Increased Rates for the 21st Century
Written: Mar 08 '01
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Pros: Provides value-added features with its policies; easy online payment system.
Cons: Rates have recently gone up.
The Bottom Line: 21st Century provides competitively-priced auto insurance for good drivers.
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| nghiemr's Full Review: 21st Century - Auto |
Lately I have noticed more 21st Century Insurance commercials on TV. I have noticed that the 21st Century web site looks more sophisticated and user-friendly. By itself, this increased marketing is fine, but when it shows up as increased rates on my auto insurance policy, I just wish 21st Century would go back to being the low-key company I always thought it was.
With my January 1, 2001 renewal date, I was excited about getting reduced rates. After all, in the two years that I’ve had a policy with them, I have seen my premium steadily drop. January 2001 was supposed to be extra special because I’ve reached that “insurance age” when auto premiums are supposed to be more affordable. Even my speeding ticket from 1997 had dropped from my driving record. For my loyalty, I have seen my premium increase instead. Not because I've been in an accidents...I haven't. Not because I've made any claims...I never have. My rates have simply increased because the insurance commissioner approved 21st Century’s request to increase its rates across the board. 21st Century say it’s due to their updated actuarial statistics, but I say...stop being so greedy.
I used to think highly of 21st Century Insurance Company for providing inexpensive auto insurance to drivers in California and several surrounding states. Unlike many companies such as AAA, State Farm, and Allstate, which use agents in independent offices to sell their products, 21st Century conducts business at their Woodland Hills, CA headquarters, through the mail, or by telephone. Because their headquarters is only an hour away, I felt more comfortable doing business with them than with an out-of-state carrier. I favored their use of customer service representatives instead of agents because it translated into minimized cost (no commission pay-outs), but with the new increased rates, I might as well be paying an agent for more personalized service.
When I bought a new car in October 1998, I requested quotes from AAA, Allstate, State Farm, GEICO, and 21st Century. For full coverage insurance in the Los Angeles area, 21st Century’s quote was the cheapest, even with a speeding ticket that I never cleared. Obtaining the quote was as easy as going to their web site and filling out an online form, which took about 10 minutes to complete. I got an immediate internet quote emailed to me, and the follow-up paperwork arrived at my home several days later. I signed the form, included a check, and received a policy about two weeks later. In the interim, I was still insured while my policy was being underwritten.
Over two years later, I have started shopping around for a new auto insurance carrier again. To 21st Century’s credit, they actually still have one of the lowest rates, as compared with many agent-based companies. However, when I got a quote from GEICO Insurance, I found that I could get a policy that included double the liability coverage that I was getting at 21st Century, for a slightly lower premium! I may consider switching to GEICO when I renew in June.
In the meantime, I continue to pay my premiums at 21st Century using their 4-month payment plan, which tacks on a $3 service fee per payment. It is also possible to pay your six-month premium in full, or in two payments. A new service available at the 21st Century website is automatic deduction from your checking account. This not only saves a stamp, but you can even pay on your due date, since 21st Century considers your payment received on the day you make the transaction. But like any online service, just be aware that you’re the only one liable if their web site goes down and you’re not able to make your payment in a timely manner.
Despite their rate increase, there is some added value for being a 21st Century policyholder. Express Roadside Service is included in your policy for free. This services is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and provides towing, flat tire repair, lockout service, gas, and other minor roadside assistance. Why pay for AAA when you can get it included free in your auto insurance policy? I used this service on two occasions when I had flat tires. I called the 800 number, let the dispatcher know my situation/location, and within half an hour, a local towing company had arrived to help me.
Other benefits of being a 21st Century policy holder include discounts to many major local attractions/theme parks, health club memberships, theft-recovery systems, car rentals, and car audio. These discounts are similar to the ones you would get with AAA, but without the added cost of membership. Like AAA and a small handful of other auto insurance companies, it is now also possible to renew your California DMV Registration through 21st Century.
I haven't used their Claims Service, but claims can either be done through an 800 number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or started through an online Claims Form. Once again, knowing that they are a local-based company gives me better piece of mind in the event that I ever have to file a claim or resolve an issue.
Would I still recommend 21st Century insurance? Every one’s insurance situation is different, but if you’re a good driver who feels you don’t need an agent, it won't hurt to at least get a quote. The online quote system is extremely easy. When shopping for auto insurance, it's also important to get word-of-mouth feedback from friends or family. Other than their recent rate increase, I've had no problems with my policy.
Recommended:
Yes
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nghiemr
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Location: Los Angeles, CA
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