I own a independent insurance agency and can tell you i would not put much faith in this article. First, Allstate is put on a pedestal yet their sister company, Encompass which is for the independent insurance agents is rated as avoid. There are several companies on this list that I would not insure my dog house with yet are rated high. Another red flag for me is Auto-owners being listed so low. Auto-owners consistently wins awards for customer service and satisfaction.

In fact there is book out "from good hands to boxing gloves that talks about Allstate. The book was written by a former employee that talks about Allstate hiring MIT to find ways to save money. The conclusion was to deny the majority of claims (no matter the the validity) the first time because 30% of people will never push forward trying with the claim. What a concept accept premiums and fight to never pay out!


My advice for my pilot brethren is to find a good local independent insurance agent in your area that has access to many carriers. Sit down with the agent and discuss your insurance needs. There are many carriers you may never heard of that offer much better coverage's then the traditional carriers (state farm, farmers, Allstate, etc.) Remember, when you have a claim and push comes to shove the people who represent only one company tend to eventually side with the person who signs their check. I love insurance because each family has specific needs make sure your agent understands yours!

Last bit of advice stay away from any insurance agent that pushes to sell annuities and investments. I am licensed to sell this but in all honesty you should use a independent financial advisor for many of the same reasons you should use a independent insurance agent. Having options to tailor to the Insured/investor is a good thing.

Also, because of our earnings potential and the litigious society we live be sure to discuss a umbrella policy. Every pilot should have ONE!!!