When trying to find a licensed insurance agent in Oak Ridge, it’s recommended you do an initial search by comparing rates online to save yourself time. You require a professional agent, but also need the cheapest rates you can possibly find.
Drivers have multiple insurance agencies to insure vehicles with, and even though it’s nice to be able to choose, it makes it harder to find the best rates for your vehicles.
Compare Oak Ridge agent rates online
Educated insurance agents can point out coverage gaps and help you file claims. The best thing about getting online price quotes is the fact that you can find the best rates but still work with a licensed agent.
For easy comparison, once you complete this short form, your information is sent to local insurance agents who will compete for your business. You don’t have to visit any agencies due to the fact that quote results will go straight to your inbox. It doesn’t get any easier!
Selecting an insurance agency shouldn’t rely on just the bottom line cost. These are valid questions to ask:
- Will their companies depreciate repairs to your car based on the mileage?
- Are they full-time agents?
- If your car is in the repair shop, do you have coverage for a rental car?
- Will your rates increase after a single accident?
- Is assistance available after office hours?
Captive and independent Oak Ridge auto insurance agents
When looking for a local agent, you need to know there are two types of agencies that differ in how they can insure your vehicles. Agents are either captive or independent (non-captive). Both properly insure your vehicles, but it’s good to learn how they are different because it can influence the type of agent you choose
Captive Insurance Agents
Captive insurance agents can only write with one company and examples are Allstate, Farmers Insurance or State Farm. They usually cannot compare other company’s rates so they are skilled at selling on more than just price. They receive extensive training on the products they sell which helps them sell insurance even at higher premiums. Consumers often buy insurance from these agents primarily because of loyalty to the company and strong financial ratings.
Shown below is a short list of captive agents in Oak Ridge willing to provide price quotes.
- State Farm Insurance – 1133 Oak Ridge Tpke # A – Oak Ridge, TN 37830 – (865) 483-5666
- Shelter Insurance – 100 E Tulsa Rd # 18 – Oak Ridge, TN 37830 – (865) 483-0670
- Farm Bureau Insurance – 1672 Oak Ridge Tpke – Oak Ridge, TN 37830 – (865) 482-5666
Independent Agents (or Brokers)
Independent agencies are not required to write business for one company so they can insure your vehicles with lots of companies enabling the ability to shop coverage around. If your agent finds better pricing, the agent simply finds a different carrier without you having to go to a different agency. When comparison shopping, it’s a good idea to contact at least one independent agent to have the most options to choose from. They also have the ability to place coverage with lesser-known insurance companies which can be an advantage.
Below is a short list of independent insurance agencies in Oak Ridge that can give you rate quotes.
- Direct General Ins Agency – 860 Oak Ridge Tpke # 4 – Oak Ridge, TN 37830 – (865) 220-5537
- O’Kain and Clark Insurance – 101 Baylor Dr – Oak Ridge, TN 37830 – (865) 483-5644
- Herron-Connell Insurance – 550 Oak Ridge Tpke – Oak Ridge, TN 37830 – (865) 483-8483
To view a complete directory of licensed insurance agents in Oak Ridge, view this link.
Once you have positive feedback and an acceptable price quote, it’s possible that you found a car insurance agent that meets your needs to insure your vehicles.
Online car insurance companies
Professional insurance agents are important, but Tennessee car insurance can also be bought direct online. Some car insurance companies, such as Farmers Insurance and State Farm, who have local agents in Oak Ridge also allow consumers to get quotes and purchase online, and online price comparisons are easy.
If you’re anxious about not having an insurance agent’s advice when buying online, this is normal but is quickly overcome. All companies provide toll-free numbers for customer questions. Consumers also can use a frequently asked questions page to help you answer questions.
Can you find lower rates online? That is a tough question to answer because of the fact that insurance companies use many factors that impact your premium. Many people think that purchasing direct online prevents the agent from taking a cut. But truthfully, there are high advertising and marketing costs so this can offset any savings.
Even more information can be found at the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance website. Consumers can download brochures, report car insurance fraud, and file complaints about an insurance agent or broker.
Also read more on BankRate.com’s Car Insurance: When not to Skimp and QuoteClickSave.com.
And the best car insurance company is…
Cheap car insurance is attainable from both online companies as well as from independent agents in Oak Ridge, so compare prices from both to have the best rate selection. Some insurance companies don’t offer you the ability to get quotes online and these regional insurance providers work with independent agents.
Consumers leave their current company for many reasons like unfair underwriting practices, high rates after DUI convictions, poor customer service and even delays in paying claims. It doesn’t matter what your reason, finding the right car insurance provider is pretty easy and you might even save some money in the process.
