Almost every part of our lives has been impacted by the Internet in some fashion, but comScore, a company that specializes in analyzing trends in the online world released a study earlier this month that shows the 'net has become the place to shop for auto insurance, and not just for a few geeky members of society.
The numbers comScore amassed show that connected consumers made 32 million requests for online insurance quotes in 2007, and purchased 2 million policies. These numbers represent increases of 15% and 37%, respectively, since 2006. Since 2004, the total number of requests for online rate quotes has surpassed the one million mark.
Why are these Numbers Increasing?
Originally, consumers logged onto the 'net to find information and compare prices, but in 2006, user habits changed. More and more users weren't just exploring comparison charts, they were requesting quotes and completing their auto insurance purchases online.
According to Kevin Levitt, vice president of comScore, "Consumers are demanding the freedom to choose their method for interacting with their auto insurer -- whether online, by phone, or in person.The rapid growth of the Internet demonstrates the importance of a multi-channel approach that includes the ability to request quotes, purchase policies and service accounts online."
One factor in the growth of online auto insurance sales may be the increase in options for online account management. Over the last two years, more and more insurers have implemented "e-servicing," the ability to handle almost all policy related issues, from changing coverage to making payments, over the internet, without having to wait on hold or deal with automated phone services that cause more frustrations than solutions. In fact, from 2006 to 2007, e-service visits increased by 15% with 20% of those visits having their destinations in policy management pages.
Customers like control.
We may not be a culture of control-freaks, but it's clear that the general public likes to feel like they are in control of their insurance policies. As Mr. Levitt explains, "Consumers appreciate the freedom and flexibility of being able to manage their policies online."
Even better, putting this control in the hands of policy holders has resulted in a win-win situation. Insurance companies are able to offer more services for less money, and they are passing their savings on to their customers, in the form of lower rates for those who shop online.
The savings customers net from using the internet aren't insignificant, either. According to a British study done late last year, just the act of going online to compare the rates of one company against another can yield a savings of 25% over the insurance premium you would pay if you actually called the different insurers you were considering.
More control, more savings, more flexibility. Is it any wonder that every auto insurance ad on television is pushing a website address instead of a phone number?
Auto Insurance In Pa
Everyone has to be responsible and carry auto insurance. Not only is it responsible but it's the law. Paying those yearly or bi-yearly premiums is one of those things that we automatically account for, like paying our mortgage or paying rent. I think that because of this and because we go on auto pilot when the insurance company sends out those premium renewals that we just pay it without question. I think that is where the trap is and why so many people end up paying that insurance premium no matter what the cost is. Well, I have a great solution for that to save you money.
I think that every year when it comes time to renew your auto insurance don't you just hate how much you actually have to shell out for it? Have you ever really thought about just how much actually goes into that year after year? I man really has it ever occurred to you if your auto insurance premium will ever start to decrease instead of increase? Of course not because we think that increasing rates are a normal progression. Well, its not.
First and this is very important. You always have to compare your current rate. You should take your own initiative and start the process of reducing premiums yourself. Yes, it can be done because you're a good driver. Your insurance carrier probably knows that and yet, your coverage is still the same from your insurance company. But that is something we can't take for granted. Just because you are a good driver you think that your rates will automatically decrease because of this or that it will happen automatically. You have to be your own advocate with insurance companies.
Secondly, most people are under the impression that when that yearly renewal policy rolls around that's when it's going to happen for them. Don't be so sure. The renewal discount is probably the most common of the rate reduction that people wait for with auto insurance premiums. Each state has their own set of rules and regulations so you have to check with each individual state law for accuracy. You don't ever have to wait for the New Year to look into a new carrier to compare rates. That's the best time to do that is before your next premium is due.
Thirdly, if you're a good driver then make sure that you remain that way. Keeping a good driving record is the primary bargaining chip for you. This is the best defense you have to reducing your premiums year after year. Keep to the speed limit. It is common for insurance companies to offer a discount for renewing your policy after 12 months. Again, this depends on your driving history within that time frame and the amount of moving violations or citations that were issued to you. If you do keep a good driving record within that time frame this kind of discount is given automatically to the insured and requires no action on their behalf.
That is why it as important to you as a consumer to always shops around and compares rates. I always say that this is your only defense to getting that great rate you deserve. Always take the liberty of shopping around to compare rates and services to get you a cheaper rate. It is possible you just have to take the initiative and start the process yourself. It is said that most insurance companies base their rates on your driving record not your age as much.
Both Rob Parker & Laura Buckley are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Rob Parker has sinced written about articles on various topics from Real Estate, Network Marketing and Real Estate. Protecting yourself from a crash with isn't just a good idea. In some states it's the law. Learn about the mandatory minimum coverage for your sta. Rob Parker's top article generates over 301000 views. to your Favourites.
Laura Buckley has sinced written about articles on various topics from Auto Insurance, Trucks and Home. When companies compete you save money from offer different rates for insurance just as. Laura Buckley's top article generates over 74000 views. to your Favourites.
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