My Insurance Agent Saved Me $137,387
Doug Stockman • April 15, 2025
Moral of the Story; Cheap car insurance can be the most expensive mistake you ever make.

TL;DR: Article Take Away - Don't just get the cheapest car insurance! A client who chose higher liability limits paid a little more monthly but avoided a $137,387 bill after causing a big accident. Investing in good coverage protects you financially when things go wrong. Talk to your agent about your options!
Dodging a Huge Bill:
How My Client Became a Liability Limit Hero (and You Can Too!)
Hey everyone, sit down, grab your drink, and let me tell you a cool story. It's about how one of my clients made a really smart choice with his car insurance and avoided a huge money problem! It all came down to something called good
liability limits compared to state minimum limits.
Now, I know what you might be thinking. "Insurance? Yawn! Just give me the cheapest one so I can watch more funny cat videos." And I get it! We all love a good deal, and saving money feels great. But when it comes to car insurance, skimping on coverage is like playing Russian Roulette with your bank account and other assets. If you don't have a high enough limit, you could end up paying out of pocket for damage you caused to someone else. Just because you have insurance doesn't release you for being responsible for ALL the damages. Investing in the right coverage is one of the smartest things you can do for your peace of mind and your wallet.
Let me tell you about a guy we'll call Marcus. Marcus was looking for car insurance and, like many of us, he was hoping for the lowest price each month. He was looking at a plan that cost less than a cheap hotdog (and wouldn't have offered much protection at all!).
Now, having the right agent can make all the difference in the world. I knew Marcus could be better protected. So, I didn't just give him the cheapest thing and say "bye-bye." We talked a bit. We had a friendly "let's-think-ahead" chat.
I explained that while a low monthly cost might seem great at first, the amount his insurance would pay if he caused an accident was really low. It might not even cover a small crash. It's all about having enough protection for those unexpected moments. Have you bought a car recently? Have you noticed skyrocketing repairs and medical costs?
"But I'm a good driver!" Marcus said, like a lot of people do. And maybe Marcus is a super good driver – that's fantastic! But you know what they say: stuff happens! Sometimes, even the best drivers can be in a situation where someone else makes a mistake, like texting and driving a large vehicle when you're nearby.
So, I showed Marcus different choices. We talked about how much his insurance would pay if he accidentally hurt someone or damaged their stuff. I really encouraged him to get more coverage. Not because I want to buy a lot of avocado toast (even though I do!), but because it's the smart and safe thing to do with your money. Think of it as investing in your future security. It's like wearing a helmet when you ride a bike on a rope over hungry crocodiles – a little extra protection can make a huge difference!
Marcus was smart and thoughtful. He listened to what I said and realized the value of having better coverage. He decided to pay a little more each month to get much better protection (and it wasn't that much more). This was a really positive step for him!
A few months later, guess what? Something bad happened. Not a monster truck, thankfully, but a pretty big car crash with a lot of cars. Marcus was responsible for paying for some of the damage to other cars and some people getting hurt. This is where Marcus' wise decision really paid off.
Now for the exciting part! The first guesses for how much all the damage and doctor bills would cost were HUGE. Like, "make a lottery winner nervous" huge. It was a really serious situation.
But because Marcus had listened and bought the higher limit insurance, his insurance company paid for almost all of it! What a relief!
How much money did Marcus almost have to pay out of his own pocket if he had bought the cheap state minimum or other low liability insurance? A whopping $137,387. That's a life-changing amount of money!
Think about that! One hundred and thirty-seven thousand, three hundred and eighty-seven dollars! That could be a down payment on a small castle, a lifetime of fancy coffee, or just really cause a lot of financial stress. And the extra insurance only cost less than $30/mo.
Instead, Marcus just had to deal with the insurance claim (which was still a bit annoying, but not a disaster). He didn't have to sell his house, create a GoFundMe account, ask for the church offering plate to be passed, or spend years paying off bills. He was protected!
So, the point of this story is: accidents are no fun, and we all hope they never happen. But being prepared with the right insurance can make a huge difference in how you handle those unexpected moments. The limits on your policy is all it is going to pay. If the damages are more, it has to come from somewhere. Choosing the right coverage isn't about spending more, it's about making a smart investment in your future security.
Car insurance isn't just something you have to get. It's something that really protects your future money and gives you peace of mind. Those limits on how much your insurance will pay? They're like your shield against bad things happening on the road. Having good liability limits is like having a strong safety net.
So, do yourself a favor. Don't just look at the price each month. Talk to your friendly, independent insurance agent at Select Source Insurance. We're here to help you understand your options and make the best choice for you. Understand how much protection you're getting. Think about what could go wrong. And please, make a wise choice now so you don't face a big financial worry later.
You might not end up saving exactly $137,387, but knowing you're covered well? That feeling of security is truly priceless. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm suddenly really hungry for avocado toast. It's just part of the job!

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive into the thrilling world of... drumroll please... comparing car insurance! I know, I know, hold your applause. It's not exactly skydiving with a unicorn, but trust me, it's way less likely to result in a hospital bill (unless you faint from the sheer excitement of saving money). Looking forward to all those calls with several agents to compare car insurance quotes? Rest easy, help is here. Let's be honest, "compare car insurance" sounds about as fun as folding fitted sheets. It conjures images of endless online forms, confusing jargon, and the nagging suspicion that you're about to get bamboozled into buying coverage for alien abduction (which, let's face it, is probably not in your standard policy). Not to mention all the agents trying to you would have to speak with to get many quotes to compare. But here's the comedic plot twist: not comparing your car insurance is actually way more painful. Think of it like sticking with that ancient flip phone because "it still makes calls." Sure, it works, but you're missing out on a whole universe of sleek features, better deals, and the ability to finally understand what your friends are laughing about in the group chat. So, why should you, the magnificent driver of your trusty (or slightly rusty) vehicle, brave the wilds of comparison? Breathe easy, it doesn't take several calls or several online forms, just give Select Source a call. We will do all the comparison shopping for you. The "Wait, I'm Overpaying?!" Revelation: Imagine that glorious moment when you realize you've been shelling out more dough than a bakery for the exact same coverage your neighbor Mildred got for the price of a slightly used garden gnome. The savings can be surprisingly significant, enough to fund that weekend getaway you've been dreaming of (minus the questionable roadside diner stops, hopefully). Unearthing Hidden Gems (aka Better Coverage): Sometimes, comparing isn't just about price. It's like sifting through a thrift store and finding that vintage leather jacket that fits you perfectly and makes you look effortlessly cool. You might discover a policy with better roadside assistance (because who hasn't had a flat tire at the most inconvenient time?), lower deductibles, or even coverage for that rogue squirrel that keeps trying to claim your engine as its winter palace. Avoiding the "Oops, I'm Not Covered for That" Catastrophe: Life throws curveballs, sometimes literally (watch out for those errant baseballs!). Comparing policies helps you understand exactly what you're protected against. Do you need rental car reimbursement? What about uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage? Don't wait until disaster strikes to realize your policy is as helpful as a chocolate teapot in a hailstorm. The Takeaway (and the Punchline): Comparing car insurance doesn't have to be a soul-crushing chore. Think of it as a mini adventure, a quest for savings and better protection. And who knows, you might even find a company with a mascot that makes you chuckle. So, ditch the insurance inertia. Embrace the power of comparison. Your wallet (and your sanity) will thank you. And hey, if you get overwhelmed, that's what your friendly, independent insurance agency (that's us!) is here for. So, instead of having to deal with a bunch of producers calling and not knowing which is spam, we will get several quotes for you with just one private phone call or fill out our online quote request form. We'll help you navigate the maze without needing a map, a compass, or a therapy llama. Now go forth and compare! Your inner bargain hunter awaits! Call 864-585-8318.

Alright, let's dive into the age-old question that's probably kept you up at night, right after "Did I leave the stove on?" and "What is the deal with airplane food?": Which car insurance company reigns supreme? Now, if you were expecting a definitive answer, a shiny gold medal draped across the metaphorical shoulders of one single insurer, well, grab a lukewarm cup of coffee and settle in. The truth, my friends, is about as straightforward as trying to parallel park on a busy Saturday. The "Best" is a Moving Target. You see, declaring one car insurance company the absolute "best" is like saying there's one single "best" ice cream flavor. Sure, vanilla's a classic, but what about the die-hard chocolate chunk aficionados? Or the adventurous pistachio lovers? Everyone's got their own taste, and the same goes for insurance needs. What's perfect for your neighbor with a squeaky-clean driving record, a sensible sedan, and a garage that's actually used for parking might be a total mismatch for you, the proud owner of a vintage muscle car who occasionally navigates unpaved backroads (and might have a lead foot – no judgment). So, if there's no single "best," what's a responsible driver to do? That's where the magic of an independent insurance agency comes in, and yes, that's us! We're not tied to any single insurance carrier. We're like your personal insurance shoppers, sifting through a variety of options to find the perfect fit for your unique situation. Think of it this way: those big-name insurance companies you see plastered all over TV? They're like department stores. They have a lot of options, but the salespeople are only pushing their own brand. We, on the other hand, are like your local boutique – we handpick from a curated selection of different insurers, focusing on finding the one that truly complements your style (read: driving habits and insurance needs). What We Consider (and What You Should Too): When we're on the hunt for the "best" insurance for you, here are some of the factors we weigh: Coverage Options: Does the policy offer the protection you need? We're talking beyond the basics of liability. What about collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, or even roadside assistance? Do they have those extra bells and whistles you might want, like accident forgiveness or new car replacement? Price (of course!): While the cheapest isn't always the best, we understand that budget matters. We'll compare quotes from multiple reputable companies to find competitive rates without sacrificing essential coverage. Discounts: Who doesn't love saving money? We'll explore all the potential discounts you might qualify for, from good driver discounts to multi-car or home and auto bundles. Financial Stability: You want an insurance company that will be there when you need them. We look at their financial ratings to ensure they're stable and reliable. Customer Service and Claims Handling: This is where the rubber meets the road (pun intended!). How easy is it to get in touch with them? What's their reputation for handling claims efficiently and fairly? We pay attention to these details because we know how stressful a claim can be. Our "Best" Advice? Talk to Us! Instead of endlessly scrolling through comparison websites and getting lost in a sea of jargon, or filling out some online form that sells our info to 3o different agents, why not let us do the heavy lifting? We'll take the time to understand your individual needs, your driving habits, your vehicle, and your budget. Your information stays private with us. We do not sell your information. You have one point of contact but get rated by many national competing companies. Then, we'll present you with tailored options from a variety of trusted insurance companies. Think of us as your insurance matchmakers. We're here to connect you with the policy that offers the best coverage, the right price, and the peace of mind you deserve. So, is there one single "best" car insurance company? Probably not. But is there a best car insurance company for you? Absolutely. And we're here to help you find it. Give us a call today – let's ditch the guesswork and get you properly protected.

Alright, folks, settle in for a crash course (pun intended!) on the fascinating, slightly bewildering world of car insurance. Yes, I know, it's about as thrilling as watching paint dry, but trust me, understanding how it works can save you from a world of headaches and wallet-emptying woes. Here at Select Source Insurance, we're here to break it down, with a dash of humor to keep you from falling asleep. Car Insurance: It's Not Just a Piece of Paper (Though It Feels Like It Sometimes) Imagine car insurance as a safety net for your four-wheeled friend. When things go sideways (literally or figuratively), it's there to catch you, or at least cushion the financial blow. But how does this magical safety net actually work? The Basics, Explained (With Minimal Jargon): You Pay, They (Hopefully) Pay: You pay a premium (think of it as a monthly subscription to "avoid financial ruin"), and in exchange, your insurance company agrees to cover certain losses if you have an accident, your car gets stolen, or a rogue squirrel decides to use your windshield as a trampoline. Coverage: It's Like a Menu, But Less Delicious: Car insurance policies come with different types of coverage, each designed to protect you in specific situations. Liability Coverage: This is the "oops, I hit someone else" coverage. It pays for their injuries and property damage (up to your policy limits) if you're at fault in an accident. It's like saying, "Sorry about that, let my insurance handle it." Collision Coverage: This covers damage to your own car if you hit something (another car, a tree, a particularly stubborn mailbox). It's like a band-aid for your car's boo-boos. Comprehensive Coverage: This covers damage to your car from things other than collisions, like theft, vandalism, hail, or a herd of stampeding llamas. It's helps with damage other than collisions with limitations. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This protects you if you're hit by someone who doesn't have insurance or doesn't have enough. It's like having a backup plan for the backup plan. Deductibles: Your Share of the Pie (or Wrecked Bumper): A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. It's like a co-pay at the doctor's office, but for your car. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium, but make sure you can actually afford it if you need to file a claim. Claims: The "Please Don't Make Me Cry" Part: When you have an accident, you file a claim with your insurance company. They investigate, assess the damage, and (hopefully) pay for the repairs or replacement. It's like a detective story, but with less dramatic music and more paperwork. Why It's Important to Have a Good Insurance Agent (Like Us!): We Speak Insurance-ese: We can translate the confusing jargon into plain English, so you actually understand what you're paying for. We Shop Around for You: As an independent agency, we work with multiple carriers, so we can find you the best rates and coverage for your needs. We're like your personal insurance shoppers. We're Here When You Need Us: When you have a claim, we'll be there to guide you through the process and make sure you get the help you need. We're like your insurance therapists, but with better advice. We can help you avoid the "I tried to parallel park my boat" situation: Yes, that was a real claim. The Moral of the Story: Car insurance is a necessary evil, but it doesn't have to be a confusing one. At Select Source Insurance in Spartanburg, we're here to make it as painless as possible. So, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to give us a call. We're always happy to help, and we promise to keep the insurance jokes to a minimum (mostly). 864-585-8318 or get a quote at Auto Insurance Quote