I hear you on the windshield chips—my old Civic looked like it’d been through a hailstorm by March every year. I actually switched from Geico to Progressive last winter because Geico wanted a $200 deductible for glass, which felt nuts for a tiny chip. Progressive gave me full glass with no deductible, but my rate crept up at renewal. Guess there’s always a tradeoff... I’d say check the renewal rates too, not just the initial quote.
Yeah, the glass coverage thing in NY is a weird little dance. A lot of folks don’t realize how much those deductibles can vary until they get that first chip and suddenly it’s $200 out of pocket for something that takes 20 minutes to fix. I’ve seen people get pretty frustrated with that, especially if you’re unlucky enough to rack up a couple chips every winter.
Progressive’s no-deductible glass is definitely a draw, but you’re right—those renewal rates can sneak up on you. It’s not just them, either. Most carriers in NY seem to bump up rates after the first year, especially if there’s been any claims or even just changes in the area (like more accidents or thefts nearby). Sometimes it feels like you’re playing whack-a-mole: save on glass, pay more at renewal; save on premium, pay more for repairs.
One thing I’d toss out there—some companies let you tweak just the glass deductible without messing with the rest of your comp/collision. Not all do, but it’s worth asking about. Also, double-check if your policy includes OEM glass or aftermarket. Some folks care, some don’t, but it can make a difference if you’re picky about your car.
I’ve had clients who switch back and forth every couple years depending on which company is running promos or offering better renewal deals. It’s a bit of a hassle but sometimes worth it if you’re trying to keep costs down. Just watch for gaps in coverage if you do switch mid-policy.
Honestly, there’s no magic answer—just gotta weigh what bugs you more: paying a chunk for every chip or dealing with rate creep at renewal. NY winters aren’t doing anyone any favors either...
Man, I hear you on the NY glass thing—it’s like you can’t win. We got hit with two windshield chips last winter and I was floored by the out-of-pocket, even with what I thought was “good” coverage. I totally get weighing the pain of a higher deductible against the slow creep of renewal hikes. Honestly, it’s a bit of a juggling act, but you’re not alone in feeling stuck between options. At least you’re digging into the details—most folks just pick and hope for the best.
I totally get weighing the pain of a higher deductible against the slow creep of renewal hikes.
That’s exactly where I’m at too. Last year, my friend went through Geico for a cracked windshield and was surprised how little they covered. Meanwhile, my family’s with Progressive and the rates have crept up, but the claims process was smooth when we had a fender bender. It’s tough—feels like you’re always giving something up on either side. I keep thinking maybe there’s a “right” answer, but honestly, it’s just picking your battles with these companies.
feels like you’re always giving something up on either side.
That’s exactly what’s tripping me up. I’m about to pick my first policy and it’s like, do you go for the cheaper monthly rate and risk a headache if something actually happens, or pay more now hoping claims are easier? I’ve read Geico is cheaper for a lot of people in NY, but then stories like your friend’s windshield make me nervous.
Has anyone had luck negotiating with either company, or are the rates just fixed? Also, does Progressive really handle claims that much better, or is it just luck of the draw? I keep hearing mixed things and it’s kind of stressing me out...
