The system for purchasing car insurance in the U.S. has long included the use of local insurance agents. More recently, some insurance companies are pushing direct quotes through their websites or company agents. Unfortunately, this approach often benefits the insurer – not you.
Here in Manitowoc, many people have learned something pushy insurance companies didn’t want them to know: Shopping for coverage from a local independent agent can provide a greater selection, better customer service, and the best car insurance rates. Continue reading at to learn more about the inner workings of an independent insurance agency and why working with one could be in your best interest.
What is an Independent Insurance Agency?
Instead of working for just one insurance company, an independent agency has relationships with many different insurers. Since they are not employees, the independent agent’s goal is not to push a specific company or policy, but rather to provide guidance and assistance when comparing multiple providers.
Think of it like visiting a department store versus visiting a mall. The department store may have quality products, but its hands are tied if it does not carry the brand you are looking for or offer products in a price range that meets your budget. The mall, on the other hand, will provide a greater set of options, and discounts from multiple stores that are competing for your business. In this scenario, the independent agent is like your personal shopper, helping you to navigate several choices and make a decision that is right for you.
Shop Local
Even if you end up purchasing your coverage from a national insurance carrier, shopping local still matters. After all, your local independent agent has a home-court advantage when it comes to providing you with a level of customer service not available by calling an 800-number or interacting with a insurance website. A local agent develops a personal relationship with you, learns your risks, and keeps up with your changing needs. They serve as a one-stop-shop for all of your insurance needs, helping you with coverage needs that go beyond auto insurance. They can quickly check prices and may be able to find better coverage at a lower rate than you could find for yourself.
Your No-Cost Agent
One of the biggest misconceptions about purchasing insurance is that buying direct is the best way to get the most affordable car insurance rates. While cutting out the middle-man may work when shopping for consumer goods, it is not always best when it comes to shopping for car insurance. In fact, the best car insurance rates are the same whether you purchase coverage through an agent or the carrier. The agent just happens to do all the leg work for you to save your time while shopping for a policy. Instead of wasting your time going from website to website or calling multiple insurers, you can cut right to the chase and compare rates on similar policies from multiple Wisconsin insurers.
Gutman Insurance is an independent insurance agency in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. We are in business to do more than try to find you the best car insurance rates; our goal is to meet your coverage needs from top to bottom, leaving no stone unturned. To find out more about our service and the benefits of shopping for car insurance with a local independent agent, contact our office today. We look forward to serving you soon.
