When it comes to purchasing car insurance, many people wonder if they really need an insurance agent. Buying insurance online is easier than ever with online platforms and comparison tools like MyChoice, but there are some situations where working with an insurance agent can benefit you. Read on to find out when you should seek the help of an insurance agent and when you should buy your car insurance online.
What Do Insurance Agents Do?
Insurance agents are professionals licensed to sell insurance policies. They perform a variety of functions that can help you navigate the complex world of auto insurance. Insurance agents assess your individual needs and recommend coverage options that suit your situation. They consider factors like your driving habits, vehicle type, and budget.
An insurance agent can represent one or multiple insurance agencies, which lets them help you compare different policies to find the best rates for your specific coverage. Prices can differ greatly between insurance providers, so an insurance agent can make comparing prices much easier for you.
In the event that you need to make a claim and need some help filing it, insurance agents can guide you through the claims process. They also provide continuous support even after you purchase a policy. They can help with renewals, policy adjustments, and any questions that arise during your coverage period.
Is Buying Insurance From An Insurance Agent Worth It?
Many drivers may feel hesitant to work with an insurance agent due to concerns about costs. However, it’s important to note that most agents earn commissions from the insurance companies they represent rather than charging clients directly. This means that many insurance agents will often offer their services for free to customers.
While some might argue that using an agent could lead to higher premiums due to commissions, this is not usually the case, as dedicated insurance agents may even secure better rates for their clients through their industry connections and negotiation skills.
Online vs. Insurance Agent: Which is Better?
When buying auto insurance, options like MyChoice can replace the role of a traditional insurance agent. However, there are some situations where a traditional agent may be preferable compared to an online insurance platform. Let’s compare the pros and cons of both options:
| Feature | Online | Insurance Agent |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Quick quotes and comparisons between a multitude of different insurance companies and policy options. | Personalized service and support, along with possible discounts and better insurance rates due to their relationships with insurance companies. |
| Speed | Immediate access to information regarding different facets of auto insurance. | May require scheduling appointments and physically going to the agent’s office, or discussing your insurance needs over the phone. |
| Complexity | Insurance options and policies may be overwhelming to navigate, requiring research to determine the best options for you. | Can explain insurance coverages and policies to you, and help you choose the best options for your specific needs. |
| Claims Support | Limited assistance with filing claims. | Comprehensive guidance and assistance throughout the claims process. |
| Policy Modification | You can modify and customize your policy whenever you want, with your adjustments appearing quickly. | You need to meet with or call the agent to modify your policy. Changes can take a while to reflect on your policy. |
If you have a disability that makes it difficult to travel or communicate verbally with an insurance agent, then going online to compare policies and providers will better suit you than setting an appointment with an insurance agent. Additionally, you won’t feel any pressure to choose specific policies due to the sales tactics that insurance agents typically employ.
Tips for Choosing the Right Insurance Agent
If you’ve decided that working with an insurance agent is right for you, here are some tips for finding one that fits your needs:
Key Advice from MyChoice
- Insurance agents can help you get discounts and better rates from insurance companies in certain situations.
- If you like having complex options like collision vs comprehensive coverage explained to you in person, then an insurance agent can help you with that.
- Shopping around for insurance through an online platform like MyChoice is a lot more convenient than making an appointment and physically meeting an insurance agent.