Characteristics to Look for in Your Automobile Insurance Agent
If you’re looking for a new auto insurance policy, avoid the temptation to save time with online comparison tools and quotes. These estimates, along with calling insurance companies directly, often fail to include discounts that could save you significant money on your premiums. If you’re thinking about purchasing a new car, or have a hot sports model, you need to secure all the savings you can.
Knowledge
Contrary to popular belief, working through an insurance agent can get you the best deal. It’s been reported in the past that people save more money by eliminating the middleman (or woman) and going to the insurance company directly, but this has proven to be a false assumption in many cases, especially when dealing with specialty insurance, such as sports car coverage. Yes, a local insurance agency works as your middle person, but he or she is also vested in getting your business to the carrier, and to do so, he or she knows the deal must be a good one. So, how do you pick an agent?
~Was there discussion about insurance needs?
~Did he or she listen? Does the product cover all your bases?
~Does it fit within your budget?
~What are your savings?
~Do you have any questions after the presentation? No? You have a keeper.
Location, Location, Location
Another thing to take into account is location. A local insurance agency can better address your auto coverage needs because it knows your state laws, your area’s climate changes, and the common causes of vehicle collisions. If you live in a state with icy winters (such as I do), you’re more prone to have an accident than someone who lives in sunny SoCal, and a local agent can ensure that you are covered in any instance should you be the victim of an unfortunate incident.
Reliability
You also want someone you can trust. You are entitled to make list of prospective agents and research them just as you would any other business you’re considering to solicit. One of the best ways to weed out the bad seeds is to ask the agent him or herself for client references. If he or she is confident the customers are happy, you’ll receive the contact information to make the calls. After you’ve interviewed customers, look the agent up online as well. State insurance authorities will list any action filed against the agent, and review sites will reveal true colors. This research helps you find the best of the best.
Whether you are looking for cost savings, specialized insurance, or both, working with a knowledgeable player will help you find the optimal policy at the best price for your automobile coverage.
Your car is your baby, so protect it with a comprehensive policy that won’t break the bank thanks to the agent who secured it for you.
Jeanne Coulombe
Thanks for the great information it can be a tricky thing when buying insurance.
June S.
I always check around and do price checking between the different insurance agents every year.
Dandi D
I’ve never really thought about these things before, so thanks for the tips!
Jennifer-admin
You are very welcome!
vickie couturier
good points,,we are looking to change ours now
Edye
Great advice! Thanks for sharing.
mrsshukra
Great tips!
Mandy hammons
Thanks for the information
Angela Saver
These are great tips to follow! Thanks for sharing!
Monica shah
very useful article and great tips . thanks for posting
Susan P.
I’ve had the same insurance agents for a long time and time and they have found ways to save me money.
Alice Carroll
Thanks for the reminder that it’s important to also be mindful of the budget when planning to find a good car insurance agent soon because I’m thinking about buying a car early next year. I want to get it insured right away so that I will be able to go on a family trip as soon as possible.