Progressive vs USAA
Progressive and USAA both offer customizable auto insurance with liability, collision, comprehensive and additional protection options. This comparison examines their coverage choices, discounts, telematics programs, vehicle protection, rideshare features and other differences that can matter when reviewing an auto insurance quote.
Progressive vs USAA at a Glance
“`The companies overlap across many basic auto insurance categories, but they differ in eligibility, safe-driving programs, vehicle protection options and some discount structures. A meaningful comparison should use the same liability limits, deductibles and coverage selections when reviewing quotes.
| Feature | Progressive | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| Core auto coverage | Liability, collision, comprehensive, UM/UIM, Med Pay and PIP where applicable. | Customizable auto coverage with major liability, vehicle and injury-protection options. |
| Usage-based program | Snapshot® | SafePilot® and SafePilot Miles™ |
| Safe-driving discount | Snapshot personalizes pricing based on actual driving. | SafePilot offers an enrollment discount and an earned renewal discount based on driving behavior. |
| Low-mileage option | Snapshot considers how much you drive. | SafePilot Miles uses monthly mileage adjustments and is designed for qualifying low-mileage drivers. |
| Loan / lease protection | Loan/Lease Payoff can cover up to 25% of actual cash value, subject to state terms. | USAA offers car replacement assistance and other vehicle protection options; exact eligibility varies. |
| Vehicle replacement | Progressive Vehicle Protection is available in select situations and states. | Car Replacement Assistance can provide 20% more than actual cash value for a totaled or stolen vehicle, subject to terms. |
| Accident forgiveness | Small and Large Accident Forgiveness plus an optional additional program. | Coverage and policy options vary; USAA’s auto offerings should be reviewed for the applicable state and policy. |
| Rental reimbursement | Available for covered accidents, subject to policy limits. | Available for covered losses when the vehicle needs repairs. |
| Roadside assistance | Roadside assistance can cover towing, lockout, flat-tire and fuel-related services. | Roadside assistance is available through USAA Towing and Labor coverage. |
| Rideshare | Rideshare coverage is required when driving for rideshare services. | Rideshare Gap Protection is available for qualifying Uber/Lyft situations. |
USAA Eligibility: An Important Difference
“`Membership Eligibility Matters
USAA property and casualty insurance products are available only to people who meet USAA’s eligibility requirements. USAA identifies eligible groups that include active-duty military members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans who have honorably served, certain cadets and candidates, and spouses and children of USAA members.
Because membership eligibility is a prerequisite for USAA auto insurance, a driver should confirm eligibility before treating USAA as an available quote option.
Broader General Auto Insurance Availability
Progressive sells auto insurance through direct channels and independent agents. Availability, coverage, pricing and discounts still vary by state, underwriting factors and purchase method.
This means eligibility for a Progressive auto policy is not based on USAA’s military-family membership structure.
Car Insurance Coverage Comparison
“`Both companies provide multiple ways to customize an auto policy. The exact coverage limits, deductibles, endorsements and availability depend on state requirements and the policy selected.
| Coverage / Feature | Progressive | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| Liability | Available for bodily injury and property damage claims, subject to policy limits. | Available, with limits and requirements determined by state and policy. |
| Collision | Helps pay to repair or replace the insured vehicle after a covered collision. | Available for qualifying vehicle damage caused by collision. |
| Comprehensive | Covers qualifying non-collision losses including theft, fire and vandalism. | Available for qualifying losses other than collision. |
| Uninsured / underinsured motorist | Available where offered and subject to state requirements. | Available according to applicable state and policy requirements. |
| Medical payments / PIP | Medical Payments and PIP are available depending on state. | Medical and injury-related coverage options vary by state. |
| Rental reimbursement | Can help pay for a rental vehicle after a covered accident. | Can help pay for a rental while the insured vehicle is repaired after a covered loss. |
| Roadside assistance | Towing, lockout, flat-tire, fuel/fluid delivery and related services. | Roadside assistance is available through USAA Towing and Labor coverage. |
| Rideshare | Rideshare coverage can fill certain gaps while a driver is logged in and waiting for a request. | Rideshare Gap Protection can provide additional protection during qualifying periods. |
| Vehicle replacement | Progressive Vehicle Protection may be available for qualifying newer vehicles. | Car Replacement Assistance may provide 20% above actual cash value after a qualifying total loss or theft. |
| Loan / lease protection | Loan/Lease Payoff can cover the difference between amount owed and actual cash value, up to 25% of ACV. | Vehicle protection options differ from Progressive’s Loan/Lease Payoff structure and should be reviewed for the applicable policy. |
Progressive: Key Auto Insurance Features
“`Loan/Lease Payoff
Progressive’s Loan/Lease Payoff coverage can help with the difference between a vehicle’s actual cash value and the amount owed after a covered total loss or theft. Progressive states that the coverage can pay up to 25% of actual cash value, with exact limits varying by state.
Custom Parts & Equipment
Custom Parts and Equipment coverage can help repair or replace qualifying modifications such as custom wheels, stereo equipment, navigation systems and paint work. Progressive typically lists a $5,000 limit.
Pet Injury Coverage
Progressive states that pet injury coverage can pay up to $1,000 of qualifying veterinary expenses when a pet is injured in an accident while riding in the insured vehicle. The coverage is included with qualifying collision coverage.
Deductible Savings Bank
Eligible customers can add Deductible Savings Bank, which subtracts $50 from the collision or comprehensive deductible for each violation- and claim-free six-month policy period, subject to program terms.
Roadside Assistance
Progressive Roadside Assistance can provide services such as towing, lockout service, flat-tire changes and fuel or fluid delivery.
Trip Interruption
In states where available, Progressive Trip Interruption can help with qualifying expenses if a vehicle breaks down more than 100 miles from home. Published limits include up to $500 of covered costs, subject to terms.
USAA: Key Auto Insurance Features
“`Car Replacement Assistance
USAA states that eligible customers can add car replacement assistance that provides 20% more than the vehicle’s actual cash value if the vehicle is totaled or stolen, subject to policy terms and availability.
SafePilot
SafePilot is USAA’s telematics program. It uses the USAA DriveSafe app and sensors to record trips and evaluate driving behaviors including phone use, braking and driving time.
SafePilot Miles
SafePilot Miles combines driving behavior with mileage-based billing. USAA describes it as an option for drivers who are comfortable with a monthly bill that changes based on miles driven.
Rideshare Gap Protection
USAA offers rideshare gap protection for qualifying situations involving rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft, helping address coverage gaps while waiting for a ride request.
Roadside Assistance
USAA Roadside Assistance is available through Towing and Labor coverage for covered vehicles. Services can help when a vehicle has problems such as a dead battery or runs out of gas.
Military-Focused Options
USAA provides insurance products designed for eligible members of the military community, including options and discounts that can relate to military service, deployment and vehicle storage.
Progressive vs USAA Discounts
“`Discount availability varies by state and individual circumstances. The categories below show some of the published opportunities each company offers.
| Discount / Savings Category | Progressive | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| Safe-driving program | Snapshot | SafePilot |
| Low-mileage program | Snapshot considers mileage when determining pricing. | SafePilot Miles uses mileage-based monthly adjustments. |
| Multi-car | Progressive publishes a 12% countrywide average multi-car discount. | Multi-vehicle discount is available for two or more vehicles on a policy. |
| Bundling | Multi-policy discounts are available for qualifying combinations. | USAA advertises savings of up to 10% when bundling auto and property policies. |
| Online quote / purchase | Online Quote and Sign Online discounts may apply. | Discount structure differs and may include automatic-payment and other savings. |
| Good student | Available to qualifying students. | Eligible students can receive a Good Student Discount; USAA publishes up to 10% in qualifying situations. |
| Military-related discounts | Discounts vary by state and eligibility. | Military on-base discount can provide up to 15% when qualifying requirements are met. |
| Storage | Availability depends on applicable policy and state. | Storage Discount may apply when a vehicle is stored and not driven, subject to requirements. |
| Continuous insurance | Progressive offers a Continuous Insurance Discount in qualifying situations. | USAA uses a different discount structure and eligibility framework. |
These are published discount figures and program limits, not guaranteed savings. Actual discounts vary by state, driver, policy, eligibility and program terms.
“`Snapshot vs SafePilot vs SafePilot Miles
“`This is one of the most useful areas to examine when comparing the two companies. Progressive and USAA both use telematics, but USAA also offers a mileage-based option through SafePilot Miles.
| Program Detail | Progressive Snapshot | USAA SafePilot | USAA SafePilot Miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program type | Usage-based insurance | Safe-driving telematics | Usage-based / mileage program |
| App | Mobile app available; plug-in device also offered in applicable situations. | USAA DriveSafe app required. | USAA DriveSafe app required. |
| Driving behavior | Can consider hard braking, rapid acceleration, mileage and time of day. | Can consider phone handling, calling, harsh braking and annualized driving hours. | Uses mileage and driving behavior data. |
| Enrollment discount | Discount structure varies by state and participation. | Up to 15% in qualifying locations under current program terms. | Participation and program savings vary by location and program terms. |
| Renewal savings | Personalized rate based on driving; Progressive says high-risk driving can increase the rate. | Earned discount can reach up to 30% in qualifying locations. | USAA describes up to 20% savings for lower mileage plus an earned driving discount of up to 20%. |
| Can telematics increase the premium? | Yes. Progressive states that high-risk driving can result in a higher renewal rate. | No. USAA states SafePilot driving data is used to calculate the discount and will not negatively affect the policy rate. | Monthly bill can vary based on mileage and other factors. |
| Availability | Not available in all states; Snapshot is not available in California. | Available only in select locations and not in California or certain listed states. | Available only in select states with program restrictions. |
Vehicle Protection Comparison
“`Loan/Lease Payoff
Progressive’s Loan/Lease Payoff coverage can help cover the difference between what is owed and the vehicle’s actual cash value after a qualifying total loss or theft. The published maximum is up to 25% of actual cash value, subject to state terms.
Car Replacement Assistance
USAA’s Car Replacement Assistance can provide 20% more than the vehicle’s actual cash value if the vehicle is totaled or stolen, subject to eligibility and policy terms.
Vehicle Protection
Where available, Progressive Vehicle Protection can cover qualifying newer vehicles for certain non-accident-related issues, minor dents and dings, and lost, stolen or damaged keys.
Custom Parts & Equipment
Progressive can provide CPE coverage for qualifying aftermarket modifications, typically up to $5,000.
Accident Forgiveness
“`| Feature | Progressive | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| Small Accident Forgiveness | Progressive states that Small Accident Forgiveness is automatically available in most states for a first claim of $500 or less. | USAA’s auto policy options and eligibility should be checked for the applicable state and policy. |
| Long-term loyalty protection | Large Accident Forgiveness can become available after at least five years with Progressive while remaining accident- and violation-free, subject to state rules. | Availability of accident-related protection depends on the applicable USAA policy and state. |
| Additional accident forgiveness | Progressive offers an optional purchasable Accident Forgiveness benefit that may forgive one eligible accident per policy period. | Review the applicable USAA policy options and state-specific terms. |
Accident forgiveness is highly dependent on state, eligibility and policy structure. The actual quote should identify whether the feature is included, optional or unavailable.
“`Progressive vs USAA for Different Driver Situations
“`| Driver Situation | Progressive | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| Military member or military family | Available according to Progressive’s normal eligibility and underwriting rules. | USAA is specifically structured for eligible military members, veterans and qualifying family members. |
| Rideshare driver | Rideshare endorsement required when driving for rideshare. | Rideshare Gap Protection is available for qualifying situations. |
| Low-mileage driver | Snapshot can consider mileage when calculating personalized pricing. | SafePilot Miles provides a specific mileage-based option in qualifying states. |
| Safe-driving program | Snapshot | SafePilot |
| Multiple vehicles | Multi-Car Discount with a published 12% countrywide average. | Multi-Vehicle Discount applies when two or more vehicles are insured on the policy. |
| Teen driver | Teen-driver discounts may be available based on eligibility and policy details. | Good Student, Driver Training, Multi-Vehicle and SafePilot opportunities are available for qualifying young drivers. |
| Vehicle stored for extended periods | Policy options depend on the situation and state. | USAA offers a Storage Discount in qualifying situations. |
| Financed or leased vehicle | Loan/Lease Payoff may help address negative equity after a total loss. | USAA offers vehicle replacement-related protection; exact options should be reviewed with the quote. |
| Custom vehicle modifications | Custom Parts & Equipment coverage can protect qualifying modifications. | Available vehicle protection depends on policy and state. |
Rental, Roadside and Additional Assistance
“`Progressive
- Rental car reimbursement
- Roadside assistance
- Towing services
- Lockout service
- Flat-tire assistance
- Fuel or fluid delivery
- Trip interruption in qualifying states
- Pet injury coverage with qualifying collision coverage
USAA
- Rental reimbursement
- Roadside assistance through Towing and Labor coverage
- Car Replacement Assistance
- Rideshare Gap Protection
- SafePilot
- SafePilot Miles
- Military-focused insurance options
- 24/7 policy and claims management through the USAA mobile app
How to Compare Progressive and USAA Quotes Fairly
“`Use the same coverage settings on both quotes.
A lower displayed premium does not provide a meaningful comparison if one quote has lower liability limits, higher deductibles or fewer optional protections. Prepare the same information for both companies:
- State and ZIP code
- Driver ages and licensed-driver information
- Driving history, tickets and accidents
- Vehicle year, make and model
- VIN when available
- Estimated annual mileage
- Current insurance and continuous coverage history
- Bodily injury liability limits
- Property damage liability limits
- Uninsured / underinsured motorist limits
- Comprehensive deductible
- Collision deductible
- Rental reimbursement limits
- Roadside assistance
- Rideshare or delivery use
- Loan or lease balance
- Homeowners or renters policy information for bundling
- Eligibility for Snapshot or SafePilot
- USAA membership eligibility, if considering USAA
Progressive vs USAA FAQ
“`Who is eligible for USAA auto insurance?
USAA property and casualty insurance is available to people who meet its membership eligibility requirements. USAA identifies groups including active-duty military members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans who have honorably served, certain cadets and candidates, and spouses and children of USAA members. Restrictions and eligibility rules apply.
Does Progressive have a safe-driving program?
Yes. Progressive offers Snapshot, a usage-based insurance program that can evaluate factors including hard braking, rapid acceleration, mileage and time of day. The mobile version can also consider handheld phone use in some states.
Does USAA have a safe-driving program?
Yes. USAA offers SafePilot. It uses the DriveSafe app to track driving information and calculate a driving score. USAA states that SafePilot can provide an enrollment discount and an earned renewal discount in qualifying locations.
Does USAA offer a mileage-based insurance option?
Yes. USAA SafePilot Miles is a usage-based program that adjusts the monthly bill based on mileage and other factors. USAA describes it as an option for drivers who drive fewer miles and are comfortable with a variable monthly bill.
Can Progressive Snapshot increase the insurance rate?
Progressive states that Snapshot can personalize the renewal rate based on actual driving and that high-risk driving can result in a higher rate in applicable situations.
Can USAA SafePilot increase the insurance premium?
USAA states that SafePilot driving data is used to calculate the discount and that participation in SafePilot will not negatively affect the policy rate. The overall premium can still change for other reasons unrelated to SafePilot participation.
Does Progressive offer loan or lease payoff coverage?
Yes. Progressive’s Loan/Lease Payoff coverage can help cover the difference between the amount owed and the vehicle’s actual cash value after a qualifying total loss or theft. Progressive publishes a limit of up to 25% of actual cash value, subject to state terms.
Does USAA offer vehicle replacement protection?
Yes. USAA offers Car Replacement Assistance, which can provide 20% more than the vehicle’s actual cash value after a qualifying total loss or theft, subject to eligibility and policy terms.
Do Progressive and USAA offer rideshare coverage?
Yes. Progressive requires a rideshare endorsement for drivers using rideshare services. USAA offers rideshare gap protection for qualifying situations involving services such as Uber and Lyft. Availability and exact coverage vary by state.
Does Progressive offer accident forgiveness?
Yes. Progressive describes Small Accident Forgiveness, Large Accident Forgiveness and an optional Progressive Accident Forgiveness benefit. Eligibility and availability vary by state and customer.
Does USAA offer discounts for military members?
USAA offers military-related savings opportunities. For example, USAA currently publishes a military on-base discount of up to 15% for qualifying customers who garage their vehicle on base. Eligibility and availability vary.
Are Progressive and USAA available in every state with the same features?
No. Insurance requirements, coverage options, discounts, telematics programs, endorsements and eligibility can vary by state. USAA products also require membership eligibility.
What should I compare besides the monthly premium?
Compare liability limits, deductibles, comprehensive and collision coverage, uninsured motorist protection, rental reimbursement, roadside assistance, rideshare protection, vehicle replacement or loan protection, accident forgiveness, discounts and any telematics program requirements.
Related Insurance Pages
“`Continue exploring company profiles and other comparisons on Newest Cars Insurance.
“`Compare the Policy Details That Matter
Progressive and USAA have different coverage structures, discount programs and eligibility requirements. Use the same driver, vehicle, limits and deductibles when comparing quotes so the results are easier to understand.
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