Author Archive: Jeffrey Fitzpatrick

renters insurance

5 Questions to Ask When Shopping For Renters Insurance

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Renters insurance offers important protection for anyone leasing an apartment, condo, or home. From covering personal belongings to providing liability coverage, a policy can offer peace of mind in case of unexpected events like theft, fire, or water damage. Yet, many people aren’t sure what to look for when selecting a plan. According to The Zebra, only 55% of US renters have renters insurance policies, leaving nearly half without essential protection. To make the best choice, here are key questions to ask when shopping for renters insurance.

1. What Does the Policy Cover?

This is one of the most important questions to ask. Renters insurance typically covers personal belongings, liability protection, and additional living expenses if you’re forced to move out due to a covered loss. However, policies can vary widely, so it’s important to understand exactly what’s included—and what’s not.

2. How Much Coverage Do I Need?

The amount of coverage you need depends on the value of your personal property. Take an inventory of your belongings, including furniture, electronics, clothing, and other valuables. This will help you determine how much personal property coverage to purchase so you’re not left underinsured.

3. Are High-Value Items Fully Protected?

Many policies have limits on high-value items like jewelry, electronics, or fine art. Ask your insurance provider if additional coverage or endorsements are needed to fully protect these items. This ensures that you won’t be surprised by a coverage gap when you file a claim.

4. What Is the Deductible?

The deductible is the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket before your renters insurance kicks in. Lower deductibles mean higher premiums, while higher deductibles lower your monthly cost but increase your financial responsibility during a claim. Make sure the deductible aligns with what you’re comfortable paying.

5. Is Liability Coverage Included?

Liability coverage protects you if someone is injured in your rental or if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property. Ask what the policy includes and whether additional liability protection is recommended based on your lifestyle and risk factors.

When selecting a policy, asking the right questions makes all the difference. AOAWest is here to help guide you through the renters insurance process, ensuring you have the right protection for your home and everything in it. Reach out today to learn more!

insurance center

What Do These Different Insurance Options Cover?

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Insurance is essential for protecting yourself, your property, and your financial future. However, understanding the details of different policies can be confusing. Many people are unaware of what their coverage includes, which can lead to unexpected expenses in the event of an accident or disaster. According to Value Penguin, 47% of homeowners are unsure of what their insurance covers. Working with an experienced insurance center can help you choose the right policies to meet your needs. Below, we break down four common types of insurance and what they typically cover.

Auto Insurance

Auto insurance provides financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or vehicle damage. Most policies include liability coverage, which pays for damages and injuries you cause to others. Comprehensive and collision coverage help pay for repairs to your own vehicle due to accidents, weather damage, or vandalism. Some policies also offer uninsured motorist protection, covering your expenses if you’re hit by a driver without insurance. An insurance center can help you customize your policy to ensure you have the right level of coverage.

Business Insurance

Business insurance helps protect companies from financial losses related to lawsuits, property damage, employee injuries, and more. General liability insurance covers claims of bodily injury or property damage caused by your business operations. Property insurance helps repair or replace equipment, inventory, or buildings damaged by fire, storms, or theft. Some businesses may also need professional liability insurance, which covers errors and omissions in professional services. A reliable insurance center can assess your risks and recommend coverage that safeguards your business.

Homeowner’s Insurance

Homeowner’s insurance protects your home and personal belongings against damage or loss. Standard policies cover events such as fire, theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage. Liability coverage is also included, which helps pay for injuries or property damage that occur on your property. However, many policies do not cover floods or earthquakes, so additional coverage may be necessary. Since 47% of homeowners are unsure of what their policy covers, working with an insurance center ensures you understand your policy and get the best protection.

Choosing the right insurance policies ensures financial security and peace of mind. AOA West Insurance offers personalized guidance to help you understand and select the best coverage options for your home, vehicle, business, and more. Contact us today to discuss your insurance needs. We look forward to working with you!

homeowners insurance

3 Key Benefits of Homeowner’s Insurance

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Homeownership is a significant milestone, representing both a personal achievement and a substantial financial investment. However, it’s essential to protect this investment from unforeseen circumstances. This is where homeowner’s insurance comes into play, as it’s a pivotal shield that offers financial security and peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll explore the key benefits that homeowner’s insurance provides, ensuring that your home and finances remain safeguarded.

1. Property Damage Protection

One of the primary benefits of homeowner’s insurance is protection against property damage. Natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods, as well as human-made incidents such as fires and vandalism, can cause significant damage to your home. By having a comprehensive insurance policy, you can cover the repair costs or even the full replacement of your home. This financial safety net is crucial in helping homeowners recover from events that could otherwise be financially devastating.

2. Personal Belongings Coverage

An often-overlooked advantage of homeowner’s insurance is coverage for personal belongings. In the unfortunate event of burglary or theft, insurance can provide compensation for lost or damaged items. According to the Insurance Information Institute, theft is the reason for 97.7% of home insurance claims. This statistic underscores the importance of having coverage for personal belongings, as theft is a common occurrence that can impact anyone. With homeowner’s insurance, you can receive compensation to replace or repair stolen or damaged goods, helping to alleviate the emotional and financial burden of such events.

3. Liability Protection

Liability protection is another significant benefit of homeowner’s insurance. This coverage can protect you financially if someone gets injured on your property and decides to sue. Legal fees and medical bills can accumulate quickly, but with liability insurance, you’re covered for these expenses. This aspect of homeowner’s insurance helps make sure that a simple accident doesn’t lead to financial ruin, offering you and your family an added layer of security.

Homeowner’s insurance is essential for anyone who owns a home. It not only protects your physical dwelling but also provides financial coverage for personal belongings and potential liabilities. With the comprehensive protection that homeowner’s insurance offers, you can enjoy the comfort of your home with confidence, knowing that you are prepared for whatever life may throw at you. Reach out to AOA West Insurance today to get started with our services!

classic car insurance

3 Reasons Classic Car Insurance Is a Must

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Owning a classic car is a dream for many automobile enthusiasts, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane. However, with the privilege of ownership comes the responsibility of preserving and protecting these cherished vehicles. Classic car insurance is an essential safeguard for any devoted classic car owner, ensuring your investment is secure from unforeseen mishaps. Here are 3 compelling reasons why you should consider classic car insurance.

1. Specialized Coverage

Unlike regular auto insurance, classic car insurance policies are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of vintage vehicles. These policies often include “agreed value” coverage, ensuring you receive a pre-determined amount in case of a total loss. This valuation reflects the true worth of your classic car, covering intricacies such as restoration and rare parts. Standard insurance simply can’t provide the specialized protection necessary for these treasured vehicles. Whether it’s a vintage muscle car or a one-of-a-kind collectible, classic car insurance gives you coverage tailored to your needs.

2. Protection Against Accidents

Unfortunately, accidents can occur even to the most cautious drivers. According to Statista, in 2018, there were over 34 thousand fatalities, approximately 1.8 million injuries, and around five million car crashes involving property damage. Classic car insurance provides vital protection in such instances, allowing you to restore your prized possession without bearing the full financial burden. This peace of mind lets classic car owners enjoy their vehicles worry-free, knowing they’re prepared for the unexpected. With this coverage, you can confidently take your vehicle out for special events or leisurely drives, knowing it’s protected.

3. Cost-Effective Solutions

While insuring a classic car might seem expensive, specialized insurance often offers surprisingly affordable options. Insurers recognize that classic car owners typically maintain their vehicles in excellent condition and drive them infrequently. These factors contribute to lower premiums compared to standard auto insurance. Additionally, classic car insurance policies often provide benefits such as flexible storage options and tailored usage guidelines, ensuring maximum value for your premium investment. Whether you’re storing your car in a private garage or displaying it at shows, your policy can adapt to your needs.

Classic car insurance is a vital consideration for anyone who owns a vintage vehicle. Through specialized coverage, accident protection, and cost-effective options, this insurance ensures your classic car is safeguarded in every scenario. As a collector, preserving your car and enjoying peace of mind should always be a priority.

Ready to protect your classic car? Contact a trusted insurance provider at AOA West today to explore the best options for your cherished vehicle.

classic car insurance

Classic Car Insurance and Its Importance

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Classic cars evoke a sense of nostalgia and class that transcends generations. These vintage vehicles are not just modes of transportation; they are cherished collectibles, often imbued with rich histories and unique stories. As their value and significance grow over time, the need for adequate insurance becomes increasingly crucial to protect these invaluable assets against unforeseen circumstances.

Understanding Classic Car Insurance

Unlike regular car insurance, classic car insurance is specifically tailored to meet the needs of vintage car owners. Classic cars are often driven less frequently and maintained with great care, which means their risk profiles differ from everyday vehicles. This specialized insurance provides coverage that addresses these nuances, ensuring that owners are not overpaying while still receiving optimal protection.

The Economic Impact of Classic Cars

The economic significance of classic cars cannot be overstated. According to Statista, the United States is the world’s largest market for classic cars, generating between 14 and 15 billion U.S. dollars in revenue in 2020. This booming market highlights the considerable investment these cars represent, underscoring why safeguarding them with appropriate insurance is essential for those who want to protect their financial interests.

Key Benefits of Specialized Coverage

Furthermore, classic car insurance policies often offer features that standard auto insurance does not. This can include agreed value coverage, where the policyholder and insurer agree on the car’s value upfront, and zero depreciation coverage. These are valuable benefits that help ensure that owners will receive the full value of their investment in the event of a loss, providing a sense of security not found in regular auto insurance policies.

As the allure and investment value of classic cars continues to rise, so too does the importance of securing the right insurance coverage. Classic car insurance is designed to address the unique characteristics and needs of these collectible vehicles, offering tailored protection that both safeguards owners’ financial investments and preserves the cherished history embedded within each car. As a pivotal component in the preservation and enjoyment of classic cars, insurance remains an indispensable resource for collectors around the globe.

Protect your classic car with the specialized coverage it deserves. At AOA West, we understand the unique value of your vintage vehicle and offer tailored insurance solutions to safeguard your investment. Contact us today to explore your options!

rental insurance

3 Ways Rental Insurance Protects You

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When renting a home or apartment, many tenants underestimate the importance of rental insurance. This is often due to a lack of awareness or the misconception that it isn’t necessary. However, rental insurance is a small investment that provides significant protection. In this blog post, we’ll explore 3 essential ways rental insurance protects you and why it’s a worthwhile choice for renters seeking peace of mind and financial security.

1. Protecting Your Personal Belongings

One of the primary benefits of rental insurance is the protection it provides for your personal belongings. Many renters mistakenly assume that their landlord’s insurance will cover their items in the event of damage or theft, but this is rarely the case. Rental insurance ensures that if your belongings are damaged or stolen, you receive compensation to replace them. This can cover everything from electronics to furniture, allowing you to recover financially without bearing the full burden of replacement costs. Given that rental insurance premiums are relatively affordable, this protection is essential to avoid significant financial loss.

2. Personal Liability Coverage

Another crucial aspect of rental insurance is personal liability coverage. If someone is injured while visiting your rental property, you could be held financially responsible for their medical expenses. Rental insurance helps cover these costs, protecting you from potentially devastating financial losses due to unexpected accidents. Medical bills can quickly add up, making liability coverage a critical feature of rental insurance. Without it, a single mishap could lead to long-term financial strain, making rental insurance a wise choice for added security.

3. Additional Living Expenses Coverage

Rental insurance also provides coverage for additional living expenses. In the unfortunate event that your rental becomes uninhabitable due to a covered peril—such as a fire, severe weather, or other damage—rental insurance can help cover the cost of temporary housing and related expenses. This ensures you have a safe place to stay without facing the financial stress of finding and funding alternative accommodations. For many renters, this coverage is invaluable during unexpected disruptions.

Rental insurance is a vital safeguard that offers valuable protection for renters, covering personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses. Despite the relatively low cost of premiums, many renters remain uninsured, according to a recent report by the Insurance Information Institute, leaving themselves vulnerable to substantial risks. By investing in rental insurance, you can secure yourself and your assets, ensuring you’re prepared for life’s unexpected events. Rental insurance is more than a policy—it’s peace of mind for renters everywhere. Reach out to AOA West Insurance to discuss your options!

Did You Recently Purchase a Motorcycle? It’s Time to Invest in Proper Insurance!

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Congratulations on your recent motorcycle purchase! Owning a motorcycle is an exciting experience, but it also comes with important responsibilities—most notably, ensuring you have the right motorcycle insurance coverage. According to Forbes, motorcycle riders account for 14% of all traffic fatalities, even though only 3% of all registered vehicles are motorcycles. This statistic underscores the importance of having proper insurance coverage to protect yourself and others on the road.

Why Is Motorcycle Insurance Important?

Riding a motorcycle offers freedom, but it also carries certain risks. Motorcycle insurance is essential because it provides financial protection in the event of an accident, theft, or damage to your bike. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a new enthusiast, having the right insurance can protect you from costly repairs, medical expenses, and liability claims. Without proper coverage, you could be responsible for significant out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an accident.

What Coverage Should You Consider?

When choosing motorcycle insurance, it’s important to consider the types of coverage that best suit your needs. Liability coverage is required by law in most states and helps cover damages to others if you’re at fault in an accident. In addition, collision coverage protects your bike if it’s damaged in an accident, while comprehensive coverage can protect against theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. You may also want to consider additional options like uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and medical payments coverage to provide extra protection.

Protect Yourself and Your Investment

Your motorcycle is a significant investment, and having the right insurance coverage ensures that you’re protected financially. In addition to providing peace of mind on the road, motorcycle insurance can also help with roadside assistance, covering towing and other emergency services that you might need. Investing in comprehensive insurance coverage not only safeguards your bike but also provides essential support during unexpected situations.

Owning a motorcycle is about enjoying the ride, and the last thing you want is to worry about financial risks. Investing in proper motorcycle insurance is the key to enjoying your ride with confidence, knowing that you’re covered in any situation. At AOA West Insurance, we provide tailored motorcycle insurance solutions that meet your needs and keep you protected on every journey. Contact AOA West Insurance today to learn more about our comprehensive coverage options and get a quote for your motorcycle insurance needs.

renters insurance

How Renters Insurance Can Save You After a Break-In

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Owning a home comes with its own set of responsibilities and protections. But what about those who choose to rent? One crucial, yet often overlooked, safeguard is renters insurance. With break-ins occurring more frequently than one might think, having insurance can be a financial lifesaver. In this blog post, we’ll explore how this essential coverage can protect you in the unfortunate event of a break-in.

Covers the Cost of Lost Items

Picture this: you come home from a weekend away to find your apartment has been ransacked. Electronics, jewelry, and personal items are all missing. While the emotional toll can be overwhelming, the financial hit can be devastating. This is where insurance steps in. It helps cover the cost of your stolen items, ensuring that you can replace your belongings without draining your savings. In the unfortunate event of a break-in, renters insurance can turn a potentially ruinous situation into a manageable one.

Provides Liability Protection

Moreover, insurance provides more than just coverage for your personal belongings. It also often includes liability protection. If during the break-in, the intruder causes damage to the property or injures someone, you could be held responsible. However, insurance can cover these incidental costs, giving you peace of mind. Given that 55% of U.S. renters have renter’s insurance policies, according to The Zebra, it’s clear that many see the value in this type of coverage.

Offers Living Expenses Coverage

Not only does insurance cover your valuables and offer liability protection, but it also provides additional living expenses coverage. If your rental home is uninhabitable due to the damage caused by the break-in, where will you live? Renters insurance typically covers the cost of temporary accommodations, making it easier for you to find a place to stay while repairs are being made. This can be a crucial benefit, allowing you to focus on getting your life back to normal.

Insurance is an indispensable tool for anyone who rents their home. From covering the cost of stolen items and protecting you from liability to providing funds for temporary accommodation, this insurance guards against a wide variety of potential pitfalls. With more than half of U.S. renters carrying a policy, the benefits are well-recognized. Don’t wait for disaster to strike; ensure you have renters insurance to protect yourself and your belongings by reaching out to AOA West Insurance today.

insurance agencies

The Financial Consequences of Not Having Car Insurance

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Every state requires motorists to carry at least a state-mandated minimum amount of liability insurance to pay for injuries or property damage that others might suffer. Most property and casualty insurance agencies help auto owners insure their vehicles to protect them and others against financial liability due to accidents. According to Forbes, about 14% of motorists drive uninsured vehicles. The percentage is even higher in many states and urban areas. Here are the financial consequences of not having car insurance.

Fines and Potential Criminal Charges

If you’re caught driving an uninsured vehicle, you’ll likely see your vehicle get impounded and towed to a holding yard. You also will be fined hundreds of dollars or more and possibly charged with a misdemeanor. You likely will need to obtain at least state-mandated liability insurance for personal injuries and property damage from one of your local insurance agencies before going to get your vehicle out of the impoundment lot. You also might lose your driving privileges or have them restricted.

Legal Liability for Injuries and Damage

If you cause an accident while driving, the lack of liability insurance would make you liable for all costs and harm that you might cause others. Any vehicular or other property damage you might cause in an accident would come out of your pocket. You also would be responsible for medical costs, pain and suffering, and other harm to those you might have injured if you are at fault for causing an accident. The harms might include lost wages and other costs, which could force you into bankruptcy that you could have avoided by getting insured with the help of local insurance agencies.

Loss of Compensation Rights When Not at Fault

Many states require you to have legally mandated levels of liability insurance to qualify for reciprocal coverage if someone else causes an accident that damages your vehicle or causes you injuries. It’s called “pay to play” and holds you accountable if you don’t have liability insurance or other mandated insurance protection as required by your state. The idea is to ensure everyone has mandated levels of insurance, which helps insurers afford to pay legitimate claims while charging lower rates for auto insurance.

You can call, submit an online request, or visit our insurance agency when you need insurance for your auto, motorcycle, or other road-going vehicle. We are an independent and family-owned insurance agency. We’ve helped insure Oregon drivers since 1979. Reach out to AOA West Insurance.

classic car insurance services

4 Things to Know Before Choosing Classic Car Insurance Services

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Classic cars are often your pride and joy. They appear at car shows, and there’s nothing quite like customizing your car. Classic car insurance services help you protect your investment to ensure you receive compensation for damages and have the assistance you need. However, there are a few things to know before you get car insurance.

1. Classic Car Details

There is specific insurance for classic cars, so knowing whether you have a classic car is essential. According to American Collectors, vehicles manufactured before the year 2000 are defined as classic cars. You’ll also need to know how many miles you drive the vehicle, the VIN number, how many miles are on the car, and other vital details. Representatives will use this information to determine your premium.

2. Types of Insurance

Many people who want classic car insurance services opt for full coverage. Full coverage insurance covers damages by other people if you get into an accident, even if it doesn’t involve another vehicle. Liability insurance usually only covers damages to the other car, so you’ll have to pay for damages to yours out of your pocket. Basic liability insurance may not include add-ons, such as roadside assistance.

3. Coverage Details

When you get auto insurance, be sure to check exactly what is covered under your policy. For example, if you’re commuting to work, taking a trip, or any other personal uses, you’ll be covered. However, if you’re using it for commercial purposes, like delivering pizzas, you may not be covered. Ride-share services typically are not covered, however many classic car insurance services now offer additional coverage for ride-share drivers.

4. Agreed-Upon Value

The agreed-upon value is how much your classic car is worth. If something happens, and the insurance company totals your car, they’ll pay you the agreed-upon amount. However, ensuring you are honest with the company regarding any upgrades or additional features the car has that can increase value is crucial. This can also impact whether an insurance company will take you on as a client. Some companies won’t accept policies for cars over a certain amount.

Figuring out everything about classic car insurance can be challenging. Thankfully, we’re here to help. Contact AOA West today, and our customer service representatives can help you find the ideal coverage for your car.