Farmers Insurance Group, the nation's third-largest personal lines and homeowners insurance company, has completed its $713.5 million buy-out of Bristol West Holdings Inc.

Both Los Angeles-based Farmers and Bristol West Insurance Group, which is based in Davie, Fla., specialize in selling non-standard auto insurance, one of the fastest-growing lines in the United States.

This type of insurance coverage is provided for consumers with either below-average driving records, people who drive unusual vehicles or those who purchase short-term or limited auto coverage policies.

Farmers CEO Paul N. Hopkins says adding Bristol West's non-standard auto insurance business to the company's product lines will benefit the entire organization and, ultimately, customers.

Farmers sells automotive, homeowners and property and casualty insurance products in 41 states. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Zurich Financial Services Group.

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