Who represents an insured in the purchasing and negotiating process of an insurance contract?

The broker is the individual who represents an insured during the purchasing and negotiating process of an insurance contract. Brokers serve as intermediaries between clients (the insured) and insurance companies. They possess specialized knowledge and expertise that enables them to assess the needs of their clients and find suitable insurance policies that meet those needs. Brokers are typically independent, meaning that they can offer policies from multiple insurers, allowing for a wider range of options for their clients.

In contrast, agents typically represent insurance companies rather than individual clients, as they are often employed by the insurance firms to sell their policies. Adjusters are responsible for managing and settling claims once a policy has been purchased and do not play a role in the initial negotiation or purchasing process. Underwriters evaluate risk and determine the terms and price of insurance policies before they are offered, not during the negotiation stage with the insured. Thus, a broker's unique role in representing and advocating for the insured is why this choice is correct.