When it comes to purchasing car insurance, many people wonder whether they need the assistance of an insurance agent or if they can manage everything on their own. Motorists can buy and manage their own policies these days after all. While some may opt for captive agents or buy direct from providers, there are compelling reasons to consider working with an independent insurance agent. Independent agents bring unique value to their clients due to their flexibility, extensive options and knowledge, and personalized service. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using an independent auto insurance agent and why they can be a good choice for finding the right car insurance coverage.
Independent Insurance Agents
An independent insurance agent is an intermediary between insurance companies and clients. Unlike captive agents, who exclusively represent one insurance carrier, independent agents have the freedom to work with multiple insurance companies, offering a wide range of insurance options from various outlets. This flexibility allows them to provide better advice and find the best-fit insurance policies for their clients’ specific needs.
Probably it goes without saying that you really need to find a good independent agent to handle your vehicle insurance needs. While some agents can go above and beyond for you by fighting to get the best rates and even help you with your claims, not all of them may offer that level of personal service. For example, who wouldn’t want to have an agent who always contact you to find out about any changes in your life that may affect your car insurance, updates your details, shop around again and honestly tells you that it may be time for you to switch companies because another company is serving your needs better and it is cheaper. If you don’t ask around and choose well, your agent may not be as good and you may even wonder why you need them.
On the other hand, it is essential for individuals to bear in mind that insurance agents have a vested interest in selling policies to generate income. Generally, they persuade people to purchase policies through them by offering added value. However, it is important for consumers to watch out for hard selling tactics. Thus, having an agent does not imply that one should forgo independent price comparisons and verifying that they secure the most favorable price, coverage, service, and insurer.
The Benefits of Working with an Independent Insurance Agent
- Ease of Buying Policies
One of the significant advantages of having an independent insurance agent is the ease of doing business. Clients can have all their insurance needs handled by a single contact, eliminating the need to deal with multiple agents or companies. Whether it’s shopping for new policies, updating coverage, or filing a claim, having a dedicated agent streamlines the process and provides convenience.
- Savings
Independent agents act as personal insurance shoppers, using programs that allow them to obtain quotes from multiple insurance companies simultaneously. This approach enables them to not only find the best price but also compare coverage options across different carriers. By being flexible and not tied to any particular company, independent agents can recommend insurance policies that offer the best value for each client’s unique situation.
- Knowledgeable Advice
Navigating the complexities of automobile insurance can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with all the available options. Independent agents possess in-depth knowledge of various insurance programs offered by different companies. They are better equipped to provide advice, recommending coverage options, pricing, and service based on their clients’ requirements and preferences. This aspect of working with an agent becomes extra valuable for motorists who are new to buying vehicle insurance or their circumstances are a bit more complicated.
- Choices and Flexibility
Working with an independent agent is akin to shopping at a store with a wide array of products. Independent agents have access to numerous carriers and products, allowing them to customize insurance policies according to the clients’ specific needs. This means that they can find the right fit and style of coverage, ensuring that it’s not a “one size fits all” approach.
- Middleman Backstop
Despite the common perception that middlemen can be a hindrance, independent agents offer significant advantages in acting as a backstop for their clients. They provide the reassurance of errors and omissions insurance, which protects the consumer in case of bad advice or mistakes made on their accounts. Nobody wants to sue their agents or want to be in that position but they are responsible for the advice they give and arranging the policy on your behalf.
- Local Accessibility
In the event of a claim, having a local insurance representative can be highly beneficial. A quality independent agent can act as a facilitator, assisting clients in navigating the claims process and ensuring a smooth resolution. Moreover, supporting local insurance agents also means contributing to the well-being of the community, as they often engage in charitable activities and support local organizations.
- Second Opinion
Often people need advice on certain coverage, insurer, second opinion about making a claim or not and agents can be there to answer your questions and help you make the right decision. Again, you need to find an agent you can build such relations with. Like in any other business, some people can be very helpful and delightful to talk to while others may not be forthcoming with the advice.
In the end, a lot depends on your needs, preferences and personality. If you are an introvert, tech savvy and do-it-yourself type of person, there is no reason why you cannot figure out your own auto insurance needs, get a few quotes online, compare companies, buy your policy online directly from insurer and have a digital access to your details through the insurer’s website or app.
On the other hand, if you are too busy, like to have someone on your corner anyway and you like to do things on a personal level, you may want to find yourself a good agent. Remember, typically agents can help you with other insurance needs as well. People often need or want extra set of eyes to check over their policy details to make sure they are fine and perhaps help them out if they are in a sticky situation in the future.