What's the best insurance company for cars?

Question

Reasonable rates, responds to claims in a quick and fair manner?

Answer 1

I would definatly agree with getting an agent.
The problems with going directly with the company are:
1. Companies writing directly - like Progressive Direct and Geico
will not run your reports until after your policy is issued (because the reports cost $ and they don't want to waste $ on people who are not serious) - Therefore after you take out the policy you are happy with and get settled to pay what it says, you may get a letter saying...Due to information receive on your CLUE, MVR, etc we are increasing your premium or canceling your policy. At this point you have already done the running around to find a policy and you give up and pay the man.
2. When you are eligible for a cheaper policy the company will not tell you - an agent will. An agent will know that in June of next year your speeding ticket will fall off your record and you can get a better price - maybe with that company, maybe with another. The agent will tell you that your could take a defensive driver course that will save you $, but don't bother having your kids take it because you will only get the discount once. There are countless things that an agent will know and tell you that a company may know but will not tell you.
3. An agent brings business to a company - therefore every once in a while they can ask for exceptions to the rules AND GET THEM. If you don't pay your bill on time once and get your policy canceled, the agent can talk to the company and explain that you have had a good payment history in the past, and that they also have insurance for your sister and mother and remind them that they woulden't want to loose 3 policies when it is a good risk.

Agents can make things happen.

Answer 2

In reference to that part of your question where you specifically mention "responds to claims in a quick and fair manner", consider asking a body shop or a doctor's office or a house contractor who they prefer. These are the people doing the work when an accident occurs. When I speak with these folks, a couple of names consistently come up.

As for reasonable rates, insurance is a competitive market and there is always some insurer or another looking to gain market share. That's the one who will offer the best price. But do remember that rates on policies are regulated so don't expect a lot of variation from one company to another. Fast and fair claim service is where the value to you can be found.

Answer 3

There is no such thing as a universal "best company" for car insurance. If you want to go the online route, do it. But remember, no one there will know your name and face if you have a problem.

As for claims service, just like every doctor in town, SOMEONE can tell you a horror story about any given company. The agent who is willing to go the extra mile can help greatly with this.

There are basically 3 types of 'agents'.

"Independent "agents can write with whatever companies they have affiliated themselves with.

"Captive" agents can only sell with the typically one company they work with, like State Farm, Allstate, Nationwide, etc. Don't expect these guys to "shop" for the best price for you, 'cause they don't have any other places to compare with. Not to say that the aforementioned companies don't also associate with the "independents" - I know for a fact that Allstate has both.

The third type of policy would be "direct". This is what Geico type companies do to "save you blah blah percent on your car insurance". Don't believe everything you hear in advertising, by the way.

Make a few phone calls, get some rates and make a decision with what you discover.

Answer 4

Shop around. I would recommend a big company. The rates really do vary from company to company and locale to locale. USAA and AIG are up there. Nothing wrong with State Farm or Allstate either. Allstate has a nice deal going with replacing a car that is up to 3yrs old with a brand new one. Sure there is a catch, plus if you have an older car, no real use to you.

Answer 5

I am a licensed Independant agent, and I would suggest that you talk to an Independant agent in your area.
The Independant will have a number of companies to choose from, and will do some "shopping" for you.
He will know where to look as costs will vary greatly as well as other aspects that might be "unique" to your specific case.
Drive by Progressive is the company that we use the most, but it is NOT the "online" version of Progressive that will be different rates and most importantly you need the expertice and advice as to how your coverages should be written as well as some education as to what the various coverages actually do for you.

Answer 6

USAA, Geico, and State Farm. Do not go to an independent agent because they cannot sell you any of these companies and will only place you where they get the highest commission. In addition, do not buy Allstate because they have a horrible claims record.

Answer 7

Nationwide Insurance

Answer 8

I own a 2005 Chevy Colorado Crew Cab. I live in the New Orleans metropolitan area, (not in New Orleans itself). Which is a huge city. I have GEICO Auto Insurance with FULL coverage on my truck.
Liabilty, Comprehensive, and Collision insurance.
I have a $500.00 deductible and my monthly payments are right at $85.00/month. (That's with FULL coverage.)

Answer 9

Mercury

Answer 10

I personally love State Farm.