Roadway Insurance Agency | Progressive · GEICO · National General · Maryland Auto Insurance
This FAQ page is intended as general, educational information about auto insurance in Maryland and does not modify any policy. Coverage, discounts, eligibility, and billing details vary by carrier and individual policy. Contact our office for specifics on your account.
1. General Maryland Auto Insurance Requirements
What is the minimum auto insurance required in Maryland?
Maryland requires liability coverage of 30/60/15 – $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 in property damage coverage per accident. This is the legal minimum to register and drive a vehicle in the state.
Is uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage mandatory in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland requires UM/UIM coverage, but it doesn’t have to match your liability limits (minimum 30/60/15). Unlike many states, Maryland does not allow you to waive this coverage entirely.
What is PIP and is it required?
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of fault. Maryland requires a minimum of $2,500 in PIP coverage on every policy, certain situations allow for “no PIP” policies.
Can I waive PIP coverage?
Yes, Maryland allows you to waive PIP in writing if you have other adequate health coverage. We can walk you through this decision, since waiving PIP removes a source of no-fault medical coverage after an accident.
What happens if I let my insurance lapse in Maryland?
The Maryland MVA monitors insurance electronically. A lapse can trigger a Notice of Non-Compliance, registration suspension, and uninsured motorist penalty fees. It’s important to let us know right away if you’re between policies so we can help you stop the MVA fines. We cannot cover lapse periods, all we can do is issue a policy to stop the finable period.
Do I need to show proof of insurance when registering my car?
Most insurers report coverage to the MVA electronically, so you typically don’t need to submit paperwork yourself. If the MVA flags an issue, we can help you get it corrected quickly.
What is an FR-19 or SR-22 and when do I need one?
An FR-19 is a certificate of financial responsibility your insurer files with the MVA, usually required after a license suspension or certain violations. If working outside of Maryland SR-22’s operates similar to FR-19’s. Not every carrier we work with issues SR-22 filings, so let us know if this applies to you and we’ll place you with a company that does.
Does Maryland require insurance even if my car isn’t being driven?
Yes. As long as a vehicle is registered in Maryland, it must carry the state’s minimum insurance, even if it’s parked or not currently in use. If you don’t plan to drive it, you’ll need to surrender the plates to avoid a lapse penalty.
2. About GEBCO Insurance
What is GEBCO Insurance?
GEBCO Insurance is an independent insurance agency serving Maryland drivers. Rather than selling policies for a single company, we shop and service policies across multiple carriers to find coverage that fits your needs and budget.
Which insurance companies does GEBCO Insurance represent?
We primarily place personal auto policies with Progressive, GEICO, National General, and Maryland Auto Insurance (formerly MAIF), giving our clients a range of options from standard-market to higher-risk coverage.
Why work with an independent agency instead of buying directly from a carrier?
Because we represent several carriers, we can compare pricing and coverage across companies for you, rather than you having to shop for each one yourself. We also stay involved after the sale to help with billing questions, changes, and claims.
Does it cost more to buy insurance through GEBCO Insurance?
No. Insurance rates are set by the carrier, not the agency, so you pay the same premium whether you buy directly from the company, or through us with the added benefit of having a local agent to help you.
Can I bundle auto, home, or other policies through GEBCO Insurance?
In many cases, yes. Several of our carrier partners offer multi-policy discounts. Ask us about bundling auto with home, renters, or umbrella coverage.
How do I get a quote from GEBCO Insurance?
Call or stop by our office with your driver information (license numbers, vehicle VINs, and current insurance details if you have them), and we’ll compare quotes across our carrier partners for you.
3. Progressive Insurance
What types of auto insurance does Progressive offer through GEBCO Insurance?
Progressive offers standard personal auto policies including liability, collision, comprehensive, PIP, and UM/UIM coverage, along with optional add-ons like roadside assistance and rental reimbursement. They also offer cycle and commercial insurance.
Does Progressive offer a usage-based or telematics discount program?
Yes, Progressive offers a telematics-based program that can adjust rates based on driving habits. Ask us whether it’s a good fit for your driving profile.
What discounts are available with Progressive?
Common discounts include multi-policy, multi-car, paid-in-full, homeownership, and safe-driver discounts. Available discounts can vary, so we’ll review your options when we quote your policy.
How do I pay my Progressive bill?
You can pay online through Progressive’s website or app, by phone, by mail, or through our office. Ask us about setting up autopay to avoid missed due dates. You can save money by setting up autopay.
How do I file a claim with Progressive?
You can file a claim online, through the Progressive app, or by phone 24/7. You’re also welcome to call our office and we can help guide you through the process.
Does Progressive offer accident forgiveness?
Progressive offers an accident forgiveness feature on qualifying policies. Eligibility depends on your driving history and policy details, so ask us if you currently qualify.
Can I get renters or home insurance bundled with Progressive auto?
Yes, Progressive offers home and renters insurance that can often be bundled with your auto policy for a multi-policy discount.
4. GEICO Insurance
What coverage options does GEICO offer through GEBCO Insurance?
GEICO offers Preferred liability, collision, comprehensive, PIP, and UM/UIM coverage, along with optional coverages like mechanical breakdown insurance and rental reimbursement.
What discounts does GEICO offer?
GEICO offers discounts for multiple vehicles, multiple policies, good driving records, and certain safety features, among others. We’ll review which ones apply when we set up your policy.
How do I make a payment on my GEICO policy?
Payments can be made online, through the GEICO mobile app, by phone, or by mail. Let us know if you’d like help setting up automatic payments.
How do I file a claim with GEICO?
GEICO claims can be filed online, through the mobile app, or by calling their claims line, which is available 24/7. Feel free to loop us in as well so we can help track the process.
Does GEICO offer roadside assistance?
Yes, GEICO offers an optional emergency roadside service add-on for towing, lockouts, jump-starts, and similar situations.
Can motorcycles or other vehicles be insured through GEICO?
GEICO writes policies for motorcycles and certain other vehicle types in addition to standard passenger autos. Ask us what’s available for your specific vehicle.
How can I get proof of insurance for GEICO?
You can access digital ID cards through the GEICO app or website, or contact our office and we can send you a copy.
5. National General
What makes National General different from standard carriers?
National General offers both a standard and non-standard auto insurance program. They often work with drivers who have a harder time getting coverage elsewhere, such as those with recent violations, lapses, or limited driving history.
Does National General work with drivers who have had past lapses or violations?
Yes, this is one of National General’s specialties. They tend to be more flexible with driving history than some standard-market carriers.
What coverage options does National General offer?
National General offers liability, collision, comprehensive, PIP, and UM/UIM coverage, similar to other carriers, along with optional add-ons depending on the policy.
Does National General offer flexible payment plans?
Yes, National General typically offers a range of payment plan options, including monthly installments, to help make premiums more manageable.
How do I file a claim with National General?
Claims can be filed online, by phone, or through their mobile app. You can also contact our office for help getting the process started.
Does National General offer SR-22 filings?
Yes, National General commonly handles SR-22 filings, which makes them a frequent option for drivers who need one.
Can I insure an older or high-mileage vehicle through National General?
Yes, National General is often able to insure older vehicles that some standard carriers may be hesitant to write. Let us know your vehicle’s details and we’ll check available options.
6. Maryland Auto Insurance (formerly MAIF)
What is the Maryland Auto Insurance Fund (MAIF)?
Maryland Auto Insurance, formerly known as MAIF, is a state-created insurer that serves as Maryland’s insurer of last resort, providing coverage to drivers who are unable to obtain auto insurance in the private market.
Who qualifies for coverage through Maryland Auto?
Generally, drivers who have been declined by two or more private insurance companies may be eligible for a Maryland Auto policy. Eligibility also includes those that have been canceled by another carrier. We can help confirm your eligibility.
Is Maryland Auto Insurance more expensive than private insurance?
It depends on your individual driving history and risk profile. Because Maryland Auto serves higher-risk drivers who often can’t get standard-market coverage, rates can be higher than a standard policy, but this is often still more affordable than going without coverage or facing penalties.
What types of coverage does Maryland Auto offer?
Maryland Auto offers the state-required minimum liability, PIP, and UM/UIM coverage, as well as optional comprehensive and collision coverage and add-ons like towing and roadside assistance.
Can I switch from Maryland Auto to a private insurer later?
Yes. Many drivers use Maryland Auto as a temporary solution while they build a clean driving record, then move to a standard-market carrier like Progressive, GEICO, or National General once they qualify. We monitor this and will let you know when better options become available.
Does GEBCO Insurance write policies directly with Maryland Auto?
Yes, we’re able to place and service Maryland Auto policies for eligible drivers, alongside our other carrier options.
How do I make a payment on a Maryland Auto policy?
Payments can be made online, by phone, by mail, or through our office. Maryland Auto also offers installment payment plans.
How do I file a claim with Maryland Auto?
You can file a claim by phone or online through Maryland Auto’s website. You’re also welcome to call our office for guidance on next steps.
7. Billing, Payments & Direct Bill
What does “direct bill” mean?
Direct bill means the insurance carrier bills and collects payments directly from you, rather than payments running through our agency. You’ll make payments straight to the carrier online, by phone, or by mail.
What’s the difference between an agency bill and a direct bill?
With an agency bill, payments are processed through our office. With a direct bill, the carrier handles billing directly with you. Most of the carriers we place (Progressive, GEICO, National General, and Maryland Auto) bill direct, though we’re always available to help if a billing issue comes up.
Can I set up automatic payments?
Yes, all of our carrier partners offer autopay options through their websites or apps. You can save money by setting up autopay. We’re happy to help you get it set up.
What happens if I miss a payment?
Each carrier has a grace period before a policy cancels for non-payment, though the length varies. If you think you’ll miss a due date, contact us or the carrier as soon as possible to avoid a lapse, which can also trigger MVA penalties.
Can I change my payment due date?
Many carriers allow you to adjust your due date to better fit your budget. Contact us or the carrier directly to request a change.
Will I be notified before my policy renews?
Yes, carriers send renewal notices in advance of your policy’s expiration, typically by mail or email. We also monitor renewals and can flag any changes to your rate or coverage.
8. Claims, Policy Changes & General Service
What should I do immediately after an accident in Maryland?
- Check for injuries and call 911 if needed
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Take photos and a video
- File a police report if required
Then, contact your carrier’s claims line or call our office, and we’ll help you get the claim started.
How do I add or remove a vehicle from my policy?
Contact our office with the vehicle details (VIN, make, model, and year), and we’ll process the change with your carrier and confirm your updated premium.
How do I add a driver to my policy?
Let us know the driver’s name, date of birth, and license number, and we’ll add them to your policy and let you know how it affects your premium.
Will my rates go up after a claim?
It depends on the type of claim, who was at fault, and your carrier’s specific guidelines. Some carriers offer accident forgiveness that can help protect your rate. We’re happy to review your specific situation.
How do I get a copy of my insurance ID card?
You can access digital ID cards through your carrier’s app or website, or contact our office, and we’ll send you a copy right away.
Can I cancel my policy at any time?
Yes, but we recommend having new coverage in place first to avoid a lapse, which can trigger MVA penalties in Maryland. Let us know if you’re considering a cancellation so we can help make sure you stay covered.
How do I update my address or contact information?
Contact our office or your carrier directly, and we’ll make sure your policy reflects your current address and contact details.