Root Insurance Reviews

Root is a web-based insurance company that offers auto, homeowners and renters insurance. Its car insurance requires new policyholders to download an app and track their driving habits for 30 days. This data is then used along with traditional factors to determine their rates.

By using this model, Root only insures drivers who meet its safety threshold and claims the average driver can save upward of $900 a year.

Root’s car insurance policies are customizable, but drivers are required to meet the minimum levels of liability coverage set by their state. This typically includes coverage for bodily injury, property damage and medical expenses.

Root covers most major makes and models of cars, but doesn’t cover motorcycles, ATVs, commercial or exotic vehicles.

Root Insurance uses an app that tracks your driving habits for 30 days to help determine your eligibility and rate. It also looks at traditional factors like credit score, driving record, age, marital status, gender, ZIP code and vehicle type.

There are two ways to get a quote from Root:

1. Test drive: Download the Root app, drive for around 30 days, then receive a quote based on the collected data.
2. Instant quote: Click on the “Get a Quote” link on the company’s website and complete the online application. Instant quotes can insure you for up to 60 days, but you have to complete the 30-day test drive within this window.

After your test is complete, you’ll be sent an updated rate offer or be notified that your coverage won’t be continued if you don’t meet Root’s safety standards.

Policy options:

• “Basic”: Fulfills your state’s minimum liability requirements and may include:
  • Bodily injury
  • Property damage
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury
  • Personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments (MedPay)
• “Fantastic” (full coverage) includes all of the above and:
  • Collision
  • Comprehensive
  • Option to add property damage for uninsured motorists

You can choose to pay month to month, or in full for a six-month term, which reduces your total premium by around 18%.

Because Root requires all drivers to complete a 30-day test drive, only those who meet its safety threshold will be insured, making it a good option for those who don’t drive a lot or who already practice safe driving habits.

Additionally, its policies are customizable and can be managed entirely online. However, if you know you’re a higher-risk driver or are afraid you may get a low score on the test drive, Root may not be the best option for you.