Thursday, August 2, 2007

The Pros And Cons Of Obtaining Instant Auto Insurance Quotes Online

The Internet has made its mark on the shopping world, making it easy to find many things. There are websites dedicated to buying books, movies, even used items that other people don’t want anymore. In addition to material goods, nowadays, you can buy services that aren’t necessarily as tangible, such as auto insurance. One of the great things about shopping around for auto insurance online is that there are a number of websites where you can obtain instant auto insurance quotes.

By obtaining these instant auto insurance quotes, you’ll be able to better save on your auto insurance, which can translate into extra hundreds a year. But there are advantages and disadvantages to this. Let’s explore some of the benefits of instant auto insurance quotes online and how to avoid some of the problems that you run across with them.

The Pros

Of course, the big advantage to obtaining instant auto insurance quotes online is that the speed of the process allows you to compare different auto insurance companies in one evening, often less than that. Instead of wasting your time with calling company after company for a quote, dealing with automated systems, getting placed on hold, and so on, you can enter your information into a web form and get a quote that way. The real speed comes with sites that take your information once and get quotes from multiple companies, allowing you to compare prices at a glance.

And while on the subject of no phones, no calling means no pressure from a salesperson on the other end of the line. This means no haggling, no rebuttals, and more time to do your own research. If you like the idea of making choices for yourself instead of getting convinced by a salesman, obtaining instant auto insurance quotes online is for you.

The Cons

One of the big drawbacks to obtaining instant auto insurance quotes is that usually, you need to give some sort of contact information, like your e-mail address, which will result in spam in your mailbox later. To combat that, look for sites that don’t require you to give that contact info. Another way to at least control where the spam goes is to have a separate e-mail address you keep, separate from your main address, that you enter for this contact info. That way, the spam is at least directed away from your personal account.

The other disadvantage you have when obtaining instant auto insurance quotes online is that some of the sites that compile results for you won’t ask all the questions that each individual company might on their own sites. This can lead to later sticker shock when the actual company gets back to you and quotes you at something higher. To avoid this and get the most accurate results, double check your work by obtaining quotes from the websites of each individual company. Despite these relatively minor disadvantage, the convenience and speed of getting instant auto insurance quotes online make it a great idea if you’re looking for some for your car.

Finding Auto Insurance in Pennsylvania

Having auto insurance in Pennsylvania is just as important as having coverage in any other state. And although most people don’t think there would be any difference between auto insurance offered in Pennsylvania and anywhere else, there are definitely differences you to know about. On the other hand, just as there are some differences in companies that offer auto insurance in Pennsylvania and those that do not, there are also companies that do not differ, offering pretty much the same type of coverage.

The key is to know the difference in options available in order to make an educated decision as a consumer, in regard to what kind of auto insurance to purchase when living in Pennsylvania.

The Coverage that Doesn’t Differ from State to State

Although there will always be differences from state to state when it comes to auto insurance due to specific state laws, some companies offer auto insurance nationwide which is so similar that you’d be able to stay on the same plan when moving from one state to another. Companies such as Geico auto insurance is offered in Pennsylvania along with any other state in the Country, and will offer just about the same plan to any consumer no matter the state they live in.

This kind of coverage, just as any other product or service, has benefits and disadvantages alike. These pros and cons will differ from person to person due to preference, but one of the most common benefits of purchasing nationwide coverage is price. Because companies like Geico offer coverage to so many people, they are usually able to offer you a lower price, especially compared to local agencies.

On the flip side, a negative aspect that’s popular among consumers is the fact that big nationwide companies do not offer personalized service, therefore customer service may not be as reliable or satisfactory as a smaller company.

Coverage That Does Show a Difference

Any state one lives, including Pennsylvania, can find an auto insurance company that’s local and specializes in personal commitment to their customers. A good way to find these companies is by using your yellow pages or relying on word of mouth from friends and family. The benefits usually outweigh the negatives with this kind of company because of their size, and many people lucky enough to find a good insurance company that’s locally run never even think about switching providers.

Although locally owned auto insurance in places like Pennsylvania are more than likely going to have higher premiums, they tend to make up for it in customer service and satisfaction guarantees. In the end, choosing the right auto insurance comes down to preference, budget and concern.