Online Quotes - How Accurate Are They?

Are Online Insurance Quotes Accurate?

If you have browse some popular Internet websites or watched your favorite TV program, you probably saw an advertisement for a free online quote system. These new quote systems seem great because they can help you compare multiple insurance policies from your home computer. But do they really provide accurate information?

There is not just one type of online quote system, so you would have to evaluate the pros and cons of each type.

* Quote systems that are provided by individual insurers will allow you to compare multiple policies from that provider. Some of the major companies actually will show competitor's quotes too. I would assume that information provided by a company, at their own website, would be the most up-to-date and accurate.
* Other quote systems actually allow you to compare multiple insurance companies in your local area. You enter some details, and you get matched with insurers that have asked to do business with customers who fit your profile. This can be a quick way to narrow down your search.

Here's the deal. The quotes will only be as accurate as they can be with the information you provide. The old computer saying about "garbage in, garbage out" also applies to computer insurance quotes!

* Short quote forms, that ask for little information, will not be able to provide the most accurate price quote. For example, you may, or may not, qualify for some insurance discounts that will not be considered by a simple system. A short quote form will probably not ask you for enough information to give you the exact price you will get after you fill out a detailed application. You will be able to compare the base rates of multiple companies though. This can be a good place to start if you have no idea which companies you would like to consider working with. However, the information can be a little deceptive. You may be able to qualify for additional discounts with a company that seems more expensive, and these may actually save you more in the long run.
* Other insurance quote forms may ask you for a lot more information. For example, an auto insurance form may ask you about your driving history, if you also want to insure a home, if you have recently taken a driver's safety course, or about other drivers in your family. It may take a bit longer to fill out a detailed form like this. However, if you do, you will probably be rewarded with better information.
* All insurers are not the same. I am concerned that some people may shop purely on price. I think you should also consider the customer service and claims process when you buy a policy. If you save a few dollars, but then find that your insurer does not handle claims well, it will cost you more money in the long run.

What Are Online Insurance Quotes Good For?

In my opinion, online insurance quotes are a great way to save time and money. They can speed up the process of shopping for the right companies and policies for you and your family. However, any computer system will have limits. In the end, you will probably want to use a combination of methods in order to get the very best deal.

Most online insurance quote systems also provide contact information for company representatives and local agents. You may want to start searching online, but then contact an experienced professional before you make a final decision.

Stop by for fast and free online insurance quotes. You can compare multiple companies, and you can also use these forms to find local agents that are eager to do business with customers like you!

You can also find out if so-called very cheap car insurance is actually the best deal for you!