What is the difference between an independent agent and a captive agent?
The biggest difference is that a 'captive' agent works for one insurance company and is limited to the one company they are captive to. An independent agent, however, works for the client, and acts as a broker with access to multiple insurance companies. This arrangement allows us to seek out the best policy for your needs.
What information do you need in order to provide a quote?
Because a quote is based on different factors, such as where you live, the drivers, and the type of vehicles (just to name a few), it is important to receive accurate information in order to provide an accurate quote. This includes a current address, full name and date of birth of all drivers, and the vehicle identification numbers (VIN). It is important to disclose any tickets or accidents that have occurred in the last 5 years to ensure accuracy in your quote.
Why am I asked to provide my Social Security number?
In some instances it is optional to provide your Social Security number (SSN) when purchasing a policy. However, providing an SSN helps the insurance company identify consumer reporting information, which allows us to provide you with the best price. Your SSN is treated as confidential information. We value our customers and potential customers and take privacy very seriously.
What insurance coverage does the State of Texas require?
The State of Texas requires every driver to maintain the minimum liability limits of 30/60/25. What do these numbers mean? The first number indicates the maximum amount an insurance company will pay for bodily injuries you cause to 1 person in a car accident, in this case $30,000. The second number indicates the maximum an insurance company will pay for bodily injuries per accident, no matter the number of people in the car you hit, the maximum for bodily injuries in this case would be $60,000. The third and last number represents the maximum an insurance company will pay for damages you have caused to another vehicle or building, in this case $25,000. If you consider a major accident, and some of the high valued vehicles on the roads today, these limits will not be enough to cover damages, let alone injuries, leaving you open for a lawsuit and other consequences. Consider choosing higher liability limits on your policies, which only make a small difference in premium.
Who do I make my payments to?
We can gladly process your payments for your policy over the phone or in person, or you can also call the carrier directly or make a payment on their website - whichever is most convenient for you! Consider making automatic payments, which will add a discount to your policy and help lower your premium.
Does the color of my car affect my rates?
No. Insurance companies do not know nor ask for this information. The VIN of your vehicle will provide specifications needed in order to provide an accurate rate, including the make, model, and operational indicators. The color of your vehicle is not something that is considered in your rates.