, to detect possible accidents and assist drivers in case of a collision. As one of the first auto insurance carriers to do so, USAA launches the innovative technology to accelerate the claims process and simplify the customer's experience in handling an auto accident. 

SafePilot is a behavior-based insurance plan that rewards drivers for safe driving behaviors with policy discounts. Embedded into the SafePilot app, the crash detection technology uses sensors to detect a potential crash and notifies the user to verify whether or not a collision has occurred. In the event of an accident, the user will receive information, resources, and safety advice from the app, including the option to call 911 for help and the ability to submit a claim through a simplified in-app process. 

"Leveraging telematics data in the claim process not only helps USAA provide near-real-time advice on what to do immediately following an accident, but also helps our members initiate the claim process faster and more seamlessly. The traditional claim process can be highly manual and involves a series of questions and answers to properly investigate the claim," Luke Harris, USAA's Vice President of Innovation, writes to Digital Insurance. "The availability of telematics data provides insights into accidents that can help reduce the number of questions and time involved in investigating the event, which allows our claims team to focus their time on addressing our members' specific needs and streamlining the process of getting them back on the road."

USAA reports that the SafePilot app has prompted users with over 36,000 collision notifications since its launch in November 2021. 

The volume and cost of auto claims increased in 2021 nationwide; USAA alone handled 500,000 more claims in the previous year than in 2020, as more Covid-19 restrictions were lifted and more cars were on the road. There has also been an increase in the severity of accidents, and, coupled with inflation and supply chain issues, the cost of repairs and claim payouts as well. USAA saw an increase of 38% for repair costs over 2020 and anticipates an additional 30% rise this year. 

Included in USAA's telematics program is a pay-as-you-drive offering that determines policy rates based on safe driving habits. 

"Ultimately, this comes down to making sure our members are safe and helping them get back on their feet faster," said Harris in a press release statement. "We're constantly looking for innovative ways to make our members' lives easier, something that USAA has been focused on for over 100 years. By using telematics and crash detection technology, we can provide a more seamless member experience and faster resolution to claims."