What is the primary role of an independent agency in insurance?

The primary role of an independent agency in insurance is to represent multiple insurers. This allows independent agencies to offer clients a variety of insurance products and options tailored to their specific needs. By representing several insurance companies, these agencies can compare policies, coverage options, and prices, providing clients with choices that better fit their financial and coverage requirements.

Independent agencies are not limited to a singular insurer as a captive agent would be, enabling them to find the most suitable coverage for their clients based on diverse offerings from different providers. This flexibility enhances the consumer's ability to make informed decisions about their insurance needs.

The other options, such as representing a single insurer or selling directly to consumers, describe roles associated with captive agents or direct writers, which do not align with the independent agency model. A government service role would also not describe the function of independent agencies, further emphasizing the unique position they hold in the insurance marketplace.