“No perfect system yet... just less annoying ones.”
That line really sums it up. I’ve had both USAA and State Farm, and honestly, neither one is flawless—just depends on what kind of “annoying” you’re willing to put up with. My last claim with USAA was pretty smooth for the basics, but once I needed OEM parts for my car, I still had to chase down a real person to make sure they didn’t try to stick me with aftermarket stuff. The app made things faster, but didn’t solve the actual back-and-forth.
State Farm’s portal isn’t as slick, but when I had a fender bender with them, their rep actually called the body shop directly and sorted out the details, which saved a ton of time. That said, getting the right person on the phone felt like winning the lottery.
Not waiting on hold forever is a small mercy these days. If you can get your car fixed right the first time and not lose your mind in the process, that’s about as good as it gets with insurance. At least with USAA, you’re not stuck in hold music purgatory... that’s worth something.
Honestly, I’ve found the trick is to document everything from the start—photos, receipts, conversations, you name it. With USAA, their app is quick but you still need to double-check those parts and estimates. With State Farm, I always call the shop myself to confirm what’s approved. Either way, don’t assume the first answer is final... a little persistence goes a long way.
I get what you’re saying about documenting everything, but does anyone else feel like that just makes the whole process more stressful? I mean, last time I filed with State Farm, I had a folder full of receipts and still ended up playing phone tag for a week. Maybe I’m just unlucky, but I almost wish the apps would just let you upload a photo and then magically fix your car. Am I living in a dream world here, or is there actually an insurance company that doesn’t make you jump through hoops?
Honestly, I hear you. Last year, my ‘72 Chevelle got rear-ended and dealing with State Farm was a circus. Had all my paperwork, photos, the works—still took forever and I had to explain the same thing to three different people. I’ve heard USAA is smoother, but unless you’re military or family, you’re outta luck. Would be nice if someone just made it easy for once...
- Had a similar runaround with State Farm after my ‘68 Mustang got sideswiped—felt like I was stuck in a loop with their claims folks.
- Heard mixed things about USAA too, though. Some say it’s smooth, others mention delays if the claim isn’t straightforward.
- Anyone ever try Hagerty or another classic car insurer? Wondering if they’re actually better for vintage rides or just more expensive for the same headaches...
- Curious if anyone’s had luck getting a dedicated adjuster who actually knows old cars, instead of someone treating it like a 2010 Camry?
