President's Message
Nothing is Constant but Change

Alan Long reminds us that nothing is constant but change. The state’s new auto insurance competition is producing more choices and significant premium savings for some. Read his message.

Times are definitely busy. Summer commenced early; traffic is building; merchants are smiling; and, our customer contact has tripled as clients search for lower rates for auto, homeowner’s and business insurance policies.

Insurance companies are trickling back to the Cape for homeowners’ and business policies. Rates are still very high, but there are finally some alternatives so customers can find the right fit for their needs. The auto insurance market is where competition is providing significant savings for some.

Through our affiliation with Renaissance Alliance, we are privileged to offer our customers coverage through 11 of the 14 available auto insurance companies that work with independent agents like Eldredge & Lumpkin.

See our easy-to-understand grid showing policy enhancements now available with your auto insurance policy.

Rate filings with the state Division of Insurance began April 1 but since this is a new, competitive marketplace, companies are jockeying to find a competitive advantage. Since the new marketplace allows companies to make rate changes throughout the year, many filed different rates for May 1 and July 1. I am sure more are to come. In other words, better savings and coverage may come later in the year.

Please keep in mind that most discounts and new rates are only allowed once a policy has been renewed or rewritten, and the effective policy date must be later than April 1, 2008. In most circumstances, there are penalties for early cancellation of a policy. So you should carefully look at the entire picture to see what your true savings would be.

In an effort to best serve each of our customers, we are sending out questionnaires 60-75 days in advance of auto policy renewals. The information you provide will give us what we need to offer the best discounts for our clients. We can also advise you of new coverage options such as Accident Forgiveness and Disappearing Deductibles.

As your agent, our goal is to offer you the best premium for the best coverage. Don’t hesitate to call us at 800 945-1840 or e-mail us with your questions.

Please note that our office moves to 443 Main St. in Chatham on June 30. See our home page story.

Find out about auto insurance discounts and enhancements to your coverage.

Request a quote.

- Alan Long