When searching for a licensed insurance agent in Cut Bank, we recommend you start your search online instead of making phone calls. Chances are good that not only do you want a highly trained agent, but you also want the lowest possible price.
With companies like State Farm, Allstate, Farmers and independent agents having offices in Cut Bank, it’s hard to tell which one will have the best service and rates. Thankfully, it’s easy to use online quoting in order to build a list of agencies and price estimates.
Quote online but still have a local agent
Good agents can point out coverage gaps and help in the event of a claim. The best thing about comparing rates online is that you can obtain the lowest rates and still have an agent to talk to. Supporting small agencies is especially important in Cut Bank.
For easy comparison, once you complete this short form, your coverage information is sent to insurance agents in Cut Bank who will give you bids for your insurance coverage. You won’t need to leave your house due to the fact that quote results will go to your email. How cool is that?!
Choose the right insurance agency
When looking for a good insurance agency, you need to know there are two types of agencies to choose from. Cut Bank agents are either independent (non-captive) or captive. Either one can insure your vehicles, but it’s good to learn how they differ since it may influence your agent selection.
Independent Agencies or Brokers
These agents are not locked into one company so they can insure your vehicles with many different companies depending on which coverage is best. To transfer your coverage to a different company, the business is moved internally and that require little work on your part.
When comparison shopping, you should always include price quotes from several independent insurance agents for the best price selection. They also have the ability to place coverage with lesser-known insurance companies which may provide better rates.
Shown below are independent agencies in Cut Bank that can give you price quote information.
- Mark Olson Insurance – 30 S Central Ave – Cut Bank, MT 59427 – (406) 873-5021
- Laurie Elhard Insurance – 122 3rd St SE – Cut Bank, MT 59427 – (406) 873-4922
Captive Agents
Captive agents can only write with one company such as American Family, State Farm and Allstate. These agents are unable to give you multiple price quotes so they have to upsell other benefits. Captive agencies are usually quite knowledgeable on their products and sales techniques which helps them sell insurance even at higher premiums. Consumers sometimes choose to use a captive agent primarily because of the brand legacy and solid financial strength.
Choosing a car insurance agent needs to be determined by more than just the price. These questions are important to ask:
- Will their companies depreciate repairs to your car based on the mileage?
- Is assistance available after office hours?
- What are the financial ratings for the companies they represent?
- Do they make recommendations based only on price?
- Is vehicle damage repaired with OEM or aftermarket parts?
- Did they already check your driving record and credit reports?
Once you have received reasonable responses as well as a affordable price, chances are good that you have found an auto insurance agent that is a good match to insure your vehicles.
Include online companies when price shopping
Insurance agencies serve a purpose, but you also have the option of buying Montana car insurance from online companies direct. Some car insurance companies like Allstate and State Farm who have local Cut Bank agents also allow you to get a quote and buy online, and consumers should do that if you are the do-it-yourself type.
If you’re concerned about not having an insurance agent’s advice, this is a normal reaction for first-time shoppers. All companies that allow you to purchase coverage have customer service departments that you can contact for information. You can also use 24/7 live help and a car insurance FAQ section to make it easier to purchase.
Does car insurance cost less online? That is a tough question to answer due to the large number of individual components that impact your rate calculation. Some people think that buying car insurance online saves the commission normally paid to an agent. In reality, it’s expensive to advertise so rates may not be all that different from traditional agents.
Summing up your car insurance search
As you restructure your insurance plan, never buy less coverage just to save a little money. There have been many situations where an insured cut collision coverage only to regret at claim time that the small savings ended up costing them much more. Your strategy should be to purchase a proper amount of coverage for the lowest price while not skimping on critical coverages.
Lower-priced car insurance can be found on the web in addition to many Cut Bank insurance agents, so you should compare both to have the best chance of lowering rates. Some car insurance companies do not provide the ability to get a quote online and most of the time these regional insurance providers sell through independent agents.
Much more information about car insurance in Montana is located on the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance website located here. Montana consumers can file complaints about an insurance agent or broker, find disaster information, and learn about specific coverages.
