I have been a proud USAA member for 21 years now and have always been their number one fan, until now that is.
After 10+ years of no accidents and only 1 speeding ticket in over 4 years, I was involved in a fender bender in Dec 2013 ---it was deemed my fault by USAA (not by the police, it was considered no fault) and they paid out $3400 to fix my car - there was no damage to the other car. So, what do you think happened after my years of loyalty and good history, they DOUBLED my auto insurance premiums.
When I called USAA about this increase (after I picked my heart up off of the floor), I was told that it was because I lived in the state of North Carolina and no other explanation given. The rep was completely unhelpful. After I started crying, I hung up and waited a few hours to compose myself before calling back. This time, the rep told me that due to NC's rate bureau, my auto insurance rates are calculated and increased $100 for every $1000 they had to pay out on my accident and that I would be penalized for this for 3 years ... WHAT?!?! This is ridiculous based on my years of loyalty and good driving history. I explained that while NC sets my rates, USAA sets my premiums and can something be done. Their answer, you guessed it, NO. I am being penalized simply because I live in the state of North Carolina and will continue to be penalized for 3 years.
It just surprises me that USAA is advertising themselves as a people's insurance company full of loyalty and pride for its members ... I think not. I am so disappointed with USAA and their lack of loyalty. My rates have doubled and now I must struggle even more to make ends meet. Thanks a lot USAA.
While I will continue to be a USAA member, I will no longer speak highly of them or their services.
