If you’re trying to find a good insurance agent in Smithfield, Rhode Island, you can always do an initial search on the internet to save yourself time. It’s likely that not only do you want a professional agent, but you also want the best rates possible.
With companies like State Farm, Allstate, Farmers and independent agents all competing for your business, it’s difficult to determine which one will provide you with the best rates, service and coverage. Fortunately, consumers can use insurance quotes online to build a list of agents and price estimates.
Compare Smithfield agent rates online
Insurance agents can point out coverage gaps and help you file claims. The best thing about comparing rates online is the fact that you can find the lowest rates and still choose a local agent. And providing support for small agencies is important particularly in Smithfield.
By using this short form, your coverage information gets sent to participating agents in Smithfield who will compete for your business. You never need to visit any agencies since price quotes are sent immediately to your email address. Now that’s easy!
The type of car insurance agent you choose is important
When researching a reliable agent, there are a couple of different types of agents from which to choose. Smithfield agents are categorized either independent (non-captive) or captive. Either one can properly insure your vehicles, but it’s worth mentioning how they are different because it can influence your agent selection.
Independent Agents
Independent agents are not locked into one company but rather can write business with many different companies and potentially find a lower price. If you are not satisfied with one company, they simply move the coverage in-house and that require little work on your part.
When searching for an agent, it’s recommended you get quotes from at a minimum one independent agency for maximum quote selection. Many write coverage with smaller regional carriers who may have lower rates.
The following is a list of independent insurance agencies in Smithfield that are able to give price quotes.
- Apple Valley Agency – 528 Putnam Pike – Smithfield, RI 2917 – (401) 949-5201
- Stop and Save Insurance – 375 Putnam Pike # 1 – Smithfield, RI 02917 – (401) 231-0655
- Liberty Mutual Insurance – 20 Cedar Swamp Rd # B – Smithfield, RI 02917 – (401) 232-3268
Captive Agents
Captive insurance agents work for only one company and some examples include Allstate, Farmers Insurance, State Farm and AAA. Captives cannot give you multiple price quotes so always compare other rates. They are well schooled on their products and sales techniques which can be an advantage. Consumers frequently choose to use a captive agent partially due to the prominence of the brand and strong financial ratings.
Shown below is a list of captive insurance agents in Smithfield willing to provide price quote information.
- Liberty Mutual Insurance – 20 Cedar Swamp Rd # B – Smithfield, RI 02917 – (401) 232-3268
- Allstate Insurance Co – 151 Douglas Pike – Smithfield, RI 02917 – (401) 233-0800
To view a full list of captive agents in Smithfield, visit this link.
Choosing a car insurance agent shouldn’t rely on just the price. Agents should be asked these questions:
- How long has their agency been open in Smithfield?
- Are you getting all the discounts the company offers?
- If you have an accident, will your rates go up?
- Is the agency involved in supporting local community causes?
- If they are an independent agency, which companies do they recommend?
- Is their price quote a firm figure or are their hidden costs?
Upon getting good answers for all questions you ask and an affordable coverage quote, you’ve probably found an insurance agent that is a good match to provide car insurance coverage.
But what about Geico, Progressive and Esurance?
Licensed agents are important to many people, but you also have the option of buying Rhode Island car insurance from online companies direct. Some specific companies that sell primarily through agents also let you buy direct online, and online price comparisons are easy if you are the do-it-yourself type.
If you’re concerned about having to choose coverages yourself when buying online, don’t let it bother you. Auto insurance companies that allow you to purchase coverage all have client service departments for answering any questions you have.
Will you save money buying auto insurance online? It’s difficult to say for sure since companies use quite a few components that influence how your policy is priced. You may think that a shopper who purchases direct saves the cost of an agent commission. For most online online companies, however, online and traditional media advertising are expensive and that can cost more than having to pay agents.
Smart shoppers get results
When shopping online for car insurance, it’s very important that you do not sacrifice coverage to reduce premiums. In many cases, someone dropped collision coverage only to discover later that the few dollars in savings costed them thousands. The ultimate goal is to buy a smart amount of coverage at the best price while still protecting your assets.
Cost effective car insurance can be sourced from both online companies and with local Smithfield insurance agents, and you should be comparing both to have the best chance of lowering rates. Some insurance providers do not offer you the ability to get quotes online and these regional insurance providers work with independent agents.
Much more information about car insurance in Rhode Island is located on the Rhode Island Division of Insurance Regulation website located here. Consumers can learn about specific coverages, get help finding coverage, file complaints about a company, and download brochures.
The articles below may also help you learn more about car insurance in Smithfield
