Looking for the best car insurance rate?
Wondering whether you should use a local auto insurance agent?
While it may seem like it would be easier to book directly with an insurance company online, it may not be the best option. Local auto insurance agents provide a lot of benefits to drivers that you might not realize and just might be the superior way to find auto insurance coverage.
Below is a list of what you can expect if you choose to work with an auto insurance agent.
1. They’ll Know Your Local Risk Profile
There are plenty of car insurance laws and regulations that you need to be aware of. Although company representatives may be aware of state laws and will be able to provide some assistance, nothing compares to the knowledge that a local agent will have.
A local auto insurance agent will be aware of any local needs that are specific to your community, city, or region.
For example, an insurance company representative may know the laws for the state of Arizona (see what cost to insure your car in Arizona). However, they may not know about the specific needs of drivers in the city of Flagstaff.
A local agent will also have relationships with plenty of other local drivers as well, which will give them special insight into your local needs.
They will know what claims are common in the area you live and will know any other distinct characteristics about your area. They will help you plan accordingly and get the perfect insurance coverage for your needs.
2. You’ll Get Better Customer Service
Another great benefit of using a local agent for purchasing auto insurance is that you will receive much better customer service. In fact, insurance agents and brokers are professionally obligated to work on behalf of the customer’s best interest.
Talking to a provider’s customer service representative over the phone can leave a lot to be desired. With a local agent, you’ll be able to discuss your needs face to face. Instead of staring at a computer screen and dealing with a large faceless insurance provider, you will be able to interact with a human being.
Overall, talking to an agent one on one can be a much better way to find out what you need and get your questions answered.
3. Local Auto Insurance is Personalized
When using a local auto insurance agent you will also receive a much more personalized experience. You won’t be receiving a “one size fits all” approach, but because of the increased customer service and the knowledge that a local agent will have, you will be able to discuss your personal needs at length.
An agent will be able to help you make sure you have the right coverages and limits and make sure that you’re meeting local requirements and laws. An agent can provide you with more flexibility. They can help you understand your range of options.
4. Comparison Rates and Discounts
An independent agent makes it their job to know the different companies that are available. They will know all of the best insurance providers, rates, and options for your car insurance needs.
This insider knowledge can help you to find the best deals without having to check with each company online manually. It can be a much easier approach than simply trying to find the best rates yourself.
Additionally, if you’re eligible for any special perks or discounts for your car insurance plan, a local agent will know all about it and will help you to pay less on your plan.
5. They Can Help with Claims
In addition to helping you find the best rates and deals initially and helping you get your insurance coverage set up, an agent can also be an advocate for you and your needs.
If you have any claims to file and you need a settlement or payout from your insurance provider, a local agent can help. A car insurance agent can be a huge help after an accident.
An insurance broker can work on your behalf to negotiate your payments and make sure you get them as soon as possible.
6. High-Risk Coverage Assistance
Some high-risk drivers may find their insurance canceled or find it difficult to find coverage. An auto insurance agent may just be a necessity for these drivers.
A driver may be considered high-risk if they have experienced many past accidents in which they were at fault. They may have also failed to pay past premiums.
If this is the case for you and you’re considered a high-risk driver, a local auto insurance agent can be a real lifesaver. An agent can help you to find a solution and help you obtain insurance coverage as a high-risk driver.
Additionally, an agent may also be able to provide assistance and useful tips for repairing your record such as attending defensive driving courses.
7. Building a Relationship for Future Needs
When you chose to use a local insurance agent it probably won’t be a one-time thing. Having a relationship with a local agent can help things to go smoothly in the future as well.
It’s possible that if you find a great local agent you will want to use them for years to come. As your needs change and your vehicles change it can be useful to have a relationship with an agent that you trust.
By working with a local agent you will have a friend for life who can continually help you, as well as your family, with any car insurance needs you may have and answer any questions and concerns you have from time to time.
Final Thoughts
By now you may be starting to understand why using a local auto insurance agent can be a great idea. It comes with a lot of benefits over taking the DIY approach.
A local agent can provide a lot of benefits for you that will help you to find great car insurance coverage and help you with future needs. You may just create a relationship that you will rely on for years to come.
Looking for more automotive and driving tips? Check out the Motor Era blog for more insight.