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Insurance Claim Guide

Filing a Claim with Progressive After a Car Accident in Colorado

Progressive is one of Colorado's most common auto insurers, but they consistently rank near the bottom in claims satisfaction surveys. Their combination of quick-but-low offers, aggressive investigation, and in-house adjusters means you need to be prepared before you file. Here is what to expect.

Claims Phone:1-800-776-4737(24/7)
Online:progressive.com

Progressive Claims Track Record

Bottom 2

J.D. Power Ranking

Among worst for claims satisfaction

In-House

Adjuster Model

Adjusters are Progressive employees

#3

Market Share

Third-largest U.S. auto insurer

What to Expect from Progressive's Claims Process

1

Report the Accident

Call 1-800-776-4737, use the Progressive app, or file at progressive.com. Progressive is generally fast at acknowledging claims and assigning a claims representative.

2

Investigation Phase

Progressive tends to investigate claims more aggressively than average. Expect detailed questions about the accident, requests for documentation, and a thorough review of the police report. They may also use surveillance in higher-value injury claims.

3

Vehicle Assessment

Progressive uses their own in-house adjusters for vehicle inspections. They may also offer their mobile app photo estimation tool. Remember: you have the right to choose your own repair shop in Colorado, and you are not required to use Progressive's network.

4

Settlement Offer

Progressive often makes a quick initial offer, especially for smaller claims. The speed is deliberate: they want to close claims before you fully understand their value. For injury claims, their first offer is a starting point for negotiation. Do not accept before your treatment is complete.

Common Progressive Claims Tactics

Quick But Low Offers

Progressive is fast. They will often have an initial offer ready before you have even started medical treatment. This speed is a tactic, not a courtesy. Quick offers close claims cheaply before the true cost of your injuries is known. Do not let urgency push you into accepting less than your claim may be worth.

In-House Adjuster Lowballing

Progressive's adjusters are company employees, not independent evaluators. Their performance metrics include claim costs and closure rates. This creates a structural incentive to undervalue your claim. When a Progressive adjuster says their offer is "fair," understand that "fair" is defined by the company they work for.

Aggressive Investigation

Progressive invests heavily in claims investigation. For higher-value claims, they may conduct surveillance, review your social media, and hire investigators. This is legal, but you should be aware of it. Avoid posting about your accident, injuries, or activities on social media while your claim is open.

Disputing Treatment Necessity

Progressive frequently challenges the necessity or cost of medical treatment. They may argue that chiropractic care was unnecessary, that physical therapy went on too long, or that your treatment was not related to the accident. Keep detailed records of all medical advice and follow your doctor's treatment plan.

Colorado-Specific Guidance for Progressive Claims

Your Rights as a Colorado Policyholder

  • Progressive must handle claims promptly and in good faith under Colorado law. Unreasonable delays or denials trigger the bad faith statute (CRS 10-3-1115).
  • You have the right to choose your own repair shop. Progressive cannot penalize you for not using their network.
  • Progressive cannot surcharge your rates for a claim where you were not at fault.
  • If Progressive totals your car and you disagree with the value, you can invoke the appraisal clause in your policy.

MedPay with Progressive

Colorado requires Progressive to offer MedPay. If you have it, file the MedPay claim immediately. It pays your medical bills regardless of who caused the accident, with no deductible. Use it while the liability claim is being resolved to cover out-of-pocket medical costs.

UM/UIM Coverage

If the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured, your Progressive UM/UIM coverage applies. Progressive is required by Colorado law to offer this coverage. Be prepared for an adversarial process on UM/UIM claims. Progressive will essentially negotiate against you, their own customer. Attorney representation is recommended.

When to Get a Lawyer for a Progressive Claim

Progressive's low claims satisfaction scores and aggressive investigation tactics mean that legal representation can make a significant difference. Consider a lawyer in these situations:

You May Handle It Yourself If:

  • Property damage only with no injuries
  • Liability is completely clear
  • Damages are under $5,000
  • Progressive's offer covers all documented costs

Get a Lawyer If:

  • You have any injuries requiring treatment
  • Progressive disputes fault or assigns partial blame
  • Their offer is below your documented damages
  • You are filing a UM/UIM claim against Progressive
  • Progressive is conducting surveillance or aggressive investigation

Frequently Asked Questions: Progressive Claims in Colorado

How do I file a car accident claim with Progressive in Colorado?
File a claim by calling Progressive at 1-800-776-4737 (available 24/7), through the Progressive mobile app, or online at progressive.com. Have your policy number, the date and location of the accident, the other driver's insurance information, and any photos or the police report number ready.
Why does Progressive rank so low in claims satisfaction?
Progressive has consistently ranked near the bottom of J.D. Power's auto claims satisfaction surveys. Common complaints include low initial settlement offers, aggressive investigation of claims, difficulty reaching adjusters, and the use of in-house adjusters who have a financial incentive to minimize payouts. Progressive's business model emphasizes operational efficiency, which can come at the expense of the claims experience.
Does Progressive use their own adjusters to lowball claims?
Yes, Progressive is known for using in-house claims adjusters rather than independent adjusters. These employees work for Progressive and their performance is measured in part by how efficiently they close claims. Consumer advocates note that this creates an inherent conflict of interest, as the person evaluating your claim works for the company that pays it. This is one reason Progressive's initial offers tend to be low.
How long does Progressive take to settle a car accident claim?
Progressive tends to move quickly on initial contact and property damage claims (often 1 to 3 weeks). However, their initial speed is often followed by aggressive negotiation on injury claims. Simple injury claims may take 1 to 3 months, while disputed or higher-value claims can take 6 months to over a year. Progressive will sometimes make a quick, low offer hoping you accept before understanding the full value of your claim.
Should I use Progressive's Concierge level claims service?
Progressive offers different claim service levels. While their concierge service provides more personalized attention, remember that the adjuster still works for Progressive. A more responsive adjuster does not necessarily mean a fairer offer. Evaluate any settlement offer based on your actual damages, not on how pleasant the adjuster was.
Will Progressive raise my rates after an accident?
If you were at fault, expect a rate increase at your next renewal. The amount varies based on the severity of the accident and your driving history. Progressive does offer accident forgiveness in some cases, but it typically must be added before the accident occurs. In Colorado, Progressive cannot surcharge your rates for a not-at-fault claim.
What if Progressive and I disagree on the value of my totaled car?
If Progressive declares your vehicle a total loss and you disagree with their valuation, you can challenge it. Gather comparable vehicle listings (same year, make, model, mileage, and condition) from Colorado dealers and private sellers. Present this evidence to the adjuster. If you still cannot agree, Colorado allows you to invoke the appraisal clause in your policy, which brings in independent appraisers to determine the fair value.

Dealing with Progressive After Your Accident?

An experienced Colorado personal injury attorney can counter Progressive's quick-and-low tactics and fight for what your claim is actually worth. Free case review, no obligation, and most charge no upfront fees.

Talk to an Attorney - Free, No Obligation

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