Who Needs an Agent When You Have the Internet?

Who needs an agent or broker?  You can get all the insurance you want by just going to the internet, right? 
No, you cannot.  Many types of insurance, especially for businesses, are not available without going through an agent or broker who represents the insurer (and the insured).  You can get some auto insurance and maybe some homeowners and possibly some life insurance bypassing the agency system, but who will be there for you when/if you have a problem.  How many times I have purchased something on the internet only to find out I can’t find anyone to speak to if something goes wrong!  I find these times frustrating and upsetting as well as time consuming.
Insurance purchased through the internet without agency representation comes without explanation (unless you want to read an insurance policy, LOL) and should be labeled, “Buyer Beware”.  I like to say, “who’s desk can you stand on and yell if things don’t go right?” 
 
When purchasing insurance, we are purchasing an item that we do not wish to use.  There are few items in life we purchase and don’t wish to use besides insurance; a fire extinguisher is one of them.  So, when purchasing the necessary insurance coverages (auto, homeowner’s, business, etc) we need, why not get education and service for your premium dollar by using a local agent or broker that you can rely on for up to date information regarding insurance?  You should demand an explanation of coverage and how it works.  You should want to know the exclusions and other constraints imposed by the insurance contract and you should know these things BEFORE you need them, not after!  Using an agent or broker that does their job well gives you access to this valuable information and you should take advantage of that.
An agent or broker should be willing and able to answer your questions and should want to provide you with valuable information about your insurance coverage to eliminate preconceived notions that are simply not true.  There are many, many myths surrounding insurance and your agent/broker should be able to dispel these myths for you.  If your agent/broker is NOT knowledgably answering your questions and giving you good information regarding insurance coverage, you should be seeking one that will.  Get something for your insurance dollar besides peace of mind, get educated about your coverage!
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