Car Insurance Agents
Temmuz 10th, 2008 | by admin |
When you deal with car insurance, there are two kinds of agents you possibly can hire:
a) the captive agent, who represents only one unique insurance company (major carriers like AAA, Allstate and State Farm sell policies through captive agents).
b) the independent agent, also known as a broker, who represents several insurance companies and therefore does not have a vested interest in selling you a policy from one particular company.
The main advantage in having your own agent is that this person has a vested interest in keeping you happy and you are his/her customer rather than a company’s. Accordingly, s/he can become familiar with your situation and guide you toward a suitable policy.
Most of the experts recommend use of agents and advise, “Don’t rule out direct providers, but my personal preference is to have an agent, preferably an independent agent, write your policy for you…. An independent agent would become aware of less advantageous conditions with one company [and help you move to another]. You can change carriers without changing your agent. .”
Of course, the prospect of good working relations with an agent may help you to make a decision: For example you may want to choose an agent by recommendation even if their quotes are a little higher than their competitives.
Yet please keep in mind: ”Never feel pressured by a broker or an agent. Take the time to talk with an agent or a broker as well as do your online research. You may not need an agent — you may find a better deal with a company that operates direct.”
Independent agents sometimes charge a fee for their services, but you can simply negotiate that. You should agree upon any fee in writing before making a purchase. Look for agents who are certified by Independent Insurance Agents of America (Big “I”) or Professional Insurance Agents (PIA).
We wish you a period of car insurance term with no accident 
