April 16, 2020
I spoke with my insurance agent asking if Erie Auto Insurance is offering any sort of discount during the quarantine period. He was told "...lowering rates during this challenging time is simply the right thing to do...premium adjustments will take effect at the time of renewal." I was told we would receive a $50 discount when we renew our policy - in our case in December 2020.
So, although they say they are "...lowering rates during this challenging time..." they aren't. They are lowering rates at the time your policy renews, and only by $50.
I emailed my insurance guy again; just to be sure I was reading this right. Seems he's been getting a lot of questions from policy holders asking why a rate reduction vs. a refund, and it gets worse. Their official reply: "...A one-time refund won't benefit our customers in the long-term. A rate reduction has staying power and impacts customers now and in the future..." I don't understand. A one-time refund would help customers in the short-term now, when we need it. And, 'staying power' sounds like it's their way of retaining customers. In addition, upon renewal, with a year of clean driving, I would expect to see a lower rate. I feel as if this company isn't helping us now when we need it most. I also feel that a $50 discount would be hidden inside an already-earned discount. I don't feel their philosophy reflects a company that has our best interest in mind. That is unsettling when talking about insurance. If I can't trust they care about us during a pandemic of this magnitude, why would I want them to insure us. read more
