⚡ Quick Verdict
$1,960
Avg annual premium
A+
AM Best rating
0.71
NAIC complaint index
19th/25
Claims satisfaction
⚠️ What Snapshot Actually Tracks
Progressive's Snapshot telematics program promises savings for good drivers. But the data collection goes beyond what most people realize:
What Snapshot Collects:
- • Hard braking events — Sudden stops flagged
- • Rapid acceleration — How fast you speed up
- • Time of day — Late-night driving penalized
- • Miles driven — More miles = higher risk
- • Phone usage detection — Via Bluetooth pairing
- • Location history — Where you go, when
Common Complaints:
- • App drains phone battery significantly
- • False "hard brake" events on normal stops
- • Detected as driver when actually passenger
- • Navigation apps flagged as phone usage
- • Rates went UP after using Snapshot
The privacy trade-off: Average savings of $322/year—but Progressive now has detailed data on everywhere you go and how you drive.
Company Profile
Basic Info
- Founded: 1937
- Headquarters: Mayfield Village, Ohio
- Type: Public company (PGR)
- Availability: All 50 states + D.C.
- Known For: Flo, comparison shopping, tech
Financial Strength
- AM Best: A+ (Superior)
- Market Position: 3rd largest auto insurer
- NAIC Complaints: 22% fewer than expected
- Products: Auto, home, motorcycle, boat, RV
Progressive's Unique Tools
Name Your Price®
Enter your budget, see what coverage fits. Useful for understanding trade-offs, but can lead to underinsurance if you prioritize price over protection.
Comparison Tool
Progressive shows competitors' rates alongside their own. Surprisingly honest—sometimes they'll show you a competitor is cheaper.
Loan/Lease Payoff
Progressive's version of gap insurance. Covers the difference if you owe more than your car's value after a total loss.
đź’° Pricing Analysis
| Coverage Type | Progressive | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Coverage Auto | $1,960 | $2,314 | -15% |
| With Snapshot Discount | $1,638 | — | -$322 avg |
DUI drivers: Progressive is known for being more willing to insure high-risk drivers. If you have a DUI, they're often more competitive than other major carriers.
âś“ What Progressive Does Well
Competitive Pricing
Generally 10-20% below national average. Good for price-conscious buyers.
High-Risk Driver Friendly
More willing to insure drivers with DUIs, accidents, and poor credit than many competitors.
Tech-Forward
Modern app, good digital experience, innovative tools like Name Your Price.
Low Complaint Ratio
22% fewer complaints than expected for their size. Better than most major insurers.
❌ Where Progressive Falls Short
Claims Satisfaction: 19th of 25
J.D. Power ranks Progressive in the bottom third for claims handling. Claims often take longer than expected.
Snapshot Privacy Concerns
The telematics program collects extensive data including location history. Some drivers report rates INCREASING after using it.
Discount Satisfaction: 63%
Customers report lower satisfaction with discounts than other insurers. Advertised savings don't always materialize.
Who Should Choose Progressive?
âś“ Good Fit If You...
- • Have a DUI or accidents on record
- • Want competitive rates without agents
- • Like tech-forward tools
- • Are comfortable with data sharing
- • Need specialty coverage (motorcycle, RV)
❌ Look Elsewhere If You...
- • Value privacy over savings
- • Want top-tier claims experience
- • Prefer agent relationships
- • Need bundling with home insurance
- • Drive late at night frequently
Our Verdict
Progressive offers competitive pricing and innovative tools, but the trade-offs are real. Claims satisfaction ranks in the bottom third, and Snapshot's data collection is more invasive than most realize. Best for: price-conscious drivers, those with imperfect records, and people comfortable with telematics tracking. Skip it if you prioritize claims experience or privacy.