Is this for real?
Written: Apr 26 '02
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Pros: Low cost, friendly people, great Web site interface
Cons: None yet
The Bottom Line: Remarkable rates, friendly service, mutual company, great payment schedule, great web interface for customer service. What more could you want?
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| gold10go4's Full Review: AMICA - Auto |
I was with Allstate for about 27 years (a thing called loyalty) when I changed residences (5 minutes from my previous residence), and was immediately given a $200 increase in premiums for the year due to a different zip code. When I contacted my agent he was indifferent to my dilemma, so I went with State Farm (didn't want to really, but had lowest rates I could find at the time). Got back the $200 I would have given Allstate, but after 6 months I just received a $220 premium increase for the year. I was miffed, called the agent, and was told it was the same problem everyone had with State Farm (increases were in the 10% range). Well, mine was almost 17%, and I wasn't happy. Then scouring the newspaper yesterday in Tampa, I found an article that mentioned that State Farm had artificially kept their prices low last year in order to get a larger market share. They did - increased over 5.4% for them, but supposedly they lost $100 on every policy (according to article). Now they are intent on making up the loss by raising premiums after having gotten the market share. Sound like bait and switch? Does to me. The article also mentioned a web site where one could obtain quotes from other companies. I did so and received a quote from Amica that knocked my socks off. I thought this must be a fly-by-night company, but I checked AM Best rating and found them rated A++ Superior (no better rating). My ignorance - I had never heard of them. The quote came back about $600 cheaper per year than State Farm. I was astounded. In addition, they are a mutual company, meaning they are really owned by policyholders, and have given a dividend every year they have been in business (established 1907)I believe. This lowers the eventual premium even further, assuming the trend in dividends continues. The people I spoke with on the phone were very kind, helpful, and considerate - oh yeah, funny also. I am signing up as soon as the paperwork arrives. Obviously I don't have any experience with claims area, but from what I am hearing they are very loyal and efficient with respect to their customers. Time will tell. Thus far, I am amazed at the rates - 33% less than State Farm. They also have the best payment plan of any insurance carrier I know - 20% first payment, then 10 payments after that for remaining balance throughout the year. What's not to like about this company?
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
gold10go4
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Location: Tampa, FL
Reviews written: 10
Trusted by: 1 member
About Me:
Just the facts, ma'am. Not big on reviews; just opinions.
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