New app grades users’ driving skills to determine if they could benefit from UBI programs

Calling it a first in Canada, KANETIX reports a free DriveSmart app by KANETIX.ca will help drivers gauge if they would benefit from usage-based insurance (UBI) programs and perhaps save money on their car insurance.

UBI programs collect data from a device typically installed in a driver’s vehicle to provide safe drivers with auto insurance discounts of as much as 25%, notes a statement Wednesday from KANETIX, Canada’s first online insurance marketplace

Available for download through the Apple and Android app stores, the new app will score a user’s driving on several key components – acceleration, braking and handling – considered in a UBI program and inform the person if he or she could qualify for auto insurance discounts.

The app also takes into consideration speed, time of day and trip duration, which is then factored into the driver’s overall score. Drivers will be given a score for each component, plus tips for improvement if necessary, KANETIX reports.

The overall score will provide insight on whether or not joining a UBI program could help them lower the individual’s car insurance premiums.

After downloading the app to a smartphone, it runs in the background and automatically detects when the user starts driving, KANETIX explains. There is no need to start or stop the app, whose features include hands-free automatic trip start and finish detection; a progression graph that shows how a user’s scores have evolved; and customizable timeframes to view such factors as scores, distance driven and average speed.

“The app will grade your driving skills similar to how car insurance companies measure drivers for UBI discounts,” says Andrew Lo, chief marketing officer at KANETIX. “This will give drivers a sense for how their driving skills stack up, and a chance to improve their skills to maximize their savings,” Lo continues.

A recent KANETIX survey showed only 18% of polled Canadians were aware of UBI, but 62% were willing to use the approach if it meant saving on auto insurance. In addition, 69% of respondents reported that they would drive more safely if they knew their driving was being monitored.