Do You Need an Insurance Agent to Buy Car Insurance?

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Article Contents
Picture of By <span>Aren Mirzaian</span>
By Aren Mirzaian

Updated on October 7, 2024

Visit author page
Picture of By <span>Aren Mirzaian</span>
By Aren Mirzaian

Updated October 7, 2024

Visit author page

3 minute read

Article Contents

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.

Do You Need an Insurance Agent at a Glance

  • You don’t need an insurance agent to buy car insurance.
  • Online insurance platforms like MyChoice can help you compare policies and coverage options between the top insurance companies with just a few clicks.
  • Buying auto insurance with the help of an insurance agent can take more time than purchasing 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:

FeatureOnlineInsurance Agent
ConvenienceQuick 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.
SpeedImmediate 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.
ComplexityInsurance 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 SupportLimited assistance with
filing claims.
Comprehensive guidance and
assistance throughout the
claims process.
Policy ModificationYou 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:

Check Credentials:

Ensure that the agent is licensed in your state and has relevant experience in auto insurance. Look for agents who have additional certifications and designations, such as Fellow Chartered Insurance Professional (FCIP), Canadian Professional Insurance Broker (CPIB), Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO), and other pertinent certifications.

Research Reputation and References:

Check the agent’s reputation by reading online reviews and asking for references from previous clients. Friends and family may also provide valuable recommendations based on their experiences.

Determine Availability and Responsiveness:

Choose an agent who is readily available and responsive to your needs. You should feel confident that you can reach your agent when necessary and that they will promptly address your questions and concerns.

Ask Questions:

Don’t hesitate to ask potential agents about their approach to finding coverage and how they handle claims support. Look for agents who can answer quickly and with authority, making sure that their answers are aligned with your specific needs.

Evaluate Communication Style:

Choose someone who communicates clearly and makes you feel comfortable discussing your needs. They should be able to explain complex insurance terms and policies in a way that you can easily understand. A good agent will also be upfront about costs and coverage options, helping you make informed decisions.

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.

Congratulations! You made it to the end!

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