Auto insurance rates seem to almost always creep up every time it renews, yet most consumers just pay the higher price without asking questions. Some auto insurance companies charge inflated prices to insure crossovers, and if you don’t occasionally shop your coverage around, you’ll get taken to the cleaners with every monthly payment.
The are a couple different ways to get quotes from local auto insurance companies. The recommended way to compare insurance prices involves getting comparison quotes online. This can be done using a couple different methods.
The first (and easiest) way to get quotes is a comparison rater form (click to open form in new window). This easy form keeps you from doing repetitive form submissions for every auto insurance company. Just one form compares rates from multiple companies.
A different way to compare rate quotes is to take the time to go to each company website and complete a new quote form. For example, let’s assume you want rates from Liberty Mutual, 21st Century and Farmers. To get rate quotes you would need to visit each site and enter your policy data, which is why the first method is quicker.
For a list of links to companies insuring cars in your area, click here.
The least efficient way to compare rates is to drive around to different agent offices. The internet has reduced the need for local agents unless you require the trained guidance of a local agent. However, consumers can comparison shop online but buy from a local insurance agent and we’ll cover that in a bit.
However you get your quotes, be sure to compare apples-to-apples coverages and limits on every quote. If you compare different deductibles you can’t possibly determine the lowest rate for your Kia Sorento. Quoting even small variations in coverages can mean a large discrepancy in price. Keep in mind that quoting more gives you a better chance a lower rate.
Cut your premium with these eight discounts
Car insurance is not cheap, but you may find discounts that many people don’t even know exist. Some discounts apply automatically when you complete an application, but some must be requested specifically prior to getting the savings.
- Accident Waiver – Some insurance companies will forgive one accident before raising your premiums as long as you don’t have any claims prior to the accident.
- Sign Online – Certain companies will give a small break for buying your policy online.
- Payment Discounts – If you pay your entire premium ahead of time instead of paying each month you can actually save on your bill.
- Drive Safe and Save – Drivers who avoid accidents may receive a discount up to 45% less than drivers with accidents.
- Life Insurance – Companies who offer life insurance give a break if you buy a life insurance policy as well.
- Memberships – Belonging to a professional or civic organization is a good way to get lower rates on auto insurance.
- Defensive Driver – Completing a driver safety course could cut 5% off your bill and easily recoup the cost of the course.
- Early Signing – Some insurance companies reward drivers for switching to them before your current expiration date. This can save 10% or more.
It’s important to note that some of the credits will not apply to your bottom line cost. Most cut individual premiums such as comprehensive or collision. So despite the fact that it appears you would end up receiving a 100% discount, you won’t be that lucky. Any amount of discount will help reduce the amount you have to pay.
What about using a local agent?
Some consumers would rather sit down with an agent and that is OK! One of the great benefits of comparing rates online is you can get the lowest rates but also keep your business local. Supporting local businesses is important espcially if you live in a smaller city or town.
After completing this form (opens in new window), your insurance coverage information gets sent to local insurance agents who will return price quotes for your business. There is no need to visit any agencies as quotes are delivered directly to your email. You’ll get the best rates and an insurance agent to talk to.
Captive agents vs. Independent agents
When looking for a good insurance agency, there are two different types of agents from which to choose. Agencies can either be captive or independent.
Independent Agents
Independent agents do not work for one specific company but instead can place your coverage amongst many companies and potentially find a lower price. If you are not satisfied with one company, the business is moved internally without you having to go to a different agency. When comparing rates, you should always include at a minimum one independent agency for maximum quote selection.
Captive Agents
Captive agencies write business for a single company and examples are State Farm or Allstate. They are unable to place coverage with different providers so it’s a take it or leave it situation. They are trained well on their products and sales techniques which can be an advantage.
To view a complete directory of insurance agencies in your area, click here.
Selecting an insurance agent shouldn’t rely on just the bottom line cost. Some important questions to ask are:
- Do they have advanced training designations such as CPCU, AAI, AIC, or CIC?
- Will you be dealing directly with the agent or with a Custom Service Representative (CSR)?
- How long has their agency been in business?
- Who are their largest clients?
- Does the agency support the community they serve?
- Are claims handled at the agent’s location?
- What is the agency’s Better Business Bureau rating?
- Did they already check your driving record and credit reports?
After getting acceptable answers for all questions you ask and an affordable coverage quote, you’ve probably found an insurance agent that meets your needs to properly insure your vehicles. But keep in mind consumers can cancel coverage at any time so don’t think you are locked into the auto insurance policy with no way to switch.
Shop smart and save
Lower priced Kia Sorento insurance can be found from both online companies and with local insurance agents, and you should be comparing both to have the best rate selection. Independent agents can write coverage with smaller companies that may not offer the ability to get a quote online.
As you restructure your insurance plan, do not sacrifice coverage to reduce premiums. Too many times, someone dropped liability limits or collision coverage to discover at claim time that their decision to reduce coverage ended up costing them more. The aim is to find the BEST coverage at a price you can afford.
