I have had Verizon for about 15 years now and have no problems really with dropped calls and only occassionally do I come across areas where there is no service. But they are usually very rural areas where you wouldn't expect service anyway!

I have the opposite problem with Verizon though...their customer service has been horrendous, absolutely horrendous!! And we have encountered this all over the country...at Verizon stores in California, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania!! It's amazing how horrible they treat my mother and I who have been such long time customers...
They are only happy if you are buying new phones and spending $$ all the time whereas we just need the phones for emergencies and traveling.

Take advantage of the fact that you are a new customer and get as much free service and help as possible!!