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  • How to Save Money on Auto Insurance: Strategies for Every Driver

    Understanding the Factors That Affect Your Auto Insurance Rates Auto insurance rates are influenced by several key factors, including your driving history, the type of vehicle you drive, your location, and your credit score. Insurers assess these elements to determine the risk associated with insuring you, which ultimately affects your premium. Additionally, factors such as your age, gender, and marital status can also play a role in how much you pay. Understanding these factors can help you identify areas where you might improve your risk profile, potentially leading to lower rates. Exploring Discounts: How to Maximize Your Savings Many insurance companies offer a variety of discounts that can significantly reduce your premiums. Common discounts include safe driver discounts, multi-policy discounts if you bundle your auto insurance with home or renters insurance, and discounts for students or military personnel. To maximize your savings, it's essential to inquire about all available discounts when obtaining quotes. Even small discounts can add up over time, making a considerable difference in your overall insurance costs. The Importance of Comparing Quotes from Different Insurers One of the most effective ways to save money on auto insurance is to compare quotes from multiple insurers. Each company uses its own formula to calculate premiums, so rates can vary significantly between providers. By obtaining several quotes, you can not only find the best price but also learn about different coverage options and discounts that may be available. This process ensures you're getting the best deal tailored to your driving needs. Maintaining a Good Driving Record: The Key to Lower Premiums A clean driving record is one of the most effective ways to keep your auto insurance premiums low. Insurance companies reward safe drivers with lower rates, so it's essential to avoid accidents and traffic violations. Additionally, taking a defensive driving course can enhance your skills and may qualify you for further discounts. Consistently demonstrating responsible driving behavior can result in long-term savings on your insurance premium.

  • Police Accident Report 101: What You Need to Know

    Police reports can be filed for a number of reasons, including after a car accident, vehicle theft, or break-in. They can serve as a crucial piece of documentation when you file a claim with your insurance company. Learn about the information contained in a police report and how to get a copy of it. Police reports: what are they? Many car-related incidents require law enforcement officials to respond. When police officers respond to an incident, including a car theft, accident, or break-in, they usually conduct an initial investigation into what caused the incident and what the outcome of the incident was. The responding officer includes their observations and notes to create an official police report, which is also known as a crash report or police accident report. A police report is usually just a piece of paper with an administrative form, similar to the kind of form you would fill out at the DMV. Law enforcement officials fill out different fields, depending on the type of incident that occurred. It may also have the local police department seal stamped on the corner, as well as a header containing the agency’s address and phone number. What kind of information is included in a police report? Police reports include important information about the responding officers’ investigation, and usually provide the following details: Date, time, and location where the incident occurred. Description of road conditions, lighting, and weather details on the day of the incident. If multiple vehicles are involved, descriptions of the vehicles, with details like make, model, year, license plate numbers and registration status. Details of the incident, including info about the road or intersection where the accident happened, what kind of damage occurred, and if any involved parties were suspected of speeding, intoxication or negligence. A diagram of the incident that highlights road signage, stoplights, crosswalks, merge lanes, and other pertinent information. Names and information of all injured parties, details of their injuries, and whether or not they were transported to a local hospital. Information about any property damage resulting from the incident. Details about responding officers, including name, agency, and badge number. It’s important to note that the information included in your police accident report may vary, depending on the time and location of the accident. If your car was broken into, rather than involved in an accident, you may see different information included in your report. Typically, police reports for break-ins include the following details: Overview of the incident, including details on whether the car was broken into and its contents stolen, or if the vehicle itself was taken. Vehicle specifics, including make, model, year, color, VIN, and license plate number. Time and place where the vehicle was last located. Vehicle owner information, including their name, address, and driver’s license number. Details about damage to the vehicle, including whether the windshield or windows were broken, or if any other damage took place during a burglary. Information about the location of the car keys, including whether the keys were left in the vehicle’s ignition and where any copies of the keys might be located. In the event that you’re involved in an accident, be sure to provide any important details about the incident to the responding police officer. Details like minor observations about the other driver’s behavior and the circumstances of the incident can have a major impact on the outcome of your insurance claim or court case. Why is it important to have a copy of the police report to include when you file a claim? Depending on the circumstances, you may file an insurance claim without a police accident report. If there is extensive damage that you want to be compensated for, if your car is stolen, or if you are the victim of a hit and run, having a copy of the police report can be extremely helpful. Not having a police report can make it more difficult for your insurance to define who was at fault and how much damage happened during the accident, which can result in a delay in the payout process or a decreased payout amount. If you get hit by another car at an intersection, a police report may help to define who is at fault by specifying which driver ran a red light or stop sign. If the police report specifies that the other driver is at fault, you may receive a quicker payout from their insurer or a bigger payout from yours, depending on your coverage. If a police report is not included, your insurance company has to determine fault based on hearsay and other evidence, which may not work to your advantage. If your vehicle is stolen or broken into, a police report can help your insurance company determine which items were stolen and how much they were worth. If you don’t have a police report available, it may be difficult for you to prove that you were the victim of theft or burglary, which makes it even more difficult to receive a payout from your comprehensive insurance policy. How do I get a copy of the police report? Getting a copy of this document is relatively easy and inexpensive. The process may vary between police departments, but typically, you will follow these steps: Find the responding law enforcement agency’s incident report database online. If you complete an internet search for “Police Reports (City/County) Police Department,” you should be able to locate it easily. Using your VIN, case number, driver’s license number or the name of the parties involved in the incident, find your crash or incident report in the database. Once you have located the report, you will have to pay a small administrative fee to access and download it. This fee is usually less than $10. Save the document to your computer and print several copies for your records, then be sure to include a copy in your insurance claim. Police reports are not considered public records, so you will usually be required to show proof of identification before accessing your report. Be sure to have your driver’s license information or other form of legal identification when you try to get a copy of the police report.

  • What Happens If You Get a Speeding or Parking Ticket in Another State

    For many drivers who travel for work or go on vacation frequently, out-of-state travel can involve dealing with different laws and speed limits, inconvenient or unusual parking scenarios, and the threat of receiving a speeding or parking ticket. If You Get a Speeding or Parking Ticket in Another State, What Happens? For many drivers who travel for work or go on vacation frequently, out-of-state travel can involve dealing with different laws and speed limits, inconvenient or unusual parking scenarios, and the threat of receiving a speeding or parking ticket. Should you have to deal with a speeding or parking ticket in a different state, you may have a number of questions, including what to do about it, where to go in order to deal with it, and whether or not you have to pay for it. Read below to find answers to the most common questions related to this scenario. Parking Tickets It’s not uncommon to receive a parking ticket in a strange town, especially if you are out after dark and the signage is difficult to read. It’s normal to be frustrated after receiving a parking ticket, especially considering that parking ticket offenses can cost anywhere from $60 to $240, depending on where you receive the ticket and why. What are your options? You have several to choose from: Parking Ticket Option 1: Pay for the Ticket It makes good financial sense to promptly pay the fine associated with the parking ticket, mainly because the fine generally increases the longer you wait to pay it. Although it might be frustrating, paying the fine as soon as possible might cost you less in the long run. Parking Ticket Option 2: Ignore the Ticket In certain municipalities, a gradual increase in the amount of fine you pay is only the first step in the process. If parking tickets remain unpaid, county authorities may also place a vehicle-immobilizing device, or “boot,” on your car. If you rarely visit the state where you received the ticket, getting a boot might not seem too scary, because you can pay the ticket and have the boot removed. The next step, when the municipality sends your parking ticket to a collection agency, might be a bit more concerning. Depending on the state where you live or where you received the ticket, you could end up with a negative impact on your credit, in addition to being unable to renew your license or registration. The threat of these negative repercussions may influence your decision, and you may determine that ignoring a parking ticket is not worth the additional hassle! Parking Ticket Option 3: Fight the Ticket If you feel as though you were wrongly ticketed, you can fight the ticket in court, even if you don’t have an attorney. You have several additional options: Send a written affidavit to contest the ticket. Directly contact the local prosecutor. Pay for an attorney to defend you. You may want to carefully considering the additional cost of time and travel expenses involved, as this option might not be worth it financially. Speeding Tickets Driving faster than the posted speed limit is one of the most common traffic violations in America, and even the best drivers may overlook the speed limit and end up with a ticket at some point. If you’ve already received a speeding ticket in another state, there are a few facts you should know. Computers are always monitoring speeding drivers. The computers we’re referring to are used to help enforce the “Driver’s License Compact” (DLC) and the “Non-Resident Violator Compact” (NRVC). These compacts and the data they gather are part of an agreement between states to share information on drivers who have moving violations. This agreement is called the Driver License Agreement, and only two states (Wisconsin and Michigan) do not participate. You may wonder how this agreement affects you. As an example, if you receive a speeding ticket in another state and choose not to pay it, the information is forwarded to your home state. When your home state receives the information, they may pursue payment of the fine. Speeding Ticket Option 1: Pay for the Ticket Although no one enjoys getting a speeding ticket, the fastest way to deal with it is to just pay the fine. Regardless of whether you receive one in your home state or another state, it’s a lot less hassle to pay for the ticket. Speeding Ticket Option 2: Ignore the Ticket Failing to pay for a speeding ticket that you received in another state can affect your license or insurance in a number of negative ways, including the following: Your license may be temporarily suspended. Your car insurance premium may increase. Your car insurance company may drop your coverage. You may receive significant fines. You could even face imprisonment. With serious consequences like these, not paying a speeding ticket is not a safe bet for any driver! Speeding Ticket Option 3: Fight the Ticket As we discussed above, fighting a parking ticket is usually not worth the additional effort. Because a speeding ticket is more severe and is usually expensive, fighting it is more common, regardless of the state. People commonly fight tickets for the following reasons: They want to avoid adding more points to their license, which could put them at risk of having their license suspended and impact their ability to travel to and from work. Their job requires that they have a license with no moving violations. They want to avoid potential increases in insurance premiums. You can hire a traffic attorney to help defend you, which is especially helpful if you hire someone in the jurisdiction where you received the ticket. These attorneys are familiar with local laws, which can help with your defense. There is always a chance that hiring an attorney may not pay off, as you still run the risk of losing in court. Potentially, you may end up having to pay your fine and associated attorney fees, which could cost you more in the long run. Receiving a ticket while driving in another state can impact your driving history, your credit score and your insurance rates. Every driver makes mistakes, and if you have questions about how your out-of-state ticket may impact your car insurance rates or coverage, reach out to your local NatGen agent. We’re available to answer your questions and help you get the coverage you need to fit your budget and lifestyle.

  • Tips To Keep Rodents Out Of Your RV And Prevent Damage

    When you make the significant investment to purchase an RV, you want to protect it from all types of damage, whether it’s on the road or in storage for the winter months. If you’re storing your RV for an extended period, you’ll want to be sure to protect it from rodents, which can cause serious, often costly damage. Follow these helpful tips to prevent rodents from getting into your RV. Examine your RV closely for paths of entry. Get down to floor level and look closely for tiny holes under your cabinets, looking for areas that haven’t been adequately sealed. Even a small hole, the size of a nickel, is big enough for small rodents to enter. Check the outside of your RV as well, looking from below at areas that connect to the wall space. Winterize your RV by cleaning it thoroughly. Before putting your RV in storage for the winter months, make sure you meticulously clean all of the nooks and crannies. Remove all food from the inside of your camper, including condiments and dry goods. Be sure to vacuum and mop all floors thoroughly, getting rid of any crumbs or food-related residue. Watch closely for evidence of rodent entry. Mice, squirrels and chipmunks can enter your RV, and they usually leave telltale evidence behind. Watch for droppings, seeds acorn hulls, or other organic material. They generally enter looking for food sources, and it’s likely that you’ll notice chewed food wrappers if they’re present. Mysterious holes or stuffing pulled out of cushions can also be signs that rodents have entered and are attempting to create a nest. Find the right materials to deter rodents. Regular or stainless steel wool are great way to plug holes that might serve as an entry point, as they will not chew through it. You might also want to consider using a product made from expandable polyurethane spray foam, which will fill potential entry points. Use repellants, when needed. Some products naturally repel rodents, such as peppermint oil. Consider using peppermint-infused granules for extended storage, as they tend to retain the scent longer, helping to keep rodents out. If rodent entry is already a problem, take the right steps to remove them. At the first sign of rodent entry, be sure to evict those unwelcome guests. When rodents gather nesting materials, they can chew through wires, destroy mattresses or cushions, and even chew through walls, causing a great deal of damage in a short time. You’ll want to set traps to remove the rodents as soon as possible. There are a wide variety of options available, many of which are self-contained. In general, once you’ve had a full week without any new rodents in your traps, you can assume that the infestation has been handled. Be sure to take appropriate steps as outlined above to prevent any additional entry. Clean up after a rodent infestation has occurred. Rodent urine and droppings can contain viruses that can make you sick, so you’ll want to clean thoroughly. Always use rubber or latex gloves when cleaning, and utilize disinfectants or a bleach solution to help clean up any areas with signs of rodent activity, including countertops, floors, drawers, and cupboards. No matter what type of RV you own, you want to make sure you have the insurance coverage to protect it from any damage you may encounter. If you’re thinking about increasing your coverage or just want to make sure your current policy is right for your needs, reach out to your local agent. They will work with you one-on-one and will find you the coverage to protect your valuable RV investment.

  • Fire Pit Safety Tips

    On a cool evening, gathering around a fire in your back yard can be a fun activity, but making sure that you’re using your fire pit safely can mean the difference between an enjoyable night and a dangerous situation. Read on to learn some safety tips before, during and after you light that crackling fire. Before You Light The Fire: Be sure to select a spot that is an appropriate distance from anything flammable. Ideally, you should build your fire pit at least 10 feet from your home, trees, fences or outbuildings. Most safety experts recommend that you place your fire pit 25 feet from any structure. Check your fire pit surface to make sure it is flat and level. Starting a fire on an uneven surface increases the risk of the fire spreading beyond your fire pit. Select non-flammable, dry materials to construct your fire pit. Many experts suggest that dry, rough stones, concrete blocks or bricks are most effective. Keep in mind that river rocks are not recommended construction materials, as they absorb moisture over time and can explode when heated rapidly. When Starting Your Fire: Keep your fire small and controlled, and avoid starting a fire on a windy day. Embers can spread to nearby trees, grass or other flammable materials. Never light a fire using gasoline, kerosene or lighter fluid, as these fuels can cause a fire to get out of control quickly. Instead, use small sticks, dry wood or paper, and keep these items inside the edges of the pit. Monitor your fire at all times, and never leave it burning unattended. If you’re entertaining guests, be sure that they maintain a safe distance from the fire and do not engage in dangerous behaviors. Be sure you know what kind of wood you’re burning to prevent accidents. It might sound obvious, but certain kinds of soft wood (like pine and cedar) tend to shoot sparks, which can cause injury. Make sure not to burn plywood or composite wood, as these can release toxic fumes. Keep the area around the fire pit clear of debris, including leaves and sticks. Be prepared for unexpected fire spread by keeping water, a garden hose or bucket of sand nearby to extinguish the flames if needed. After Your Fire: At the end of the night, be sure to extinguish your fire using plenty of water. Stir and spread the ashes to be sure they cool. Watch the extinguished fire closely, and never leave it unattended until the embers stop smoking or steaming completely. Even the most cautious homeowner can experience an unexpected fire damage, so make sure you have the homeowners insurance coverage you need to stay safe. If you’re unsure whether you have enough coverage or are uncertain about what is covered under your current policy, reach out to your local agent. They’re happy to answer any questions you have, and will help you get the coverage you need to protect what matters most.

  • What Makes My Car Insurance Go Up?

    Car insurance rates can fluctuate based on a lot of factors. Help separate fact from fiction with this info about car insurance rates, and find out how to help lower your rates if they do increase! If I get a ticket, will my car insurance go up? Getting ticketed by a law enforcement officer doesn’t necessarily result in a premium increase. It depends on how your insurance company views traffic violations, and they weigh a variety of factors. For example, if you were flagged for a minor incident like failing to yield the right of way or driving with a broken headlight, a rate increase might be avoided. If you were ticketed for a more serious offense, like going 85 mph in a school zone, you may see an increase in your insurance premium. If you are ticketed for a very serious violation, such as drunk driving, your insurer may consider you to be a higher risk driver and your premium may increase when your policy renews. This is also usually the case if you receive three traffic tickets within three to five years. Some insurers reward safe drivers with discounts, so obeying traffic laws can really pay off and save you money in the long run! If I’m involved in an accident, will my car insurance go up? You don’t necessarily need to worry about an increase in your insurance premium if the accident was not your fault. If you are found to be at fault, you may be considered a riskier driver, which may result in an increase in your premium when you renew your policy. Even if you don’t wind up filing a claim, you should always report an accident to your insurer. If you don’t report the accident initially but to decide to do so at a later time, your insurance company could deny coverage. And if you don’t report the accident and are sued by other involved parties, you may have to pay for legal defense and any damages out of your own pocket. Being a good driver is the best way to prevent an accident-related increase in your premium. Safe drivers can even receive discounts on their insurance in some cases, so it’s another reason to be careful on the roads! Will filing a claim make my car insurance go up? Like many other factors, it all depends on the circumstances. The Insurance Information Institute states that if you file a claim after an accident or other mishap, it is likely that your premium will increase, especially if you’re at-fault for the incident or if the claim is very expensive. How much will it increase? That all depends on your insurance company, your coverage and your driving record. A claim-related premium increase generally stays on your policy for three to five years. To avoid an increase in your insurance premium, you may want to consider paying to fix minor damage to your car, rather than filing a claim. If I buy a new car, will my car insurance go up? Your insurance premium depends on a number of factors, including the cost of the vehicle, how much it would cost to repair it, how safe it is and the likelihood that it would be stolen. Your car insurance might cost less if you have a less expensive, safer vehicle, but it could end up costing you more to insure it because of anti-theft technology developments and road safety issues. It all depends on the vehicle! It’s always a good idea to get a car insurance quote before you purchase a new or used vehicle, which will allow you to check if your insurance premiums will go up or down. This can be an important deciding factor, especially if you’re figuring it into your monthly budget! If I move, will my car insurance go up? Your rate is partially based on your home ZIP code, so moving to a new home could result in an increase or a decrease in your premium. Based on rates of car accidents and theft, different ZIP codes are considered to be riskier than others. Before you move, it might be a good idea to take into account how much the move might impact your car insurance premium. If I get married, will my car insurance go up? Interestingly enough, getting married might cause your car insurance to decrease, not increase. From a statistical perspective, married drivers are less likely to be involved in car accidents than single drivers. As such, married drivers are sometimes seen as less of a risk and may have lower premiums. You may also want to speak with your agent about what options you have to find the best rate if your spouse has a less-than-perfect driving record. When I turn 65, will my car insurance go up? When you turn 65, you may pay more or less for car insurance, depending on where you live and which insurance company you use. In many cases, as long as you have a good driving record, your insurance premium may end up decreasing when you turn 65. If you are 65 or older and want to lower your insurance premium, you may want to consider taking a state-approved defensive driving or driver safety course. Some states offer driver training discounts and some insurers will reduce your premium if complete these courses, so check with your local agent to see if you qualify! If you are about to experience any of these major life changes and have questions about how it may impact your premium, contact your local NatGen agent today. We will help you find the answers you need, and assist you in understanding what you can do to keep them your rates as low as possible. No matter how complicated these changes may seem, we’re here to help!

  • Pet Damage and Homeowners Insurance Coverage

    Making the decision to adopt a pet can be exciting, but it comes with a great deal of responsibility, including making sure that your new pet doesn’t cause costly damage to your home. Read on to learn more about whether or not potential damage is covered under a homeowners insurance policy, as well as tips to keep your pet from causing damage in the first place. Is pet damage covered under my insurance? The short answer: it depends on your coverage, and what the damage consists of. Personal property damage: your homeowners policy usually covers damage to some of your belongings, but if your cat decides to scratch holes through the back of your couch, it’s unlikely you would be able to file a claim to cover the damage. Pet damage is normally excluded from personal property damage coverage, but coverage does vary. Liability coverage: most standard homeowners policies may provide at least some coverage if your pet damages somebody else’s property, but it depends on your individual policy. For example, if your dog breaks through the screen door at a friend’s house, your liability coverage might kick in and help to cover the cost of repairs or replacement. Dwelling coverage: generally speaking, homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage resulting from pets. For example, if you have a large dog who gets anxious and causes damage to your drywall or doors, it may not be covered. Tips for Preventing Pet-Related Damage When choosing a pet, find a good fit for you. It’s tough to find the right pet, and things like the breed and temperament are important to consider. If you adopt a high-energy dog that demands attention but you spend very little time at home, it’s likely that your pet may react in a destructive manner. Exercise your pet regularly. It can be tough to fit in regular exercise for your pet if you have a demanding job, but it’s important to engage with your pet to keep them from getting bored or anxious – and taking it out on your couch, carpet, or other belongings. Consider purchasing toys that keep your pet engaged. If toys are available that are appropriate for your pet’s size, age and activity level, it’s less likely they’ll resort to scratching on your leather sofa or chewing on your table legs to keep them entertained. Training is a must. It takes a lot of time and patience, but making sure your pet is properly trained and housebroken can save you a lot of money and headaches in the long run. If you don’t have time to train them yourself, consider obedience classes or consultants to help you understand and manage your pet’s behavior. Take time to pet-proof your home. If there are certain areas of your home you don’t want your pet accessing when you’re not home, you may want to install gates or other barriers. Look at each room from the pet’s perspective, and move items like plants or breakables that you don’t want them to be near. Some pet owners prefer to crate train their pets, to ensure that pets won’t cause damage when the owners are away. If you are adopting a puppy or kitten, keep in mind that they may not be housetrained, and take appropriate precautions. Thinking about getting a pet, or already have one but aren’t sure about what’s covered under your current homeowners policy in case they cause damage to your home? Reach out to your local agent for more info. They will answer any questions you may have about what is (and isn’t) covered, and they’ll help you get the coverage you need to help protect against any unexpected damage that may occur.

  • RV Insurance For Full-Timers

    If you’ve invested in an RV and decided to hit the open road on a full-time basis, you’ll want to make sure you’re protected, no matter what your destination may be. Here are a few tips to help you navigate purchasing protection for your RV when it’s also your residence. Assess Your Needs In general, full-time RV insurance (sometimes referred to as Full-timers Coverage) is ideal for people who use their RV as their permanent residence, which usually means that they live in their RV for more than six months out of the year. If you don’t meet this criteria, you may want to carefully consider whether this coverage is right for you, as it generally costs more than a recreational policy (which is usually purchased by those individuals who use their RVs for vacations or frequent trips), and you may not even be eligible to purchase it if you don’t meet this requirement. Full-time RV insurance offers broader liability coverages, which protect you and your vehicle for a longer period of the year, in addition to offering more substantial protection. These coverages may include the following: Medical payment coverage – covers medical expenses for those who are injured while in your RV or near it. Personal liability coverage – covers injuries and property damage that you are held responsible for as a result of an accident that occurs when your vehicle is parked. Loss assessment coverage – covers fees charged by an association to pay for repairs to other parts of the property (including common areas) where your RV is parked. Protecting Your Property In many cases, your RV is covered under your RV insurance policy, and your personal property inside the RV would be covered under your home insurance policy. If you have recently sold your home and converted to a full-time RV residence, you’ll want to be sure that all of your personal belongings are covered in the event that disaster strikes. Adding personal property coverage to your policy, if it’s not already included, may be a safe bet for you. Check with Your Local Agent Getting the right protection for a full-time RV lifestyle is essential, regardless of where you plan to travel. The best way to make sure you have enough coverage for your lifestyle is to get in touch with your local agent. Be sure to provide detailed information to your agent, including where you plan to park your RV, what personal property and RV accessories you plan to cover and who would be residing there with you. All of these important details will help your agent to get you enough protection for your significant investment.

  • Motorcycle Insurance: Does It Cover My Gear?

    In most states, motorcycle insurance is required for all bikes. The minimum coverage required for motorcycles varies, but you may be wondering what your policy covers and whether damage to your valuable gear would be covered in the event of an accident. Read on to learn more about how to help protect your bike and expensive gear. Many states require minimums for bodily injury and property damage coverage, but you can always purchase a motorcycle insurance plan that pays to replace your equipment, including your helmet and other bike accessories. If you only purchase the state-required minimum coverage for your bike, chances are that your valuable gear won’t be covered in the event of a collision or if damage occurs. For example, if you have a high deductible plan (which costs less per month), in the event of an accident where your bike, helmet and gear are damaged, you would be financially responsible for not only meeting the ded uctible, but also for replacing the other items that were damaged or destroyed. Since many custom helmets can cost hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars, that additional financial strain can be an unwelcome surprise. Some policies offer minimal standard coverage for helmets and gear, but not enough for most serious riders. For example, a policy that only covers $500 worth of protection for a helmet and gear won’t come close to covering the replacement costs of those items in the event of a serious accident, and you could be stuck with the bill if these items are damaged or destroyed. For maximum coverage, you’ll want to find a plan that fully protects your helmet and gear, especially if you’ve invested a significant amount of money in these items. Keep in mind that in most cases, the coverage on these policies is limited to equipment that’s exclusively used for riding, so if you’ve invested in expensive gloves, jackets or other items, you’ll want to reach out to your agent to make sure these items are covered as well. In most cases, additional protections can be added onto your policy’s standard coverages through optional coverages, riders or endorsements. Another important aspect to consider: some motorcycle gear manufacturers have their own warranties, which could apply in the event of a crash. Each company has their own terms and conditions, and some have limits on how long their warranties last after the original purchase date, so be sure to keep good records of your purchases in case this would apply for your situation. Check with the manufacturer to see what’s covered under their guarantees. Regardless of the scenario, it is always a good idea to keep records of all your gear purchases – most importantly, saving receipts. In the event that you need to file a claim to replace your valuable gear, you’ll need to provide proof of when and where the items were purchased and their original purchase price. Taking a few minutes to organize your records can save you some major headaches in the long run. Your Local Agent is Here to Help Having trouble figuring out what’s covered under your current policy, or want to add some additional coverage to make sure your gear is also protected? Reach out to your local agent, and they’ll be happy to help you get the right coverage to protect your ride and everything that goes with it.

  • Vacant/Unoccupied Home Insurance: Do I Need It?

    There are many scenarios where you might find your home empty for a certain period of time, and it’s important to make sure you have the protection you need in the event of unexpected damage. Learn the difference between a vacant and an unoccupied home, scenarios where additional coverage might be necessary and why you might want to consider purchasing this coverage. What’s the difference between an unoccupied home and a vacant home? A property you own might be empty for a number of reasons, and the difference between the home being unoccupied and vacant makes a difference when it comes to the coverage you need. An unoccupied home is a home that is ready to be lived in at any time, and the owner’s personal property is left within the home (including furniture and appliances), and the utilities remain connected. A vacant home has no furniture, appliances and may have utilities disconnected. There are a number of scenarios where your home would be unoccupied or vacant. If you’re on vacation, in the hospital or traveling for work, your home would likely be considered unoccupied. If your home is for sale or rent and you’ve already moved everything out, or if you inherit a property but do not yet live in it, it is most likely that the home would be considered vacant. Why do I need additional coverage? Every situation is unique, but generally speaking, it’s best to make sure you have coverage in the event that damage occurs. For example, if your home is vacant and a pipe bursts, a vacant home can sustain substantial damage simply because nobody is living there to call a professional to deal with the problem. Vacant homes are also generally more susceptible to theft, break-ins or vandalism, and without the right coverage, your property might not be protected. One very important fact to keep in mind: if your home is left unoccupied or vacant for a certain amount of time (depending on your insurance company and policy), your insurance coverage may be canceled or an additional endorsement may be required. These times can vary, ranging from 30, 60, 90 or more days, but you’ll want to consider that most typical homeowners policies won’t provide full coverage for the property once it’s been vacated. You won’t want to get stuck uninsured in the event of a disaster, so make sure to check with your local agent to find out the restrictions for your scenario. What about other scenarios, like insuring my vacation home? It depends on the insurance company and individual policy, but you may need additional coverage if you divide your time between a primary and vacation home. You may want to consider seasonal or vacation home coverage, but you might also need other coverage for your unoccupied primary residence. By virtue of the fact that either home is unoccupied at some point during the year, you want to be sure that both residences are protected. Get the coverage that’s right for you Whether you are planning an extended trip, thinking of moving or buying a second home, you’ll want to be sure you have the right coverage to protect your home (or homes) and all of your belongings. Reach out to your local agent to make sure you’re protected. They are happy to work with you to specifically tailor your coverage to your exact needs, and will answer any questions you may have about your unique situation.

  • Can I let Someone Else Drive My Car?

    We’ve all encountered situations where we’ve either needed to borrow a car from a friend or family member or have loaned out our vehicle to someone else to help them out. Make sure you’re covered in the event that your vehicle is involved in an accident (even if you’re not driving) by learning more about who is covered under your auto insurance policy, and what kind of impact an accident can have on your policy premium. Consider The Driver Before Handing Over The Keys If your friend or family member asks to borrow your vehicle, make sure they’re fit to drive. You should never permit an unlicensed driver to drive your car, and you should never allow a person who is intoxicated or has a history of reckless driving to borrow your vehicle either. If you allow an unfit driver to drive your car, you could be held liable for injuries or damages if they get into an accident. Does My Insurance Cover Additional Drivers? It does depend on which state you live in, but generally speaking, your auto insurance will cover damage to your vehicle, even if you’re not driving it (as long as the driver has a license and is fit to drive). It’s important to consider that if the driver gets into an accident while driving your car, your insurance company would likely be responsible for paying the claim, which could impact your future car insurance rates. Depending on the nature and severity of an accident, your existing policy may cover various kinds of damage. Usually, comprehensive and collision coverage cover your car even when someone else is behind the wheel. It’s important to understand your individual policy, as some policies have exclusions or limitations of coverage, should an accident occur. In certain cases, policies don’t even cover relatives living in your home unless they are named on your policy, so you’ll want to very carefully examine your individual coverage (or speak with your local agent) to make sure you have the protection you need. If the person driving your car is involved in an accident where they were not at fault, the other driver’s insurance covers the cost of damages and injuries. In the event that the person you loaned your vehicle to is found to be at fault, your insurance company is usually the one that has to cover the costs of damage. In severe cases, where the costs of the accident exceed the limits of your insurance coverage, your insurance company may ask the other driver’s insurance to cover the remaining expenses. It’s always a good idea to play it safe and make sure that the person who’s borrowing your vehicle also has auto insurance coverage, just in case. Permissive VS Non-Permissive Users In the event of an accident, whether your insurance will cover the person driving your car can strongly depend on whether that person is a permissive or non-permissive user. A permissive user is a driver who has permission to use your car, while a non-permissive user is someone who drivees your car without explicit permission to do so. In most cases, permissive users are covered by your insurance policy, but you want to check to see if coverage limits are lower for these types of drivers. Non-permissive users are usually not covered under your auto insurance in the event of a crash. For these drivers, their insurance is usually held responsible to cover the costs of repairs or injuries in an accident. For example, if a friend borrows your car without your permission and gets into an accident, they would be held responsible for the damages. Make Sure You’re Covered, No Matter Who’s Driving Your Vehicle Navigating your auto insurance coverage can be tricky, and your local agent is here to help you make sure you’ve got the protection you need. If you’re planning to loan out your vehicle for the short term or long term, contact your local agent for assistance. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have to make sure your vehicle has the right coverage in the event of an accident.

  • Can I Insure A Car I Don't Own?

    In most cases, people insure the vehicles that they own. But there are a number of circumstances where someone might want to try to insure a vehicle that is not owned by them. For example, you may need to borrow a vehicle from an elderly relative who no longer drives or you may live abroad and may need to use a friend’s vehicle while you’re back in the country. The situations may vary, but it’s important that you get at least the minimum insurance coverage required by state law. Learn more about your options for getting the right coverage. Insuring the vehicle Depending on what state you live in, it may or may not be possible to insure a vehicle that is not yours. For example, in New York, it is required by law that the name on a vehicle’s registration and insurance policy match. In that state, if you take out an auto insurance policy, the name on it must match the name of the person who registered the vehicle. If you live in a state with similar laws, you should contact the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to clarify your options. Even if your state doesn’t have a rule that prevents you from insuring a vehicle you don’t own, you will still need to prove that you have an insurable interest on the vehicle you want to insure. Insurable interest is an interest by the insured person in the value of the subject of insurance, including any legal or financial relationship. You’ll need to prove that you have a financial stake or serious reason to keep the vehicle in good condition. Figuring Out Your Options It might be challenging, but your first option is to prove that you have an insurable interest in the vehicle. You’ll need to prove that you have a legitimate need for this specific vehicle. As an example, if you need the vehicle as your sole mode of transportation to your job and have no other transportation options, you’ll be more likely to take care of the vehicle. It is worth noting that it can be difficult to prove insurable interest, so you may want to have a backup option available. Another option that might be available is to get added as a driver on the owner’s policy. This is not as common if you live at a different address from the vehicle’s owner, but may be possible, depending on the circumstances. A common example of this occurs when students who live away at school are added onto their parents’ policy. You can always speak to your local agent to see if this option applies to your situation. Depending on the circumstances, it may make sense to either transfer ownership of the vehicle to you directly or add you to the title. If ownership is transferred to you, getting insurance on the vehicle is much easier. If the vehicle’s owner doesn’t want to transfer complete ownership, you may have the option to get added to the title. The rules on this vary from state to state, so you’ll need to reference your state and local laws to see if this option applies. You may also want to look into non-owner car insurance, which usually provides liability coverage (including bodily injury and property damage liability). This type of insurance does not provide comprehensive, collision, towing or rental reimbursement, so it may or may not necessarily be right for you. But if you frequently rent cars or are between vehicles, this may be a suitable option. To make sure you have the right coverage that meets your needs (and adheres to state and local laws), reach out to your local agent. They will be able to help you explore all of your available insurance options and will help you get the protection that is right for your unique situation.

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