When pricing auto insurance in Great Falls, Montana, you have many choices and choosing the right Great Falls car insurance agent is not as easy as just making a phone call. It’s highly likely you’re looking for a competent insurance agent, but you also need great rates as well.
With companies like Allstate, Farmers, State Farm and many independent agents all competing for your business, it’s hard to tell which car insurance agent will give you the cheapest rates and the best coverage. Thankfully, consumers can get online quotes to build a list of agents from which to choose.
Quote online but still have a local agent
Educated insurance agents can point out coverage gaps and help you file claims. The biggest benefit of getting online price quotes is the fact that you can find the lowest rates but still work with a licensed agent. Buying from local businesses is important particularly in Great Falls.
Once you complete this short form, your insurance data is emailed to companies in Great Falls who will give you bids to get your business. You never need to even leave your home because quoted prices will be sent directly to your email. How’s that for easy!
Not all insurance agents are the same
If you’re trying to find a reputable insurance agent or broker, you must know there are a couple different agency structures to choose from. Great Falls agents can either be independent or captive. Either one can do a good job, but it’s worth mentioning how they are different because it can impact the selection process.
Independent Agencies or Brokers
These agents are not required to write business for one company but rather can write business with any number of different companies enabling the ability to shop coverage around. To move your coverage to a new company, an independent agent can move your coverage and you don’t have to find a new agent. When searching for an agent, it’s a good idea to include price quotes from at a minimum one independent agency to have the most options to choose from.
Listed below are Great Falls independent insurance agencies who may be able to give you pricing information.
John Mc Intosh Agency – 8 5th St N – Great Falls, MT 59401 – (406) 453-5318
Mc Meel Insurance – 104 2nd St S # 200 – Great Falls, MT 59401 – (406) 761-7340
Lorrie Hardy Insurance – 600 Central Ave # 214 – Great Falls, MT 59401 – (406) 761-3700
Captive Insurance Agents
This type of agents are contracted to one company and some examples include State Farm or Allstate. Captives cannot place coverage with different providers so always compare other rates. Captive agencies are usually quite knowledgeable on their products and sales techniques which helps them compete with independent agents.
Selecting an insurance agency should depend on more than just the price. Here are some questions to ask:
- Do the coverages you’re quoting properly cover your vehicle?
- Are glass claims handled on-site or do you have to take your vehicle to a repair shop?
- Are claim adjusters local or do you have to take your car somewhere else?
- Are there any hidden costs in their price quote and does it include driving and credit history?
- Do they assist clients in filing claims?
- Which company do they place the most coverage with?
- Who is covered by the car insurance policy?
- Does the agency support the community they serve?
Once you have positive feedback to your questions and an acceptable price quote, chances are good that you have found an auto insurance agent that meets your needs to service your policy.
Can you save by buying online?
Local insurance agents serve a purpose, but Montana consumers also have the option to buy direct over the internet. Certain companies, such as Farmers Insurance and State Farm, who have local Great Falls agents also let you buy direct on their websites, and consumers should do that if you don’t want to take the time to contact agents.
If you’re uncomfortable with not getting proper coverage, that shouldn’t be an issue. Insurance companies that require consumers to choose their own coverages provide access to licensed agents for getting the best coverage. Also available are extensive coverage information and 24/7 assistance to help you make a buying decision.
Can buying online lower your premiums? Many people swear by it, but it’s difficult to answer since there are so many factors that impact your final bill. Some people think that buying online cuts out the agent as a middleman. But in most cases, advertising budgets are huge so rates may not be all that different from traditional agents.
Quote more, save more
Cheap auto insurance is attainable from both online companies in addition to many Great Falls insurance agents, and you need to price shop both in order to have the best chance of saving money. Some companies do not provide you the ability to get quotes online and usually these regional insurance providers provide coverage only through local independent agents.
As you shop your coverage around, never skimp on critical coverages to save a buck or two. In many cases, consumers will sacrifice physical damage coverage only to discover later that they should have had better coverage. The aim is to buy enough coverage at a price you can afford, not the least amount of coverage.
More sites with auto insurance information
Additional information is available on the website for the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance found here. Montana drivers can find a variety of consumer forms, read industry bulletins, learn about insurance regulations, and read state legal mandates and laws.
The following information may also be useful.
