Auto Insurance: Best Affiliated Options For You

When it comes to auto insurance, there are a variety of companies to choose from, each offering different rates, coverage options, and discounts. The best auto insurance company for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Some factors to consider when choosing an auto insurance company include the cost of premiums, the availability of coverage in your state, the company's customer service and claims handling reputation, and the range of discounts offered. It is also worth considering the financial strength of the company and whether they have received many customer complaints. By comparing quotes and reviews from different insurers, you can find the best auto insurance policy that suits your specific needs and budget.

Discounts and add-ons

Driver-based discounts

These discounts are based on a driver's characteristics, such as age, profession, or membership in an affiliated group. Young drivers, for instance, may be eligible for a discount if they complete a safe driving course or enrol in a telematics program. Students who maintain good grades (usually a B average or higher) can also get a discount, as can members of the military and certain professions, such as education or healthcare.

Driving-based discounts

Safe drivers with a clean record—no accidents, violations, or claims—often qualify for a discount. The definition of a "safe driver" varies among insurance companies, but it generally means having no incidents for three to five years. Defensive driving courses may also help you save on insurance, although sometimes these are restricted to older drivers. Low-mileage drivers may also be eligible for a discount, as driving less means a lower risk of accidents.

Vehicle-based discounts

Safety features and anti-theft devices in your car can lead to significant discounts. Airbags, anti-lock brakes, and daytime running lights are some of the safety features that might be eligible for a discount. Anti-theft devices, such as alarms or tracking systems, are also favoured by insurance companies as they reduce the risk of theft, which is costly for insurers. Newer vehicles (usually three model years old or newer) may also qualify for a discount.

Loyalty-based discounts

Insurance companies often reward customer loyalty with discounts. This could be for long-time customers or those who insure multiple vehicles or policies (e.g. home and auto) with the same company.

Other discounts

There are even more ways to save on car insurance. You might get a discount for being a new policyholder, for being married, or for being a homeowner. Paperless billing, automatic billing, and paying your premium in full can also lead to small discounts.

It's always a good idea to ask your insurance agent about what discounts you might be eligible for, as not all discounts are automatic. Shopping around and comparing rates is also important, as the amount and type of discounts vary between insurance companies.

Customer service

GEICO offers a range of customer services to help with any queries or issues relating to its insurance policies. The GEICO website provides a range of online tools to help customers manage their policies, including the GEICO Mobile App, which has received positive reviews for its functionality. The GEICO website also features a virtual assistant, which can be used to access customer support.

Customers can also call GEICO's customer service number, 1-800-207-7847, or email the company at geico.com/contact-us/email. The company's local insurance agents are also available in person or over the phone to answer any questions.

GEICO's customer service team can help with a range of issues, including updating an auto insurance policy, filing a claim, or answering general questions about insurance policies. The company also offers support for customers who need to make changes to their travel, overseas, or jewelry insurance policies.

In addition to its customer service team, GEICO also provides helpful resources on its website, such as articles and tips on driving and safety. The website also offers a range of online tools to help customers manage their policies, including accessing their policy information, making changes to their coverage, and filing claims.

GEICO's commitment to customer service is reflected in its high customer satisfaction ratings. In an independent study conducted by Alan Newman Research in 2023, GEICO received a 97% Customer Satisfaction rating. The company's focus on customer service is also evident in its efforts to continuously improve and simplify the car insurance process for its customers.

Coverage options

When it comes to auto insurance, there are a variety of coverage options to choose from. The type of coverage you need will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Here are some of the most common types of coverage:

• Liability coverage: This is required in most states and covers property damage and bodily injury if you are found responsible for a collision.
• Collision coverage: This covers repairs to your vehicle if you're in a collision with another object, such as a mailbox or a house.
• Comprehensive coverage: This protects your vehicle from damage caused by non-collision incidents, such as theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
• Personal injury protection: This covers your medical expenses and lost income after an accident.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: This kicks in if you are in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or insufficient coverage.

In addition to these basic types of coverage, many auto insurance companies offer a range of optional add-ons and endorsements. These can include:

• Roadside assistance: This covers services like towing, jump-starting a dead battery, and changing a flat tire.
• Rental car reimbursement: This reimburses you for the cost of a rental car if your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered loss.
• Gap insurance: This covers the difference between the actual cash value of your vehicle and the amount you still owe on your loan or lease if your car is totaled or stolen.
• Accident forgiveness: This can help prevent your rates from going up after your first at-fault accident.
• New car replacement: This covers the cost of replacing your vehicle with a new one of the same make and model if it's totaled or stolen.
• Mechanical breakdown insurance: This covers repairs to your vehicle's mechanical components, excluding regular maintenance.

When choosing an auto insurance policy, it's important to consider your specific needs and budget. Compare coverage options and prices from multiple insurers to find the best fit for you.

Cost

The cost of car insurance is rising, with the average annual cost of a car insurance policy among insurers analysed in 2024 being $2,068, compared to $1,459 in 2023. The national average rate for car insurance is $2,026 a year, based on an analysis of rates from large car insurance companies. The cheapest car insurance rates start at $38 per month from USAA, according to a cost analysis of 97 companies nationwide.

USAA, Erie, Auto-Owners, and Nationwide are among the companies with the lowest annual rates. However, USAA policies are only available to current and former members of the military and their families. Erie, which is available in 12 states and Washington, D.C., has the lowest rates for teen drivers.

Car insurance rates are highly individualized and are influenced by factors such as age, driving history, and location. Premiums also vary widely by insurer, and it is recommended to shop around and compare quotes to find the most affordable policy.

The cost of car insurance can be reduced by determining coverage needs before buying, reviewing coverage regularly, improving credit scores, and taking advantage of discounts. Bundling home and auto insurance can also result in significant savings.

When it comes to auto insurance shopping, it is recommended to compare quotes from multiple companies, ask about discounts, increase deductibles, and understand state requirements. Additionally, improving credit scores and choosing a cheaper vehicle to insure can also help lower costs.

The cheapest car insurance rates are usually for minimum-coverage policies, which satisfy the state's minimum insurance requirements. However, these policies may not provide sufficient protection in the event of an accident.

Customer satisfaction

USAA

USAA is a highly-rated company in terms of customer satisfaction and claims handling. It received positive feedback from policyholders, with 65% saying they were completely satisfied with the ease of filing a claim, and 67% completely satisfied with how their claim was resolved. USAA also offers a range of discounts, including for good students, safe drivers, and multi-policy holders. However, it is important to note that USAA policies are only available to military members, veterans, and their families.

Auto-Owners

Auto-Owners is another company that ranks highly for customer satisfaction and claims handling. 61% of their policyholders reported being completely satisfied with the ease of contacting customer service and the service provided. They also offer a variety of discounts, such as multi-policy, payment history, and safety feature discounts. However, Auto-Owners is only available in 26 states.

Nationwide

Nationwide is rated third for customer satisfaction and claims handling. Over half of their surveyed policyholders indicated they were completely satisfied with how their claims were resolved. They also offer a range of discounts, including for safe driving, anti-theft devices, and smart ride programs. Nationwide is available in most states, except Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, and North Carolina.

State Farm

State Farm is rated fourth for customer satisfaction and claims handling. More than half of their surveyed policyholders said they were likely or very likely to renew their policies. They offer various discounts, such as for safe driving, accident-free driving, and good students. State Farm is available in all states except Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Geico

Geico is rated fifth for customer satisfaction. Over three-quarters of their surveyed policyholders said they were likely or very likely to recommend the company. They offer a number of discounts, including for anti-lock brakes, anti-theft systems, and good students. Geico is available in all 50 states.

Frequently asked questions