Comparing auto insurance companies in Frostburg, Maryland can be challenging because choosing the right Frostburg insurance agent takes more work than just picking up the phone. For this article’s sake, it’s assumed you not only want a friendly agent, but you also need great rates as well.
With companies like State Farm, Allstate, Farmers and independent agents having offices in Frostburg, it can be hard to know which car insurance agent will provide the cheapest rates and the best coverage. Fortunately, you can use online price quotes in order to build a list of agencies from which to choose.
Working with a local agent
Educated insurance agents are trained to spot inefficiencies and help you file claims. One of the great benefits of price shopping on the web is you may find better rates and still have an agent to talk to. Buying from local insurance agencies is important particularly in Frostburg.
Once you complete this short form, your coverage information is sent to participating agents in Frostburg who will give you bids for your insurance coverage. There is no need to even leave your home since price quotes are sent directly to your email. How cool is that?! You can find the lowest rates and a licensed agent to work with.
Choose an insurance agent wisely
When searching for local Frostburg agents, there are two different types of agents to choose from. Frostburg agents can either be captive or independent.
Independent Agents (or Brokers)
Independent insurance agents are not required to write business for one company but instead can place your coverage with lots of companies and potentially find a lower price. If you are not satisfied with one company, the agent simply finds a different carrier and you don’t have to find a new agent. When shopping rates, it’s a good idea to contact at least one independent agent to ensure the widest selection of prices.
Listed below is a short list of independent insurance agents in Frostburg that are able to give rate quotes.
Frostburg Insurance and Fncl Svc – 124 E Main St – Frostburg, MD 21532 – (301) 689-0595
Gonder Insurance – 11020 New Georges Creek Rd SW – Frostburg, MD 21532 – (301) 689-8565
Captive Agents
This type of agents can only write with one company such as Farmers Insurance, American Family, State Farm and Allstate. These agents are not able to give you multiple price quotes so they have no alternatives for high prices. Captive agents are trained well on the products they sell which helps them sell insurance even at higher premiums.
Choosing an insurance agency should depend on more than just the bottom line cost. Some important questions to ask are:
- What insurance company do they write the most business with?
- Are glass claims handled on-site or do you have to take your vehicle to a repair shop?
- How are they compensated?
- Are there any discounts that you might be missing?
- Are there any hidden costs in their price quote and does it include driving and credit history?
- Will you be dealing directly with the agent or with a Custom Service Representative (CSR)?
- Do they feel the quoted coverages are adequate?
After getting positive feedback for all questions you ask and an acceptable price quote, it’s possible that you found a car insurance agent that can service your policy.
What about online companies that cut out the middleman?
Licensed agents can be invaluable at times, but Maryland drivers can also buy directly from online companies. Some car insurance companies, such as State Farm, Allstate and Farmers, that sell primarily through agents also permit you to quote and buy online, and that is helpful if the lowest rate is your goal.
If you’re anxious about not having someone to ask questions when buying direct, this is normal but is quickly overcome. Companies that allow you to purchase coverage provide access to licensed agents for getting advice on proper coverages.
Does coverage cost less online? It’s difficult to provide an answer since there are many things that can increase policy rates. Common logic is that buying online saves money by not requiring a commission. In reality, advertising budgets are huge so this can offset any savings.
Affordable insurance is out there
Drivers change insurance companies for a variety of reasons including not issuing a premium refund, policy non-renewal, delays in responding to claim requests or even an unsatisfactory settlement offer. Regardless of your reason, finding the right auto insurance provider is actually quite simple.
Lower-priced auto insurance is possible from both online companies in addition to many Frostburg insurance agents, so you should be comparing quotes from both in order to have the best chance of saving money. A few companies do not provide online quoting and these small, regional companies work with independent agents.
Additional auto insurance links
Additional auto insurance information can be found on the website for the Maryland Insurance Administration through this link. Visitors are able to download brochures, report car insurance fraud, and learn about insurance regulations.
Also read more on NAIC.org’s Understanding your Policy and this list of agents in Frostburg, MD.
