Markel Auto Insurance Review (2024)

Markel is a niche auto insurance company that provides coverage for classic and extremely high-value vehicles. It currently has an A+ rating from the Virginia BBB.

UPDATED: Dec 19, 2023Fact Checked

Mathew B. Sims

Editor-in-Chief

Mathew B. Sims is Editor-in-Chief and has authored, edited, and contributed to several books. He has been working in the insurance industry ensuring content is accurate for consumers who are searching for the best policies and rates. He has also been featured on sites like UpJourney.

Editor-in-Chief

Jeffrey Manola

Licensed Insurance Agent

Jeffrey Manola is an experienced insurance agent who founded TopQuoteLifeInsurance.com and NoMedicalExamQuotes.com. His mission when creating these sites was to provide online consumers searching for insurance with the most affordable rates available. Not only does he strive to provide consumers with the best prices for insurance coverage, but he also wants those on the market for insurance to ...

Licensed Insurance Agent

UPDATED: Dec 19, 2023

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It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.

Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.

Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.

UPDATED: Dec 19, 2023

Advertiser Disclosure

It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.

Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.

UPDATED: Dec 19, 2023Fact Checked
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Markel Corp.

Average monthly rate for good drivers:

N/A

A.M. Best rating:

A

Complaint level:

Low

Pros

  • Markel Corp. is considered a first-class provider of specialty insurance products
  • Markel provides auto insurance for classic and extremely high-value vehicles
  • The company does offer standard policies for boats, ATVs, UTVs, motorcycles, and snowmobiles

Cons

  • None to mention

Final Verdict: Review of Markel Corp.

Research for this Markel auto insurance review led to a Virginia-based company. Markel Corp. is an international property and casualty company offering a variety of niche insurance products through half a dozen subsidiaries.

The company was originally founded in the 1920s by Mr. Sam Markel, who wanted to provide insurance coverage to America’s burgeoning transportation industry.

Since that industry was still in its infancy, Mr. Markel found himself on the cutting edge of developing insurance products no one had ever dealt with before.

Over the course of the next 30 years, Mr. Markel developed the company to provide coverage across the United States and parts of Canada. When he died, his children took over the business and kept it alive.

Today Markel Corp. is considered a first-class provider of specialty insurance products. They have continued to diversify and expand their product line through acquisitions and strategic personnel decisions.

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[su_box title="Things to Remember..." style="default”]
  • Markel Corp. is considered a first-class provider of specialty insurance products
  • Markel provides auto insurance for classic and extremely high-value vehicles
  • Customers can find a quote tool on the individual subsidiary sites do offer online quote tools
[/su_box] Research for this Markel auto insurance review led to a Virginia-based company. Markel Corp. is an international property and casualty company offering a variety of niche insurance products through half a dozen subsidiaries. The company was originally founded in the 1920s by Mr. Sam Markel, who wanted to provide insurance coverage to America's burgeoning transportation industry. Since that industry was still in its infancy, Mr. Markel found himself on the cutting edge of developing insurance products no one had ever dealt with before. Over the course of the next 30 years, Mr. Markel developed the company to provide coverage across the United States and parts of Canada. When he died, his children took over the business and kept it alive. Today Markel Corp. is considered a first-class provider of specialty insurance products. They have continued to diversify and expand their product line through acquisitions and strategic personnel decisions.

What You Should Know About Markel American Insurance Company

As a general rule, Markel receives fairly good reviews from customers willing to post to independent review sites. Those who like the company tend to remark that Markel was the only place they could find specialty insurance for their niche needs.

Most notable were those in search of coverage for their scooters in areas where standard auto insurance was inadequate. Common complaints include things like poor billing practices and less-than-desirable customer service.

Markel Corp. is a member of the Virginia Better Business Bureau and currently has a rating of A+.

According to the BBB, they have received a total of six complaints within the last three years; two of them occurred within the last 12 months.

All complaints were closed after Markel demonstrated that they were addressed to the customer’s satisfaction. Of the six complaints, two were in relation to advertising and sales while the other four were concerned a product or service the company provides.

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Markel Auto Insurance Agents and Locations

Markel Corp. maintains their Virginia headquarters along with four regional offices, the Markel American office, and an international office.

Contact information for all of these offices is freely available on the corporate website. Through their acquisitions over the years they may also have some local offices scattered around the country even though their website doesn’t list any.

While Markel does work directly with customers in terms of selling and servicing policies, they also have a network of independent brokers throughout the country.

There are brokers in every state, so you should be able to find one in your area.

Markel’s website makes finding a local broker easy with an interactive map showing all 50 states.

Customers simply click on their state and wait a few seconds for the website to return a full list of names and contact information.

In more rural areas you may not find a local broker in your immediate vicinity, but you should be able to find one within a reasonable distance.

Markel American Insurance Company Insurance Coverage Options

Markel Corp. doesn’t provide standard auto insurance in the same vein as some of the national auto insurance companies you see on television.

Being a specialty and niche provider, the auto insurance they do offer is for classic and extremely high-value vehicles.

For example, if you had restored a classic Ford Hudson to the point where it became extremely valuable on the collector’s market, your standard auto policy wouldn’t do you much good. But Markel will write a policy that covers not only accidents and

But Markel will write a policy that covers not only accidents and deaths but also just about any other possible circumstance that can result in the loss of the vehicle.

The company does offer standard policies for boats, ATVs, UTVs, motorcycles, and snowmobiles.

They do so through their Markel American Insurance Company subsidiary. Markel American is also the subsidiary that handles the classic car insurance.

The company maintains a separate website for Markel American where users can find all the information they need regarding the various policies.

The website includes safety tips and an FAQ section aimed at new ATV/UTB writers.

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Markel American Insurance Company Insurance Rates Breakdown

Customers will not find a quote tool, or any references to quotes for that matter, on the Markel Corporation website. However, the individual subsidiary sites do offer online quote tools.

Markel American, for example, allows you to begin the quote process by clicking a button located strategically in the right column of their main page.

Like with any quote tool it is assumed users will need to provide their address and zip code along with pertinent information about the vehicles they want to cover.

Quotes for their other insurance covers work much the same way on subsidiary sites with embedded quote tools.

Of course, interested consumers can always contact the individual subsidiary directly speak to a representative.

The company also utilizes independent auto insurance agents whom you can contact for quotes as well. In some instances, such as classic car insurance, an agent will most likely have to visit your location and do a personal inspection before a quote can be rendered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Markel Auto Insurance?

Markel Auto Insurance is an insurance product offered by Markel Corporation, a specialty insurance company. It provides coverage for personal vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles.

What types of coverage does Markel Auto Insurance offer?

Markel Auto Insurance offers a range of coverage options, including liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, medical payments coverage, and roadside assistance.

Who is eligible to purchase Markel Auto Insurance?

Markel Auto Insurance is available to individuals who own personal vehicles and meet the eligibility requirements set by Markel Corporation. These requirements may vary based on factors such as age, driving history, and the type of vehicle being insured.

How can I obtain a quote for Markel Auto Insurance?

To obtain a quote for Markel Auto Insurance, you can visit the official Markel Corporation website or contact their customer service. They will ask for information about your vehicle, driving history, and other relevant details to provide an accurate quote.

Can I customize my coverage with Markel Auto Insurance?

Yes, Markel Auto Insurance offers customizable coverage options to suit your specific needs. You can select the types and levels of coverage that best fit your requirements and budget.

Does Markel Auto Insurance offer any discounts?

Markel Auto Insurance may offer various discounts to eligible policyholders. These discounts can vary but may include safe driving discounts, multi-vehicle discounts, good student discounts, and more. It is recommended to inquire about available discounts when obtaining a quote.

How can I file a claim with Markel Auto Insurance?

In the event of an accident or incident requiring a claim, you can contact Markel Auto Insurance’s claims department. They will guide you through the claims process, provide necessary forms, and assist you in filing your claim.

Can I manage my policy online with Markel Auto Insurance?

Yes, Markel Auto Insurance offers an online platform where policyholders can manage their policies, make payments, update personal information, and access policy documents. This convenient feature allows you to have greater control over your insurance coverage.

Does Markel Auto Insurance provide 24/7 customer support?

Yes, Markel Auto Insurance provides 24/7 customer support through various channels. You can contact their customer service team via phone, email, or online chat at any time, ensuring that assistance is available when you need it.

Is Markel Auto Insurance available nationwide?

Markel Auto Insurance operates in several states across the United States. However, availability may vary depending on your location. It is recommended to check with Markel Corporation or visit their website to verify if coverage is available in your area.

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Mathew B. Sims

Editor-in-Chief

Mathew B. Sims is Editor-in-Chief and has authored, edited, and contributed to several books. He has been working in the insurance industry ensuring content is accurate for consumers who are searching for the best policies and rates. He has also been featured on sites like UpJourney.

Editor-in-Chief

Jeffrey Manola

Licensed Insurance Agent

Jeffrey Manola is an experienced insurance agent who founded TopQuoteLifeInsurance.com and NoMedicalExamQuotes.com. His mission when creating these sites was to provide online consumers searching for insurance with the most affordable rates available. Not only does he strive to provide consumers with the best prices for insurance coverage, but he also wants those on the market for insurance to ...

Licensed Insurance Agent

Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.

Reviews
for Markel American Insurance Company

1.83 (17 reviews)
1
November 25, 2020

cruz5759

Terrible Experience; Deceptive Trade Practices; Stay Away

I own a 2005 Sea Ray. I have an insurance policy through the issuing company Markel American Insurance Company. About two months ago, saltwater got into the engine in the boat and caused it to seize up and stop functioning. The main reason that I got insurance through this company is because they advertise that their policy does not have mechanical breakdown exclusion. Even on the website, there is an example: "Mechanical Breakdown Inboard ...
I own a 2005 Sea Ray. I have an insurance policy through the issuing company Markel American Insurance Company. About two months ago, saltwater got into the engine in the boat and caused it to seize up and stop functioning. The main reason that I got insurance through this company is because they advertise that their policy does not have mechanical breakdown exclusion. Even on the website, there is an example: "Mechanical Breakdown Inboard cylinder engine. Evidence of water intrusion in 2 cylinders. This engine is raw-water cooled. Saltwater circulating through the engine caused corrosion creating holes in the valve guide bores. A close up below of the corrosion: If your policy excludes machinery breakdown chances are you could be paying for a new engine out of your own pocket. Unlike most, our policy does not have mechanical breakdown exclusion. " At this point, the insurance company has sent us a formal letter denying our claim and refusing to pay anything. They first tried to say that the damage was caused by faulty manifolds and risers and that they need to be replaced every 5-6 years and that they would be denying our claim. They never even bothered to ask if we had replaced them recently. We in fact had replaced them about 3 years ago and we sent them a document showing this. Then they said they would reexamine the case, but after a while, they still decided to deny our claim and basically cited "corrosion" as the reason, even though in their advertising in the example above, it clearly shows that this is something they will cover. The way they advertise their coverage on the website clearly suggests that our case is something they would cover. However they are refusing to do so and to me this is a plain case of deceptive trade practices and false advertising. Also, the senior claims examiner failed to return multiple calls and messages from both myself as well as my mechanic. Terrible experience with this company. I would advise to stay away from them and to not trust their advertising.
1
June 10, 2020

HonestReviewer1977

SCAMMERS MONEY HUNGRY PIGS

STAY AWAY. They only want your money and premiums increases every year for no reason. Difficult to receive money from this scamming company after an accident.
1
March 30, 2020

Stuartrich

Horrible experience with claim

Wast of money. Price of insurance was not bad but once u make a claim they will try to make u feel like a liar and do anything they can to not pay. Horrible experience
2
September 25, 2019

STststs

Not for me.

Had motorcycle insurance with Markel for the past year. When renewal came up, I was shocked, premium went up 27%, no accidents, claims or tickets, riding about 3k miles a year. Are they kidding, how can they stay in business, I could easily stay with them if the rates would be the same but...went with another insurance, way, way cheaper and same limits. I guess Markel does NOT want my $$$ and that's OK, there are hundreds of companies to insure w...
Had motorcycle insurance with Markel for the past year. When renewal came up, I was shocked, premium went up 27%, no accidents, claims or tickets, riding about 3k miles a year. Are they kidding, how can they stay in business, I could easily stay with them if the rates would be the same but...went with another insurance, way, way cheaper and same limits. I guess Markel does NOT want my $$$ and that's OK, there are hundreds of companies to insure with. So, maybe you're OK with Markel, just watch your premium go through the roof when renewal comes up.
5
January 9, 2019

James2220

Great

Great insurance gets to you as soon as you need help. Also has great insurance deals for the policies and great pricing.
1
September 26, 2018

Nikkidd

I would not expect them to cover you without a fight

Great price compared to Progressive, Geico, and many others, pretty easy application on line, bad at paying claims and making you feel like a liar. I am going on 40 days still waiting to see if my claim is going to be accepted or denied and this is after they have interviewed me and witnesses and companies not even involved.
4.5
May 29, 2017

okaywilldo

Yep Yepp Yepppppppppppppp

It was great! I had a lot of time reviewing the details about this company. It was very very fun. Thanks a lot everyone!
4
January 12, 2017

ekaratzas

Pain free motorcycle coverage

Markel has been easy to work with and they include some good benefits including 24-hr roadside assistance and some decent discounts at certain dealerships.
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