home
become a member
annual meetings
journal of insurance issues
past presidents
about WRIA
university RMI programs
announcements
bylaws
 
 

TITLE
"Cost Differences of Distribution Systems by Line in the Property and Liability Insurance Industry," Journal of Insurance Issues, George B. Flanigan, Daniel T. Winkler, and Joseph E. Johnson. October, 1993, Vol. XVI, No. 2, pp. 59-73.

ABSTRACT
This study identifies changes in aggregate market share between 1976 and 1988 for property and liability companies classified by distribution system. Evidence is presented that distribution system type produces differences in relative total expense levels. Market share changes suggest independent agency companies are most effective in lines where claimed higher levels of service are important, such as in workers’ compensation and the commercial insurance lines. The independent agency companies have been less effective in maintaining market share in standardized lines such as homeowners and personal automobile. In standardized lines, cost appears more important and claimed higher levels of service and professionalism are less likely to have an impact.