When finding an insurance agent in Selma, Texas, it’s recommended you start your search using online quotes instead of calling around. For the sake of this article, we’ll assume you not only want a professional agent, but you also want to find the best rates possible.
With companies like State Farm, Allstate and Farmers Insurance all competing for your business, it can be hard to know which one will give you the cheapest rates and the best coverage. To help decide, consumers can use online quotes in order to build a list of agents and price estimates.
Shop online but buy locally
Good agents can answer important questions and help you file claims. The biggest benefit of comparing rates online is you can get the lowest rates but also keep your business local. Supporting local businesses is important especially in Selma.
Once you complete this short form, your insurance data is emailed to participating agents in Selma who will give you bids to get your business. There is no need to drive around as quotes are delivered straight to your inbox. Now that’s easy! You’ll get the best rates AND an agent nearby.
Types of insurance agents
When searching for a good Selma insurance agent, you need to know there are two types of insurance agents from which to choose. Agents are categorized either independent (non-captive) or captive.
Independent Insurance Agents
Independent agents are not employed by any specific company so they have the ability to put coverage amongst many companies depending on which coverage is best. If your agent finds better pricing, your agent can switch companies and you won’t have to switch agencies.
When comparison shopping, we recommend you get quotes from at least one independent agent for the best price selection. They also have the ability to place coverage with smaller companies which can save you money.
Below is a list of independent insurance agencies in Selma that can give you price quotes.
- Westfield Insurance and Fnncl – 15939 Ih 35 N – Selma, TX 78154 – (210) 798-2028
- Jeffrey C Fletcher Insurance – 15939 Ih 35 N – Selma, TX 78154 – (210) 798-2017
Captive Agents
Captive insurance agents can only write with one company such as AAA, State Farm, Farmers Insurance and Allstate. They are unable to compare other company’s rates so they have to upsell other benefits. Captives are very knowledgeable on their company’s products and that can be a competitive advantage. Consumers sometimes purchase coverage from captives partially due to the brand legacy and the convenience of having all coverages with one company.
Deciding on a car insurance agent shouldn’t rely on just the bottom line cost. Ask your prospective agent these questions:
- Are they properly licensed to sell insurance in Texas?
- Can they give you a list of client referrals?
- Will your rates increase after a single accident?
- How are claims handled?
- How much will you save each year by using a higher deductible?
- If they are an independent agency, which companies do they recommend?
- Does the agent have professional designations like CIC, CPCU or AIC?
- What is the agency’s Better Business Bureau rating?
After receiving answers to your satisfaction to all your questions and an affordable coverage quote, you’ve probably found an insurance agency that can properly service your car insurance policy.
Online companies should get a look
Insurance agents can be invaluable at times, but you can also find affordable Texas auto insurance directly from online companies. Even companies, such as State Farm, Allstate and Farmers, who have local Selma agents also allow you to get a quote and buy online, and consumers should do that if you prefer to buy online.
If you’re concerned about not getting advice from an agent when buying online, don’t let it bother you. Companies all provide contact methods for customer questions. They also make available live help and 24/7 access to help you make a buying decision.
Do customers save by switching to an online company? Many people think so, but it’s hard to say for sure since there are so many components that determine the price you pay. You may think that buying direct cuts out the middleman. But that assumption is generally incorrect because online and traditional media advertising are expensive and that impacts the rates consumers pay.
Additional car insurance information can be found on the Texas Department of Insurance website located here. Visitors are able to file complaints about an insurance agent or broker, find out which companies have the most complaints, and learn about insurance regulations.
Compare but don’t skimp
Lower-priced car insurance can be sourced online in addition to many Selma insurance agents, and you need to comparison shop both to have the best selection. Some companies do not provide you the ability to get quotes online and most of the time these small, regional companies sell through independent agents.
As you go through the steps to switch your coverage, don’t be tempted to skimp on critical coverages to save a buck or two. Too many times, an accident victim reduced physical damage coverage to discover at claim time that the few dollars in savings costed them thousands. Your aim should be to buy a smart amount of coverage at the best price while not skimping on critical coverages.