Earlier this month, State Farm announced it is rolling out enhanced accident response technology across Illinois and Florida.

The company’s revamped app offers real-time accident detection, automatic emergency service requests, and streamlined claims filing to assist in reducing response times.

A recent study from State Farm reveals that 65 percent of drivers believe it’s safe to look away from the road for two seconds or longer, while research proves that accident risk doubles at that rate.

The combination of distracted driving and severe weather risk increases the likelihood of an accident.

The new app features aim to close the gap between “unpredictable road conditions” and traditional accident response systems.

“Driving-related risks are constantly changing, presenting greater challenges for drivers,” said Jeff Legner, vice president of Property & Casualty Claims at State Farm. “We’re committed to providing a mobile app with innovative solutions and robust support options to complement our agents and ensure we are there when our customers need us most.”

The enhanced Accident Assistance program automatically detects when an accident occurs and can:

• Initiate contact with emergency services for detected severe accidents if the driver is unresponsive.
• Pinpoint exact accident locations using GPS technology.
• Begin claims processing once a service tow is requested; drivers can also file a claim within the app.
• Connect drivers with available roadside services for non-emergency situations.

Users must consent to data and location sharing, as well as the use of their smartphone’s sensors to detect movement forces that indicate an accident. State Farm addresses privacy concerns through what it describes as encrypted data handling and user-controlled phone permission settings. In addition, eligible customers can voluntarily enroll and un-enroll at any time in the State Farm app.

The insurer plans broader rollouts pending pilot evaluation.

Accident Assistance will soon be available to all State Farm auto policyholders, regardless of enrollment in the Drive Safe & Save program.

The move signals a broader shift in how insurance companies are adapting to modern driving risks, according to State Farm, which has 85 million policies nationwide.