How to Choose a Car Insurance Company
Car insurance can be purchased direct or through an agent.
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Things You'll Need
- Yellow Pages
- Telephones
- Computers
- Internet Access
- Spiral Notebooks
- Pens
Instructions
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Buying Through a Local Agent
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1
Visit local agents' offices, ask for a rate quote and gauge responses.
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2
Ask about "claims-free" discounts for time a policy is in force without a chargeable claim.
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3
Ask about a "multiline" discount if you buy more than one line of insurance.
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4
Ask about office hours and after-hours assistance.
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5
Ask for company rating and financial information.
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6
Determine if the company has agents and claims offices in other states if you travel extensively.
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7
Ask friends and acquaintances about the company.
Buying Through a Direct-Market Company
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8
Ask for recommendations from friends who have purchased car insurance via an 800 number or the Internet.
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9
Contact three to five different companies.
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10
Ask for written proposals.
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11
Ask about claim filing procedures.
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12
Ask about earning claims-free discounts.
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13
Investigate the company's industry rating.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Buy the most comprehensive coverage you can afford.
Buy from a local agent if you want personalized service.
Agents can represent one or more companies.
Beware of companies with agents who pressure you to pay for unnecessary coverage.
An AAA rating indicates strong financial standing. Settle for nothing less.
Consider a direct-market company if you feel comfortable with less personal service.
Make certain the representative knows if you reside in a "no-fault" insurance state.
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Comments
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Feb 21, 2006
Highly recommend that you choose and agent over purchasing insurance over the Internet or an 800#. An agent should ask you a lot of questions in order to help you determine the amount of insurance you need to carry. Remember that you are insuring your car, home, or something else against damage. More importantly you are insuring yourself against a costly lawsuit for damages caused by you or a family member. This is the liability portion of your policy that is even more important than simply covering your property. Use the expertise of a qualified agent to help you determine this amount.
