Is Progressive Auto Insurance good?

If you've ever purchased car insurance, you've probably seen Progressive show up more than once. They're on TV everywhere, and their rates are always competitive especially if you use their Name Your Price® tool. But is Progressive as great as all the flashy ads would have you think?

Let's take an honest look at what they have to offer, how they stack up against the competition, and whether or not they might be a good solution for your coverage needs.

A Brief History of Progressive

Progressive knows the game well. Founded way back in 1937, they've grown to become one of the largest auto insurers in the U.S. They've built themselves on a history of innovation especially in technology and usage-based insurance.

From e-quotes to electronic claims handling, Progressive is dedicated to its web-based resources. No issue if you prefer having everything accomplished through an app or website. But convenience service, price, and reliability matter as well.

What Coverage Does Progressive Offer?

Like most major insurance providers, Progressive offers all the basics. That is comprehensive, collision, and liability insurance. They also offer protection if you are hit by an underinsured or uninsured driver. You ought to be able to have medical payments (MedPay) and personal injury protection (PIP) as a choice, depending on your location.

For extra reassurance, Progressive also has add-ons like roadside services, rental coverage, and gap coverage. They may be worth the investment if you want to build a full-coverage policy that fits your driving habits  but remember, each add-on increases the price.

The Customer Service Experience

With regard to customer service, Progressive reviews are very polarized. Some prefer that it's so convenient to use their phone app or manage policies online. You can typically file a claim in a few clicks, and their 24/7 customer service is a good aspect in time-sensitive situations.

All that being said, some customers complain generally about the claims process. General complaints include delays or communication problems. Nationally, Progressive does not necessarily lead in customer satisfaction as State Farm or USAA.

It doesn't necessarily mean they're horrible, it just means your experience can vary depending on where you are, who your claim is being processed by, and what type of service you're looking for.

What About Pricing?

One of the biggest Progressive shareholder advantages is that it is extremely inexpensive  especially for drivers with less-than-perfect histories. Their pricing model allows you to tailor a policy to your budget, which may be beneficial if you're trying to minimize the monthly charge.

They also provide generous discounts. Safe driving, purchasing more than one policy, good student, or using their Snapshot® app (your driving is monitored) could reduce your rate. Just be aware that Snapshot will increase your premium if your driving is deemed risky.

Progressive is low to middle of the pack on price relative to the big carriers. It's not always the cheapest, particularly for good drivers, but it's never at the high end of the pack.

Who Would Benefit Most from Progressive

Progressive is good for individuals who are okay with the digital-first experience and desire flexibility in the way they construct their policy. If you're okay with getting quotes on the internet, doing everything in an app, or monitoring driving habits to reduce your rates, Progressive is doing it on those fronts.

It is also a good choice for drivers who may not be eligible for the best rates elsewhere. Individuals with a few traffic tickets or a recent claim may find Progressive to be more generous in cost.

But if you prefer individualized service or an ongoing relationship with a locally established agent, it might be worth your while to shop around first.

Pros and Cons — Natural Summary

Progressive's strongest benefits are its pricing flexibility, wide array of policy options, and simple-to-use online experience. It's easy to get started, easy to switch your coverage, and even to file claims without having to reach for the phone.

Where they fall short is consistency. While most customers are happy with what they've received, there have been some bumps along the way with the claims process. And, depending on where you reside and how you drive, they may not always offer the lowest premium. 

So, Is Progressive a Good Insurance Provider?

 Yes, for the majority of drivers  Progressive achieves a great balance between affordability, coverage choices, and convenience. If you like online amenities, flexibility in policies and the chance to save, there's much to like. But like any insurance company, they're not all the same. Your best option will always be determined by your driving record, your financial aspirations, and how much in-person service you desire. The best thing to do? Compare coverage and quotes from a few carriers and shop around before you buy.

•   Not convinced that Progressive is the way to go? Have Savvital help you weigh policies, balance your options, and secure coverage that truly works for your life, no hard sell, just guidance.