If you’re searching for a reliable auto insurer, Progressive is likely a name you’ve come across. With its widespread coverage and comprehensive policies, Progressive ranks among the most popular car insurance companies in the U.S. However, is it the right choice for you?
What Makes Progressive Stand Out?
Progressive offers a range of policies to cater to various driver profiles, from everyday commuters to those with a history of accidents. Some of its highlights include customizable coverages, such as insurance for custom parts and equipment (CPE) and standard options like liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage​ (MoneyGeek.com)​ (Compare.com).
Key Benefits:
- Flexible Discounts: Progressive provides several discounts, including bundling, safe driving, and paperless options. The Snapshot telematics program is particularly useful for drivers seeking to lower premiums based on their driving habits​ (MoneyGeek.com)​ (Insure.com).
- Unique Add-ons: You can add extra coverage for rental cars, roadside assistance, or ride-share drivers, allowing for greater customization of your policy​ (MoneyGeek.com).
Cost of Progressive Auto Insurance
One key factor in selecting an insurer is cost. Progressive is neither the cheapest nor the most expensive provider, offering average to slightly above-average rates. For instance, the annual premium for full coverage is typically $1,381, close to the national average​ (MoneyGeek.com). However, rates can vary significantly based on factors such as age, location, and driving history​ (Compare.com).
Sample Monthly Rates:
- Liability-only coverage: $111 per month
- Full coverage: $250 per month​ (Compare.com)
Drivers with a clean record can expect competitive rates, but those with speeding tickets or accidents on their record may see higher premiums​ (Compare.com)​ (Insure.com).
Customer Satisfaction and Complaints
When it comes to customer service, Progressive performs respectably but falls short of top-tier competitors like Erie and State Farm. According to J.D. Power data, Progressive’s customer satisfaction rating sits just below the industry average​ (MoneyGeek.com). Additionally, the company has a higher-than-average complaint ratio, especially regarding claims handling​ (Compare.com).
Pros:
- Efficient mobile tools for policy management
- Multiple discounts for various driver profiles
Cons:
- Higher premiums for young or high-risk drivers
- A higher-than-average complaint rate​ (MoneyGeek.com)​ (Compare.com)
Discounts and Ways to Save
One of Progressive’s standout features is its variety of discounts, especially the Snapshot program, which tracks your driving habits to determine premium discounts. Other discounts include:
- Multi-vehicle discount
- Good student discount
- Bundling policies (home and auto)
- Paperless and auto-pay discounts​ (MoneyGeek.com)​ (Compare.com).
Who Should Consider Progressive?
Progressive is ideal for drivers who want a versatile insurance policy with the potential for long-term savings through telematics and bundling. However, young or high-risk drivers may want to explore other options due to higher premiums in those categories​ (MoneyGeek.com)​ (Insure.com).
Let’s Review
In summary, Progressive is a solid option for those who value customizable coverage and digital convenience. Its average premiums and wide range of discounts make it a competitive choice, though it may not be the best fit for younger or high-risk drivers looking for affordable rates.
FAQs
1. Does Progressive offer gap insurance? Yes, Progressive provides gap insurance as an optional add-on for customers with financed or leased vehicles​ (MoneyGeek.com).
2. How does the Snapshot program work? Snapshot tracks your driving habits using a mobile app or device, potentially reducing your premiums if you drive safely​ (MoneyGeek.com).
3. Are there any penalties for switching from Progressive? You may face an early termination fee if you cancel before the end of your policy term​ (Compare.com).
4. What is Progressive’s NAIC complaint index? Progressive has a complaint index above the industry average, indicating more customer complaints than many competitors​ (Compare.com).
5. Does Progressive offer accident forgiveness? Yes, Progressive offers accident forgiveness as an add-on to your policy, helping prevent rate increases after your first at-fault accident​ (Insure.com).
