10 Reasons to Contact Your Auto Insurance Agent
Most insurance agents work regular office hours between 9 and 5. It certainly varies by agent, with some working Saturdays, arriving early, or closing for lunch. By being available, the agent is providing a service to his clients. When it comes to auto insurance, clients require assistance with a variety of issues. Consider the following top ten reasons to contact your auto insurance agent.
1)Make a Claim
Filing a claim after an accident can be stressful. The simplest solution is to contact your auto insurance agent and request that he file the claim on your behalf. The agent will record the details of the claim, and a claims adjuster will contact you to confirm everything.
2)Trouble with Your Claim
If your claim isn't going well, your auto insurance agent is a great resource for getting things resolved. This is especially true if you and the claim representative are having difficulty communicating. Many agents do not handle claims directly, but they do want your claim to go as smoothly as possible. Agents will frequently call managers and representatives to ensure the claim stays on track.
3)Adding or Removing a Driver
If you want to change drivers, contact your auto insurance agent. There are numerous reasons to change the number of drivers on your policy. Whether you are adding a new spouse, adding or removing a teen, or splitting off your drivers after a divorce, your insurance agent can assist you.
4)Adding or Removing a Vehicle
Adding and removing vehicles from auto policies is a common occurrence. It is a good idea to call your auto insurance agent and get a quote to see what the cost will be when adding a vehicle. If you are selling a vehicle, your agent can tell you how much money you are saving.
5)Moving
When making a move, always notify your agent. It is critical that your insurance company be able to contact you via both mail and phone. Even if you are moving out of state, notify your agent; he may be able to locate local agents who sell the same insurance carrier.
6)Payment-Related Concerns
Questions about billing are extremely common. Changes in your policy, renewals, and late fees can all have an impact on your payment and raise concerns. There are numerous payment options available; contact your auto insurance agent to go over all of them.
7)Coverage should be changed.
Sometimes all you need to do is change the coverage on your current vehicle. Perhaps you are storing your sports car for the winter. Your insurance agent will be able to advise you on your decision and ensure that the change is properly processed.
8)Inquire about Cheaper Insurance
The only stupid question is the one that is never asked. Requesting a policy review from your agent is a great way to potentially save money. Discounts could have been overlooked, or rating options could have been applied incorrectly. If your rate has increased, renewal is the ideal time to see if cheaper insurance is available through your current carrier.
9)Adding more Policies to Get Multi-Policy Discount
If you are purchasing a home and require home insurance, always contact your auto insurance agent. With the multi-policy discount, you should be able to save money on your auto insurance. If the discount is not available, it is time to look elsewhere. However, a good rule of thumb is to always start with your current auto insurance agent.
10)Sponsorship for Kids
Insurance agents are community members. Many people enjoy sponsoring local children and, in particular, supporting the children of their clients. If your child is looking for sponsorship for cub scouts, 4H, or a school trip, ask your insurance agent if he'd be interested in assisting.
If you have any insurance questions, your agent should be more than happy to assist you. Call during business hours because it is easier to catch your agent at his desk than it is for your agent to catch you out and about, and it is extremely inconvenient for insurance agents to receive phone calls after hours.