Root Auto Insurance Review (2024)
Root auto insurance uses telematics technology to track driving habits and set rates based on how safe you drive. Root car insurance reviews find the company offers various coverages, ranging from full coverage to roadside assistance and SR-22 insurance. Below, you can compare Root insurance rates.
Chris Abrams
Licensed Insurance Agent
Chris is the founder of Abrams Insurance Solutions and Marcan Insurance, which provide personal financial analysis and planning services for families and small businesses across the U.S. His companies represent nearly 100 of the top-rated insurance companies. Chris has been a licensed insurance agent since 2009 and has active insurance licenses in all 50 U.S. states and D.C. Chris works tireles...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Aug 16, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Aug 16, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
Root
Average Monthly Rate For Good Drivers
$82A.M. Best Rating:
NRComplaint Level:
HighPros
- Affordable rates for low-mileage drivers
- Customizable policies
- User-friendly app
Cons
- Frequently rejects applications
- Limited Support
What You Should Know About Root Insurance
- Root Insurance issues a custom auto insurance rate based on driving habits
- The company monitors your driving habits through an app on your smartphone
- Root offers low rates, but there are some customer complaints and other drawbacks
Root auto insurance may be a good fit if you’re a safe driver searching for cheap auto insurance coverage. Root Insurance offers auto insurance coverage in several U.S. states, and the company keeps customers’ rates low by assessing their driving styles.
To obtain a quote from Root Insurance, drivers must use the Root car insurance app, which monitors their driving habits and tendencies over several days to a few weeks. Throughout this period, the company evaluates the driver’s safety and assigns a rate that reflects their driving style. The average Root insurance rates are determined through this process. Car insurance apps like Root and others, including Direct Auto insurance opening, offer similar technology-driven rate assessments.
Read our Root car insurance review to compare rates and learn how to get affordable usage-based auto insurance.
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Root Auto Insurance Customer Reviews and Complaints
Root has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), but Root car insurance reviews from customers suggest the company has room for improvement.
Reviews of Root Insurance on the BBB indicate that customers have filed 115 complaints in the past year and over 350 in the past three years. Many of these complaints highlight issues with poor claims handling as well as unauthorized bills and charges. If you’re considering auto insurance like Root, it’s essential to get a quote from Root Insurance and compare it with other insurance quotes.
Before committing to a Root car insurance policy, it is advisable to review some customer complaints. This can help you understand the Root car insurance cost, gather insights from Root car insurance customer reviews, and potentially contact the Root insurance customer service phone number for further clarification.
Pros and Cons of Root Auto Insurance
Some of the benefits of a car insurance policy with Root include:
- Low rates
- SR-22 filings
- Extensive app functions
- Discounts for safe drivers
- Roadside assistance
Still, there are some drawbacks to Root auto insurance, including:
- A possibility you won’t receive coverage
- Only available in certain states
- Numerous customer complaints
- No options for new car replacement or vanishing deductibles
Depending on where you live, you may be unable to purchase a Root car insurance policy. However, even if it’s available in your state, you should consider other options before committing to Root as your insurance provider. For example, compare Root vs. State Farm auto insurance to see which offers the best rates, coverage types, and discounts.
How Root Usage-Based Auto Insurance Works
Root car insurance may appear comparable to other insurers in several aspects. The company provides standard auto insurance choices, lets policyholders personalize their policies, and assigns lower rates to drivers deemed safe. For more information, you can access your account through the Root car insurance login. Additionally, customers often comment on the straightforward Root insurance claims process and frequently leave positive feedback in Root insurance company reviews.
Still, one thing sets Root apart from competitors — your driving habits primarily determine your Root auto insurance rates.
While Root considers other factors when determining a driver’s insurance rates, the company pays more attention to your driving habits than any other factor. For example, most companies consider driving history when setting rates, but Root evaluates driving habits before potentially offering coverage. Read more about the factors that affect auto insurance rates.
Root Insurance might refuse to provide coverage if your driving during the evaluation period is deemed poor. Furthermore, if Root determines you’re not a safe driver, you won’t be able to reapply for coverage. This brings into question whether Root Insurance is legit, especially considering their stringent driving test, and leaves potential concerns for those seeking Root Insurance for motorcycles.
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How to Sign Up for Root Auto Insurance
To receive a quote from Root for better car insurance, you need to undergo a two to three-week test drive. You can enroll in the test drive through the Root website or by downloading their app. After signing up, Root will track your driving habits, and based on this monitoring, they may offer you coverage. Root’s insurance rates and payment options will be provided if you qualify.
Below is a list of driving habits monitored by the Root auto insurance app:
- Hard braking
- Time of day you drive
- Speed during turns
- Miles driven
- Driving routes
- Acceleration patterns
The app uses your smartphone to track your driving habits before Root agents decide whether you’re eligible for coverage.
Once the monitoring period concludes, Root Insurance will determine your eligibility for coverage. According to Root’s website, their policies are offered exclusively to good drivers. Consequently, individuals who receive a Root insurance quote are likely to benefit from low prices. It is also possible to obtain a Root insurance quote without undergoing a test drive, though prices may vary.
Compare Different Types of Root Auto Insurance Coverage
Root coverage options vary by state, so call the Root Insurance phone number to learn more about your options. Generally, Root offers the following coverages to its policyholders:
- Bodily injury liability auto insurance
- Property damage liability auto insurance
- Medical payments coverage
- Personal injury protection (PIP) auto insurance
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Collision auto insurance
- Comprehensive auto insurance
- Roadside assistance
- Rental car coverage
Root may not offer gap insurance or other optional coverages in your state, but speaking with a Root insurance representative could help you better understand whether the company would work for you.
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— AutoInsurance.org (@AutoInsurance) June 1, 2023
Keep reading this Root car insurance review to compare average rates and find the best deal in your area.
Compare Root Auto Insurance Rates
Individuals interested in obtaining an online quote for Root Insurance must first complete the company’s driving evaluation process. While Root Insurance often provides competitive rates, the final quote and eligibility for coverage will be influenced by your driving habits. Additionally, Root Insurance near you may offer options like Root motorcycle insurance, and the company’s rating can reflect how these factors impact your potential rates and coverage approval.
To get started, let’s look at the full coverage car insurance rates across the U.S.
Root vs. Competitors: Full Coverage Monthly Auto Insurance Rates
Insurance Company | Full Coverage |
---|---|
Allstate | $160 |
American Family | $117 |
Farmers | $139 |
Geico | $80 |
Liberty Mutual | $174 |
Nationwide | $115 |
Progressive | $105 |
Root | $82 |
State Farm | $86 |
Travelers | $99 |
USAA | $59 |
U.S. Average | $119 |
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Root vs. Competitors in Minimum Coverage Monthly Auto Insurance Rates
Explore the landscape of auto insurance affordability with our detailed comparison of minimum coverage rates from leading insurers. Discover how Root stands out as a cost-effective choice, challenging the norms in this overview of monthly premiums. The table below shows the minimum coverage rates from top insurance companies.
Root vs. Competitors: Minimum Coverage Monthly Auto Insurance Rates
Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage |
---|---|
Allstate | $61 |
American Family | $44 |
Farmers | $53 |
Geico | $30 |
Liberty Mutual | $68 |
Nationwide | $44 |
Progressive | $39 |
Root | $31 |
State Farm | $33 |
Travelers | $37 |
USAA | $22 |
U.S. Average | $45 |
If you’re interested in Root auto insurance, you can always call the Root car insurance phone number in your state to speak with Root insurance customer service. However, a representative will likely tell you that your driving evaluation will impact your rates.
In addition to monitoring your driving habits, Root auto insurance also considers the following factors when determining your auto insurance rates:
- ZIP code
- Credit score
- Driving record
- Marital status
- Vehicle make and model
- Age
- Prior insurance information
If you believe you’re a good driver and your evaluation would reflect that, it’s a good idea to consider pursuing a policy with Root to get cheap car insurance rates.
Compare Root Auto Insurance Discounts
Root insurance offers its policyholders a few discount options on coverage, including multi-policy, paid-in-full, safe driving, and autosteer (for Tesla drivers) discounts.
Root Auto Insurance Discounts
Discount | Description |
---|---|
Bundling Discount | Customers who choose to bundle different insurance policies, such as auto and home insurance, can enjoy cost savings for their loyalty. |
Good Student Discount | High school or college students who maintain good grades may be eligible for a discount as a recognition of their academic achievement. |
Green or Hybrid Vehicle Discount | Owners of environmentally friendly vehicles, such as hybrids or electric cars, may receive discounts for contributing to a cleaner environment. |
Low Mileage Discount | Policyholders who drive fewer miles than average may be eligible for a discount, as lower mileage often correlates with a lower risk of accidents. |
Multi-Vehicle Discount | Families or individuals with multiple vehicles insured on the same policy often receive a discount on the overall premium. |
Occupation-Based Discounts | Some insurers offer discounts based on the policyholder's occupation, assuming certain professions are associated with lower risk. |
Paid in Full Discount | Policyholders who pay their entire premium upfront, rather than in monthly installments, may receive a discount as an incentive for full payment commitment. |
Renewal or Loyalty Discount | Customers who stay with the same insurance provider for an extended period may receive discounts as a reward for their loyalty during policy renewals. |
Safe Driver Discount | Policyholders with a history of safe driving, free from accidents or violations, may qualify for reduced premiums as a safe driver. |
Safety Feature Discount | Vehicles equipped with advanced safety features, such as anti-lock brakes or airbags, may qualify for discounts due to the reduced risk of accidents. |
Senior Driver Discount | Older drivers who meet certain age criteria and have a safe driving record may be eligible for discounts designed for senior policyholders. |
Telematics or Usage-Based Discount | This discount is based on the driver's behavior, monitored through telematics devices or mobile apps. Safe driving habits can lead to reduced premiums. |
Read More:
- How to Get a Pay-in-Full Auto Insurance Discount
- How to Get a Good Driver Auto Insurance Discount
- Electric Vehicle Auto Insurance Discounts
- Best Auto Insurance Companies for Teslas
Root doesn’t clarify how much policyholders could save with auto insurance discounts. Still, if you have a policy with Root, it’s a good idea to call the Root insurance number and ask a company representative whether you qualify for coverage discounts. You should also read more about how to save money by bundling insurance policies with Root.
Understanding Root Auto Insurance Reviews
Root insurance offers lower-than-average rates to its auto insurance policyholders by monitoring their driving habits and techniques before offering a policy. So if you’re a safe driver who avoids distracted driving and doesn’t mind Root monitoring your driving, Root could be a good fit for you.
If you want more robust coverage, or if you don’t want a company to monitor your driving, you shouldn’t consider Root for your insurance needs. Instead, you can find and compare cheap quotes from the best auto insurance companies in your area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
In which states is Root auto insurance coverage available?
Root car insurance is available in Alabama, Alaska, the District of Columbia, Idaho, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Washington, Wyoming, and Vermont.
Is Root insurance legit?
Root is a legitimate auto insurance company, but not all applicants will qualify for coverage with the company.
Can my Root auto insurance rates be impacted if I ride in the car with someone else during my evaluation period?
Since the Root insurance app can recognize when you’re a passenger vs. when you’re a driver, you shouldn’t get penalized if you’re a passenger in someone else’s car.
Who owns Root Insurance?
Alex Timm is the co-founder and CEO of Root Insurance.
Is Root insurance full coverage?
Yes, Root insurance offers full coverage. Full coverage auto insurance with Root includes bodily injury liability, property damage liability, collision, and comprehensive coverages.
How does Root vs. State Farm auto insurance compare?
While Root insurance may be good for low-mileage or safe drivers, State Farm auto insurance offers better customer service ratings alongside cheap rates.
Does Root auto insurance cover rental cars?
Yes, your personal Root insurance coverage will cover rental cars as well. However, roadside assistance with Root doesn’t extend to rental vehicles.
Can I add cars to my Root auto insurance policy?
You can change your Root car insurance policy by opening your app, choosing “Auto Policy,” and clicking on “Profile.”
Why is Root auto insurance so cheap?
Root uses telematics technology, such as smartphone apps or devices, to track your driving habits and determine your insurance premium based on factors like braking, acceleration, rather than focusing on the accident and theft rates in your city.
How long does it take Root insurance to pay auto claims?
According to its website, Root insurance takes about 1-2 weeks to pay out auto insurance claims.
Metromile vs Root car insurance: Which is better?
Metromile and Root car insurance both use technology to offer usage-based insurance, but they differ in their approaches. Metromile charges based on mileage, making it ideal for low-mileage drivers. Root, on the other hand, uses telematics to assess driving behavior, potentially offering lower rates to those with safe driving habits. Choosing between them depends on whether you drive infrequently or want rates based on your driving safety.
Root Insurance vs Progressive: How do they compare?
Root Insurance and Progressive both offer competitive auto insurance options, but they differ significantly. Root focuses on telematics to determine rates based on driving behavior, which can benefit safe drivers with lower premiums. Progressive offers a wide range of coverage options and discounts, including its Snapshot program that tracks driving habits. Progressive generally has more traditional insurance options, while Root emphasizes a technology-driven approach.
Root Insurance vs Allstate: Which is a better choice?
Root Insurance and Allstate offer different benefits. Root uses telematics to set rates based on driving behavior, which can result in lower costs for safe drivers. Allstate provides a variety of coverage options and discounts, including accident forgiveness and safe driving bonuses. Allstate also has a larger network of agents and more extensive customer service options. The choice depends on whether you prefer a tech-driven pricing model or a more traditional insurance approach with extensive coverage options.
State Farm vs Root car insurance: What are the differences?
State Farm and Root Car Insurance differ mainly in their pricing models. State Farm offers a range of traditional auto insurance options and discounts through its established network of agents. Root uses telematics to evaluate driving habits, offering personalized rates based on individual driving behavior. While State Farm provides extensive customer service and various coverage options, Root focuses on low rates for safe drivers using technology.
USAA vs Root car insurance: Which offers better coverage?
USAA and Root Car Insurance serve different customer bases. USAA offers comprehensive insurance products and services specifically for military members and their families, with a strong reputation for customer service and competitive rates. Root, however, uses telematics to set rates based on driving habits, which can benefit drivers with good driving records. If you qualify for USAA, you might find it offers better overall value and coverage, while Root could be more appealing for tech-savvy drivers focused on safe driving.
Is Root insurance available in Texas and what does it offer?
Yes, Root Insurance is available in Texas. It offers a range of auto insurance coverage options, including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Root’s rates are determined using telematics to assess driving behavior, which means Texas drivers can benefit from personalized rates based on how safely they drive.
Root vs Geico car insurance: How do their policies differ?
Root and Geico have different approaches to pricing and coverage. Root uses telematics to set rates based on driving behavior, potentially offering lower rates for safe drivers. Geico, on the other hand, offers a variety of traditional coverage options and discounts based on factors like driving history and policy bundling. Geico is known for its competitive rates and extensive discount options, while Root’s pricing model is more focused on individual driving performance.
Nationwide vs Root car insurance: Which provides better value?
Nationwide and Root Car Insurance offer distinct advantages. Nationwide provides a range of insurance products and discounts, including accident forgiveness and vanishing deductibles. Root focuses on offering personalized rates based on driving behavior through its telematics technology. If you value traditional coverage options and a variety of discounts, Nationwide may provide better overall value. However, if you are a safe driver and prefer a tech-driven approach, Root could offer more savings.
What does Root car insurance in Florida include?
Root Car Insurance in Florida includes standard coverage options such as liability, collision, and comprehensive insurance. Root uses telematics to track driving behavior and offer personalized rates. This means Florida drivers can potentially receive lower premiums based on their driving habits. Coverage specifics and availability may vary, so it’s advisable to check directly with Root for detailed information.
Does Root Insurance cover windshield replacement?
Root Insurance does not specifically list windshield replacement as a standard coverage option. However, windshield replacement may be covered under comprehensive insurance, which is typically part of Root’s standard coverage. It’s best to review your policy details or contact Root directly to confirm if windshield replacement is included in your coverage.
What are the BBB reviews for Root Insurance?
Root Insurance holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). However, customer reviews on the BBB site often include complaints about claims handling and billing issues. While the A+ rating indicates a generally positive reputation, it’s essential to review specific customer feedback and complaints to get a comprehensive view of the company’s performance.
Does Root Insurance offer roadside assistance?
Root Insurance does offer roadside assistance as part of its coverage options. This service includes help with common issues like towing, flat tires, and lockouts. However, the availability and specifics of roadside assistance can vary by state, so it’s a good idea to check with Root directly for details on coverage in your area.
Does Root offer renters insurance?
No, Root Insurance does not offer renters insurance. Root specializes in auto insurance and does not provide coverage for renters or homeowners. For renters insurance, you would need to look into other providers that offer this type of coverage.
Does Root Insurance cover rental cars?
Yes, Root Insurance covers rental cars as part of its standard coverage. However, roadside assistance with Root does not extend to rental vehicles.
Does Root Insurance offer full coverage?
Yes, Root Insurance offers full coverage, including bodily injury liability, property damage liability, collision, and comprehensive coverages.
Does Root Insurance offer Gap insurance?
Root Insurance does not typically offer gap insurance, but coverage options may vary by state. It’s best to check with a Root representative for details specific to your location.
Is Root a good car insurance company?
Root can be a good car insurance option for safe drivers who want to benefit from lower rates based on their driving habits. However, if you prefer more traditional insurance evaluation methods or need additional coverage options, you might consider other insurers.
What is Root car insurance?
Root Car Insurance uses telematics technology to monitor your driving habits and set rates based on how safely you drive. It focuses on offering lower rates to safe drivers and provides a range of coverage options.
What states does Root Insurance cover?
Root Insurance is available in Alabama, Alaska, the District of Columbia, Idaho, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Washington, Wyoming, and Vermont.
Why is Root Insurance so cheap?
Root Insurance is often cheaper because it uses telematics technology to track driving habits and set rates based on individual driving behavior, which can result in lower premiums for safe drivers.
How does Root Insurance work?
Root Insurance works by monitoring your driving habits through a smartphone app. It assesses your driving performance over a period (usually a few weeks) to determine your insurance rates based on how safely you drive.
How does Root know if I’m a passenger?
Root’s app can differentiate between when you are a driver and when you are a passenger using data from your smartphone’s sensors, ensuring that you are not penalized for being a passenger.
How long does Root Insurance track your driving?
Root Insurance tracks your driving for a period of about two to three weeks during the evaluation process. This monitoring period allows them to assess your driving habits and determine your insurance rates.
How much is Root car insurance?
The cost of Root Car Insurance varies depending on factors such as your driving habits, location, and the coverage you choose. Generally, safe drivers can expect lower rates due to Root’s usage-based pricing model.
How to add SR-22 to Root Insurance?
To add SR-22 to your Root Insurance policy, contact Root customer service for assistance. They will guide you through the process of adding SR-22 coverage to meet state requirements.
What is Root car insurance in Colorado?
Root car insurance is available in Colorado and provides coverage options similar to those offered in other states. Root uses telematics technology to assess driving habits and offer personalized insurance rates based on driving behavior. If you are a safe driver in Colorado, you may benefit from competitive rates through Root.
Chris Abrams
Licensed Insurance Agent
Chris is the founder of Abrams Insurance Solutions and Marcan Insurance, which provide personal financial analysis and planning services for families and small businesses across the U.S. His companies represent nearly 100 of the top-rated insurance companies. Chris has been a licensed insurance agent since 2009 and has active insurance licenses in all 50 U.S. states and D.C. Chris works tireles...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
Emazpa
Auto review
Waldo
Where's Waldo?
Arlobloom010
They raise your rate and then lie to you about your policy
Msmchelle
Easy and Affordable
MikeH40
Driving Awareness.
Rushing9724
I like it
LaShayM
Expensive but quick and convenient
Msangie_
Why I chose Roots insurance
Viktoriia
Great experience
ACBG_-_satisfied
The ROOT IS OERFECT