Happy Fall!
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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?

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.
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So who's responsible for cyber risks and hacking?

Have you been thinking about buying an electric vehicle (EV)?  If so, you've also probably wondered if the insurance for an EV will be more than a comparable gas-powered vehicle.

So how does EV car insurance premiums compare to non-EV insurance premiums?

According to a recent comparison study of EV vs. non-EV rates across low to high cost vehicles, on average, EV insurance costs about 25% more than its gas alternative.
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Why is that?  Several reasons - generally:

The number of high-tech safety features on new vehicles has mushroomed in the past few years.   Here's a partial list:
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• back-up sensors
• blind spot warning
• adaptive cruise control
• lane departure warning
• driver alertness warning
• collision-avoidance systems
• automatic emergency braking

Do insurers offer discounts for these newer auto safety features?

Auto insurers typically give discounts for some safety features but they vary by company and state to state.

Also, some states require insurance carriers to give discounts for certain safety features.

It's important to make sure your insurance company has the right model of your vehicle.   Providing a vehicle identification number (VIN) assures the accurate information is transmitted to your company.

What safety features might qualify for discounts?

According to the AAA Foundation, 11% of car accidents are hit-and-runs - more common than you might think.

If you're a victim of a hit-and-run does insurance cover the accident?

If the person at fault is found, his liability insurance should take care of the damage and any deductible.

If the person can't be located or is found but doesn't have insurance, coverage falls on your insurance policy.
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Your standard/liability-only auto policy doesn't cover these accidents.  Several options you've hopefully already added to your policy might help:

Have you ever heard of the term "subrogation" when investigating insurance but really don't understand it?

It's a legal term that is more commonly applied to auto insurance claims, and you need to understand what it is in case you ever need to use it.
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So buckle up and let's dive into: 1) what auto insurance subrogation is;  2) when you should consider using it; and 3) when you should NOT use it.

Can summer heat break your car windshield or windows?
Yes, especially with the hottest summer on record.  One of my client's car windows had shatter cracks throughout the window, and had to be replaced.
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How does this happen?

How often should you review your insurance policies?

At a minimum, evaluate them once a year prior to renewal to ensure they still meet your current needs and to take advantage of any potential cost savings.

Plus, certain life events or changes in circumstances may require an immediate review of your policies.
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Examples of situations that may require a review of your insurance policies include: