Erie vs The General
Last updated July 2026
Erie
Above all in service since 1925
Advantages
- Top-tier J.D. Power scores for customer satisfaction and claims in its regions
- Rate Lock keeps your premium from changing year over year unless you change your policy
- First Accident Forgiveness included as standard on many policies
- Diminishing deductible reduces your deductible each claim-free year
- New car protection replaces a totaled car with a comparable current-year model
Drawbacks
- Only available in 12 states plus DC, mostly Mid-Atlantic and Midwest
- Quotes must go through an independent Erie agent, no direct online purchase
- Digital tools are functional but trail Progressive and Geico
The General
Coverage for drivers who need to get back on the road
Advantages
- Approves drivers other carriers reject, DUI, SR-22, lapses in coverage
- Instant SR-22 filing available in most states, often same-day
- Low upfront down payment options make it easy to get started
- Simple online quote and purchase, no agent required
- Payment flexibility including monthly and bi-weekly plans
Drawbacks
- Base rates are among the highest in the industry for its underwriting pool
- Coverage limits and add-ons more limited than mainstream carriers
- Customer satisfaction scores consistently trail Progressive and Geico
- Claims service reviews are mixed, expect longer resolution times
Erie and The General both play in auto insurance, but they're aimed at different buyers. Erie is built for drivers in Erie's 12 states who want top-rated service and Rate Lock predictability. The General is built for drivers with DUIs, SR-22 requirements, or lapses in coverage who need proof of insurance fast. Which one fits depends on which of those descriptions sounds more like you.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Erie | The General |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Monthly Cost | Avg $110-$165/mo before bundling | Avg $180-$300/mo for high-risk profiles |
| Quote Process | Independent agent, quote requests online | Online, phone, no agent |
| Available Discounts | Multi-policy, safe driver, Rate Lock, YoungRider, reduced usage | Multi-vehicle, safe driver over time, prior insurance |
| Claims Experience | 24/7 phone, agent-assisted, app for basic claim submission | Phone or online submission |
| Customer Support | Independent agents, phone, limited chat | Phone, online, limited hours |
| Coverage Options | Liability, collision, comprehensive, rideshare, roadside, new car protection | Liability, collision, comprehensive, SR-22 filing |
| Mobile App Quality | Basic, ID cards, payments, simple claim start | Basic, ID cards, payments, claim start |
| Bundling Options | Auto, home, renters, life, umbrella | Auto only, limited bundling options |
Erie Wins
Erie takes it overall (9/10 vs 6/10), but The General is still the sharper pick for drivers with DUIs, SR-22 requirements, or lapses in coverage who need proof of insurance fast.
Erie's standout strength: Top-tier J.D. Power scores for customer satisfaction and claims in its regions. Its biggest drawback (only available in 12 states plus DC, mostly Mid-Atlantic and Midwest) is easier to live with than The General's (base rates are among the highest in the industry for its underwriting pool). The General isn't out of the running though — its own standout strength is approves drivers other carriers reject, DUI, SR-22, lapses in coverage. If you fit the profile of drivers with DUIs, SR-22 requirements, or lapses in coverage who need proof of insurance fast, that alone can flip the decision.
Related Comparisons
Erie vs State Farm
Regional dominance meets nationwide scale, which one delivers a better deal in Erie's 12 states?
The General vs Progressive
Non-standard specialist meets mainstream carrier, which one actually saves money if you've had a rough driving record?
Auto-Owners vs Erie
Two regional mutual carriers with elite service scores, which one wins in your state?