The Internet has really changed how people can shop for car insurance. You can quickly compare quotes between different companies from the comfort of your home or office. You can get a lot of information to help you make decisions without dealing with pushy salespeople. But when you actually buy your insurance, does it matter if you buy direct or work with an agent?

There are basically four ways you can buy your insurance:

1. Directly through an Internet site. This way you make all of the decisions about your coverage on your own, pay your premium online and not speak with a representative or insurance professional.

2. Direct, through a telephone representative. Typically, you call a toll-free number for a single company, a representative takes your information, may provide you some options and you can pay over the phone or receive a bill.

3. Through a captive insurance agent. A captive agent works for one insurance company. They can provide you different options and may help find ways for you to save on your car insurance.

4. Through an independent agent. An independent agent represents several different insurance companies. They work hard to get the best value for their customers by researching several companies.

Going direct through an Internet site or telephone rep may work for you if you are the type that likes to do all the research and want to minimize the people you talk to.

The advantage of working with agents is that they want to develop a relationship to keep your business. Thus, they work hard to make sure you're satisfied. This includes trying to find your best rate on car insurance, answering your questions quickly and helping your claims go through quickly. Though they're getting paid commissions from the companies they represent, agents tend to be very protective of their customers.

Whatever method you choose to buy your car insurance, just make sure to get at least three quotes while you're shopping.