stuck between Geico and Progressive in NY, thoughts?

I totally get your hesitation - Snapshot stressed me out big-time at first. But honestly, after a few months, the anxiety eased up a lot...you kinda just forget it's there. Saved me about 15%, not huge but noticeable enough to stick with it.

Yeah, Snapshot definitely feels intrusive at first - I remember being hyper-aware of every brake and acceleration for weeks. But like you said, after a while, it just fades into the background. One thing I'd add is that Progressive tends to be pretty straightforward with claims processing here in NY, at least from what I've seen. Geico's decent too, but sometimes their turnaround can drag a bit longer. Might be worth factoring in if you're still on the fence...

"Geico's decent too, but sometimes their turnaround can drag a bit longer."

Yeah, Geico can be hit or miss with claims speed. Had a client once whose claim dragged on so long he joked he'd have better luck waiting for the Mets to win another World Series... Progressive's usually quicker, at least around here.

Interesting points on Geico and Progressive. I've heard similar stories about Geico's claim delays, but I'm wondering - does Progressive's quicker turnaround typically come with any compromises in thoroughness or quality of repairs? Speed is great, but not if corners get cut. Curious if anyone's noticed differences in how carefully each company handles safety inspections or repair follow-ups...

I've noticed Progressive tends to move quicker, but honestly, I haven't seen them skimp on safety or quality. Here's a quick way to double-check though: after repairs, ask the shop directly for a detailed breakdown of what was done. Most reputable places won't mind walking you through it. I've done this a couple times myself - caught a minor oversight once, but it was quickly fixed. So yeah, speed doesn't always mean sloppy...but it never hurts to verify.

Good point about checking the breakdown - shops usually appreciate when you're paying attention. I've had Progressive before and their speed was impressive, but I did notice they preferred aftermarket parts sometimes. Not necessarily bad, just something to be aware of depending on your car's age or warranty. Has anyone noticed if Geico tends to push OEM parts more often, or is it pretty much the same deal?

"I've had Progressive before and their speed was impressive, but I did notice they preferred aftermarket parts sometimes."

Yeah, I've noticed the same thing with Progressive. They're quick, but aftermarket parts seem to be their default unless you specifically push for OEM. With Geico, from my experience, it's pretty similar - OEM isn't automatic, but they're usually open to it if you make a solid case. Here's what worked for me: first, check your warranty terms carefully. If your car is still under warranty, OEM parts might be required to maintain coverage. Next, clearly communicate this to the adjuster and provide documentation if needed. I've found that being detailed and firm (but polite) about warranty requirements or safety concerns usually gets them to budge. Also, some states have laws about OEM vs aftermarket parts depending on vehicle age, so double-check NY regulations just to be safe.

I had a similar experience with Geico last year after a minor fender bender. They initially suggested aftermarket parts, but once I explained my concerns about safety and maintaining my warranty, they were pretty reasonable about switching to OEM. Progressive was definitely faster with claims processing when I had them, but Geico seemed a bit more flexible on the parts issue. Might be worth considering if you're particular about OEM parts and warranty coverage...

"Progressive was definitely faster with claims processing when I had them, but Geico seemed a bit more flexible on the parts issue."

Interesting, hadn't thought much about OEM vs aftermarket parts until now... Do you guys think OEM parts really make that big of a difference on longer road trips? Curious if anyone's noticed any reliability differences down the line.

OEM parts can matter for certain critical components (think suspension, sensors, or electronics), especially if you're clocking serious highway miles. But honestly, for most basic stuff like bumpers or mirrors... aftermarket usually holds up fine. Ever had a road trip ruined by a bumper? Didn't think so.

Had a mirror replaced with aftermarket once, and honestly, it vibrated like crazy at highway speeds... drove me nuts on a family trip to Vermont. Not exactly trip-ruining, but annoying enough to make me reconsider OEM next time.

"Had a mirror replaced with aftermarket once, and honestly, it vibrated like crazy at highway speeds... drove me nuts on a family trip to Vermont."

Haha, sounds like my daily commute on the Cross Bronx Expressway - everything vibrates there, aftermarket or not. Curious though, has anyone noticed if Geico or Progressive handles OEM replacements differently in NY?

Haha, sounds like my daily commute on the Cross Bronx Expressway - everything vibrates there, aftermarket or not. Curious though, has anyone noticed if Geico or Progressive handles OEM replacemen...

Honestly, worrying about OEM vs aftermarket mirrors feels like splitting hairs. I've had both Geico and Progressive in NY - neither was eager to shell out for OEM unless I specifically pushed for it. And even then, it was a hassle. Besides, mirrors vibrating at highway speeds might just mean a sloppy install job rather than the part itself. I'd double-check the mechanic first before blaming insurance or parts quality...

I get what you're saying about the install job, but honestly, from my experience, aftermarket mirrors can definitely be hit or miss. A few years back, I had a side mirror replaced after some genius sideswiped me while parked in Queens. Insurance insisted on aftermarket, and I didn't think much of it at first - figured a mirror's a mirror, right?

Well, not exactly. The thing vibrated like crazy whenever I hit anything above 50 mph. Took it back to the shop twice thinking it was just loose or something, but nope - it was solidly installed. Eventually, the mechanic admitted that some aftermarket parts just don't match OEM specs perfectly. Ended up biting the bullet and paying out of pocket for an OEM mirror myself - problem solved immediately.

As for Geico vs Progressive specifically... I've dealt with claims from both companies through my job, and honestly they're pretty similar when it comes to OEM vs aftermarket. Neither one is eager to pay extra for original parts unless your policy explicitly covers it or you really push hard (and even then it's usually a hassle). But here's the thing: if OEM parts matter to you - and sometimes they really do - it's worth checking if either insurer offers an OEM endorsement or rider. Might cost you a bit more monthly, but it'll save headaches down the road.

Also, just throwing this out there: mirrors vibrating might seem minor until you're trying to merge lanes on the BQE at rush hour and can't see clearly because your mirror's shaking like a leaf... Not exactly ideal.

I had a similar experience with aftermarket parts, though mine was a bumper replacement. Initially, I thought saving a bit on premiums by accepting aftermarket parts wouldn't be an issue. But after the repair, the fitment was noticeably off - panel gaps were uneven, and it just didn't look right. Eventually, I ended up paying extra out-of-pocket to get OEM parts installed properly.

Between Geico and Progressive, I've found they're pretty comparable overall in terms of service and claims handling. However, if you're driving a luxury or higher-end vehicle (like I do), I'd strongly recommend looking into adding an OEM endorsement to your policy. Yes, it does bump up your monthly premium slightly, but considering the potential headaches and additional costs down the line... it's worth it. Especially in NY traffic - last thing you want is compromised visibility or safety because of subpar parts.

Had a similar issue with aftermarket headlights - total waste of time and money. Between Geico and Progressive, honestly, they're about the same. But yeah, if you're driving something nice, definitely spring for OEM coverage. Learned that lesson the hard way myself... NY roads are brutal enough without worrying about cheap parts messing up your ride.

"NY roads are brutal enough without worrying about cheap parts messing up your ride."

Couldn't agree more. Recently had a minor fender-bender in Queens, and Progressive covered aftermarket bumpers - fitment was off, gaps everywhere. Definitely worth paying extra for OEM coverage if you care about details...lesson learned.

Just went through this myself - first time buying insurance and spent hours comparing. Ended up leaning toward Geico for OEM coverage after reading similar stories about aftermarket headaches. NY streets are unforgiving enough without stressing about fitment issues... Appreciate you sharing your experience; makes me feel better about paying a bit extra upfront for peace of mind. Hope your ride gets sorted soon.

Went through this dance myself a few months ago - Geico vs Progressive, the eternal NY insurance showdown, lol. Couple quick thoughts from someone who's seen behind the curtain a bit:

- You're spot-on about OEM coverage. Aftermarket parts can be a total gamble. Had a client once whose aftermarket bumper didn't line up right, and the body shop had to reorder twice. Total headache, especially when you're already stressed from an accident.

- Progressive isn't bad either, though. Their Snapshot program can save you some decent cash if you're a careful driver. But fair warning: if you drive like you're auditioning for Fast & Furious (no judgment, we've all been there), Snapshot might not be your friend.

- Geico tends to have slightly better customer service ratings in NY, especially when it comes to claims handling. Progressive isn't terrible, but Geico usually edges them out slightly in satisfaction surveys here.

- One thing people overlook: rental reimbursement coverage. If your car's in the shop, having a decent rental allowance is a lifesaver. Geico's standard rental coverage is usually pretty generous, but double-check your policy limits.

- Also, NY potholes are legendary. Make sure whichever you pick has solid roadside assistance coverage. Flat tires and bent rims are practically a rite of passage here.

At the end of the day, paying a bit extra upfront for peace of mind is almost always worth it. Trust me, nothing ruins your day faster than realizing your insurance skimps on coverage right when you need it most. Good luck getting your ride sorted - NY streets wait for no one...

Totally agree on the OEM parts issue - seen way too many headaches from aftermarket parts myself. But have you thought about how each company handles glass coverage? Windshield cracks are basically inevitable here, especially with all the construction debris flying around. Geico usually offers pretty straightforward glass coverage, but Progressive sometimes has a separate deductible for glass claims. Definitely worth double-checking that detail.

Also, curious if you've considered accident forgiveness options? Progressive tends to push theirs pretty hard, and it can be useful if you're worried about rate hikes after a minor fender-bender. Geico offers something similar, but it's usually an add-on rather than standard. Might be worth weighing that against your driving habits.

And yeah, Snapshot can be great - but do you really want your insurance company tracking your every move? Some clients love the savings, others feel it's a bit too "Big Brother." Just something else to think about...