If you’re looking to buy auto insurance, there are a lot of options and finding the best Rhode Island car insurance agent is not as easy as just using the same insurance agency as your neighbor. We’re assuming you’re wanting a friendly agent, but you also want to find affordable coverage.
With State Farm, Allstate and many independent agents all competing for your business, it can be hard to know which will have the lowest rates and best service. Thankfully, consumers can get online quoting to get a list of agents to choose from.
How to compare Cranston auto insurance rates
Professional agents can help determine the best coverages and help you file claims. The best thing about comparing insurance prices online is that you can obtain the lowest rates but still work with a licensed agent. Buying from local insurance agencies is especially important in Cranston.
Once you complete this quick form, the coverage information is emailed to agents in your area who will battle for your business. You don’t have to even leave your home because quoted prices will be sent immediately to your email address. Now that’s easy!
Pick the best insurance agency in Cranston for you
If you’re trying to find a reputable insurance agent or broker, there are two different types of agents that differ in how they can insure your vehicles. Insurance agencies in Cranston can either be independent (non-captive) or captive. Both types can properly insure your vehicles, but it’s worth mentioning how they are different since it may influence the selection process.
Independent Agencies or Brokers
Independent insurance agents are not employed by any specific company but instead can place your coverage amongst many companies depending on which coverage is best. If your agent finds better pricing, the agent simply finds a different carrier and you don’t have to find a new agent. When comparing rates, it’s recommended you get quotes from multiple independent agents to have the most options to choose from.
Below are Cranston independent insurance agencies that are able to give rate quotes.
Andrew J Spirito Agency – 1013 Reservoir Ave – Cranston, RI 02910 – (401) 946-0910
Ritz Insurance – 762 Atwood Ave – Cranston, RI 02920 – (401) 464-8200
Cormack-Routhier Agency – 1 Harry St – Cranston, RI 02907 – (401) 944-9400
Angelo Menna Insurance – 686 Reservoir Ave – Cranston, RI 02910 – (401) 944-7700
Lannon Agency Inc – 37 Rolfe Sq – Cranston, RI 02910 – (401) 461-7070
Captive Insurance Agents
Captive agents are contracted to one company and examples are Liberty Mutual, Allstate, Farmers Insurance or State Farm. These agents are not able to place coverage with different providers so always compare other rates. Captive agents are usually quite knowledgeable on their company’s products which can be an advantage.
Shown below are Cranston captive insurance agencies that can give you rate quotes.
North American Family Inst – 735 New London Ave – Cranston, RI 02920 – (401) 946-2020
Allstate Insurance Co – 1723 Cranston St – Cranston, RI 02920 – (401) 944-4800
To view a full list of Cranston captive insurance agencies, please click here.
Choosing an insurance agent requires more thought than just the price. These are valid questions to ask:
- Will vehicle repairs be made with aftermarket parts or OEM replacement parts?
- Do they receive special compensation for putting your coverage with one company over another?
- Does the agency provide any after hours assistance?
- How long has their agency been in business in Cranston?
- Can they give you a list of client referrals?
- Are they properly licensed to sell insurance in Rhode Island?
- Do they regularly work with personal auto policies?
- What insurance company do they write the most business with?
Upon getting good answers to these questions as well as a affordable price, you may have just found an insurance agency that meets your needs to properly insure your vehicles.
But what about Geico and Esurance?
Car insurance agents are perfect for certain consumers, but you also have the option of buying from companies direct over the internet. Even companies like Allstate and State Farm that are more known for using agents, also allow you to buy online, so this should also be taken into consideration.
If you’re uncomfortable with not having someone to ask questions when shopping online, don’t be too concerned. Online car insurance companies have toll-free phone numbers and other options to help you decide which coverages are appropriate.
Will you save money buying auto insurance online? It’s difficult to provide an answer because there are many components that are calculated into your premium. Common sense would say that shopping direct saves money by not requiring a commission. But truthfully, promoting brand recognition is pricey and this drives up their premium costs.
Informative consumer insurance sites
Much more information about auto insurance in Rhode Island is located on the website for the Rhode Island Division of Insurance Regulation located here. Visitors are able to find out industry alerts, read enforcement actions against agents and companies, report car insurance fraud, and learn about insurance regulations.
The following information may also be useful.
Final considerations
As you prepare to switch companies, make sure you don’t skimp on critical coverages to save a buck or two. There are a lot of situations where drivers have reduced full coverage only to discover later that the savings was not a smart move. Your aim should be to get the best coverage possible at the best price, not the least amount of coverage.
Cheaper auto insurance is possible from both online companies in addition to many Cranston insurance agents, so compare prices from both to have the best selection. Some insurance companies do not provide the ability to get a quote online and many times these regional insurance providers only sell through independent insurance agents.
