Mendota Insurance Review: A Comprehensive Guide for Potential Clients
As an independent insurance agent at Blake Insurance Group, I am committed to providing you with an unbiased and detailed review of Mendota Insurance. This review will help you decide whether it is the right choice for your auto insurance needs.
Mendota Insurance is a non-standard insurance company specializing in providing auto insurance to medium- to high-risk drivers in nine states: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Mississippi, and Virginia. Founded in 1989, Mendota Insurance is a Premier Holdings Inc. subsidiary headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.
In this review, we will delve into the pros and cons of Mendota Insurance, its coverage options, claims process, customer service, and more. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of Mendota Insurance and whether it is a good fit for your insurance needs.
Mendota Insurance Company is a non-standard auto insurance provider that has been in operation since 1989. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, the company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Premier Holdings Inc., one of North America’s fastest-growing property and casualty insurers.
Brief History and Background
Mendota Insurance was formed in 1989 under Minnesota law to provide personal lines insurance coverage. Initially, the company was part of The Northland Company, but it was later acquired by Travelers Companies, Inc. in 2001. 2007 Travelers sold Mendota to Kingsway Financial Services Inc., which has since maintained the company’s focus on non-standard auto insurance.
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Blake Nwosu
Owner & Principal Agent
Blake Insurance Group
Phone: (888) 387-3687
Email: info@blakeinsurancegroup.com
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
Mission and Values
Mendota Insurance is committed to providing innovative products and superior service to its customers and agents. The company’s mission is to be one of the premier providers of specialty insurance in the United States, focusing on non-standard auto coverage for individuals who may have difficulty obtaining insurance from other sources due to their driving history or other factors.
Financial Strength and Stability
Mendota Insurance has demonstrated financial stability, with a Financial Stability Rating (FSR) of A, Exceptional, from Demotech, Inc. This rating reflects the company’s ability to meet its policyholder obligations and maintain a strong financial position. Additionally, Mendota’s financial strength is backed by its parent company, Premier Holdings Inc., which provides the necessary resources to support its operations and growth.
Overall, Mendota Insurance Company has established itself as a reliable provider of non-standard auto insurance, with a solid financial foundation and a commitment to delivering high-quality service to its customers and agents.
Types of Coverage Offered by Mendota Insurance
Mendota Insurance offers a range of auto insurance coverage options to meet the diverse needs of its customers. These include:
**Liability Coverage**: Bodily Injury Liability and Property Damage Liability are mandatory coverages that protect policyholders in case of accidents involving other people or property. Mendota Insurance offers various liability limits, including state minimum limits and higher limits for added protection.
**Collision Coverage**: This coverage pays for damages to the policyholder’s vehicle in the event of a collision, regardless of fault. Mendota Insurance offers collision coverage with various deductibles and limits.
**Comprehensive Coverage**: Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision damages, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Mendota Insurance offers comprehensive coverage with various deductibles and limits.
**SR-22 Filings**: Mendota Insurance provides SR-22 filings, which are required for drivers who have had their licenses suspended or revoked due to certain violations.
**Non-Owner Coverage**: This coverage is designed for individuals who do not own a vehicle but need insurance coverage, such as those who frequently rent cars or borrow vehicles from others.
**Medical Payments Coverage**: Medical Payments coverage provides financial assistance for medical expenses incurred by policyholders and their passengers in the event of an accident, regardless of fault.
**Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage**: This coverage protects policyholders if they are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Mendota Insurance offers various limits for this coverage.
**Towing and Labor Costs Coverage**: This coverage reimburses towing and labor costs incurred due to a breakdown or accident.
**Rental Reimbursement Coverage**: Rental Reimbursement coverage pays for the cost of a rental vehicle while the policyholder’s vehicle is being repaired due to an accident or other covered event.
**Value Plus Liability Endorsement**: This endorsement expands liability coverage by providing additional features such as increased notification time for additional acquired autos and replacement autos, as well as higher limits for legal liability to the lessor.
**Value Plus Physical Damage Endorsement**: This endorsement expands physical damage coverage by providing additional features such as automatic excess coverage for non-owned rental vehicles and custom or electronic equipment coverage.
Mendota Car Insurance Quote
To get a quote from Mendota Insurance, you must contact a local independent agent, as online quoting is unavailable. Factors affecting your quote include your driving record, vehicle type, location, and credit score. To compare Mendota’s rates with other insurance providers, it is best to obtain quotes from multiple companies and evaluate them based on your specific needs and circumstances.
Gather Necessary Information
Before you start the quote process, make sure you have the following information handy:
Personal Information: Your name, address, date of birth, and driver’s license number.
Vehicle Information: Year, make, model, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), and current vehicle mileage.
Driving History: Details of accidents, violations, or claims in the past 5 years.
Current Insurance: If applicable, information about your current or previous insurance provider.
Why Choose a Local Mendota Insurance Agent?
There are several advantages to working with a local agent, including:
**Personalized service**: Local Mendota agents at Blake Insurance Group can provide tailored quotes based on your coverage needs and specific circumstances. They take the time to understand your unique situation and recommend the best insurance solutions.
**Expertise**: Independent agents have in-depth knowledge of Mendota’s products and services, ensuring you get the right coverage for your needs. They are well-versed in the intricacies of Mendota’s policies and can help you navigate the complexities of insurance.
**Support**: Local agents can assist you with policy management, claims, and any questions you may have about your coverage. They are your go-to resource for all things related to your Mendota insurance policy, providing guidance and assistance when needed.
**Convenience**: Working with a local agent allows accessible communication and quick help. You can easily reach out to your agent with questions or concerns, and they can provide prompt support to address your needs.
Choosing a local Mendota agent can provide personalized service, expert advice, and convenient support to ensure you get the best coverage for your needs. As a Mendota agent at Blake Insurance Group, I am committed to helping you find the right insurance solutions to protect you and your family.
Pricing and Discounts
Mendota Insurance offers competitive pricing for its auto insurance policies. The average monthly premium for full coverage in California is $222, with annual premiums ranging from $2,446 to $3,649 depending on the location and other factors. Minnesota’s average annual full coverage premium is $2,386, while the average minimum coverage premium is $693.
Tips for Lowering Insurance Costs with Mendota
**Multi-Car Discounts**: Insuring multiple vehicles with Mendota can lead to significant discounts.
**Good Student Discounts**: Students with good grades may be eligible for discounts on their auto insurance premiums.
**Defensive Driving Course Discounts**: Completing a defensive driving course can lower premiums.
**Low Mileage Discounts**: Drivers who drive fewer miles per year may be eligible for lower premiums.
**Bundling Discounts**: Purchasing multiple insurance products from Mendota, such as home and auto insurance, can lead to discounts.
**Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Discounts**: Setting up automatic payments through EFT can result in discounts.
**Paid-in-Full Discounts**: Paying premiums in full upfront can lead to discounts.
**Increase Your Deductible**: Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premiums, but be sure you can afford the increased out-of-pocket costs in case of a claim.
**Improve Your Credit Score**: Maintaining a good credit score can lead to lower premiums, as insurance companies often use credit-based insurance scores to determine rates.
**Shop Around**: Comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies, including Mendota, can help you find the best rates for your situation.
Average Mendota Insurance Premium for Some States
| State | Average Annual Full Coverage Premium | Average Annual Minimum Coverage Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $2,446 | $693 |
| Arkansas | $2,386 | $669 |
| California | $2,311 | $640 |
| Colorado | $2,276 | $731 |
| Florida | $2,386 | $693 |
| Georgia | $2,126 | $669 |
| Minnesota | $2,386 | $693 |
| Mississippi | $2,276 | $731 |
| Virginia | $2,126 | $669 |
Note: The average premiums are based on data from various sources and may vary depending on individual circumstances and insurance providers.
Comparison of Mendota Insurance with Other Insurance Providers
| Insurance Provider | Premium Costs | Estimated Annual Cost | Coverage Options | Claims Process |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mendota Insurance | Lower for high-risk drivers | $1,500 - $2,500 | Limited coverage options | Slower and more complex |
| Progressive | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,000 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Geico | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| State Farm | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Allstate | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| USAA | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| AAA | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Esurance | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Direct Auto | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| SafeAuto | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Root Insurance | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Metromile | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Clearcover | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Next Insurance | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Hippo Insurance | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Lemonade Insurance | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Amica Mutual | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Erie Insurance | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,000 - $3,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
| Auto-Owners Insurance | Higher for high-risk drivers | $2,500 - $4,500 | More comprehensive coverage options | Fast and efficient |
Note: The premium costs and estimated annual costs are based on data from various sources and may vary depending on individual circumstances and insurance providers.
Mendota Insurance Customer Reviews and Complaints
Mendota Insurance has received mixed customer reviews, with some praising the company’s services and others expressing dissatisfaction.
Positive Reviews
Some customers have had positive experiences with Mendota Insurance. For instance, one customer review on Clearsurance praised the company for its affordability, especially for a household with a male teenage driver. Another review on Trusted Choice commended the company’s customer service, stating that they could easily reach Mendota through their customer service number or online.
Negative Reviews
However, there have also been negative reviews. Some customers have complained about difficulties in reaching customer service and delays in claim handling. For instance, a complaint on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website mentioned that a customer could not reach an agent for over 2 hours to start a claim after an auto accident. Another complaint on the BBB website mentioned that Mendota did not respond promptly to claims.
On ConsumerAffairs, a customer warned others not to buy insurance from Mendota, stating they had to seek legal help to get compensated. Another review on Clearsurance mentioned that Mendota was difficult to work with and had poor customer service.
It’s important to note that these reviews represent individual experiences and may not reflect the experiences of all Mendota customers. The company has mechanisms to address complaints, such as a 24/7 claims department and a toll-free customer service line. However, the mixed reviews suggest that customer experiences can vary.
Customer Service
Mendota Insurance is known for providing a variety of customer service options. They offer a 24/7 claims service, accessible by calling Mendota at 1-800-422-0793. This round-the-clock service ensures customers can report their claims anytime, providing convenience and peace of mind.
In addition to their 24/7 claims service, Mendota works with independent agents to provide personalized service to their customers. These independent agents are local professionals who can provide tailored advice and support based on each customer’s specific needs and circumstances. This personalized service can be particularly beneficial for customers with unique insurance needs or who prefer a more hands-on approach to their insurance coverage.
However, it’s worth noting that Mendota’s customer service reviews have been mixed. Some customers have praised the company’s service, while others have reported difficulties in reaching customer service and delays in claim handling. These reviews suggest that while Mendota offers a range of customer service options, the quality of service can vary.
Contact Information
For customers who need to contact Mendota, there are several options available. Customers can call Mendota’s 24/7 claims service at 1-800-422-0793 for claims reporting.
Customers can reach Mendota by phone at 1-800-422-0792 or 1-651-468-2910 for general customer service inquiries. The customer service department operates from Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm CT.
Mendota also provides several email addresses for specific inquiries, including:
– Information Requests/Site-Related Comments: Webmaster
– Policy Service: Underwriting
– Accounting: Accounting
– Contracts / Licensing: Contracts / Licensing
The mailing address for Mendota Insurance Company is 3343 Perimeter Hill Dr., Suite 214, Nashville, TN 37211.
For payments, checks should be sent to Mendota Insurance Company C/O Covenir, PO Box 15122, Worcester, MA 01615-5122.
These contact options provide customers with various ways to reach Mendota for their insurance needs, whether they need to report a claim, ask a question about their policy, or make a payment.
Mendota Insurance FAQs
1. What types of insurance does Mendota offer?
Mendota Insurance primarily offers non-standard auto insurance policies, catering to high-risk drivers who may have difficulty obtaining coverage from standard insurers. They provide liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and personal injury protection (PIP) coverages.
2. How can I get a quote from Mendota Insurance?
You can obtain a quote from Mendota Insurance by visiting their official website and using their online quote tool. Alternatively, you can contact an authorized Mendota Insurance agent or call their customer service hotline for assistance.
3. What should I do if I need to file a claim with Mendota Insurance?
To file a claim with Mendota Insurance, you should:
- Contact Mendota’s claims department as soon as possible.
- Provide all necessary information, including your policy number, details of the incident, and any relevant documentation or photos.
- Follow the instructions given by the claims representative and cooperate fully with any investigation.
4. Does Mendota Insurance offer any discounts?
Yes, Mendota Insurance offers various discounts that may include multi-vehicle discounts, good driver discounts, and discounts for policyholders who pay their premiums in full upfront. Specific discounts may vary by state and individual policy.
5. How can I make a payment to Mendota Insurance?
You can make a payment to Mendota Insurance through their online payment portal, by phone, or by mailing a check or money order. Some agents may also accept payments in person. Be sure to check the payment options available in your state.
6. What is Mendota Insurance’s customer service contact information?
You can reach Mendota Insurance’s customer service by calling their toll-free number, which is typically available on their official website. Additionally, you can contact them via email or through their online customer service portal.
7. How do I find a Mendota Insurance agent near me?
To find a Mendota Insurance agent near you, visit their website and use the agent locator tool. You can also call their customer service number for assistance in locating an authorized agent in your area.
8. Can I manage my Mendota Insurance policy online?
Yes, Mendota Insurance offers an online portal where policyholders can manage their policies. Through this portal, you can view policy details, make payments, update personal information, and access important documents.
9. What is Mendota Insurance’s cancellation policy?
The cancellation policy for Mendota Insurance may vary by state and individual policy. Generally, you can cancel your policy by contacting your agent or the customer service department. Be sure to inquire about any potential cancellation fees or refunds based on your specific circumstances.
10. How does Mendota Insurance handle policy renewals?
Mendota Insurance typically sends out renewal notices before your policy expires. You can renew your policy online, by phone, or through your agent. It’s important to review the renewal details carefully and make any necessary updates to your coverage.