When pricing auto insurance in Johnston, Rhode Island, you have many choices and choosing the right Johnston insurance agent is more difficult than just picking up the phone. Chances are good you’re looking for a great agent that can assess your needs, but you also want affordable coverage.
With companies like Allstate, Farmers and State Farm as well as independent agents having offices in Johnston, it’s hard to tell which auto insurance agent will provide the best rates, service and coverage. To help decide, consumers can get online price quotes in order to build a list of agencies from which to choose.
Local Johnston auto insurance agents
Insurance agents can point out coverage gaps and help file insurance claims. The biggest benefit of comparing rates online is you may find better rates and still have an agent to talk to. And supporting small agencies is definitely important in Johnston.
After filling out this quick form, your information is sent to companies in Johnston who will battle for your coverage. You don’t have to even leave your home since price quotes are sent to your email. It doesn’t get any easier! You can find better rates AND an agent nearby.
What type of Johnston insurance agency is right for you?
When searching for a reputable insurance agent or broker, there are two different types of agents that you can select. Agencies in Johnston are classified as either captive or independent.
Independent Agencies or Brokers
Independent agencies do not work for one specific company so they can insure your vehicles with multiple insurance companies and potentially find a lower price. To transfer your coverage to a different company, the business is moved internally and that require little work on your part. When comparing rates, it’s a good idea to include price quotes from several independent insurance agents to get the best comparison.
Listed below is a short list of independent insurance agents in Johnston that can give you rate quotes.
R I Automobile Insurance Plan – 302 Central Ave – Johnston, RI 02919 – (401) 946-2600
Johnston Insurance Inc – 1343 Hartford Ave – Johnston, RI 02919 – (401) 351-3280
Vincent S Podmaska Agency – 1465 Atwood Ave – Johnston, RI 02919 – (401) 273-8700
Captive Insurance Agents
This type of agents work for only one company and some examples include State Farm or Allstate. They usually cannot provide prices from multiple companies so it’s a take it or leave it situation. They are usually quite knowledgeable on their products and sales techniques which can be an advantage.
The following is a short list of captive insurance agencies in Johnston who can help you get rate quotes.
Allstate Insurance Co – 1478 Atwood Ave – Johnston, RI 02919 – (401) 454-4710
To view a complete directory of auto insurance agents in Johnston, visit this link.
Deciding on an insurance agency needs to be determined by more than just a cheap price. Here are some questions to ask:
- Did they already check your driving record and credit reports?
- What are the financial ratings for the companies they represent?
- Are claim adjusters local or do you have to take your car somewhere else?
- Is the agency involved in supporting local community causes?
- Are there any discounts that you might be missing?
Upon receiving good answers to these questions and an acceptable price quote, you have narrowed it down to an insurance agency that will insure your vehicles.
Don’t exclude online companies
Insurance agents serve a purpose, but Rhode Island drivers can also buy from companies direct over the internet. Some car insurance companies, such as Farmers Insurance and State Farm, that sell primarily through agents additionally provide the ability to buy a policy online, and that can save time if you prefer not to work with an agent.
If you’re uneasy about not having professional advice when buying online, this is normal but is quickly overcome. Car insurance companies that allow you to purchase coverage have toll-free phone numbers and other options to answer your questions. In addition, they usually offer 24/7 live help and a car insurance FAQ section to help with the buying process.
Is it cheaper to buy car insurance online? It’s hard to say exactly due to the fact that there are many factors that are calculated into your premium. Common sense would say that a consumer who buys direct prevents the agent from taking a cut. For most companies selling online, however, online and traditional media advertising are expensive and that can cost more than having to pay agents.
Final thoughts
Insureds change insurance companies for a number of reasons such as being labeled a high risk driver, unfair underwriting practices, lack of trust in their agent and even denial of a claim. No matter why you want to switch, choosing a new company can be less work than you think.
Cost effective auto insurance can be found from both online companies and also from your neighborhood Johnston agents, and you should be comparing both to have the best rate selection. Some insurance companies may not provide the ability to get a quote online and most of the time these small, regional companies sell through independent agents.
For more reading
Much more information about auto insurance in Rhode Island is located on the website for the Rhode Island Division of Insurance Regulation through this link. Consumers can read consumer alerts, view agent and company licensing information, and discover disciplinary actions.
