Griffin-Owens and Associates

Technology has given us many opportunities and access to many resources.  However, there are limits to what you want to attempt on the internet.  For example, if you were really sick, you would not seek treatment from a computer based process on the internet.  Even though you might be able to gain some insight to what illness you have, you would probably want a real doctor to to evaluate potentially serious problems.  You probably would not want to find answers to a serious legal problem and you certainly would not expect an internet based lawyer to defend you in court.  You would want to talk to a real lawyer.  The same goes for insurance.  You may be able to get some ideas about rates or even some general information about coverage, but do you trust your knowledge of the subject enough to gamble your family’s financial security by purchasing coverage on the internet?

Many insurance companies want consumers to believe that insurance is a one size fits all commodity, but the reality is everyone has different needs and different exposures.  Insurance contracts are very complex and convincing people that it is so simple that a “Caveman can do it”,  is disingenuous and dangerous to consumers.  I have spoken to many people who have left those one size fits all companies with horror stories about losses that were not covered.  The story is always the same:  The client purchased coverage on line or from a toll free number and received a great price.  However, the client did not know that they were sold a policy that did not have adequate limits or did not have the appropriate endorsements.  To a person, each one of them told me that they would have been happy to have paid a few dollars more to get a policy that actually covered their claims.

The latest trend is the “Pick Your Payment” sales tactic.  The reality is, when you pick your payment, you are actually picking your coverage.  Anyone can sell a cheap policy.  You won’t get much coverage, but it will be cheap.  I think that selling  insurance this way is a disservice to clients and it is misleading to most consumers.

There is a reason why most people prefer to do business with a professional agent.  Clients like to have these contracts explained to them and they like to know what their choices are when they are purchasing a policy.  No one wants to find out what their policy covers after they have suffered a loss.  Plus, if you do have a loss and you need help with a claim, would prefer to call an 800 number, go on line or talk to a professional agent who know you and your family.  By the way, that agent as a vested interest in maintaining a strong relationship with you.  Who do you think is going to help you the most? 

Remember, just because something is cheap does not mean it is better.  Chances are you don’t buy the cheapest car or go to the cheapest restaurant.  You probably don’t ask your doctor about his fees when you need help or question your lawyers fees when you are in trouble.  Price should be a factor, but in the end you need to feel good about the people you do business with.  When navigating the insurance industry you will benefit by having a real, professional, human agent available to answer your questions and to help you during your time of need.  Agents offer something that you will never find on the internet:  Compassion.  What is the value of compassion to you when you have suffered a loss?  How do you quantify the human element?  What is the value of peace of mind?