Permanent General Companies

Permanent General Companies Insurance Review

The General, formerly known as Permanent General Assurance Corporation (PGAC), has a rich history in the auto insurance industry. Established in 1963 as Permanent General Agency, it has evolved into a prominent online provider of auto insurance, serving drivers for nearly 60 years. A subsidiary of PGC Holdings Corp and an affiliate of American Family Insurance, The General maintains a strong market position built on financial stability and a commitment to providing affordable coverage.

Overview

Year of Establishment and Background Story

Founded in 1963 as Permanent General Agency, The General initially focused on traditional insurance sales. Its evolution reflects the changing landscape of the insurance industry, with a significant shift towards online sales beginning around 2000. This transition underscores the company's adaptability and its focus on leveraging technology to reach a wider customer base.

Key Milestones in the Company’s History and Growth

• 1963: Permanent General Agency established.
• 2000: Transition to online insurance sales begins.
• 2013: Acquisition by American Family Insurance and subsequent brand refresh.
• 2018: Launch of a dedicated mobile application for policy management.
• 2021: Adoption of the new slogan: "For a great low rate, go with The General."
• 2023: Modernization of the company's logo and brand image.

Regulatory Compliance and Licenses

Details on Licenses and Certifications Obtained

The General's operations are supported by the licensing and regulatory compliance of several entities: Permanent General Assurance Corporation, Permanent General Assurance Corporation of Ohio, and The General Automobile Insurance Company, Inc. The financial strength of these companies is reflected in their "Excellent" (A) A.M. Best ratings, signifying a high level of financial stability and a reduced risk for policyholders. This robust regulatory framework ensures compliance with state and federal insurance regulations, offering an added layer of security for customers.

Insurance Products and Services

Main Insurance Products

The General primarily focuses on auto insurance, offered conveniently online. The underwriting for these policies is managed by the aforementioned Permanent General Assurance Corporation, Permanent General Assurance Corporation of Ohio, and The General Automobile Insurance Company, Inc. This diversified underwriting structure allows the company to cater to a wider range of customers and geographic areas.

Coverage Options and Policy Details

The General offers a range of auto insurance coverage options designed to meet diverse needs. These typically include liability coverage (protecting you against claims from others), collision coverage (covering damage to your vehicle in an accident), comprehensive coverage (covering damage from events other than collisions, such as theft or weather damage), and personal injury protection (PIP, covering medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers). Specific details regarding deductibles, coverage limits, and additional features are readily available on The General's website. Thorough review of the policy details is recommended before purchasing any insurance plan.

Additional Services

While The General primarily concentrates on auto insurance, it provides essential supplementary services to support its policyholders. These include streamlined claims assistance through various channels and a user-friendly mobile app that allows for convenient policy management and access to important information. The app facilitates easy communication, policy updates, and claims reporting, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Premiums and Pricing

Pricing Structure

The General distinguishes itself by offering competitive, low-cost auto insurance. Premium rates are dynamically determined based on several key factors, including the individual's driving history (accidents, violations), location (which affects risk assessment), and the type of vehicle being insured. To obtain a personalized quote, prospective customers are encouraged to utilize The General's online quoting tool, which provides a quick and convenient way to estimate insurance costs based on their specific circumstances. The accuracy of the quote depends on the accuracy of the information provided.

Comparative Analysis with Industry Averages

The General consistently positions itself competitively within the auto insurance market. Its commitment to affordability doesn't compromise its financial soundness. The A.M. Best ratings held by its insurance companies reinforce the reliability of its pricing model, demonstrating that offering low-cost insurance is achievable without sacrificing financial stability. This balance ensures value for customers while maintaining a high level of trust and confidence.

Discounts and Special Offers

To enhance the affordability of its auto insurance, The General offers several discount programs. These include multi-policy discounts (for bundling insurance policies), safe driver discounts (rewarding safe driving habits), and loyalty rewards (recognizing long-term customer relationships). The company also frequently introduces promotional deals and limited-time offers, creating additional opportunities for savings. Customers should regularly check The General's website to remain informed about current discounts and promotions, as these may vary over time.

Customer Service and Support

Contact Methods

The General provides multiple convenient avenues for customers to access support. These include phone support, email, and live chat, ensuring a range of options to suit individual preferences. The company maintains regional call centers in various locations, such as Ohio, Arizona, and Louisiana, offering localized customer support and responsiveness. This multi-channel approach prioritizes ease of access and efficiency.

Availability of 24/7 Support and Multilingual Assistance

While The General offers readily accessible customer service during regular business hours, 24/7 support and multilingual assistance are not explicitly advertised. However, the availability of multiple contact methods and regional call centers suggests a reasonable level of responsiveness to customer inquiries. Customers should check the website for specifics regarding hours of operation for each channel.

Pros and Cons of Permanent General Companies Insurance

Pros

The General offers several key advantages that make it an attractive option for many drivers. Its competitive premiums are a significant draw for budget-conscious individuals. Additionally, its comprehensive coverage options provide peace of mind by protecting against various risks. The financial stability, underpinned by strong A.M. Best ratings, instills confidence in the company's ability to meet its obligations to policyholders.

Cons

While The General has numerous strengths, potential customers should be aware of some limitations. The lack of explicitly advertised 24/7 support and multilingual assistance could be a drawback for some. Moreover, while the core service is robust, the range of additional services beyond auto insurance and claims assistance is relatively limited compared to some competitors. These considerations should be weighed against individual needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Summary of the Main Points Covered in the Review

The General, with its long-standing history and the backing of American Family Insurance, offers a compelling auto insurance option. Its competitive premiums, comprehensive coverage, and financial stability make it an attractive choice for many. The company's user-friendly online platform, mobile app, and multiple customer service channels enhance convenience and accessibility.

Recommendations on Who Would Benefit Most from the Company’s Insurance Offerings

Drivers seeking affordable, reliable auto insurance with sufficient coverage should seriously consider The General. Those who prioritize cost-effectiveness and value for their premiums will find its offerings attractive. However, individuals requiring extensive additional services or 24/7 multilingual support might need to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Permanent General Companies Insurance

Policies and Coverage: What types of coverage does The General offer? The General offers standard auto insurance coverage, including liability, collision, comprehensive, and personal injury protection (PIP). Detailed policy information is available on their website.

Claims Process: How does the claims process work with The General? The General provides assistance with claims through its website and regional call centers. The specific steps may vary depending on the nature of the claim.

Premiums and Discounts: How are premiums determined, and what discounts are available? Premiums are calculated based on factors like driving history, location, and vehicle type. Discounts are available for multiple policies, safe driving, and loyalty.

References

[3] https://www.thegeneral.com/about/

[5] https://oci.wi.gov/Pages/Companies/AcqGeneral.aspx