If you're in an auto accident and you expect yours will be totaled, don't sit around and wait to hear from the adjuster. There are several things you need to do immediately:
Don't wait for disaster to strike. Get an experienced independent insurance agent in your corner now who can guide you expertly through situations like this: 706-726-1446. Do you "bundle" your insurance policies?
Generally, it's advantageous to do this, meaning you combine your insurance coverages with the same insurer. Companies reward you with discounts for using that one insurer to cover multiple policies. The most common combination is to use the same carrier for home and auto insurance. HOWEVER, there are exceptions, and this is another reason to use an experienced independent agent. Independent agents have access to numbers of insurance carriers, meaning they can mix companies to match your specific insurance needs. When would using different companies be better than bundling policies with one insurer? Here are a few examples: Although a few insurance companies offer this as part of a standard homeowners policy, most companies offer it as a rider.
Coverage varies widely and usually don't cover stolen money or other financial losses. However, it may include proactive monitoring services, resolution assistance, and reimbursement for expenses related to restoring your identity, like legal fees. According to a variety of sources, the most vulnerable targets are: Have you used a free cell phone charging station at the airport or hotel? If so, you may have put yourself at risk of a cyber hack.
The FBI found that cyber criminals are installing malware onto public USB charging stations that can export your data and password information from your phone. Once they have this information, they can access your online accounts. If you see a cable left plugged into a free charging station... Did you know domestic burglaries increase substantially once the clocks are turned back?
With the time change coming up soon, now is the time to prep your home to minimize the possibility of a home break-in. Here are some reminders: In a previous post, I explained why insurance has become so complicated. The key to eliminating these complexities is to engage the services of an experienced independent insurance agent. Here's why:
You're not by yourself if you feel overwhelmed when making decisions about your insurance coverage.
Why is insurance so complicated, and how do you navigate through coverage options to ensure you choose what's best for you? Read on for answers to these important questions. I commonly review policies with limits that are alarmingly low and leave the client much too open to financial liability.
This is one of the common mistakes people make when they self-select insurance coverage online. Here's a prime example: Have you ever let someone borrow your vehicle and then wondered who would be responsible if that person had an at-fault accident while driving it?
What about your child who no longer lives at home? What about your roommate? These are just a few examples each involving different circumstances and which may impact whether they should be listed on your auto insurance policy. Generally speaking: What does the Russian invasion of Ukraine have to do with your auto insurance rates?
Ukraine is a main supplier of neon, and Russia is a key supplier of palladium - both components used in the production of semi-conductors and may directly influence chip shortages. But that's not the only factor causing a rise in auto insurance premiums. Here's a sampling of other direct influences on auto insurance costs: Do you have a recreational boat?
As recreational boating season ends for the year and you prepare to store your boat, there are several things you need to consider insurance-wise:
Recreational boats are a large financial investment, so protect this valuable asset. Call me at 706-726-1446 to make sure your boat is adequately covered, not only during peak use season but also during storage periods. With the temps feeling like fall, it's almost time to fire up your wood-burning fireplace for the first time this season.
Do you remember when it was last inspected and cleaned? If chimneys aren't properly maintained, they build up creosote that can catch on fire and can escalate into an all-out house fire very quickly. Chimney fires are largely preventable with ... Is it worth it to have a cell phone warranty or insurance?
If you're prone to dropping your phone, losing it, or consider it essential to your work role, this may not even be a question, but rather how to decipher your options. Factors to consider: Living in high relative humidity climates like we have in Georgia and South Carolina increases the possibility of mold developing in our homes.
Anytime thick, humid air interacts with surfaces that are cooler than the air around them, condensation occurs. That makes a great environment for mold spores to attach to and grow. Those conditions are more prone to show up in bathrooms, kitchens, basements - where condensation and water are likely to be present. So the question I get is: does homeowners insurance cover mold? The temperatures are cooling down, and fall has finally arrived.
Did you know there are certain types of insurance claims that are more prevalent during the fall and early winter seasons? Here are the top ones: Yes, anti-theft devices are a smart investment for both your vehicle's safety and potential insurance savings.
Insurance companies acknowledge that these devices significantly lower the chances of a stolen vehicle, which can translate to discounts for policyholders. What are the major types of devices and the discounts they can lead to? Gun deer hunting season is starting soon in Georgia and South Carolina, and that means deer will be on the move.
It's not surprising that both states are considered a high risk state for animal collisions. Reports reveal GA drivers have a 1 in 83 chance of having a collision with an animal, and SC drivers have a 1 in 71 chance. That animal is a deer in 67% of animal collisions. Are auto-deer collisions covered by your auto insurance? As the temperatures turn cooler and fall arrives, squirrels, mice, and other rodents start looking for warm places to bunk up.
Unfortunately, attic spaces are great at matching their criteria, and these little rodents only need a very small space to get into your attic or crawlspace. Once inside, squirrels and mice can eat through wood, wiring, and insulation, which can create safety hazards. Homeowners insurance usually doesn't cover damage from squirrels and other rodents because it is considered preventable. What can you do to prevent this kind of damage? With the proliferation of cyber attacks, businesses have been warned to bolster their digital security...but do all businesses really need cyber security insurance?
Both cybersecurity and insurance experts agree that a business that stores any form of digital data should consider carrying cybersecurity insurance, even if it's low coverage limits. This kind of insurance covers the financial impact of hacking, ransomware extortion, data breaches, and data theft. The amount of coverage a business needs depends on a number of factors including: If you're one of millions who have a home-based business, do you know if your company is covered by your homeowner's policy?
Typically, no. Homeowner's insurance may include some very narrow protections like replacement of damaged electronics and other similar business property. If you have clients come to your home for business purposes or have employees, you need to have business insurance in case they are injured, their property is damaged, or they bring a lawsuit against you for other unexpected situations. There are a number of options for insuring your home-based business. To get a better idea of what you need for yours, call me at 706-726-1446. I'll be glad to help you. Are you among the many side hustlers renting out your backyard and pool (or other property) by the hour?
In addition to bringing in some extra money, it can also create additional liability issues for you. Happy Fall!
Oops, I'm a few days early but Fall IS coming, and did you know there are certain types of insurance claims that are more prevalent during the fall and early winter seasons? How does a home warranty differ from homeowner's insurance, and do you need it?
Most homeowners are required to have homeowner's insurance by their mortgage company, but a home warranty is an option that can be added on to a home policy. It's football season and time to enjoy the cooler temps and social events like tailgating.
If you're taking to the road to your favorite football game, drinking and driving can be one of the most expensive mistakes you can make, not to mention the legal, physical and emotional tolls. Do you know when you get a DUI, when it will show up on your insurance, how much to expect it to go up, and how long before it falls off your motor vehicle record (MVR)? With the rise in vehicle technology, insurers have to consider more complex claims issues, and electric vehicles are a prime area.
Electric vehicle (EV) owners haven't necessarily thought about the risk of using public charging stations. The software in these stations can transfer data in and out. This allows the potential of spreading malware TO an EV from the charging station. Cyber criminals have also been able to hack into electric vehicles, with the major results being data or privacy breaches. However the second most common issue is theft or break-ins from accessing the wireless key fob. Hackers have also been able to access third party applications that control music, door unlocking, and flashing headlights. It's a matter of time before someone takes control over the steering, brakes, and acceleration functions. So who's responsible for cyber risks and hacking? |
AuthorDennis Lam Archives
May 2024
Categories
All
|