I’ve actually looked into a couple of those mutuals—one even sent someone out to check my car in person, which was a first. They did seem more flexible, but the rates weren’t dramatically better for me. Maybe it’s hit or miss depending on your record or the car you drive. I do get the sense they’re less rigid than the big names, though.
Yeah, those mutuals are a mixed bag. Had one guy show up to look at my ‘73 Mustang and he seemed more interested in the paint job than my driving record. Rates weren’t much better for me either—guess my “spirited” driving history follows me everywhere. Still, gotta admit, they don’t treat you like you’re trying to insure a spaceship, which is something.
I get what you mean about not feeling like an alien, but I’m not convinced the mutuals are really that much better. Had a friend swear by one, but when he actually needed to file a claim (hail storm, not even his fault), they dragged their feet like crazy. I guess it’s a trade-off—slightly friendlier folks, but the rates and red tape seem about the same in the end. Maybe it’s just a Hawaii thing, but I’ve started wondering if the whole “high-risk” label just follows you no matter where you go or who you talk to.
- Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve bounced between mutuals and the big-name carriers, and honestly, the difference in claims processing is pretty minimal.
- The “high-risk” label seems to stick no matter who’s holding your policy—especially here in Hawaii, where options are limited and rates just aren’t competitive.
- Had a similar thing happen after a fender bender (not my fault either). Took weeks for them to even assign an adjuster. Felt like I was just another number on a spreadsheet.
- Mutuals do have slightly better customer service, at least in my experience, but when it comes to actually paying out, they all seem to drag their feet.
- It’s frustrating because you do everything right—drive safe, pay premiums on time—and still get dinged by stuff out of your control.
- If it helps, I’ve found that keeping detailed records and photos makes things move a little faster when you file a claim. Not a magic bullet, but it’s saved me some headaches.
Hang in there—the system’s not perfect, but you’re definitely not alone dealing with this mess.
Yeah, the “high-risk” label in Hawaii feels like getting stuck with a pineapple on your head—hard to shake off and everyone notices. I’ve tried shopping around, but it’s like musical chairs with the same three songs. Keeping records definitely helps, though. At least it gives you something to do while you wait for the adjuster to call back… eventually.
