Why an Independent Insurance Agent is Important

In the age of technology and “needing” information now, more consumers are moving to the Internet to get their insurance information instead of utilizing an independent agent. Unfortunately, those who bypass an agent are missing out on valuable expertise and advice without even realizing it.
September 14, 2017 | General
By: Lisa D.
Lisa D. has almost 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including over 15 years at Acuity. Before starting at Acuity, she obtained her P&C license and sold personal insurance. She keeps a pulse on industry trends while continuing to specialize in developing and updating personal auto insurance products. On top of that, Lisa has her Association in General Insurance (AINS) and Associate in Personal Insurance (API) designations. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys cooking, photography, and spending time with her family. The last two go hand in hand, as she takes pictures of her kids every day.

Author of Auto Focus

In the age of technology and “needing” information now, more consumers are moving to the Internet to get their insurance information instead of utilizing an independent agent. Unfortunately, those who bypass an agent are missing out on valuable expertise and advice without even realizing it. Here are four important facts about independent insurance agents:  

 

  1. Work for themselves, not an insurance company. Independent agents are, in a way, self-employed. They don’t work for the insurance companies whose insurance they are offering you. Instead, they work to find you the best fit within the multiple companies they offer. So, instead of putting the insurance company first, they put your interest first, and make sure you get the coverage you need at a fair price. They are truly a source of unbiased advice as you research the best insurance option for you.

  2. Access to multiple insurance companies. An independent agent is basically a one-stop shop for your insurance needs. They represent multiple insurance companies, each offering a wide variety of coverage options and prices. This variety allows you to get quotes from multiple companies without having to personally fill out multiple forms. It can also save you money, as independent agents can shop your insurance for you to make sure you are getting the best coverage for your money.

  3. Rely on their expertise. Insurance can be a complicated subject, and not all insurance companies make insurance as easy as Acuity. An independent agent is there to guide you through the complex world of insurance. You can rely on your agent to answer your questions, point you in the right direction, and explain that massive insurance policy. If there is something you want to know about insurance, an independent agent can help you.

  4. Help with your claims. An independent agent is truly your advocate with your insurance company. In the unfortunate event you have a claim, he or she is there to help you. Your agent can contact the insurance company for you and keep you up to date on the process. This allows you to get back to your life while your agent handles your claim.

 

Most important, don’t look at an independent agent as a hindrance to getting your insurance online or to having those easy-to-use digital features. Acuity offers the ability to get a quote online and then pairs you with an independent agent to help with any questions you might have. Also, we have been doing business for over 90 years and remain steadfastly committed to independent agents. That means you can rest easy, letting Acuity and your independent agent focus on insurance, while you focus on the things that matter to you.   

 

Sources:

Gallup. 2014. Insurance Panel Study.

Finweb. 2015. Advantages of Independent Insurance Agent.

By: Lisa D.
Lisa D. has almost 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including over 15 years at Acuity. Before starting at Acuity, she obtained her P&C license and sold personal insurance. She keeps a pulse on industry trends while continuing to specialize in developing and updating personal auto insurance products. On top of that, Lisa has her Association in General Insurance (AINS) and Associate in Personal Insurance (API) designations. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys cooking, photography, and spending time with her family. The last two go hand in hand, as she takes pictures of her kids every day.

Author of Auto Focus