Learn how to keep you and your loved ones safe while out on the roads this winter.
Brisk winter weather may bring joy to children hoping for a snow day, but it’s a little less inspiring for drivers looking at a difficult trip or commute. Regardless of what type of vehicle you drive, preparing for ice and snow can not only keep you comfortable but may even save your life.
Is your car or truck ready to take the winter head-on? Here are five tried-and-true tips to make sure winter won’t pose an issue for your driving safety:
Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly
Cold weather can and will affect your tires’ ability to hold air pressure, with every ten degrees of cold leaching out about a pound of pressure, if left unchecked. Thankfully, this is easy to do with a handheld pressure checker – available at most auto parts stores – or via an air pump at your nearest gas station.
If you drive a newer model year, you may even be able to check air pressure levels from inside the car, via the dashboard computer: consult your owner’s manual to check.
TIP: While you’re checking your air pressure, be sure that your tires have enough tread to grip the road. Slide a penny, head first, into the long grooves in your tire; if you’re able to see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head unobscured, it’s time for new tires.
Make Sure Your Wiper Fluid is Topped Off
In warmer months, wipers are mainly used to keep rain from obscuring your view of the road. That means that you may develop a crack or leak in your wiper fluid tank without realizing it.
TIP: Don’t wait to find out the hard way during the first hard snow of the year: regularly check both your tank fluid level and sprayer to ensure both are in good working order.
Replace Tired Batteries Before Winter Hits
Batteries are an undeniable investment, but it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your vehicle’s power needs. Because motor oil becomes more viscous in colder temperatures, your motor has to work harder to start, which in turn demands more from your battery.
TIP: A battery that was on its last legs in the summer can leave you unexpectedly stranded in the winter. To prevent unpleasant surprises, be sure to replace any questionable or older car batteries in the fall before the snow starts.
Remember That Late is Better Than Injured
It may seem obvious, but give yourself more time to get to your destination when icy or snowy weather is expected. You will potentially need time to clear off snow from your vehicle or make a path in the driveway, and traffic will also factor in.
TIP: If you oversleep or can’t give yourself adequate prep time, make a habit of calling ahead to explain you’ll be late. Rushing leads to bad, hasty driving decisions and accidents on slick roads.
Drive Into Skids
If you live in an area where snow and ice accumulate, you’ll inevitably encounter icy roads or patches of black ice before spring comes around. If you find your car skidding in one of these situations, remember to take your feet off the pedals, and turn your vehicle into the direction of the skid, if it is safely possible.
TIP: Panic will often cause drivers to jerk the wheel in the opposite direction, or press the gas or brake pedals, but both of these reactions can actually reduce vehicular control.
Staying safe while driving in the winter is a balanced mix of ensuring your car is prepared to face the cold, and that your driving habits reflect potential winter weather problems. While it can be a challenging few months, getting through them safely will make that first windows-down springtime drive that much more rewarding.
Do Rock Chip Claims Impact My Insurance Premiums?
/in BlogSo, the question arises: Can filing a rock chip claim affect my insurance rates? The short answer is yes, it is possible.
Depending on your insurance company, multiple glass claims can upset the delicate balance of claims loss. Insurance companies typically factor in various rating criteria, including age, zip code, and previous claims when determining rates. Some insurers argue that individuals who frequently file glass claims have a higher overall loss rate, which translates into increased costs for the company.
Additionally, the number of claims you file within a specific time frame can play a role. For example, if you submit a theft claim and then file a rock chip claim the following week, it could raise a red flag on your policy due to excessive claim activity, potentially leading to a rate increase. This occurs because when you visit a rock chip repair tent, they ask for your policy number and file an insurance claim to receive payment (if you have comprehensive insurance).
It’s important to note that not all insurance companies follow this practice, and determining which ones do and which ones don’t can be challenging. It’s wise to rely on your local insurance agent to guide you to the best options for your insurance needs. For instance, if you commute frequently and find yourself needing a new windshield every year, your agent can help identify a company that may be more lenient regarding multiple claims. Some insurers even offer zero deductible glass replacement.
Regardless of your situation, it’s always advisable to discuss your insurance options with a licensed insurance agent who can provide personalized guidance.
In conclusion, filing rock chip claims can potentially impact your insurance rates. The decision to file a claim depends on various factors, and it’s essential to understand the policies of your specific insurance company. By consulting with your insurance agent, you can navigate the options available to find the best coverage for your needs. Let us help you with your auto insurance. We represent multiple companies and can find you the coverage and pricing you want.
8 Situations Requiring Umbrella Insurance: Protecting Your Assets
/in BlogBabysitting Mishap:
Imagine your teenage daughter is babysitting the neighbor’s children. She briefly leaves the house to run an errand, and unfortunately, one of the kids gets seriously injured and requires expensive surgery. The parents of the child sue you for the medical bills, which exceed $300,000.
Defamatory Social Media Posts:
Your son expresses his discontent with his gym teacher on social media, making derogatory comments that result in a defamation lawsuit. The court awards the teacher $500,000 in damages.
Reckless Driving:
Your 17-year-old child takes friends for a joyride in your car, losing control and causing severe injuries to all occupants. Your umbrella policy helps cover the substantial medical expenses resulting from the accident.
Alcohol-Related Liability:
Hosting a 4th of July celebration, you provide alcohol to your guests. One friend, who consumes excessively, causes a fatal car accident. The victim’s family sues you for serving alcohol irresponsibly, and you are found liable. The consequences include significant legal expenses and potential damages.
Rental Property Accident:
A rotting deck on your rental property collapses, causing a tenant to suffer a severe leg injury requiring extensive surgery. A jury awards the tenant $750,000 in damages.
Negligence with Rental Equipment:
Renting a bouncy house for a wedding held on your property, you fail to secure it properly, leading to the house blowing away with children inside. Although the children are unharmed, the families sue you for negligence, resulting in a $100,000 award for each family due to mental and post-traumatic stress.
Dog Attack:
Your dog escapes and attacks a neighbor’s show dog, causing permanent scars and a limp, rendering it unable to participate in shows. The dog owner sues you for loss of income, resulting in a jury awarding $450,000.
Social Host Liability:
As the “cool parent,” you agree to provide alcohol to your kids and their friends as long as they stay at your house. Unfortunately, one of the friends leaves and is involved in a fatal accident while intoxicated. The parents of the deceased child sue you for providing alcohol to minors, leading to a jury awarding $2 million in damages.
These situations highlight the importance of umbrella insurance coverage when your existing liability limits on home or auto policies are exceeded. The good news is that umbrella policies are relatively affordable. To determine the best options for your needs, contact our office and request a personalized umbrella insurance quote today.
Ensure you have the necessary protection in place by considering an umbrella insurance policy. These examples illustrate the potential risks and the need for additional coverage. Reach out to us to explore our competitive rates for umbrella insurance and secure your financial well-being.
5 Tips for Safe Driving in the Winter
/in BlogLearn how to keep you and your loved ones safe while out on the roads this winter.
Brisk winter weather may bring joy to children hoping for a snow day, but it’s a little less inspiring for drivers looking at a difficult trip or commute. Regardless of what type of vehicle you drive, preparing for ice and snow can not only keep you comfortable but may even save your life.
Is your car or truck ready to take the winter head-on? Here are five tried-and-true tips to make sure winter won’t pose an issue for your driving safety:
Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly
Cold weather can and will affect your tires’ ability to hold air pressure, with every ten degrees of cold leaching out about a pound of pressure, if left unchecked. Thankfully, this is easy to do with a handheld pressure checker – available at most auto parts stores – or via an air pump at your nearest gas station.
If you drive a newer model year, you may even be able to check air pressure levels from inside the car, via the dashboard computer: consult your owner’s manual to check.
TIP: While you’re checking your air pressure, be sure that your tires have enough tread to grip the road. Slide a penny, head first, into the long grooves in your tire; if you’re able to see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head unobscured, it’s time for new tires.
Make Sure Your Wiper Fluid is Topped Off
In warmer months, wipers are mainly used to keep rain from obscuring your view of the road. That means that you may develop a crack or leak in your wiper fluid tank without realizing it.
TIP: Don’t wait to find out the hard way during the first hard snow of the year: regularly check both your tank fluid level and sprayer to ensure both are in good working order.
Replace Tired Batteries Before Winter Hits
Batteries are an undeniable investment, but it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your vehicle’s power needs. Because motor oil becomes more viscous in colder temperatures, your motor has to work harder to start, which in turn demands more from your battery.
TIP: A battery that was on its last legs in the summer can leave you unexpectedly stranded in the winter. To prevent unpleasant surprises, be sure to replace any questionable or older car batteries in the fall before the snow starts.
Remember That Late is Better Than Injured
It may seem obvious, but give yourself more time to get to your destination when icy or snowy weather is expected. You will potentially need time to clear off snow from your vehicle or make a path in the driveway, and traffic will also factor in.
TIP: If you oversleep or can’t give yourself adequate prep time, make a habit of calling ahead to explain you’ll be late. Rushing leads to bad, hasty driving decisions and accidents on slick roads.
Drive Into Skids
If you live in an area where snow and ice accumulate, you’ll inevitably encounter icy roads or patches of black ice before spring comes around. If you find your car skidding in one of these situations, remember to take your feet off the pedals, and turn your vehicle into the direction of the skid, if it is safely possible.
TIP: Panic will often cause drivers to jerk the wheel in the opposite direction, or press the gas or brake pedals, but both of these reactions can actually reduce vehicular control.
Staying safe while driving in the winter is a balanced mix of ensuring your car is prepared to face the cold, and that your driving habits reflect potential winter weather problems. While it can be a challenging few months, getting through them safely will make that first windows-down springtime drive that much more rewarding.