How to Find the Best Insurance Company

Reader’s Question:

I’d like to know how I can choose between auto insurance companies effectively. How do I know I’m getting the best deals and reliable service?

Donatello

Portland, OR

Good question. Getting the right auto insurance company is just as important as getting the best rates. However, this is easier said than done to a lot of people. Listed below are a few useful tips to maximize your chances of getting the right kind of auto insurer for you.

1. Independent Rating Agencies - Moodys, J.D. Powers, A.M Best, and Standard & Poor offer a wealth of information to consumers by rating/scoring the performance of different companies. Scores fall under categories such as billing and payments, customer service, and pricing. This can help you get a good idea about the insurers you should be doing business with.

2. Online Comparison Websites - Use these to obtain free quotes and compare offers coming from many different insurers. This is a good way to maximize your ability to spot the best-priced policies in the market.

3. Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) - This is another resource that consumers should take full advantage of. The BBB helps by educating people about good business and learning about complains against certain companies. This will help you become a smarter consumer.

4. Ask Around - Referrals can be a great way to find out about the best auto insurance companies. Ask your friends, relatives and co-workers. Doing this can lead to some valuable insights that can help you choose your auto insurer effectively. You get instant feedback from their actual experiences with the companies they went with as well.