GEICO started out as a company focused on providing insurance to government employees, armed forces members, and their families. Since then, it has obviously switched gears and is now the second largest insurance provider in the United States, responsible for more than 15 million policyholders in the U.S. alone.
An early adapter of technological changes, GEICO opted to provide coverage for all Americans in 1974, once computerized driving records became available in real-time. They were also one of the first companies to offer rideshare coverage for Uber and Lyft drivers, receiving praise from insurance experts across the country.
This article is among the many GEICO auto insurance reviews that you will find online. It aims to provide an honest overview of what this company is all about and what it can offer its clients.
What Does GEICO Offer?
GEICO is one of the most affordable insurance companies today, offering several types of discounts, including military and student incentives, on top of their low-cost coverage. Policies purchased from GEICO typically include:
- Collision Coverage
Collision coverage kicks in regardless of fault, with the coverage applying to your vehicle’s cash value. Those who drive newer vehicles should strongly consider adding it to existing policies.
- Comprehensive Physical Damage
Several types of damage to your car are covered under this policy addition, including theft, flood, fires, and vandalism.
- Bodily Injury Liability
In the event of an accident causing injuries or fatalities to other parties, bodily injury liability coverage kicks in. This part of your policy also provides funds should you be involved in a lawsuit related to the collision.
- Emergency Roadside Assistance
For about $15 per year (per car), emergency roadside assistance can be added to your policy. Towing, jump starts, and tire changes are just a few of the services offered.
- Medical Assistance
Coverage can be provided for drivers and passengers who are injured in collisions or accidents. This coverage may also extend to you as a pedestrian under certain circumstances.
- Property Damage Liability
Property damage liability covers you in the event that your car causes damage to yours or someone else’s property. It also provides funds to assist you in any lawsuit that may be launched.
- Repairs
Vehicles that are less than 15 years old and have fewer than 15,000 miles on it are eligible for repair coverage. A deductible is charged, but all types of repairs are covered. Repair plans can be renewed after seven years or 100,000 miles.
- Ride-sharing Coverage
GEICO was one of the first insurance companies to offer ride-sharing coverage, and still offers one of the best ride-share policies. This type of coverage can be added to existing auto insurance policies to ensure seamless coverage for those on and off the clock.
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Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver or find yourself in a hit-and-run, uninsured motorist coverage provides you with funds for any injuries sustained.
Customer Satisfaction
In 2017, JD Power and Associates gave GEICO an “average” rating in customer satisfaction. This score was based on consumer GEICO auto insurance reviews satisfaction scores, local agent ratings, and price ratings among other factors.
The same organization also gave GEICO a “Better than Most” (or Above-Average) score as part of its 2017 Auto Claims Satisfaction Survey, where the company scored 4/5 in numerous categories, including settlement ratings, first notice of loss ratings, and estimation processing ratings.
Claim Process
According to GEICO auto insurance reviews, one of the biggest advantages of working with GEICO is their easy and relatively stress-free claims process. Their goal is to have all claims processed within two days. Numerous factors go into making this process as quick and as simple as it is, including:
- Claimants are allowed to select their own repair center, though GEICO does advise taking advantage of their Auto Repair Xpress feature. Choosing one of those pre-approved centers does make the rest of the process faster and easier. Additionally, GEICO offers a lifetime guarantee on all work performed at one of their pre-approved centers as a further incentive.
- Claims can be filed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it incredibly easy to do. In situations where your vehicle is still safe to drive, a representative can see you in as little as 24 hours. Otherwise, they are able to send someone to your location. Vehicle inspections only take about half an hour, at which point, all claimants receive an estimate. If rental insurance is part of the claimant’s policy, they are also eligible to receive a rental car while they wait.
- GEICO investigates all claims, even those made against you, while still remaining on your side. They even provide legal advice and defense for eligible policyholders.
Company Stability
As a company, GEICO is not going anywhere. They have been in business since the 1930s and have spent billions in advertising to become as well known as they are. As the second largest insurance company in the States, you can rely on them to continue carrying on business for many years to come.
Value for Price
GEICO has some of the most affordable insurance packages on the market. Don’t let the low price fool you, though. With a wide range of policies and add-ons, there is a comprehensive policy for any auto need.
Additionally, the company sells insurance directly to consumers without employing a team of agents. This gives them the ability to keep deductibles and fees down.
Who Is this Best For?
Drivers who have clean driving records and average credit scores can get the most out of GEICO’s insurance plans. Discounts are often extended to those with stellar driving records or who have invested in vehicles with advanced safety features. Student discounts, military discounts, and government employee discounts are also available.
What to Look Out for?
As mentioned, GEICO doesn’t have agents for you to work with. While this is a perk for many, and definitely leads to lower rates, it can also be tricky to get personalized help. Additionally, prices skyrocket if you have been involved in a collision at any point within the last three to four years. GAP insurance is also not provided, which can be prohibitive for some drivers.
Conclusion
Before you decide to opt for one provider, or even one policy, make sure you spend some time comparing companies and policies. Keep your own insurance needs in mind and avoid getting swayed by low prices without looking at what type of coverage is provided.
GEICO is one of the most affordable options on the market, even giving you the ability to purchase your insurance policy in less than 20 minutes. Those who don’t mind a lack of personal interaction and who have good driving records should definitely consider GEICO.