Totally get the struggle. I tried going all-digital with Progressive last year—figured I’d save a few bucks and skip the phone calls. Fast forward to my minivan getting rear-ended in Queens... I spent more time deciphering forms than my kid spends on Roblox. If you hate paperwork, having a local person is worth its weight in gold. But if you’re the type who’d rather do everything from your couch, Geico’s app is actually pretty slick. Just depends how much chaos you can handle when things go sideways.
I spent more time deciphering forms than my kid spends on Roblox.
That’s a mood. I tried Progressive’s digital route when my S-Class had a fender bender in Manhattan—let’s just say, their “streamlined” process felt more like a treasure hunt with missing clues. Geico’s app did seem smoother when I tested it, but I’ll admit, sometimes you just want a real human who gets why you care about every scratch. For me, the personal touch wins, even if it means a few extra calls.
sometimes you just want a real human who gets why you care about every scratch
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve had both Geico and Progressive over the years (NY driver here too), and I swear, every time I needed help, the “digital convenience” ended up being more of a headache than old-school phone calls. Last winter, some guy sideswiped me in Brooklyn. I thought I’d save time with Progressive’s online claims, but I ended up re-explaining my story to three different reps anyway. At least with Geico, when I called, I got someone who actually sounded like they were in the same state as my car.
Honestly, I don’t mind extra paperwork if it means the person actually listens. It’s your car—doesn’t matter if it’s a beater or a Benz, nobody likes feeling like a number. Don’t let the “streamlined” pitch fool you. Sometimes, the old way is just less stress. Hang in there—it gets easier after the first claim (or at least you get better at spotting the traps).
I hear you on the paperwork vs. digital thing. I’m all about saving money, but if the “convenience” just means more hassle, what’s the point? Did either company ever actually save you cash in the long run, or did the rates just creep up anyway?
if the “convenience” just means more hassle, what’s the point?
Honestly, I’ve wondered the same thing. I switched to Progressive for the “easy” app, but then spent half my lunch break trying to upload a photo of my odometer that wouldn’t save. Not exactly the digital utopia I was promised. But, to be fair, Geico’s paper mailings were like a monthly novella. Did either one actually save me money? Maybe for a year, then—yep—rate hike city. Is it just a NY thing, or do all insurance companies play this game?
