AAA and Geico are two of the most popular auto insurance companies in the US. Geico is the second-largest auto insurance company in the country, while AAA is best known for its roadside assistance. When it comes to cost, Geico typically beats AAA's car insurance rates by hundreds of dollars, though this may not be the case for all drivers. For instance, AAA offers cheaper rates than Geico for motorists in Nevada, Arizona, and California. AAA is also cheaper for drivers with an at-fault collision in their past. However, Geico has the cheapest rates overall on average, especially for drivers with very poor credit.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Cheapest Rates | GEICO |
Customer Service | AAA |
Customer Complaints | GEICO has more complaints |
Discounts | GEICO has more discounts, but AAA has more discount opportunities |
Financial Stability | GEICO |
Online Tools | GEICO |
Geographical Coverage | GEICO |
What You'll Learn
- GEICO is cheaper overall, but AAA is cheaper for drivers with an at-fault collision in their history
- AAA is cheaper for drivers with low credit scores
- GEICO offers lower rates for drivers with at-fault accidents or violations
- GEICO has better customer service and satisfaction ratings
- GEICO has a broader variety of coverage options
GEICO is cheaper overall, but AAA is cheaper for drivers with an at-fault collision in their history
GEICO and AAA are two of the most popular auto insurance companies in the US. GEICO is the second-largest auto insurance company in the country, while AAA is best known for its travel services and roadside assistance. When it comes to affordability, GEICO typically offers cheaper rates than AAA. However, there is one notable exception to this trend.
Drivers with an at-fault collision in their history may find that AAA is the more cost-effective option. According to ValuePenguin, drivers with this type of accident claim pay 51% more than a claim-free driver with GEICO, but only 46% more than a claim-free driver with AAA. This makes AAA a more affordable choice for drivers with a less-than-perfect driving record.
In addition to its competitive rates, AAA also shines when it comes to customer service. AAA has significantly fewer customer complaints than GEICO and is known for its excellent roadside assistance program. On the other hand, GEICO stands out for its wide range of coverage options and strong financial stability. GEICO has an A++ financial rating, indicating its superior ability to pay claims.
While GEICO is generally the cheaper option, there are certain scenarios where AAA may offer better value. Drivers with an at-fault collision on their record may benefit from AAA's more forgiving rates, while those who prioritize customer service and additional benefits may also prefer AAA. Ultimately, both companies have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences.
Digital Proof of Auto Insurance: Is Nevada Keeping Up with the Times?
You may want to see also
AAA is cheaper for drivers with low credit scores
When it comes to auto insurance, credit scores are a significant factor in determining rates. A low credit score can increase your insurance premiums, and drivers with poor credit may find themselves paying significantly more for coverage.
In a comparison of AAA and GEICO, it was found that GEICO offered cheaper rates for drivers with poor credit. The average annual cost for a driver with poor credit was $1,676 with GEICO, compared to $3,556 with AAA. This is a substantial difference, with GEICO offering savings of almost $2,000 per year for drivers in this category.
However, it is important to note that credit scores are not the only factor influencing insurance rates. Other factors, such as age, driving record, and location, also play a role in determining insurance premiums. Additionally, each insurance company has its own set of rates and discounts, so it is always a good idea to compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best rate for your specific situation.
While GEICO may offer cheaper rates for drivers with poor credit, AAA could still be a competitive option for drivers with good credit scores and a clean driving record. AAA also offers a variety of discounts, including those for good students, multiple cars on a policy, and anti-theft equipment. Additionally, AAA is known for its excellent customer service, receiving significantly fewer customer complaints than GEICO.
In conclusion, while GEICO may be the cheaper option for drivers with poor credit, AAA could still be a competitive choice for those with good credit and a clean record. It is always advisable to compare quotes and consider multiple factors when choosing an auto insurance provider.
Insurance Payouts: Beyond Policy Limits?
You may want to see also
GEICO offers lower rates for drivers with at-fault accidents or violations
GEICO's rates are also more affordable for drivers with at-fault accidents or violations. The average cost for each company for a driver with a speeding ticket is $4070 from AAA and $1396 from GEICO. For a driver with an at-fault accident claim, the average cost is $4008 from AAA and $1588 from GEICO. For a reckless driving ticket, the average cost is $5531 from AAA and $2236 from GEICO. For a DUI, the average cost is $5536 from AAA and $2553 from GEICO.
While GEICO consistently offers competitive rates, AAA is rarely the most affordable option except for drivers that represent a very low risk. GEICO is a better choice for most drivers in the military, as it offers a 15% discount for military members and veterans, in addition to its deployment discount.
GEICO also offers Accident Forgiveness, which means your insurance rate won't go up as a result of your first otherwise surchargeable, at-fault accident. Subsequent occurrences do not qualify for Accident Forgiveness. Accident Forgiveness eligibility is determined by your specific policy type, as well as your state laws and regulations.
Understanding Subrogation: The Auto Insurance Process Explained
You may want to see also
GEICO has better customer service and satisfaction ratings
When it comes to customer service and satisfaction ratings, GEICO is a clear winner. While both companies have similar J.D. Power customer satisfaction scores, with GEICO scoring slightly higher at 843 out of 1,000 compared to AAA's highest score of 842, GEICO has a significantly higher number of customer complaints. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), GEICO received more than double the average number of complaints, while AAA's rating is almost half the national average.
GEICO's focus on online service and 24/7 customer support also contributes to its strong customer service reputation. Policyholders can easily manage their coverage and payments through the GEICO website or mobile app, which has received positive reviews for its usability and convenience.
In terms of customer reviews, both companies have their fair share of positive and negative feedback. Some GEICO customers praise the company's excellent customer service, fast response times, and helpful representatives. However, others have expressed concerns about long wait times, issues with the app, and challenges with getting accurate quotes.
On the other hand, AAA customers have highlighted both the benefits and drawbacks of their experience. While some appreciate the company's roadside assistance and prompt service, others have complained about long wait times, issues with membership fees and renewals, and unhelpful representatives.
Overall, while both companies have areas for improvement, GEICO's higher J.D. Power score, lower number of customer complaints, and emphasis on online accessibility and convenience give it an edge over AAA when it comes to customer service and satisfaction.
Auto Insurance's Confusing Conundrum: Are Chiropractors Really Doctors?
You may want to see also
GEICO has a broader variety of coverage options
When it comes to auto insurance, GEICO offers a broader variety of coverage options than AAA. GEICO provides auto coverage across the United States, while AAA insurance is only available through specific member clubs in certain states.
GEICO offers four types of additional auto insurance coverage: accident forgiveness, mechanical breakdown insurance, rental reimbursement, and travel reimbursement. On the other hand, AAA offers three types of additional coverage: rental reimbursement, identity theft coverage, and roadside assistance.
GEICO also stands out for its broader range of insurance policies beyond auto insurance. GEICO offers life, home, renters, mobile home, motorcycle, RV, travel trailer, boat, and flood insurance. In comparison, AAA provides life, home, and renter's insurance.
Additionally, GEICO provides unique coverage options such as pet insurance, jewelry insurance, medical malpractice insurance, earthquake insurance, and event insurance.
Both GEICO and AAA offer standard types of car insurance, including liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, medical payments coverage, and personal injury protection coverage. However, GEICO's range of additional coverage options and diverse insurance policies make it a more comprehensive choice for customers seeking broader protection.
Hyundai Lease: Gap Insurance Included?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
GEICO is generally the cheaper option for auto insurance, with lower rates in almost every category and state.
GEICO is the cheaper option in most states. However, in some states, such as California, Nevada, and Arizona, AAA may offer cheaper rates.
GEICO typically offers lower rates for high-risk drivers, including those with at-fault accidents, speeding tickets, reckless driving citations, or DUIs on their record.
GEICO usually has cheaper rates for teen and young drivers. For example, GEICO offers average yearly savings of $6,748 for teen drivers compared to AAA.
Both AAA and GEICO offer a variety of discounts, but AAA may have a slight edge in the number of discount opportunities available.