Technology has opened options to the global marketplace, and consumers have a level of expectancy when it comes to convenience. This expectation carries over into the insurance industry. There are a variety of options available for researching and purchasing insurance online. Many underwriting agencies have added the option of online quotes to their websites with the purchase capability and there is a positive trend in growth reported in the 2012 outlook.
Purchasing insurance online allows the consumer to avoid the time and pressure associated with going to a physical office. However, researching options can be potentially overwhelming, although convenient and timesaving. Further, purchasing insurance online may allow coverage to begin immediately and proof of insurance can be printed from home in many cases. This minimizes the potential for lapses in coverage.
Finding a company that provides online insurance quotes and buy options will require a traditional search, and the consumer should look for several characteristics of the company before making a decision. First, all insurance companies in the United States are required to have registered agents. There should be an option to speak to an agent, should the buyer feel this is necessary, either by phone, email or online chat. You should also look for the company’s privacy policy and read it thoroughly as well as look for identification that their website is secure so your private information is not shared with third parties or with the public. Secure websites are identified by a small lock symbol in your web browser window.
The 2012 outlook for insurers remains tepid. Using reserves to maintain the current rate of slow growth of the insurance industry has taken a toll on individual companies. However, the state of the economy has also encouraged insurance companies to reconsider how they reach consumers. Websites are becoming increasingly interactive, information sharing is more important than ever. Companies that provide insurance online are also providing information about purchasing policies, reading and understanding them and comparing them through blogs and online libraries.
This increase in information means more consumers are better able to review and evaluate options before purchasing. It also allows smaller insurance companies to compete with larger companies, and creates competitive pricing which benefits the consumer. When companies compete, pricing is driven down and the consumer wins.
Insurance companies are adding purchasing options to better reach potential and current clients. This growth includes an increase in companies adding the option of buying insurance online. Customers are able to review and evaluate choices and manage policies from the comfort and convenience of home. The 2012 outlook indicates this trend will continue with value-added services added to websites to increase sales and integrate best with policy owners.