HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii, Ltd. (FICOH) is introducing a new way for Hawaii drivers to purchase their auto insurance, as well as new, lower rates that can save customers up to hundreds of dollars. Now, customers can get a free quote and purchase their auto insurance policies using a self-service online portal at www.ficoh.com, or by calling FICOH at (808) 527-7722 (or neighbor islands 1-800-272-520) to speak to a sales advisor. Customers can also get a quote and purchase a First Insurance auto policy through their local independent insurance agent.
First Insurance is launching its new auto insurance rates and sales and service platform as the company celebrates 100 years of insuring Hawaii’s people and businesses. First Insurance was also recently voted Hawaii’s “Best Insurance Company” in the March 2011 issue of Honolulu Magazine.
“Our goal is to provide the convenience of online self-service that many customers are looking for when shopping for auto insurance, while at the same time still harnessing the expertise offered by First Insurance’s independent agency force. That’s how we’re continuing to provide the high quality service that our customers expect from a Hawaii insurance company,” said Allen Uyeda, FICOH president and CEO. “Our new sales model allows us to do that by providing an online portal for customers looking for speed and convenience, plus the option of speaking to a FICOH sales advisor or their own independent agent when they want personalized assistance and advice.”
Once their policy is bound, all First Insurance personal auto policyholders are provided the services of an independent agent who can help them if they experience a claim or need to change their coverage. Policyholders can also use FICOH’s online portal to view and print their policy information, make payments and report claims.
“Clearly a great opportunity exists for us to meet evolving customer habits and expectations,” said Tony Abad, vice president of FICOH’s Personal Lines Underwriting division. “We are confident this new technology platform will enable FICOH and its agency partners to provide Hawaii customers with the speed, convenience and quality service they expect when shopping for car insurance.”
Founded on August 11, 1911, First Insurance Company of Hawaii, Ltd. is the oldest and largest property and casualty insurer domiciled in Hawaii, with assets of $606.8 million, liabilities of $368.6 million and policyholders’ surplus of $238.2 million at December 31, 2010.
First Insurance enjoys an “A” (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best Co., whose ratings are widely recognized as a benchmark of an insurer’s financial strength. First Insurance has also been named to the Ward’s 50 list that recognizes the nation’s top 50 property and casualty insurance companies.
Proud of its broadly experienced, service-oriented staff, First Insurance employs more than 300 insurance professionals and distributes its products through 28 independent general agencies. It has claims personnel on Oahu, Kauai, Maui and the Big Island. First Insurance is jointly owned by CNA Financial Corporation and Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Company Ltd.
Submitted by Stephen J. Tabussi, Vice President of First Insurance Co. of Hawaii