An independent agent has several companies that he or she can approach to get you the best coverage at the best price. And your independent agent will know the companies with the most efficient claims departments to recover your losses as quickly as possible. Here are some of the pitfalls of dealing with a direct response company:

Beware!

• Apples to Oranges - Is that "great" quote they are giving you comparable to your existing coverage? Often you may be quoted a substantially lower limits and/or inferior coverages than what you presently have. Are you comfortable that the person on the other end of the telephone is qualified to advise and guide you on proper limits and coverages?
• Auto ID Cards - Can an "800" number company provide you with the necessary auto ID card you'll need to pick up you new car today at 5 PM?
• Hidden Charges - Yes, there are hidden charges. We know of instances where a charge is made if coverage is cancelled within 30 days. There are also times when the policy premium is considerably higher than the quote you received over the phone, due to additional charges for a change in territory or other rating factors not disclosed.
• Volume Discounts - Since many of the direct response companies exclusively offer auto insurance, you lose the opportunity to receive package credits for writing several policies with the same company, such as auto, homeowners and umbrella. What about the problems created by having your auto insurance with a different carrier than your umbrella policy? Failure to maintain the proper underlying limits could seriously impact your our-of-pocket costs.