Why you Need an Agent for Your Insurance Needs?
We've all seen TV ads from major insurance companies that sell direct to the consumer. As competition heats up, more insurance companies are selling policies to the public, suggesting that there are cost and time savings advantages. With the internet, you can click and get a quote instantly and buy a policy after filing out a few forms right on the spot. But, cutting out the agent is not necessarily a good thing for the consumer.
Why use an insurance agent?
An insurance agent acts as your legal representative to the insurance company. The agent is licensed by the state and carries a fiduciary responsibility to be an advocate for you. Their job is to put your interests above theirs or the insurance carriers. Even though an agent is paid by the insurance company, they actually work for you.
An insurance agent works on your behalf and can do important things for you.
Agents can quickly check prices and coverage from many different insurance companies. Since rates vary, B&J's agents can often find a better policy at more competitive rates than if you shop directly. They can even obtain insurance on your behalf from a direct writer.
Our independent agents sell all types of insurance. Homeowners, auto, life, rental, health, and business just to name a few. They can be your one-stop-shop for all your insurance needs, saving you time, money and headaches.
Insurance can be complex and complicated. Our agents are trained to understand all types of insurance and explain it to you so you understand what you're buying. They are trained advisors that can help you sort through the maze and make recommendations based on your individual needs.
When you buy direct, you are not represented by someone who is licensed or is a regulated insured agent that acts strictly on your behalf. That means you take full responsibility for your coverage decisions and for any possible mistakes in coverage. There is no safety net.
Lastly, if an insurance agent makes a mistake such as selling you a policy that is supposed to cover you needs but doesn't, the agent could be liable to you for malpractice; known in industry language as Errors & Omissions. Insurance agents carry Errors & Omissions insurance policies which are much like doctors that carry malpractice insurance. This offers a layer of protection for a consumer when working with an agent that does not exist with direct writer insurance programs.
Lastly, there's nothing wrong with direct writer insurance companies. But wouldn't you rest easier knowing that an agent is working on your behalf protecting your individual interests that direct writer insurance companies can't provide?