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Online search might lead to lower insurance rates, but ... lower premiums not always the best option.

Article Excerpt
It used to be that checking around for the best insurance rates required spending a good bit of time on the telephone or at an insurance office. But now consumers are just a few mouse clicks away from nationwide rate comparisons.

In some cases, you might find online rates that are significantly lower than what you are paying to the insurance agent who has a local office. But consumers need to make sure they carefully compare policies before making a switch. Lower rates may be possible by cutting out the agent's commission.

"Possibly you could get lower rates without an agent, but there are things an agent does to help consumers such as assisting with claims and the understanding of the policy they have purchased," said Mississippi insurance commissioner George Dale. "Yes, cutting out the agent's commission could result in saving a few dollars on insurance. But you give up service for Cost. And if you buy automobile insurance and exclude the agent, make sure the company is licensed in the State of Mississippi."

Dale advocates shopping around for the best rates, and making sure the insurance company is kept current with your driving habits. For example, the...

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