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.
Home Sweet Home: Insuring Your Property and Belongings
Your home is more than just a place to live. It’s your most valuable asset and the center of your everyday life. Homeowners insurance is designed to protect your investment, your belongings, and your financial stability. Many homeowners aren’t sure what their policy covers or where the gaps could exist. Understanding your coverage options is the first step to ensuring your home and everything inside it is truly protected.
The Home Base: Understanding Your Homeowners Policy
A standard homeowners insurance policy typically includes four main types of coverage: dwelling, personal property, liability, and additional living expenses.
Dwelling coverage protects the physical structure of your home, including the roof, walls, flooring, and built-in appliances. Coverage usually extends to attached structures, such as a garage. Many policies also include detached structures, such as sheds or fences.
Additional living expenses coverage, sometimes referred to as “loss of use,” pays for temporary housing, meals, and other incidental costs if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, such as a fire or severe storm. This ensures you aren’t paying out of pocket during an already stressful situation.
What Personal Property Coverage Really Means
Personal property coverage refers to your belongings inside the home. This includes furniture, electronics, clothing, appliances, and more. However, how you’re reimbursed depends on whether your policy uses actual cash value or replacement cost.
Actual cash value takes depreciation into account, so your 5-year-old couch will be worth less than what you originally paid. Replacement cost coverage, on the other hand, reimburses you for the current cost of buying a new, similar item. Although replacement cost policies tend to be slightly more expensive, they offer stronger protection when you need to replace damaged or stolen items.
Be aware that valuable items such as jewelry, fine art, or collectibles may have sub-limits. In those cases, you may need to purchase additional scheduled personal property coverage.
Natural Disaster Coverage Explained
Homeowners insurance typically covers damage from fire, hail, wind, lightning, and certain types of water damage, including some burst pipes. However, many natural disasters are not covered by a standard policy. Floods and earthquakes are typically excluded, and you would need to purchase separate flood or earthquake insurance.
If you live in an area prone to specific weather-related risks, it’s essential to talk to your agent about supplemental policies that fill those gaps in coverage.
When Accidents Happen on Your Property
Personal liability coverage is another essential part of homeowners insurance. It protects you financially if someone is injured on your property or if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property. This coverage can help pay for medical expenses, legal fees, and settlements. If you have pets, kids, or a pool, increasing your liability coverage or adding a personal umbrella policy may be a smart move.
Why a Home Inventory Is Key
In the event of a major claim, a home inventory can help ensure you are reimbursed accurately and quickly. You can create one by walking through your home and taking videos or photos of each room. Record the value, brand, and purchase date of each major item. Keep this inventory in a secure cloud storage or external drive that can be accessed when needed.
Protect Your Castle Without the Headache
Whether you’re buying your first home or reviewing your current coverage, at Brad Smith Agency in Indiana we can help ensure your homeowners insurance meets your needs. Our team is here to guide you through the process, explain your options, and help you find the right policy for your home and your budget. Call us at (765) 791-1255 for a custom quote.
Managing Premiums: Tips for Getting Lower Personal Insurance Rates
Insurance is vital to protecting the value of your home, car, and other personal assets. That doesn’t mean that the premiums should break the bank! Whether you’re trying to lower your monthly expenses or want to ensure good value, understanding what drives the cost of your premiums is the first step. Let’s take a closer look at how personal insurance rates are calculated and what you can do to keep costs in check.
What Goes Into Your Insurance Costs
Several key factors influence the cost of your personal insurance. While the exact formula varies by provider and policy type, insurers evaluate the following factors:
- Age: Younger and older drivers often face higher auto insurance rates due to increased risk profiles. Homeowners of varying ages may also see rate variations.
- Location: Living in a neighborhood with higher crime rates or prone to weather-related incidents can increase premiums.
- Credit score: In many states, insurance companies use a credit-based insurance score in risk assessment. A lower score means higher premiums in many cases.
- Claims history: If you’ve filed multiple claims in recent years, insurers may view you as being a higher-risk client.
- Coverage limits: Choosing higher coverage amounts or additional insurance protection, such as personal liability insurance, increases premiums but provides higher levels of protection.
Being aware of these factors allows you to make informed decisions when purchasing insurance.
Combining Policies to Save More
Bundling policies is one of the easiest ways to reduce overall insurance costs. Many insurers offer multi-policy discounts when you combine auto, home, renters, or other personal insurance coverage. Aside from convenience, bundling can save you up to 25% in many cases. It is advised that you find out about options to include additional types of coverage, such as umbrella insurance or recreational vehicle insurance, to access more potential savings.
Deductibles and Your Bottom Line
Your deductible is what you will pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Choosing a higher deductible can result in a lower monthly premium. For example, increasing your auto insurance deductible from $500 to $1,000 could result in a 10% to 20% reduction in your premium. Ensure you are financially prepared to cover that higher amount if you need to file a claim.
How Your Score Impacts Your Rate
It may come as a surprise, but your credit score can play a significant role in determining your insurance rates. Insurers often use credit-based scores to evaluate risk. A higher score typically means lower premiums. If you want to improve your credit and potentially lower your insurance rates, consider these tips: pay bills on time, keep balances low on credit cards, and review your credit report regularly for errors.
Discounts You Might Be Missing
Many overlook discounts that could lead to real savings on their personal insurance. Here are a few to consider:
- Good driver discounts or savings for completing a defensive driving course
- Smart home features such as smoke detectors or water leak sensors
- Anti-theft devices installed in your vehicle
- Low annual mileage or participation in usage-based programs
- Loyalty or multi-year customer discounts
Your insurance agent can help you identify which discounts are currently available from reputable insurance providers that could help reduce the cost of your insurance policies.
Let’s Lower That Rate Together
If you’re looking for ways to trim your premiums without sacrificing coverage, our agency can help. At Brad Smith Agency, we’ll walk you through options tailored to your lifestyle and budget—from bundling to policy reviews to unlocking every available discount. Let’s work together to find personal insurance coverage that protects what matters most at a price that makes sense. Give us a call at (765) 791-1255.
Summer Grilling Safety Tips
There is nothing like the scent of burgers sizzling on the grill or the flavors of perfectly charred vegetables during the warm summer months. While grilling is a seasonal tradition, it is important to prioritize safety to keep cookouts accident-free. These essential summer grilling safety tips can help you ensure your outdoor cooking is both enjoyable and safe.
Choose the Right Location
The first step to safe grilling is to set up your grill in the right spot. Always place it on a flat, stable surface at least 10 feet away from your house, garage, or any flammable item or materials. Avoid grilling on wooden decks or near dry grass that could easily catch fire. Never use a grill indoors or in an enclosed space, as this could cause dangerous carbon monoxide build-up.
Inspect Your Grill
Thoroughly inspect your grill before firing it up for the first time each season. If you have a gas grill, check it for leaks by applying soapy water to the hose and connections. If bubbles form when the gas is turned on, you have a leak that must be repaired before using the grill. Ensure charcoal grills are free of leftover ash and debris.
Control Flare-Ups
Grease build-up is the main cause of grill flare-ups. To minimize excess fat, clean your grill grates and drip trays after every use. If you experience a flare-up, try to move the food to a cooler part of the grill and close the lid to smother the flames.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
Accidents can happen even when you take precautions. Keep a fire extinguisher within reach and know how to use it in case a fire breaks out. To put out a small fire without an extinguisher, cover the flames with baking soda.
Stay Focused
Distractions are a common cause of grilling accidents. Although it is easy to get caught up in conversation or step away to grab supplies, leaving a grill unattended can be a major fire risk. The designated grill master is responsible for keeping an eye on the flames at all times.
Shut Down Properly
When you have finished grilling, it is important to shut down your grill properly. For gas grills, turn off the burners and close the propane valve. For charcoal grills, allow the coals to cool completely, which takes many hours. Then, spray them with water and dispose of them in a metal container. Never leave hot coals unattended or in wooden or plastic trash cans or containers.
Pay Attention to Weather Conditions
Windy days increase the risk of flare-ups and flying embers. Be particularly cautious when grilling in less-than-ideal weather. If winds are strong, consider postponing your cookout to avoid fire risk.
Protect What Matters with Brad Smith Agency
While practicing safe grilling is essential, ensuring you are protected in case of an unexpected event is also important. Homeowners’ insurance can provide coverage for fire damage and liability protection should a guest be injured. Contact our experienced agent to learn more about how the right insurance can give you peace of mind this grilling season at (765) 791-1255.
A Guide to RV Insurance
Owning an RV gives you the freedom to explore. You can wake up with mountain views one day and enjoy ocean breezes the next. However, with freedom comes responsibility, and that is when RV insurance factors in. Whether you are a full-time nomad or a weekend warrior, understanding RV insurance options is crucial for protecting your investment and safeguarding against unexpected risks.
What Is RV Insurance?
RV insurance is specialized coverage designed to protect recreational vehicles like motorhomes, travel trailers, and camper vans. It is a blend of auto and homeowners insurance, addressing the vehicle’s mobility and the comforts of the living space. The type of RV you own can impact the coverage you need. Generally, RV insurance is categorized into two types:
- Motorized RVs (Classes A, B, and C): As they are driven on the road, these vehicles require more comprehensive coverage, including liability and collision.
- Towable RVs (Fifth-wheels, travel trailers, pop-up campers): Although these typically require less insurance, as liability may extend from your primary auto policy, coverage for damage and personal belongings is still essential.
Key Coverages to Consider
RV insurance is designed to cover hazards associated with owning and operating a recreational vehicle. The following are basic coverage options:
- Liability: This insurance covers bodily injury and property damage (including vehicles, homes, structures, and landscaping) sustained by others if you are at fault for an accident.
- Collision: If you collide with another vehicle or a fixed object, collision coverage covers damage to the RV, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
- Comprehensive: This coverage protects against damages that are not related to a collision, such as theft, vandalism, storms, and damage from falling branches, rocks, or debris.
- Medical payments: If you or your passengers are injured in an accident, this covers your medical expenses.
- Uninsured or underinsured motorist: This coverage kicks in if you are involved in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover your damages.
Do You Need Full-time RV Insurance in Indiana?
If your RV is your primary residence, or you use it for six months or more of the year, full-time RV insurance is a must and required by most lenders. It is an enhanced level of coverage added to a standard RV insurance policy to provide more extensive liability and personal insurance protection, similar to homeowners’ insurance. The following are key features of full-time RV insurance:
- Personal liability coverage: This protects you if someone is injured in or around your RV.
- Medical payments: This covers the medical costs of guests sustaining an injury while visiting your RV.
- Loss assessment: This coverage protects if you are part of an RV association that requires shared costs for damages to common areas.
- Personal belongings coverage: Recognizing the RV as a full-time residence, this insurance provides more comprehensive coverage for your personal possessions in your RV.
- Emergency expense allowance: This helps cover temporary living costs if your RV becomes uninhabitable after an accident or covered event.
Save on RV Insurance
RV insurance does not have to break the bank. Speak with one of our friendly agents at Brad Smith Agency for tips on how to lower your premiums while maintaining the coverage you need. Give us a call today at (765) 791-1255.
A Guide to Pet Safety When on Vacation
June is National Pet Preparedness Month, the perfect time to plan for your pet’s safety when planning a summer trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip, flying to a new destination, or leaving your pet at home, creating a safety plan for pets prevents stress, worry, and unexpected emergencies. This guide covers essential pet travel tips, including how travel insurance and pet insurance can provide valuable protection.
Preparing for Pet-Friendly Travel
No matter how you are traveling, if you are taking your furry friend to visit a new place, planning ahead can help you avoid problems. These general pet safety tips are always a good idea.
Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Not all hotels, vacation rentals, or campsites allow pets. Before booking, verify pet policies and any restrictions regarding breed, size, or additional fees. Consider accommodations with pet-friendly amenities, such as designated play areas, walking trails, and pet-sitting services.
Pack a Pet Travel Kit
A well-stocked travel kit ensures your pet has everything they need for a comfortable journey. Some items you should bring include the following:
- Sufficient food and water for the trip
- Food and water bowls
- Medications and medical records
- Collar with ID tags and a leash
- Familiar items (toys, blanket, or bed) for comfort
- Waste bags or litter supplies
- Grooming tools and cleaning wipes
- First-aid kit with supplies for your pet
Ensure Proper Identification
Microchipping your pet provides extra security if they are lost when far from home. Update your contact information with the microchip registry and ensure your pet wears a sturdy collar with an up-to-date ID tag.
Visit the Veterinarian Before Traveling
Schedule a vet checkup to confirm your pet is healthy enough to travel. Make sure they are up to date on any required vaccinations. If traveling internationally, research pet entry requirements for your destination, as some locations require specific vaccinations or quarantine periods.
Safe Travel by Car
Hit the road with your pet, ready for a long ride.
Use a Pet Carrier or Safety Harness
Secure your pet in a well-ventilated carrier or a crash-tested pet seat belt harness for road trips. Never allow pets to roam freely inside the car, as this can distract the driver and increase the risk of an accident.
Plan Frequent Breaks
Stop every few hours to let your pet stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Keep them leashed when stopping off in unfamiliar areas to prevent accidental escapes.
Never Leave Pets in a Hot Car
Temperatures inside a car can quickly rise to dangerous levels, even with cracked windows. If you must stop at a place that doesn’t allow pets, have a travel partner stay with them and find a pet-friendly establishment instead.
Flying with Your Pet
Take to the skies knowing your pet will be well cared for throughout your flight.
Understand Airline Policies
Each airline has varying rules for pet travel. Some allow small pets in the cabin, while others require pets to travel as cargo. Research airline policies and book a direct flight whenever possible to minimize stress on your pet and reduce travel time.
Use an Approved Pet Carrier
Ensure your pet carrier meets airline size requirements and allows your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Label the carrier with your contact information and include a familiar blanket and toy so your pet can feel comfortable.
Leaving Pets at Home? Consider a Trusted Caregiver
If you travel without your pet, arrange for a trusted pet sitter who can be a friend, or place your pet at a professional boarding facility. Provide detailed care instructions, emergency contacts, and your pet’s medical history to ensure well-being in your absence.
The Role of Travel and Pet Insurance
Travel Insurance for Pet Owners
Some travel insurance policies offer pet-related benefits, such as coverage for veterinary expenses if your pet becomes ill or injured during the trip. Additionally, travel delays or cancellations may include reimbursement for extended pet boarding fees if you cannot return home on time.
Pet Health Insurance for Unexpected Emergencies
Pet insurance covers routine and emergency veterinary care, helping alleviate financial burdens if your pet needs medical treatment while traveling. Our pet insurance agents can help you compare plans to find coverage that suits your pet’s age, breed, and medical history.
Enjoy Stress-Free Travel with Your Beloved Pet
Traveling with pets requires extra preparation, but with careful planning, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re hitting the road, boarding a flight, or arranging pet care at home, prioritizing pet safety and keeping an eye on your insurance coverage can offer peace of mind. If you’re looking for the right travel insurance to protect you and your pet, our travel insurance agents are here to help you find the best coverage for your needs. Call us today or come into our office for a free assessment.
5 Most Common Insurance Claims and How to Avoid Them
June has arrived! This month is National Homeowners’ Month and National Safety Month. We celebrate both special recognitions by considering how homeowners can keep their properties safe and secure. Knowing the most common insurance claims can help you safeguard your property and avoid the risk of losses. Here are five prevalent homeowners’ insurance claims and strategies to prevent them:
1. Water Damage
Water damage is a leading cause of homeowners’ insurance claims. In California, for instance, water damage is one of the leading causes of homeowner claims, with interior plumbing leaks often being the most significant issue. The good news is that most leaks can be avoided:
- Maintain your plumbing: Regularly inspect pipes for leaks or corrosion and address issues promptly.
- Install a leak detection system: Many smart systems are now available that can monitor your water usage. Just install as directed, and they will alert you to leaks before they escalate.
- Ensure proper drainage: Clear gutters and downspouts to direct water away from your home’s foundation.
- Insulate pipes: Protect pipes in unheated areas, like sheds and outbuildings, to prevent freezing during cold weather.
- Maintain adequate heating: Keep your home sufficiently warm during cold spells; this can keep internal piping open and flowing.
- Allow faucets to drip: Letting faucets drip during extreme cold can help prevent pipes from bursting from a pressure build-up when water freezes.
2. Wind and Hail Damage
Wind and hail are responsible for a significant portion of claims. Nationally, wind and hail affect approximately 1 in 35 homes annually. Be prepared and help your house weather the storm by following these prevention tips:
- Inspect and maintain your roof: Regularly check for loose or damaged shingles and repair them.
- Secure outdoor items: Anchor furniture, grills, and other objects that could become projectiles during storms, or better yet, take them inside the garage when you expect bad weather.
- Consider storm shutters: Protect windows from hail and debris with appropriate coverings. Hurricane-proof glass is also available, protecting you from wind speeds up to 200 mph.
3. Fire and Lightning Damage
Fire and lightning claims, though less frequent than water and wind issues, are often the costliest, averaging over $77,000 per claim, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Here are some ways to prepare for and prevent severe fire and electrical damage.
- Install smoke detectors: Place them throughout your home and test them monthly. Fire alarm batteries differ. Some smoke detectors need to be replaced every six months to a year, while others will last up to nine years or for the lifetime of the alarm. Know which type of alarm you have and replace the batteries on schedule to ensure ongoing protection.
- Practice electrical safety: Avoid overloading circuits and replace damaged cords immediately. Too many extension cords strung around the house is a bad idea.
- Maintain defensible space: To reduce wildfire risks, trim vegetation and create a buffer zone around your property. For example, stack firewood or dry garden trimmings 30 to 50 feet from buildings.
4. Bodily Injury and Property Damage
With an average cost per claim of $30,000, allowing hazardous conditions on your property can hurt visitors and guests and increase your insurance premiums. Trampolines are lots of fun, but they can and do cause injuries.
There are many ways a person can potentially have an accident, but keeping an eye out for the obvious things, like keeping walkways clear of toys or snow and ice, and not letting children run by the pool, can go a long way. Another interesting fact? Nearly one-third of personal injury claims against homeowners’ insurance come from dog bites, so keeping guests and your dog at a comfortable distance may help.
5. Theft and Burglary
Theft is a far less common claim homeowners make, but its effects can be devastating. Actions you take in your home, and even online, can make a difference.
- Install a security system: Visible alarms and cameras can deter potential intruders. Many systems now have apps you can use on your phone to view the camera feed from afar.
- Secure doors and windows: Use deadbolt locks and reinforce entry points. An open door is an invitation for thieves.
- Be mindful of social media: If you are concerned about the safety of your house during your departure, avoid announcing travel plans publicly, signaling an empty home.
- Get help from your neighbors: Ask a neighbor or a friend who lives nearby to keep an eye on your property and alert you of any suspicious activity.
Are You Covered for Common Homeowners’ Claims?
By implementing these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing the most common insurance claims, but just in case, check your coverage. Have questions about whether your policy includes all of the above? Our homeowners’ insurance agents are ready to speak with you. Call our office today to learn more about your current coverage and what you may need for the future.
Should I Switch to an Independent Insurance Agent?
Shopping for insurance can be a confusing, even overwhelming process, with policies loaded with obscure legal terms. Although exploring new options or switching agents may seem troublesome, it may be worth considering. Should you stick with your current agent or take the leap to an independent insurance agent? Let’s break it down.
What is the Difference Between Traditional and Independent Insurance Agents?
A traditional insurance agent works for one specific company and can only sell you policies from that company. Independent agents are professionals who are not tied to a single insurance provider. They partner with various companies and can offer multiple options from different providers.
What Are the Pros of Choosing an Independent Agent?
Switching to an independent insurance agent can have several advantages for policyholders:
- More choice; less stress: When you are shopping for insurance, prices, coverage, and policy details can vary drastically. As they represent different insurance companies, independent agents can offer a variety of options and price points. They can do the shopping for you, find the best deals to suit your needs, and ensure you are not overpaying for a policy.
- Expertise across multiple providers: Independent insurance agents are licensed experts with deep knowledge of different policies, coverage options, and industry trends. They can assess a customer’s insurance needs and match them with the best-equipped carrier at an affordable rate. Independent agents’ versatility allows them to be more flexible in addressing your needs.
- Personalized attention and advice: Larger companies may tend to prioritize volume over individualized service. Independent agents are more likely to focus on understanding your unique situation and recommend products that truly work for you. Whether you need home, auto, or life insurance, their advice is tailored to your unique circumstance and not based on a sales quota.
- One-stop shopping: Independent agents can often meet all of your insurance needs. Through the companies they represent, many can offer home, auto, renters, and life insurance, as well as business coverage.
- Ongoing support: Your relationship with an independent agent is ongoing. Once you have secured a policy, your agent is there to answer questions and make updates if your circumstances change. If you have a concern regarding billing or a claim, your agent can act as your advocate, dealing with the insurance company on your behalf.
Is It Worth It to Make the Switch?
Not all independent agents are the same. It is crucial to choose an agent with a solid reputation for service who offers a variety of options and has the depth of expertise you require. Shopping for insurance with an independent agent may require more time upfront. Communicate your needs and preferences, and your agent can compare different policies.
For a wider variety of options, flexibility, and ongoing support, switching to an independent insurance agent may be your best option if you value personalized service. Our knowledgeable agent is happy to meet to discuss your insurance needs and answer any questions you may have.