Root Insurance Review

Root Insurance has disrupted the auto insurance industry with its telematics-first model that prices coverage primarily on actual driving behavior. Since launching in 2015 and going public in 2020, Root has attracted attention from drivers seeking fairer pricing and frustration from those who don’t fit its model. Understanding what Root actually delivers, including its strengths and limitations, helps you decide whether this innovative insurer fits your situation.

This review examines Root Insurance’s coverage, pricing approach, claims handling, customer experience, and competitive positioning. By understanding the realities of being a Root customer, you can determine whether the telematics-first model offers genuine value for your driving habits and preferences.

Root Insurance Overview

Root Insurance operates as a fully digital, app-based insurer that emphasizes driving behavior over traditional demographic factors. The company requires prospective customers to complete a test drive period before offering coverage, then prices policies primarily based on demonstrated driving habits. This approach aims to reward safe drivers who might pay more under conventional underwriting.

Root focuses on personal auto insurance with standard coverage components, operating entirely through its mobile app. The company has expanded into renters insurance in some markets and continues growing its state availability. For a detailed explanation of the model, see our guide on how Root Insurance works.

Root Coverage Options

Distinctive Root Features

Telematics-First Pricing

Root’s defining feature is pricing based primarily on driving behavior rather than demographics. Unlike traditional telematics programs that provide discounts on top of conventional pricing, Root makes driving behavior the foundation of your rate. This can produce significant savings for genuinely safe drivers.

Reduced Credit Reliance

Root places less emphasis on credit scores than many traditional insurers, focusing instead on driving behavior. This can benefit safe drivers with limited or imperfect credit who might pay more at credit-focused insurers.

Fully Digital Experience

Root operates entirely through its app, providing streamlined digital management of quotes, policies, claims, and customer service. The modern app experience appeals to tech-comfortable customers.

Fast Digital Claims

Root handles claims through the app, allowing photo-based filing and digital communication. The streamlined claims process aims for faster resolution than traditional methods.

Root Insurance Pricing

Root pricing varies significantly based on demonstrated driving behavior. Safe drivers can achieve competitive rates, while drivers with imperfect habits may pay more or be declined. The telematics-based model means pricing is more individualized than traditional insurers.

For confident safe drivers, Root often prices below traditional insurers. Use our car insurance calculator to compare traditional pricing as a benchmark.

Root Claims Process

Root handles claims entirely through its app, reflecting its digital-first approach. Customers file claims by reporting the incident through the app, uploading photos of damage, and communicating with claims representatives digitally. The streamlined process aims for efficiency, though complex claims may require additional steps.

Claims resolution timelines vary by complexity. Minor claims can resolve quickly through the digital process, while complex claims involving injuries or disputed fault take longer. As a newer company, Root’s claims reputation continues developing, with experiences varying among customers.

Root Pros and Cons

Pros

Telematics-first pricing rewards genuinely safe drivers. Potential for significant savings for good drivers. Reduced reliance on credit scores. Fully digital, modern app experience. Fast digital claims filing. Transparent pricing based on actual behavior. Fairer approach for drivers penalized by demographics. Innovative model that prices individuals rather than categories.

Cons

Test drive period delays coverage start. May decline drivers with risky behavior. App-only model with no in-person support. Limited state availability compared to national insurers. Newer company with developing claims reputation. Not beneficial for drivers with imperfect habits. Continued monitoring may affect some customers. Fewer coverage options and bundling than full-service insurers.

How Root Compares to Competitors

For comparisons, review our Progressive review, GEICO review, and State Farm review.

Who Should Choose Root

Root works well for genuinely safe drivers who want pricing based on their actual behavior. Drivers penalized by traditional factors like age or limited credit despite driving safely. Tech-comfortable customers who appreciate fully digital management. People in states where Root is available who fit the model. Drivers willing to complete the test drive period for potential savings.

Less ideal fits include drivers with imperfect habits who won’t benefit from telematics pricing. People needing immediate coverage who can’t wait for the test drive. Drivers who prefer agent relationships and in-person service. Customers in states where Root isn’t available. Drivers wanting extensive coverage options and bundling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Root Insurance good?

Root Insurance is good for genuinely safe drivers who benefit from its telematics-first pricing, those penalized by traditional factors, and tech-comfortable customers. It’s less suitable for drivers with imperfect habits, those needing immediate coverage, or people preferring agent service.

Is Root Insurance legitimate?

Yes, Root Insurance is a legitimate, licensed insurance company founded in 2015 that went public in 2020. It operates as a fully digital insurer with proper licensing and reserves, offering standard coverage in a growing number of states.

How much does Root Insurance cost?

Root pricing varies based on driving behavior. Excellent drivers may pay $1,000-$1,300 annually, good drivers $1,300-$1,600, and average drivers $1,600-$2,000. Below-average drivers may be declined. Safe drivers often pay less than at traditional insurers.

Does Root really save money?

Root can save money for genuinely safe drivers because it prices based on demonstrated behavior rather than demographics. Savings vary by individual, and drivers with imperfect habits may pay more or be declined. The model works best for confident safe drivers.

How are Root’s claims?

Root handles claims through its app with photo-based filing and digital communication. The streamlined process aims for efficiency, though as a newer company, Root’s claims reputation continues developing with experiences varying among customers.

Can I get Root Insurance immediately?

No, Root requires a test drive period of two to three weeks before offering coverage. This means you can’t get immediate coverage like traditional insurers. If you need coverage immediately, you’ll need a conventional insurer.

Is Root available everywhere?

No, Root operates in a growing number of states but has more limited availability than traditional national insurers. Check the Root app or website to confirm availability in your state.

Should I switch to Root?

Consider switching to Root if you’re a genuinely safe driver, available in your state, and comfortable with app-based insurance and the test drive period. If you have imperfect habits, need immediate coverage, or prefer agent service, traditional insurers may suit you better.

The Bottom Line

Root Insurance offers a genuinely innovative approach to car insurance that can provide significant value for the right customer. The telematics-first model rewards safe drivers with pricing based on demonstrated behavior rather than demographics, potentially producing savings unavailable through traditional underwriting.

Root works best for genuinely safe drivers, people penalized by traditional factors despite good driving, and tech-comfortable customers who appreciate fully digital management. The test drive requirement, potential for declined coverage, app-only model, and limited state availability mean Root isn’t right for everyone.

Before committing, honestly assess your driving habits and preferences. Safe drivers willing to complete the test period and comfortable with app-based insurance may find substantial value. Drivers with imperfect habits, immediate coverage needs, or preferences for traditional service should consider conventional insurers that offer immediate coverage and broader options.

Ready to evaluate Root Insurance for your situation? Visit Matrix Insurance to compare Root against traditional carriers. Use our car insurance calculator to estimate benchmark pricing, or contact our team for personalized guidance on whether Root’s telematics model fits your driving habits.