Category: Personal Insurance

4 Ways Telematics Can Impact Car Insurance

Telematics is technology that tracks driving behavior via a mobile app, a plug-in device, or a built-in vehicle system. Insurance companies may use that data to better understand how a person drives in real-life conditions. Instead of solely factoring age, vehicle type, ZIP code, and claims history, some insurers also evaluate driving habits. That can create savings opportunities for some drivers, but it can also raise concerns about confidentiality and how a program affects pricing over time.

The way driving data is protected depends on the insurer and the telematics program. Many companies say they use security measures to protect the data they collect, but the details can vary. Drivers should review the program’s privacy policy to see what is collected, how long it is kept, and how it is stored.

Access to that data is usually limited to the insurance company and service providers that help run the program, but it may also be shared when required by law or allowed under the policy terms. That is why it is worth reading the consent and privacy language before enrolling.

1. Safe Driving May Lower Premiums

One of the biggest selling points of telematics is the opportunity to qualify for lower car insurance premiums. Many programs reward habits such as smooth braking, gradual acceleration, steady speeds, and consistent vehicle operation patterns. A driver who avoids sudden stops and shows no risky behavior may score better in the program.

Certain insurers offer an enrollment discount just for signing up, while others base the discount on actual driving data collected over several weeks or months. The exact savings vary by carrier, but the general idea is simple. Safer driving behavior may lead to lower insurance costs.

2. Driving Habits Can Also Raise Costs

Telematics is not always a one-way path to discounts. Some insurers may use driving data in ways that affect future pricing if the data shows repeated high-risk patterns. Hard braking, rapid acceleration, speeding, and distracted driving signals may indicate a higher risk of a claim.

This matters because a telematics program may influence more than just a one-time discount. In some cases, driving data can affect renewal pricing or continued eligibility for a usage-based insurance program. Not every insurer handles this the same way, so drivers should read the terms carefully before enrolling.

3. Mileage and Time of Day Matter

Mileage can be an important factor in telematics pricing. A person who drives more often usually spends more time on the road and is more exposed to accidents. High annual mileage may increase perceived risk in some programs, while lower mileage may help reduce it.

Time of day can also affect how driving is scored. Frequent late-night driving may be perceived as riskier due to reduced visibility, fatigue, and a greater number of impaired drivers on the road. Rush-hour driving can matter, too, since heavy traffic increases the risk of a crash. A driver who takes short daytime trips may be rated differently from someone with a long commute or regular overnight driving.

4. Participation Can Change the Customer Experience

Telematics programs often come with tools that change how drivers interact with their insurance. Many offer trip summaries, driving scores, coaching tips, and mobile alerts. The feedback can help drivers improve their habits and better understand the driving behavior an insurer is measuring.

There are tradeoffs, though. Drivers should ask how data is collected, who can access it, how long it is stored, and whether participation is optional. It is also smart to ask whether the program can increase rates or only offer discounts.

Contact Your Agent About Telematics

Comparing personal and auto insurance helps you decide if telematics fits your needs. Our local Indiana agents at Brad Smith Agency review local coverage, compare car insurance, and find solutions within your budget. Give us a call at (765) 791-1255.

Spring Insurance: 5 Tips for Seasonal Risks

The arrival of spring brings a welcome change in weather, but it also ushers in a unique variety of challenges for homeowners and drivers alike. This season is often characterized by erratic storms, high winds, and heavy rain that can test the durability of your property. Many people also begin planning home improvement projects or spring break travel during this time of year. Taking a few precautionary steps now to evaluate your coverage helps you stay prepared for these seasonal risks and protects your financial well-being.

Review Home Coverage Before Storm Season

Spring storms are notorious for producing wind and hail that can cause extensive damage to your roof, gutters, and siding. It is important to understand that standard homeowners’ policies often have specific deductibles for wind damage or may exclude certain types of water intrusion, such as flooding. Reviewing your policy now ensures that you have the right protections in place before the first major storm hits your neighborhood. You should also examine any gaps in coverage that could leave you vulnerable to high out-of-pocket costs.

Inspect Outdoor Hazards

As you spend more time outside, it is vital to identify and tackle potential hazards that may have developed over the winter months. Freezing and thawing cycles can cause walkways to crack or fencing to become unstable, creating new risks for guests and family members. Inspecting your property for these issues is a key part of maintaining a safe environment and preventing liability claims. The following tips will help you secure your outdoor space and reduce the chance of accidents during the upcoming spring and summer seasons.

• Tree Maintenance: Dead or damaged branches can fall during a spring windstorm and cause damage to your home. Hire a professional to prune any trees hanging over your roof or power lines to minimize the risk of structural damage.
• Trampoline Safety: High winds can pick up a trampoline and toss it into a neighbor’s yard if it is not properly anchored. Ensure your trampoline is secured to the ground and the safety netting is in good repair to prevent falls.
• Grill Preparation: Before your first backyard barbecue, check your grill for leaks or grease buildup that could lead to a fire. Placing your grill at a safe distance from your home and flammable structures is essential for fire safety.
• Walkway Inspection: Winter weather often causes pavers to shift or concrete to crack, creating trip hazards for visitors. Repairing these surfaces promptly helps you avoid potential liability issues if someone were to fall while walking on your property this spring.
• Fence Stability: Heavy snow or wind can weaken fence posts and panels over time, making them a hazard to pets. Reinforce any wobbly sections of your fence to ensure your yard stays protected and your boundaries are clearly defined.

Update Coverage for Spring Projects

Many homeowners use the warmer weather as an opportunity to start renovations, build new sheds, or invest in extensive landscaping. These projects often increase the total value of your property, which means your existing insurance limits might no longer be sufficient. If you are purchasing expensive equipment like riding mowers or high-end power tools, you should verify that they are covered under your personal property limits. Keeping your insurance agent informed about these upgrades helps ensure your policy keeps pace with your home’s increasing value.

Check Auto Coverage for Seasonal Travel

Spring break often means hitting the road for family trips, which increases the time you spend behind the wheel. If you have a teen driver in the house who will be using the car more frequently during school breaks, it is a good time to review your auto policy. You should also check your coverage for common seasonal issues like windshield chips from road debris or the availability of roadside assistance. Ensuring your auto insurance is current gives peace of mind while you are away from home.

Revisit Liability Protection

Increased social activity in the spring, such as backyard gatherings and graduation parties, naturally leads to higher liability exposure. Your homeowners’ policy provides a baseline of protection, but it might not be enough to cover a major lawsuit if a guest is seriously injured on your property. Many families find that adding an umbrella insurance policy is a cost-effective way to gain an extra layer of financial security. Evaluating your liability needs now allows you to host events with confidence, knowing that your assets are well protected.

Seasonal Review Can Prevent Coverage Gaps

Performing a comprehensive insurance review each spring is one of the most effective ways to manage your household risks. By addressing potential hazards and updating your coverage to reflect your current lifestyle, you can avoid stressful surprises when a claim occurs. Forward thinking assures that your family is protected through each season. It also gives you the opportunity to ask questions on specific endorsements that could provide essential protection for your unique and changing personal situation.

Review Your Personal Insurance This Spring

Our local Indiana agents at Brad Smith Agency are dedicated to helping you find the right fit for your personal insurance needs in our local area. Whether you are looking for better rates on homeowners’ coverage or need to update your auto policy for an upcoming trip, we are here to assist. Contact us today at (765) 791-1255 to discuss your options and ensure you have the comprehensive protection you need this season.

Home & Auto Spring Maintenance Checklist

Spring maintenance keeps your property in good condition and helps you get better insurance rates. Evaluating your home exterior after winter is a critical step in identifying minor problems before they turn into major structural damage. You must prioritize inspecting your roof, cleaning out gutters, and checking proper soil drainage. Confirming your sump pump works correctly will further reduce your risk profile. Factors that affect the rate you pay for the product include prior water claims, roof age, and proximity to a flood zone. Installing protective safety features secures favorable premiums.

Maintaining Internal Systems and Vehicles

Completing regular safety checks on your internal home systems and personal vehicles is vital for ongoing security. Scheduling a professional HVAC service and a thorough water heater inspection helps prevent sudden appliance failures. These failures frequently cause indoor water damage.

Testing smoke alarms gives necessary early warnings against hidden hazards. Transitioning your vehicle requires assessing tire tread depth, testing brakes, and topping off fluids.

Issues that impact the rate you get for auto coverage involve your annual mileage, your garaging location, and your driving record. Maintaining a pristine driving history helps manage ongoing costs.

Proper Record Keeping and Documentation

Maintaining well-organized records of all your property upgrades and vehicle repairs simplifies the claims process considerably. Having clear proof of your diligent maintenance efforts provides vital support in the event of an unexpected loss.

Follow these important documentation steps to keep your household files updated and organized this season:

• Visual Property Inventory: Record a detailed video walking through every room in your house to document your furniture and expensive electronics. Storing this digital file in a secure cloud account guarantees you have undeniable proof of ownership. This is critical if a fire destroys your personal belongings.
• Upgrade Receipt Storage: Save all physical and digital receipts for major home improvements, such as a new roof installation or a modern security system. Providing these exact financial records to your carrier can sometimes qualify you for additional protective discounts. This applies to your personal insurance package.
• Vehicle Service Logs: Keep a dedicated folder in your glove compartment to store invoices for routine oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire rotations. Presenting a documented history of proper mechanical care can help clarify mechanical breakdowns. This distinguishes them from sudden accidental damage during a complex claim investigation.
• Home System Records: Retain all official service documents provided by licensed plumbers or electricians after they complete their preventative maintenance visits. These professional reports demonstrate that you actively protect your property from preventable wear and tear issues.
• Digital Documentation Backup: Store digital copies of your photo inventory and all essential property receipts in a secure cloud account. Organizing these documents makes it easy to establish proof of ownership. This is vital during a sudden total loss scenario.

Proactive insurance management is the most effective way to safeguard your assets against the unexpected. By reviewing your coverage and maintaining detailed property records now, you ensure a faster recovery and greater peace of mind for the future. Our local Indiana agents at Brad Smith Agency can help you find the best quote in the area for reliable personal insurance. Contact our office today at (765) 791-1255 to review your current protection levels for your updated property.

Spring Break Insurance Tips

Spring break travel often involves cross-country road trips, beach days, and struggling through crowded airport terminals. Many travelers focus solely on booking flights, forgetting to secure the right protection for the journey.

Unexpected events, such as minor fender benders in unfamiliar cities or theft from a hotel room, can quickly ruin a vacation. Acquiring personal insurance provides a reliable safety cushion should unforeseen circumstances occur. 

While your auto policy provides protections such as collision coverage and valuable extras like rental reimbursement to keep your trip moving, this insurance won’t reimburse you for many other vacation accidents or losses. For full coverage, explore the options in personal insurance, such as travel insurance,

Traveling on Spring Break?

Relying on just basic personal insurance limits while traveling out of state might leave you facing some high out-of-pocket costs. When you rent a car, your personal auto policy may cover the vehicle, but you should consider potential loss-of-use fees. Your homeowners policy often provides off-premises protection for luggage theft, subject to specific deductibles.

When you’re away from home, the last thing you want to worry about is a financial setback. Your personal insurance includes your existing homeowners or renters policies, auto insurance, and travel insurance, and serves as a safety net to help you recoup financially from losses incurred during your travels.

Your Personal Insurance: What Is Covered?

Protects Your Belongings

Your homeowners or renters insurance doesn’t end when you walk out your front door. You have coverage for certain losses worldwide, subject to certain limitations.

Off-Premises Coverage

Most policies cover your personal property (laptop, luggage, clothing) against theft or damage while traveling.

Theft from Vehicles or Hotels

When your suitcase or other property is stolen from a rental car or from your lodgings, your home insurance will often reimburse the replacement cost, subject to a deductible.

Limited Payouts

Off-premises coverage is often limited to 10% of your total personal property limit. For example, if you have $50,000 in coverage at home, you may only have $5,000 available while traveling.

Valuable Items

High-value items like jewelry or high-end cameras should be discussed with your insurance agent to ensure an insurance rider covers them fully.

Liability and Other Legal Issues

If you accidentally cause harm to someone else or damage their property, personal liability insurance (found in your homeowners/renters policy or in certain travel insurance policies) can protect you against heavy financial losses.

Accidental Damage to Rentals

Should you accidentally break a window in an Airbnb or damage an expensive item in a hotel room, liability coverage can be helpful in covering the losses.

International Legal Fees

Many travel insurance plans provide 24/7 assistance to help you find a lawyer to help you deal with another country’s legal system.

Travel-Specific Financial Losses

While home and auto insurance cover your physical possessions, dedicated travel insurance (a form of personal insurance for the duration of your trip) can cover the cost of your trip.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Reimburses non-refundable costs (flights, hotels, tours) if you have to cancel or cut your trip short due to a covered situation such as illness, injury, or a natural disaster.

Baggage Delays

If your luggage is delayed by the airline, insurance often provides a daily allowance for “essential items” like toiletries and changes of clothing while the airline searches for your lost luggage, which can take days or weeks.

Travel Delays

Pays for meals and accommodations if your flight is delayed for a significant period due to weather or mechanical issues.

Emergency Medical Evacuation

In rare cases where a traveler is seriously injured in a remote area, some policies cover the high cost (often $50,000+) of transporting you to a hospital.

Vehicle-Related Losses

• Rental Car Coverage: Your personal auto insurance often extends its collision and liability coverage to rental cars within the U.S. and Canada, allowing you to bypass expensive counter upgrades.
• International Rentals: Most domestic auto policies do not cover you in foreign countries (except Canada), making travel-specific rental coverage or the rental agency’s policy essential for resolving losses abroad.

Essential Vacation Preparation Checklist

Taking several minutes to review your coverage information before packing your bags can prevent major headaches later. Preparing in advance ensures you understand exactly which protections are active and who to contact in an emergency.

Complete these steps to confirm your safety net is ready for any destination:

• Driver Verification: Confirm that all potential drivers are officially listed on your current auto policy before sharing driving duties on a long road trip. Unlisted drivers who cause an accident might face claim denials. This leaves you financially responsible for resulting property damage and bodily injury costs.
• Deductible Review: Verify your current comprehensive and collision deductibles to ensure you have enough funds set aside to cover them in case of an accident. Choosing a higher deductible is one of the main issues affecting the rate you pay for the product. It requires having the cash readily available.
• Valuables Documentation: Take clear photographs of expensive electronics and jewelry you plan to pack in your suitcase to establish proof of ownership. Having an accurate record simplifies the claims process if you need to rely on your property coverage. This is especially helpful for a stolen laptop or camera.
• Contact Accessibility: Save your carrier contact information and claims by reporting phone numbers directly into your mobile device for immediate access. Keeping your policy number handy allows you to request roadside assistance or report an accident. 
• Rental Assessment: Review your current personal auto limits to determine if purchasing the collision damage waiver at the rental counter makes financial sense. You might already have sufficient coverage for damage to a rental car. This makes the expensive daily counter fee unnecessary.

Our local Indiana insurance agents at Brad Smith Agency can help you find the best personal insurance quote in the area. Reach out to our knowledgeable and friendly team today at (765) 791-1255 to discuss your coverage options before you travel.

Common Insurance Myths Debunked

What Your Friend on Social Media Got Wrong!

We all know someone who thinks they’ve gained vast knowledge on a subject after merely seeing a short clip or skimming over a headline. Insurance myths travel fast, and they can cost real money when a claim happens. Clearing up a few of the most common myths helps you choose better protection and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Myth #1: Red Cars Cost More to Insure

Insurers do not charge more just because a car is red. They focus on factors that actually relate to risk, such as:

• Driving history: Tickets, accidents, and prior claims.
• Location: Where you live and where the vehicle is parked.
• Vehicle details: Make, model, safety features, and repair or replacement costs.
• Use and mileage: How far you drive and whether the car is used for work or commuting.

A safe driver in a red sedan can pay less than a high-risk driver in a neutral-colored SUV. Color is a style choice, not a pricing factor.

Myth #2: Minimum Coverage Is Enough

State minimum liability limits function as a legal floor, not a financial safety net. One serious accident can produce medical bills, vehicle damage, and legal costs that exceed basic limits. Once insurance coverage ends, you are responsible for the remaining balance, which can put savings, wages, and future assets at risk. Many households choose higher liability limits and add uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage to protect themselves from drivers who carry little or no insurance.

Myth #3: Home Insurance Covers Floods and Wear and Tear

Standard homeowners and renters policies focus on sudden, accidental damage, not gradual problems. Most policies exclude flooding from rising water and require a separate flood policy for that risk. Routine wear and tear, long-term maintenance issues, and problems such as mold from slow leaks are usually the property owner’s responsibility. Knowing what is not covered helps you budget for maintenance and decide whether flood insurance is right for your location.

Myth #4: Coverage From a Landlord, HOA, or Roommate Protects You

A landlord’s policy protects the building, not a tenant’s furniture, electronics, or personal liability. HOA or condo master policies often cover the roof, exterior, and shared spaces, while unit owners still need their own coverage for interior finishes and belongings. Roommates and extended family sometimes assume they share coverage, but that is not automatic. Separate renters or condo policies help close these gaps, so each person’s property and liability are clearly insured.

Myth #5: A Policy Will Pay Whatever a Home Is Worth

Many people assume home insurance automatically keeps up with market value or inflation. In reality, coverage depends on the policy’s limits and valuation method. Replacement cost coverage aims to rebuild with similar materials, while actual cash value subtracts depreciation and can lead to a smaller payout. Low limits, outdated appraisals, and major renovations that were not reported can all leave you underinsured. Periodic reviews keep coverage aligned with current rebuilding costs.

Ask About Insurance Myths and Get a Personal Coverage Review

If you are unsure what your policy really covers, you are not alone. Bring your questions about insurance myths to a trusted professional and schedule a quick review of your auto, home, and renters coverage. One of our experienced agents at Brad Smith Agency can walk through your options and help you choose protection that fits your budget and your real-life needs, not online rumors. Give us a call today at (765) 791-1255.

Your New Year’s Insurance Checklist

A new calendar year is a natural reset. Over the past 12 months, you may have moved, bought a car, started a home-based business, gotten married, or welcomed a new baby. Those milestones change more than your social media feed; they also change the protection you need. A quick insurance checkup in January can help keep your household on track and your budget under control.

New Year, New Protection

Start by listing big changes from last year: address changes, new drivers in the household, job shifts, or major purchases. Any of these can affect your personal insurance. Sharing these updates with your agent helps prevent coverage gaps and surprises at claim time.

Auto Insurance Checkup

Pull out your auto policy and look at your limits, deductibles, and listed drivers. Make sure your liability limits are high enough to protect your income and assets, not just to meet the state minimums. If your car is newer or financed, review comprehensive and collision coverage, especially if repair costs or car values have risen in your area. Ask whether your current deductibles still fit your budget if you had to file a claim tomorrow.

Homeowners or Renters Tune-Up

Housing and personal property costs often climb from year to year. Confirm that your dwelling coverage is enough to rebuild, not just to pay off a mortgage balance. Take a fresh look at the limits on personal property for furniture, electronics, and clothing. If you added a finished basement, upgraded a kitchen, or bought items such as jewelry, collectables, or high-end electronics, you may need endorsements or a separate schedule to ensure those items are fully protected.

Capture Savings, Extras, and Fraud Safeguards

Ask your agent to re-run discounts. You may qualify for savings for bundling home and auto, being a safe driver, having a good student in the household, or installing home security devices. As your assets grow, discuss whether an umbrella liability policy provides additional protection. Take a few minutes to set up your insurer’s online account or mobile app so you can access ID cards, e-documents, and alerts. Protect yourself from fraud by keeping copies of policies, ignoring suspicious calls or emails about claims you did not file, and knowing how to reach your state insurance department if something seems wrong.

Life and Disability Snapshot

Significant life changes are a signal to review life and disability coverage. Check that your beneficiaries are up to date and that benefit amounts reflect your current income, debts, and the needs of anyone who depends on you. If your family grew or your salary increased, your coverage may need to grow as well.

Organize Documents and Go Digital

Store ID cards, policy numbers, and app logins where you and a trusted family member can reach them quickly. Taking photos or a short video walkthrough of your home and valuables can make a future claim easier to document.

An annual review takes less time than most New Year’s resolutions and is far more likely to stick. Our local Indiana agents at Brad Smith Agency can help you compare personal insurance options and find quotes in the area, so your coverage keeps pace with your life.

How to Prepare for a Winter Road Trip

Plan Your Route Like a Pro: Weather, Detours, and “Plan B”

Check official state DOT and highway apps for live road conditions, closures, and chain controls before you leave and at each fuel stop. Pair those with a forecast tool that shows hour-by-hour precipitation and wind along your route so you can shift departure by a few hours if a front is moving through. 

Build a delay buffer: for snowbelt corridors, add 25–35 percent to your drive time and pre-identify safe stopovers every 60–90 miles where you could warm up, eat, and refuel. Save an offline map for the full route and a secondary route, then share a simple itinerary with a contact: vehicle description, plate number, planned stops, check-in windows, and your emergency contacts. Keep those numbers in your phone and in the glove box on paper in case the batteries or service fail.

Traction Action: Tires, Chains, and Pressure

Winter tires use softer rubber and denser tread that stay pliable below about 45° F; all-season compounds harden in the cold, which lengthens stopping distances. If you drive through mountain passes that require traction devices, match the chain or cable size to the exact tire code on your sidewall and do a practice install at home with gloves, a kneeling pad or tarp, and a headlamp. Confirm you have enough fender clearance after installation. Check tread depth; for winter driving, 6/32 inch or more is a safer target than the bare minimum of 2/32. Cold air shrinks, so tire pressure drops about one psi for every 10° F decrease in temperature. Check pressures “cold” and inflate to the driver-door placard, not the sidewall max. Don’t forget the spare and the jack points.

See and Be Seen: Visibility Gear

Use winter-blend washer fluid with a de-icer that is rated to the expected lows. It resists freezing in the reservoir and lines. Replace streaky wiper blades and consider winter blades with a protective boot that sheds ice. To check headlight aim, park 25 feet from a wall on level ground, measure from the ground to the center of each low beam, mark that height on the wall with tape, and confirm the beam cutoff is even and just below the marks. Carry reflective triangles; set one about 10 feet behind the vehicle, another around 100 feet, and a third farther back on high-speed roads to create a cone of visibility without the fire risk of flares.

The Cold Kit: Supplies That Save the Day

Pack a warm blanket or sleeping bag for each traveler, a folding shovel, and sand or non-clumping kitty litter for traction under drive wheels. Add booster cables or a jump pack, a compact air compressor, non-perishable snacks, water, and a headlamp with spare batteries. Include a phone power bank, a multi-tool, a basic first-aid kit, chemical hand warmers, and a bright knit hat so you’re visible if you exit the car. Tuck in a paper map for the ultimate offline backup if GPS and phones go dark.

Policy Pit Stop: Coverage You’ll Want

Review towing and roadside assistance before you go. Some policies limit mileage or exclude winching from a ditch. Verify whether rental reimbursement applies if repairs strand you mid-trip. Comprehensive covers hazards like hail, falling branches, animal strikes, and vandalism; many carriers offer separate glass coverage with a lower deductible for windshield repair. After a winter fender-bender, move to a safe spot, set out triangles, photograph damage and the road surface, exchange information, and contact your insurer or agent for next steps.

Map Your Coverage Before You Map Your Drive

A quick policy review ensures you’re covered from first flurry to final mile. Please message your local Indiana agent to confirm roadside, rental, and comprehensive protections fit your route and risk. 

Driving Safety Tips for Holiday Travel

Every year, millions of Americans take to the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, traveling to spend time with their family and friends. Along with the anticipation of a wonderful celebration, the season has unpredictable weather, very heavy traffic, and an increased risk of accidents. If you have plans to travel this Thanksgiving, practicing safe driving conduct is critical. Read some of the basics that can help you enjoy a safe, pleasurable road trip.

Inspect Your Vehicle Before Your Trip

Before you leave, a quick check of your vehicle can help you avoid a breakdown or other problem. Ensure your tires have good tread and the tire pressure is correct. Check your oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels. Test your brake lights, headlights, and turn signals to ensure they work properly. If your car is due for a maintenance check, schedule it before your trip.

Plan Ahead and Leave Early

Plan your route before you leave to help you stay safe during Thanksgiving travel. Check weather forecasts, road closures, and traffic conditions. If possible, travel during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, when the roads are often less congested. Leave early to reduce stress and allow time for unexpected delays.

Do Not Drive Distracted

Safe driving requires keeping your eyes on the road ahead, your hands on the wheel, and your full attention on the road ahead. Holiday travel often means traveling on unfamiliar routes and interacting with your passengers. Set your GPS before you start and pull over safely if you need to adjust it. Keep your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode. If you need to send a message or make a call, let a passenger do it, or pull over. Focus on the road while driving and save the multitasking after you arrive. 

Stay Alert and Drive Defensively

Defensive driving is essential, as over 80 million Americans will travel this year, an all-time record. Maintain a safe following distance, especially in wet, snowy, or icy conditions. Avoid sudden lane changes. Watch for other drivers who may be distracted or fatigued and give them plenty of space. Pull over to switch drivers or rest if you start feeling tired.

Stay Sober Behind the Wheel

Thanksgiving celebrations often include alcoholic drinks, but as we know, drinking and driving never mix. Even one drink can affect your judgment and reaction time. If your celebrations include alcoholic beverages, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi service.

Prepare for Weather Changes

The weather can be unpredictable in late November. Rain, fog, or early snow can cause hazardous driving conditions. Slow down and increase the distance if you encounter slick roads or poor visibility due to fog, rain, or snow. Safety always takes priority over speed. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, with essentials such as blankets, water, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, and snacks. 

Make Sure You Are Covered Before You Hit the Road

Before setting out for Thanksgiving travel, ensure your auto insurance covers all the risks you could face while traveling during the busiest time of year. Reviewing your policy beforehand helps you confirm you have adequate liability, collision, and roadside assistance coverage. Call one of our friendly local Indiana agents at  (765) 791-1255 for guidance to ensure your current policy suits your travel needs. Knowing you are covered can provide peace of mind so you can enjoy the holiday with loved ones. 

Renters’ Insurance and Back to School: Protecting Student Belongings

As students head back to college campuses and dorm rooms fill with laptops, textbooks, and tech gear, one essential protection can be overlooked: renters’ insurance. While dorm life is exciting and new, it’s not without risks. From theft and fire to accidental water damage, your student’s belongings may be more vulnerable than you think. Here’s why renters’ insurance is a smart move before the semester begins.

The Risks of Dorm Life

College housing often involves shared living spaces, communal laundry rooms, and limited security, all of which can increase the chance of personal property damage or loss. A moment of distraction can lead to a stolen backpack, a spilled drink can damage electronics, and a cooking mishap down the hall could result in smoke or water damage. The value of everything your student brings to school can quickly add up and should not be left unprotected.

What Renters’ Insurance Actually Covers

Renters’ insurance typically covers personal property against risks such as theft, fire, vandalism, and specific types of water damage. It may also include liability protection in case your student accidentally causes damage to a dorm, or their actions injure another person, as well as loss-of-use coverage if their dorm room becomes uninhabitable. Some policies even cover belongings stolen from a vehicle or from off-campus housing.

Parents’ Policies vs. Student Policies: Know the Difference

Depending on your homeowners’ insurance policy, your student’s belongings might be partially covered while they live in a dorm. But there are limitations:

• Coverage is often capped at 10% of your total personal property limit.
• Off-campus apartments typically aren’t covered in standard policies.
• Your homeowners’ policy deductible may be higher than the value of the items lost.

A separate renters’ policy is often the safer and more cost-effective option, especially for students who live off-campus.

Common Claims: Theft, Fire, and Water Damage

According to data from the Insurance Information Institute, theft remains one of the most common claims filed by college students. Dorms are high-traffic areas with frequent visitors, and unlocked doors or unattended items create easy opportunities for theft. Fires, whether caused by overloaded outlets or microwave mishaps, can also result in significant losses. Even a sprinkler system activated by a small fire can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage. Renters’ insurance steps in to help you recover the cost.

Easy Steps to Get Covered Before the Semester Starts

Securing coverage is quick, easy, and surprisingly affordable. Most renters’ insurance policies for students cost less than $20 per month. To get started:

• Create an inventory of the belongings your student will be bringing to the campus.
• Get a quote from an insurance agency specifying whether your student lives on- or off-campus.
• Review coverage limits and consider adding replacement cost coverage to your policy.

Don’t Wait for a Loss: Secure Your Student’s Belongings Today

While college is about learning, growing, and gaining independence, it is also a time to learn about avoiding financial losses. Renters’ insurance provides peace of mind for both students and parents by protecting the items that matter most. Our friendly agents at Brad Smith Agency can help you explore affordable personal insurance solutions to safeguard your student’s property during their years away at college.

Back to School, Back on the Road: Auto Insurance Tips for Teen Drivers

For many families in Indiana, the back-to-school season marks a time when teens get behind the wheel for the first time. Whether your teen is getting a permit, a first car, or driving to school events, having the right auto insurance is essential. Find out what every parent and teen driver should know about auto insurance.

First Car, First Policy: What You Need to Know

Getting a first car is a major life milestone. But with that freedom comes responsibility and, of course, risks. Most insurance companies require a teen driver to be listed on a parent’s policy or to carry a separate policy if they own the vehicle themselves. If your teen is using a family car, you must notify your insurance provider to ensure they are covered. If they have a car, ensure the title and insurance match the primary driver; this helps avoid potential claim disputes later.

Teen Risk Factors and Why They Matter to Insurers

Teen drivers have the highest crash rates among any age group, according to the CDC. Inexperience, distracted driving, and risk-taking behavior all contribute to higher accident rates. That’s why insurance companies charge more to cover teen drivers; statistically, they’re more likely to file a claim. Factors such as good grades, a clean driving record, and driver education can help lower premiums with some providers.

Tips for Lowering Teen Driver Premiums

While teen driver insurance is typically costly, there are steps parents can take to reduce the financial burden:

• Good student discounts: Many insurers reward teens who maintain a B average or higher.
• Defensive driving courses: These courses teach teens critical safety skills and can lower premiums.
• Safe vehicles: Cars with high safety ratings, airbags, and anti-lock brakes typically cost less to insure than sports cars or older model vehicles that have fewer safety features.
• Consider usage-based insurance: Programs that track driving habits through apps or devices may offer discounts for safe driving behavior.

Monitoring Apps and Safety Features

New technologies bring powerful tools for both parents and teens. Apps like Life360 or built-in features from insurance providers can help monitor speed, location, and driving habits. Many vehicles now include crash avoidance features, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking; these features not only improve safety but may reduce insurance costs.

How Parents Influence Teen Driving

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s driving habits. Studies show that teens whose parents model safe driving behaviors are more likely to adopt those habits. Establish clear expectations regarding phone use, passenger behavior, curfews, and seatbelt usage. Consider creating a teen driving contract to encourage accountability.

Call Today for the Right Auto Policy

Whether your teen is a cautious first-timer or a confident senior on the move, the right policy can help bring you peace of mind. The staff at Brad Smith Agency can help you explore affordable personal insurance options and ensure your coverage fits your teen’s needs. Reach out at (765) 791-1255 to schedule some time to review your policy and get your family road-ready for the school year.