Expert Advice: Insurance Checkup
Brian Green Allstate Insurance
WE ALL SPEND a great deal of money on insurance, but many of us do not know exactly what we have purchased. We go to the store to buy candy and we know the difference between a Snickers and a Baby Ruth, but when it comes to insurance, we become “comfortable” that all policies are basically the same.
This isn’t the case. Every company is different, and what is covered is different. Many times we have clients that switch coverage without comparing. They assume that one policy and one company is as good as another, and the focus is on getting the better price rather than maintaining the accurate level of coverage. Sometimes the savings can be real, but other times people will sacrifice coverage because they haven’t consulted a professional agent to understand both sides of the switch.
CONSIDER THESE 3 THINGS when you are insurance shopping.
Your agent matters. Choose someone who is knowledgeable and has experience in the field. Don’t be afraid to ask questions specific to what you value. No two clients own all of the same items or place the same level of importance on their specific property. If you don’t feel comfortable with the agent or staff, keep searching for someone who understands what is important to you and can explain the coverage.
Price is important, but not everything. If something happens and you need service, who will handle that? Will you be left calling repeatedly for service or will you have someone that knows what you need? Some agents are very responsive and some are not. Technology is improving in the insurance field as well. Are you seeing those benefits? Does your company handle claims efficiently and are they taking advantage of technology to make your claim smooth and easy?
Regularly review all your insurance policies. Take time out to do a review of your coverage. Your coverage is what protects all of the expensive assets you are working for. Your business, your home, your vehicles, and your life are all protected by the coverage you purchase. It is an agent’s job to point out holes in coverage, to make sure that you are aware of those gaps and make sure you understand how you will be paid if something does happen. A regular review will ensure that despite life changes your coverage will be correct when you need it.
Brian Green has been a local Allstate insurance agent in Topeka for seven years. He has earned several recognition awards from Allstate including Best In Company (B & C Growth), Honor Ring and Circle of Champions.
