January 11, 2011 – S.H. Smith & Company Increases Number of Underwriting Territories Available to Agents for Its National Public Auto Program. Agents can now offer S.H. Smith & Company program business almost anywhere in the country.
S.H. Smith & Company, Inc., a top wholesaler and managing general agent, announced today that it is significantly expanding its market territories in 2011. S.H. Smith & Company will expand their presence into the west by opening an office in the Northwest in early 2011.
Scott Smith, President of S.H. Smith & Company, said, "Moving to the West Coast will help enhance how we service our retail agency partners. We will focus on having deeper relationships in the Western states with our existing agents and growing with new strategic partners as we develop a deeper footprint west of the Rockies."
S.H. Smith & Company has been a general agent for Zurich's Programs business since 2007 and underwrites Zurich's charter bus program. Zurich is a provider of property and casualty insurance* and the third largest commercial auto writer in North America. Since 2007, S.H. Smith & Company's program profile has expanded its availability to all states, except MA and HI, and its appetite in the public auto market to include not only motor charter operators but also school bus contractors, limousines fleets and other related public livery, such as employee shuttles and social service autos.
"Our producers expect and deserve excellent, timely service, and this expansion gives more product choices to them and, ultimately, to our mutual customers," said Shawn Young, Vice President and head of the Program Division for S.H. Smith & Company.
"The service S.H. Smith & Company offers from Zurich brings a high level of comfort to our customers," said Wes Day, Program Manager for the Public Auto Program. "Ultimately, what is the insurance customer buying?" he adds. "The answer to that question often shows that claims service is first on the list." To that point, seventy-five percent of all S.H. Smith & Company charter bus claims through Zurich are paid within 43 days.
"This speed of settlement helps bus operators get their vehicles back on the road, generating revenue as quickly as possible," said Young. "We are proud to be affiliated with Zurich American Insurance Company."
Zurich's financial strength rating was recently upgraded to A+, Superior, with a stable outlook by A.M. Best Company.
For more information about S.H. Smith & Company's public auto program, visit www.shsmithpublicauto.com or call 800-356-0168.
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440-596-8654
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