Nationwide vs Root Car Insurance for 2024
In the dynamic arena of car insurance, Nationwide and Root emerge as significant contenders, each showcasing unique approaches to coverage; Nationwide, a stalwart with over 90 years of industry expertise, boasts a legacy of reliability and an extensive array of insurance products, while Root, a newer player, leverages technology to personalize rates based on driving habits.
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Tonya Sisler
Content Team Lead
Tonya Sisler has been a technical insurance writer for over five years. She uses her extensive insurance and finance knowledge to write informative articles that answer readers' top questions. Her mission is to provide readers with timely, accurate information that allows them to determine their insurance needs and choose the best coverage. Tonya currently leads a team of 10 insurance copywri...
Content Team Lead
UPDATED: Nov 27, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider.
Our car insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different car insurance 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 car insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything car insurance-related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by car insurance experts.
UPDATED: Nov 27, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider.
Our car insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different car insurance 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
| Factor | Nationwide | Root |
|---|---|---|
| Clean Record | $115 | $43 |
| 1+ Ticket | $137 | $105 |
| 1+ Accident | $161 | $127 |
| DUI | $237 | $130 |
| Poor Credit | $198 | $74 |
*monthly rates are based on an average of minimum and full coverage for a 45-year-old male driver
| Discount | Nationwide | Root |
|---|---|---|
| Safe Driver | 35% | 7% |
| Low Mileage | 10% | 8% |
| Anti Theft | 5% | 6% |
| Paperless | 5% | 9% |
| Senior Driver | 12% | 10% |
| Good Student | 15% | 12% |
Nationwide Car Insurance
Pros:
- Long-established Reputation: Nationwide boasts over 90 years of industry experience, providing customers with a sense of trust and stability.
- Comprehensive Coverage Options: Nationwide offers a diverse range of insurance products, including car, homeowners, and life insurance, catering to various insurance needs.
- Discount Variety: Nationwide provides an extensive array of discounts, such as multi-policy, safe driver, good student, and anti-theft discounts, offering opportunities for policyholders to save on premiums.
Cons:
- Potentially Higher Premiums: Some customers may find Nationwide’s premiums slightly higher compared to newer competitors like Root.
- Less Technologically Innovative: Nationwide’s approach may be perceived as less tech-driven compared to newer companies like Root.
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Root Car Insurance
Pros:
- Innovative Approach: Root utilizes technology and telematics to personalize rates based on individual driving habits, potentially offering more affordable rates for safe drivers.
- Competitive Rates: Root’s rates are often more affordable than traditional insurance providers, appealing to price-conscious customers.
- User-friendly Mobile App: Root’s mobile app provides transparency and control, allowing users to track driving behavior, report claims, and access policy information easily.
Cons:
- Limited Availability: Root is currently available in fewer states compared to Nationwide, limiting its accessibility to a broader customer base.
- Shorter Industry Presence: Being a newer player, Root lacks the long-established reputation that Nationwide has built over decades.
Root Car Insurance Takes the Lead
Root’s innovative approach to car insurance, leveraging technology and personalized rates based on driving behavior, positions it as the standout option. Here’s why Root takes the lead:
Competitive Rates: Root consistently offers more affordable rates, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious customers. The personalized approach rewards safe drivers with lower premiums, aligning with the modern consumer’s desire for fair pricing.
Tech-Driven Advantage: Root’s use of telematics technology and a user-friendly mobile app sets it apart in the digital age. The app not only provides real-time insights into driving habits but also simplifies the claims process, offering a seamless and efficient experience.
Innovative Model: Root’s disruption of the traditional insurance industry with a focus on fairness and accessibility demonstrates a commitment to meeting evolving customer expectations. The company’s mission aligns with the current demand for more transparent and individualized insurance solutions.
While Nationwide brings a legacy of reliability and a comprehensive range of insurance products, Root’s modern approach, affordability, and customer-centric technology make it the superior choice for today’s insurance needs. When considering rates and what each company offers, Root emerges as the best overall option in the Nationwide vs. Root car insurance comparison.
History and Mission of Nationwide vs Root
Nationwide was founded in 1926 as the Farm Bureau Mutual Automobile Insurance Company. Today, it is one of the largest insurance and financial services companies in the world, with over 28,000 employees and more than $245 billion in assets. Nationwide’s mission is to help people protect what’s important to them and plan for a secure financial future.
Root, on the other hand, was founded in 2015 with the goal of disrupting the traditional insurance industry. Root uses data and technology to offer personalized car insurance rates based on your driving behavior. The company’s mission is to make car insurance more fair and accessible by using technology to reward safe drivers with lower rates.
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Coverage Options Available at Nationwide and Root
Both Nationwide and Root offer car insurance, but Nationwide also offers a variety of other insurance and financial services, including homeowners insurance, life insurance, and retirement planning. Nationwide’s car insurance policies include liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage, as well as options for roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement.
Root’s car insurance policies are designed to be personalized based on your driving behavior. When you sign up for Root, you download the company’s app, which tracks your driving habits using your phone’s sensors.
Root uses this data to determine your driving score and offer you a customized rate. Root’s policies include liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage, as well as options for rental car reimbursement and roadside assistance.
Cost of Nationwide and Root Car Insurance
The cost of car insurance varies depending on a variety of factors, including your age, driving history, and location. Nationwide offers car insurance in all 50 states, and the cost of their policies varies depending on the coverage you choose and where you live. Nationwide also offers discounts for safe drivers, multiple cars, and bundling your car insurance with other insurance products.
Root car insurance is currently available in 30 states and is expanding rapidly. The cost of Root’s car insurance policies varies depending on your driving habits and location. Root offers discounts for safe drivers and for bundling your car insurance with homeowners or renters insurance.
Car Insurance Discounts Offered by Nationwide and Root
Nationwide offers a variety of discounts to help customers save money on their car insurance premiums. Here are some of the most common discounts available from Nationwide:
- Multi-policy discount: If you have more than one insurance policy with Nationwide, such as car insurance and homeowners insurance, you can save money by bundling your policies.
- Safe driver discount: If you have a clean driving record and no recent accidents or traffic violations, you may be eligible for a safe driver discount.
- Good student discount: If you’re a student with good grades, you may be eligible for a discount on your car insurance premiums.
- Anti-theft discount: If your car has anti-theft devices such as an alarm or a tracking system, you may qualify for a discount on your insurance.
- Accident-free discount: If you have been insured with Nationwide for at least five years and have no at-fault accidents or moving violations, you may be eligible for an accident-free discount.
Root also offers discounts to help customers save money on their car insurance. Here are some of the most common discounts available from Root:
- Safe driving discount: Root’s entire business model is built around safe driving, so it’s no surprise that they offer discounts to safe drivers. If you score well on Root’s driving test and maintain safe driving habits, you may be eligible for a discount.
- Multi-car discount: If you have more than one car insured with Root, you may qualify for a discount on your premiums.
- Homeowners discount: If you own a home and insure it with Root, you may be eligible for a discount on your car insurance premiums.
- Paperless discount: If you opt for paperless billing and communication, you may be eligible for a discount on your insurance premiums.
- Good credit discount: Root believes that drivers with good credit are generally more responsible and therefore less likely to get into accidents. If you have good credit, you may qualify for a discount on your insurance premiums.
It’s worth noting that the availability and amount of discounts may vary depending on your location, driving record, and other factors. Be sure to check with each company to see which discounts you may be eligible for.
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Case Studies: Nationwide vs Root Car Insurance
Case Study 1: John’s Experience with Nationwide Car Insurance
John, a 35-year-old driver from California, recently purchased car insurance from Nationwide. He was attracted to Nationwide’s long-standing reputation and wide range of coverage options.
John had a clean driving record and was able to take advantage of Nationwide’s safe driver discount. He found the rates offered by Nationwide to be competitive, and the customer service he received was excellent. Overall, John had a positive experience with Nationwide car insurance.
Case Study 2: Sarah’s Experience with Root Car Insurance
Sarah, a 28-year-old driver from Arizona, decided to try Root car insurance due to its personalized rates based on driving behavior. She downloaded the Root app and allowed it to track her driving habits.
Sarah had always been a cautious driver, and Root rewarded her safe driving with a lower rate compared to other insurance providers. She appreciated the convenience of the app and found the signup process to be straightforward. Sarah had a positive experience with Root car insurance and enjoyed the savings it offered.
Case Study 3: Michael’s Comparison of Nationwide and Root Car Insurance
Michael, a 40-year-old driver from Texas, was in the market for a new car insurance provider. He decided to compare Nationwide and Root to find the best option for his needs. Michael gathered quotes from both companies and carefully reviewed their coverage options and discounts.
After comparing the rates, Michael found that Nationwide offered slightly higher premiums compared to Root. However, Nationwide’s long history and reputation gave him a sense of security. He appreciated the variety of coverage options and the availability of additional insurance products, such as homeowners insurance, offered by Nationwide.
On the other hand, Michael was intrigued by Root’s innovative approach to car insurance based on driving behavior. He liked the idea of personalized rates and the potential for savings if he maintained safe driving habits. The simplicity of the Root app and the ease of tracking his driving data appealed to him.
In the end, Michael chose Nationwide for its established reputation and the peace of mind it provided. While he recognized the potential cost savings with Root, he prioritized the stability and comprehensive offerings of Nationwide for his insurance needs.
Nationwide vs Root Car Insurance Claims Process
Ease of Filing a Claim (online, over the phone, mobile apps)
When it comes to filing a claim with Nationwide or Root Car Insurance, both companies offer convenient options for policyholders. You can file a claim with Nationwide online, over the phone, or through their mobile app. This flexibility allows you to choose the method that suits your preferences and needs.
Root car insurance also offers an easy and streamlined claims process. Policyholders can file a claim through the Root mobile app, which is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. The app’s digital interface makes it convenient to report an accident or damage and initiate the claims process.
Average Claim Processing Time
The average claim processing time can be a critical factor for policyholders. Nationwide is known for its efficient claims processing system. In many cases, Nationwide processes claims promptly, aiming to provide quick resolutions to policyholders’ needs. However, the exact processing time can vary depending on the complexity of the claim and other factors.
Root car insurance, with its focus on technology and data-driven policies, also aims to expedite the claims process. Root uses telematics technology to assess claims and provide personalized service. As a result, policyholders may experience quicker claim processing times, especially for straightforward claims.
Customer Feedback on Claim Resolutions and Payouts
Customer feedback on claim resolutions and payouts is essential for assessing the overall quality of car insurance providers. Both Nationwide and Root have received customer feedback on their claims handling.
Nationwide, with its long history in the industry, has generally positive feedback from customers regarding claim resolutions and payouts. Policyholders appreciate the company’s commitment to customer service and the fairness of their claims settlements.
Root, as a newer player in the car insurance market, has also received positive feedback from customers regarding its claims process. Customers often highlight the transparency and efficiency of Root’s digital approach to claims, which can lead to a more satisfactory experience.
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Nationwide vs Root Car Insurance Digital and Technological Features
Mobile App Features and Functionality
Both Nationwide and Root offer mobile apps with various features and functionalities to enhance the customer experience.
Nationwide’s mobile app provides users with the ability to manage their policies, make payments, and access important documents. It also offers features like roadside assistance and accident support, making it a comprehensive tool for policyholders.
Root’s mobile app is at the core of its innovative approach to car insurance. It tracks driving behavior and provides personalized rates based on the data collected. The app also allows policyholders to report claims, view their driving scores, and access policy information. Root’s mobile app is designed to give users more control and transparency over their insurance.
Online Account Management Capabilities
Both Nationwide and Root offer online account management capabilities to their policyholders.
Nationwide’s online account management platform allows policyholders to access and manage their policies, make payments, and view important documents. It offers a user-friendly interface for convenient account management.
Root’s online account management capabilities are closely integrated with its mobile app. Policyholders can access their accounts through the app, where they can monitor their driving behavior and manage their policies. Root’s digital platform provides real-time insights into policyholders’ driving habits.
Digital Tools and Resources
In addition to mobile apps and online account management, both Nationwide and Root offer various digital tools and resources to assist policyholders.
Nationwide provides educational resources and tools on its website to help policyholders understand their coverage options and make informed decisions. These resources can be valuable for those looking to learn more about insurance.
Root offers unique digital tools focused on promoting safe driving. Its telematics technology provides real-time feedback on driving habits, helping policyholders become safer drivers and potentially lowering their insurance rates. Root’s emphasis on digital tools aligns with its mission to use technology to reward safe drivers.
As you consider Nationwide and Root car insurance, these digital and technological features can play a significant role in your decision-making process. Evaluate these features based on your preferences and how they align with your insurance needs.
Customer Reviews: Nationwide and Root Car Insurance
Nationwide car insurance has generally positive customer reviews, with many customers praising the company for its affordable rates, excellent customer service, and wide range of coverage options.
Root is a relatively new car insurance provider, but it has already gained a following among customers who appreciate its innovative business model and affordable rates.
As with any company, it’s important to read a variety of reviews and do your own research before choosing an insurance provider. Customer experiences can vary widely, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Roundup: Nationwide and Root
Nationwide has been around for over 90 years and has a strong reputation for excellent customer service and a wide range of coverage options. They offer policies in all 50 states, which makes them a convenient option for many customers. Nationwide also offers a range of discounts to help customers save money on their premiums.
Root, on the other hand, is a relatively new insurance provider that uses telematics technology to track driving habits and offer customized rates to safe drivers. Root’s rates are often more affordable than those offered by other insurance providers, which makes it an attractive option for price-conscious customers. However, Root is currently only available in a limited number of states.
Ultimately, the best car insurance company for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s important to shop around, compare quotes, and read customer reviews before making a decision. By doing so, you can find an insurance provider that offers the right balance of coverage, price, and customer service for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of car insurance coverage does Nationwide offer?
Nationwide offers a wide range of car insurance coverage options, including liability, collision, comprehensive, and personal injury protection.
What car insurance discounts are available through Nationwide?
Nationwide car insurance offers a range of discounts to help customers save money on their premiums, including multi-policy discounts, safe driver discounts, and anti-theft discounts.
What states is Nationwide car insurance available in?
Nationwide offers car insurance policies in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia.
How can I file a claim with Nationwide?
You can file a claim with Nationwide online, by phone, or through the Nationwide mobile app.
How does Root determine my insurance rates?
Root uses telematics technology to track your driving habits, including your speed, braking, and turns. Safe drivers can receive customized rates that are often lower than those offered by traditional insurance providers.
What types of car insurance coverage does Root offer?
Root offers a range of car insurance coverage options, including liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage.
What car insurance discounts are available through Root?
Root offers a variety of car insurance discounts, including safe driving discounts, multi-car discounts, and referral discounts.
What states is Root car insurance available in?
Root car insurance is currently available in 30 states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, and Ohio.
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Tonya Sisler
Content Team Lead
Tonya Sisler has been a technical insurance writer for over five years. She uses her extensive insurance and finance knowledge to write informative articles that answer readers' top questions. Her mission is to provide readers with timely, accurate information that allows them to determine their insurance needs and choose the best coverage. Tonya currently leads a team of 10 insurance copywri...
Content Team Lead
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about car insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything car insurance-related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by car insurance experts.