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The Advantages of Telematics for Agencies In an evolving insurance marketplace where technology and personal service both matter, telematics gives agencies some interesting opportunities for growth. As the digital presence continues to expand into all aspects of everyday life, telematics has become a familiar tool that can provide real advantages for agencies. Telematics combines telecommunications and informatics, collecting data that shows how someone drives in real time — so auto insurance can be priced more accurately for each individual driver. From an agency’s perspective, telematics isn’t just about placing a device in a car or tracking on your smartphone it’s about expanding a client’s options, creating stronger relationships, supporting profitability, and staying ready for what’s coming next. In short, telematics gives agencies a number of benefits. Here are five of them. 1. Better pricing that reflects actual driving Telematics allows insurers and agencies to look beyond general driver demographics or vehicle type and instead is priced based on real driving habits — speed, braking, time of day, miles, and more. For agencies, this means pricing that feels fairer to clients, a clearer understanding of safe vs. risky drivers, and stronger credibility when discussing quotes or remarketing. 2. Stronger client relationships through personal service Telematics lets clients take actions that can help lower their premium. This can lead to more helpful ongoing conversations, regular checkins based on the data they see, and higher retention and referrals as clients experience real savings. Incorporating telematics into the process also expands an agency’s realm of expertise in the eyes of a client, especially those less familiar or less adept with technology who will appreciate some “handholding” during the process. 3. Safer driving and smoother claims handling The National Association of Insurance Commissioners N A I C points out that telematics can help drivers become more aware of their habits and make better choices on the road. It can also help speed up claims and support fairer results. Agencies benefit from fewer exaggerated losses and more consistent results — which can strengthen relationships with carriers. 4. Easier operations for agencies Telematics gives agencies real information to support renewal talks and risk reviews. For commercial accounts, telematics can help track miles, improve safety, and assist with route planning. This leads to better renewal outcomes, less “rate shock,” fewer remarkets — and a clearer value message to both carriers and clients. 5. Staying competitive in a changing industry Technology and realtime information are rapidly changing auto insurance. Agencies that use telematics now are better prepared for what carriers will expect next. They’re also able to compete with usage based direct to consumer models, and they can reinforce their role as trusted advisors in a technology driven market. Overcoming obstacles and taking advantage Clients are far less resistant to telematics than you might expect. The fact is that consumers have become immune to the “creep” factor formerly associated with data tracking. Everyone knows that their activities are tracked on cell phones, social media platforms, search engines, AI platforms, streaming services, etc. These things are no longer considered to be such an “invasion of privacy” and are more likely to be seen as a convenience — who doesn’t want Netflix suggesting shows based on viewing history Given that most carriers start with an upfront discount, the cost advantages will quickly outweigh the privacy concerns. But, with that said, agencies should be ready to explain how the data is used, different eligibility rules not all carriers or states handle usage based insurance the same way, and the fact that not every driver saves money some risky drivers may pay more. But with the right approach, the benefits far outweigh the concerns — especially for agencies focused on modernization and longterm success. In the end, telematics is more than another coverage option — it’s a move toward proactive, fully informed client service. It helps agencies show real value, build stronger carrier partnerships, and demonstrate their advisory role. Telematics is not just a technology upgrade — it’s a business upgrade. Is FirstChoice, a MarshBerry Company, right for you Leaning on an agency network like FirstChoice can help insurance agency owners embrace and identify new technology in a fast changing world. If you are not a FirstChoice member and are interested in learning more about the nation’s number one agency partner, visit FirstChoice.