Scenario: After three years with Geico, my rate crept up to $240/month. I felt the “Loyalty Penalty.” I decided to shop specifically for a “Rideshare Friendly” carrier in 2026. I got quotes from Allstate, Progressive, and State Farm for a standard 2023 Camry in a metro area. The results shocked me—I saved $900 a year just by making two phone calls.
Key Takeaways
- The “Loyalty Penalty”: Insurers use algorithms that predict how likely you are to switch. If you stay passive, they inch your rates up (Price Optimization). You must shop every 12 months.
- Hybrid Policy vs. Endorsement: Geico (in many states) sells a commercial hybrid policy which is expensive. Allstate/State Farm use the “Endorsement” model (Personal + $20), which is often much cheaper for part-time drivers.
- Telematics Reset: Switching allows you to reset your “Driving Score.” If you had a few hard brakes on your old carrier’s app, a new carrier starts you fresh (often with an introductory discount).
- Bundle Power: Moving my renters insurance with the auto policy unlocked a “Multi-Line Discount” that paid for the rideshare endorsement entirely.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Product Structure
The main reason for the price difference wasn’t just brand; it was the type of policy.
- Geico: Often forces a “Rideshare Policy” (Commercial Hybrid). Great coverage, high price ( $).
- Allstate/State Farm: “Personal Auto Policy” with “TNC Endorsement.” Lower base rate, small fee ($).
If you drive part-time, the Commercial Hybrid is overkill. You are paying for 24/7 commercial coverage when you only need “Period 1” gap coverage.
The Investigation: The Quotes
Profile: 35-year-old male, clean record, 2023 Toyota Camry, Metro Area.
1. Geico (Current)
- Quote: $242/mo.
- Notes: High limits, deductible reimbursement included in some states, but base rate was high due to inflation adjustments.
2. Allstate (Ride for Hire)
- Quote: $168/mo.
- Notes: Their “Ride for Hire” endorsement was essentially free because the “Switch & Save” discount offset it. They also offered “Deductible Gap” coverage.
3. Progressive
- Quote: $175/mo.
- Notes: Very competitive, but their down payment requirement was higher ($300 upfront).
Comparison Table: The Switch
| Feature | Geico (Old) | Allstate (New) | Savings |
| Base Premium | $242 | $168 | $74/mo |
| Deductible | $500 | $500 | Same |
| Rideshare Cov | Hybrid Policy | Endorsement | N/A |
| Perk | Reliability | Milewise (Pay-per-mile option) | Flex |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Gather Your Info: Have your current Declarations page handy so you can match the limits (e.g., 100/300/100). Don’t accidentally lower your coverage to get a cheaper price.
- Quote the “Big 3”: Go to State Farm, Allstate, and Progressive websites. Select “I drive for a rideshare service” early in the quote process.
- Check “Pay-Per-Mile”: If you drive low miles personally (because most miles are on the App/Uber’s insurance), look at Allstate Milewise or Nationwide SmartRide. They might only charge you for the personal miles, saving a fortune.
- Cancel the Old Policy: Once the new one is active (and you have the ID cards), call Geico to cancel. They will refund the unused premium pro-rata.
FAQ
Will switching hurt my credit?
Insurance quotes are “soft pulls.” They do not hurt your credit score.
Is there a cancellation fee?
Rarely. Most major carriers allow you to cancel anytime with a full pro-rated refund.
Do I need to tell Uber I switched?
YES. You must upload your new insurance card to the Uber/Lyft document center immediately, or you will be deactivated when the old one “expires” in their system.