To locate an insurance agent in Clemson, SC, we recommend you do an initial search by comparing rates online rather than looking in the yellowpages. Consumers need a great agent that can assess your needs, but also need the best possible rates.
Popular companies such as Allstate and Progressive all claim big savings, bombarding you with fancy advertisements and it is challenging if not impossible to avoid their marketing magic and do the work needed to find the best deal.
Why do I need an agent?
Professional agents are trained to spot inefficiencies and help you file claims. One of the best bonuses of price shopping on the web is you can get lower rates and still choose a local agent.
Upon completion of this short form, your insurance coverage information is instantly submitted to companies in Clemson who will battle for your insurance coverage. You never need to leave your house since price quotes are sent to your email. How’s that for easy!
Deciding on an insurance agent needs to be determined by more than just a low price. Any agent should have no problem answering these questions:
- Does the agent have professional designations like CIC, CPCU or AIC?
- Does the agency support the community they serve?
- Do you have coverage for a rental car if your vehicle is in the repair shop?
- How long have they worked with personal auto insurance coverage?
- Is the agent and/or agency licensed to do business in South Carolina?
- What insurance companies do they work with?
- Will vehicle repairs be made with aftermarket parts or OEM replacement parts?
Types of insurance agencies in Clemson
When looking for a reputable insurance agent or broker, you need to know there are two types of agencies to choose from. Insurance agencies in Clemson can either be independent (non-captive) or captive. Both write coverage properly, but it’s important to know the difference between them since it may influence your agent selection.
Agency Captives
These agents can only place business with one company such as American Family, Liberty Mutual and AAA. Captives cannot compare other company’s rates so they have no alternatives for high prices. They receive extensive training on their company’s products which can be an advantage. Some people will only purchase coverage from captives partially due to loyalty to the company and the convenience of having all coverages with one company.
Below is a short list of captive insurance agents in Clemson willing to provide price quotes.
- State Farm Insurance – 1388 Tiger Blvd # 1 – Clemson, SC 29631 – (864) 654-2420
Independent Agencies or Brokers
Independent insurance agents are not required to write business for one company but rather can write business with any number of different companies and possibly get better coverage at lower prices. If your agent finds better pricing, an independent agent can move your coverage and you won’t have to switch agencies. When shopping rates, it’s recommended you include at a minimum one independent agency for the best price selection.Most can insure with different regional companies who may have lower rates.
The following are Clemson independent agencies that are able to give price quotes.
- Cornerstone Insurance Group – 518 College Ave – Clemson, SC 29631 – (864) 654-4488
- Upstate Insurance Inc – 1011 Tiger Blvd # 600 – Clemson, SC 29631 – (864) 654-8112
For a full directory of car insurance agents in Clemson, click here to link.
After receiving reasonable responses to these questions and a good coverage price, you have narrowed it down to an insurance agent that can properly insure your vehicles.
Buying direct is an option
Insurance agencies are perfect for certain consumers, but you can also find affordable South Carolina auto insurance direct online. A few companies who sell through the agent channel also allow you to buy a policy online, so that should be considered if you want to do it yourself.
If you’re uncomfortable with not having an insurance agent’s advice, this is a normal reaction for first-time shoppers. Insurance companies that require consumers to choose their own coverages all have toll-free customer service to help you decide which coverages are appropriate.
Do people save by buying online? Many people think so, but it’s hard to say for sure because of the number of factors which can raise or lower premium rates. You may think that a shopper who purchases direct cuts out the middleman. But truthfully, advertising budgets are huge so the lack of a commission may be a wash.
Additional detailed information is available at the South Carolina Department of Insurance website. South Carolina drivers can find out which companies have the most complaints, download brochures, read state legal mandates and laws, and report car insurance fraud.
Additional helpful sites include this online resource for free quotes in South Carolina and this page for help finding agents in Clemson, SC.
Smart shoppers get results
As you prepare to switch companies, do not skimp on coverage in order to save money. There have been many situations where an insured dropped liability coverage limits only to discover later they didn’t purchase enough coverage. The ultimate goal is to get the best coverage possible at an affordable rate.
Lower-priced car insurance is possible on the web and also from your neighborhood Clemson agents, and you should compare price quotes from both to get a complete price analysis. Some insurance providers may not provide online price quotes and these small insurance companies work with independent agents.
