insurance agency

The Importance of Reporting Car Accidents

A report given by the National Highway Traffic Administration reveals that over 10 million cars that get involved in road carnage go unreported. But what most people know is that it is essential to record your statement with the police in case your car gets into an accident as soon as you can. It will aid you if you decide to file a claim with an insurance agency firm since you will have a record. If you don’t record a statement with the police, you can not have any claim processed for you.

What is a Police Report?

It is a document that police use to record who was involved, what happened, the damage, and other crucial things after an accident. The composition may be single or multiple pages depending on the accident.

What Information is Found in a Police Report?

The information that can be obtained from the police report includes the place where an accident occurred, the date and time of the accident, car registration details, and whether there is a person who sustained some injuries. Additionally, you can also obtain information regarding whether there are some parts of the cars that are not damaged and the statements of people that were at the accident scene.

What is the Importance of Reporting a Car Accident?

In the Case of Injuries That Occur After An Accident

Suppose you get any form of injury after an accident. It’s only a police report that can determine that, indeed, the injuries were a result of the accident.

It is Essential When Making A Claim

Any insurance agency company will ask you to produce a police report when you decide to claim your car after an accident.

In The Case of Car Damage After An Accident

After an accident, your car might not seem to be damaged, but it can develop some issues later on. It is only a police report that can help you to claim it afterward. If you don’t produce a police report, no car insurance agency will compensate you.

How Can You Report An Accident, And After How Long?

If there were no police at the scene of an accident, you could make an effort to visit the nearest police station and record a statement.

You can make the statement immediately or within 28 days from the day, the accident took place.

insurance center

Why Do You Need Car Insurance?

When it comes to car insurance, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions floating around. Some people think that they don’t need car insurance if they have a low-value vehicle or that only young people need to worry about it. Others think that car insurance is a waste of money and can’t afford it. In this post, we’re going to dispel some of these myths and explain why you need car insurance, no matter who you are or what kind of car you drive.

1. Car Insurance Is Required by Law in Most States

Car insurance is required by law in most states. In fact, in many states, you can’t even register your car without proof of insurance. This means that if you get into an accident and you don’t have car insurance, you could end up facing some serious legal penalties.

2. Car Insurance Provides Financial Protection in the Event of an Accident

If you get into an accident and you don’t have car insurance, you could be responsible for paying for all of the damage yourself. This could end up costing you thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. Car insurance protects you from having to pay this money out of your own pocket. It also covers you if you are sued by the other driver in an accident.

3. Car Insurance Can Help You Save Money on Repair Costs

If you get into a car accident and your car is damaged, repairs can be expensive. Car insurance can help you save money on these costs. However, you need to ensure that you have the right kind of coverage. This could either be collision coverage that will help pay for the repairs to your car in case of an accident or comprehensive coverage that will help pay for damages caused by theft or vandalism.

4. Car Insurance Can Help You Get Back on the Road Quicker After an Accident

If you get into a car accident and your car is damaged, you may have to wait a while for it to be repaired. Car insurance can help you get back on the road quicker by providing you with a rental car while your car is being repaired. However, this coverage only applies if you have the right kind of coverage. Visit an insurance center to learn more about this.

According to Bankrate, around 215 million drivers in the country have vehicle insurance. This shows that insurance is not only important but that a majority of drivers see the value in it. Don’t be one of the drivers who go without insurance. Visit the insurance center today and find the right policy for your car.

What Are the Most Common Insurance Claims for Motor Vehicle Collisions?

Automobile claims make up about 52% of personal injury claims, and on average, an insurance center will process about 100 claims each month per adjuster. So what claims are most commonly made? Keep reading to find out.

Most Common Claims

In 2010, according to the Center for Disease Control, the total cost of auto insurance claims was $99 billion. There is a wealth of statistics and research that is done by every insurance center to determine which are the most often reported claims and how safety features can be improved to reduce those claims. Recent data shows that theft, fender-benders, and whiplash were the top three insurance claims filed under auto insurance claims.

Fender benders and theft are property damage claims, while whiplash is a common injury. Whiplash is a soft tissue injury of the neck and back that is caused by rear-end accidents. The body is propelled forward with a great deal of force when a vehicle is hit in the back end and then snaps back, pulling all the muscles in the neck, back, and shoulders.

Some Other Common Claims

An insurance center stays busy. New claims come in every day. Here are some more of the top auto insurance claims:

  • Windshield damage
  • Single vehicle accidents. These claims only involve one car (yours). For example, you back into a pole and damage your vehicle.
  • Vandalism. Someone “keys” your car or causes some other damage.

Accidents are the most frequent reason that people file an auto insurance claim, but there are plenty of other claims that are filed for similar damages, but they are not caused by accidents. A lot can happen to a vehicle that is unexpected and damaging that prompts an insurance claim.

Storm Damage

A hailstorm can cause a great deal of damage to your vehicle and often results in an auto insurance claim. Road debris can damage your vehicle, which according to data collected, is another top ten reason someone will file an auto insurance claim.

There are a lot of reasons why people take advantage of their auto insurance coverage and file a claim for repairs. Whether it is a simple fender bender or something a bit worse, the insurance company is there to process your claim quickly.

insurance agency

Why You Should Consider a Quality Insurance Plan for Your Car

Just as we rely on health insurance to help pay for the costs of medical care and treatments, we also rely on car insurance to help pay for the damage caused by an auto accident that we are involved in. This is so important in fact, that there are laws in place that govern car insurance coverage. It is a requirement in most cases to have some level of coverage before you can even legally drive a vehicle on public roads. Because of this, the need for insurance is extensive and there are a number of things to consider when trying to find the insurance agency and specific coverage policy that is right for you and your driving needs.

Driving History

Your history behind the wheel can have a huge impact on what rate sand services you can get access to. A good driving record will usually earn you better rates and advanced coverage options.

Type of Vehicle

Not all vehicles are created equal and the kind of car you drive will also impact insurance rates. The age of your vehicle can factor in when negotiating with the insurance agency over premiums and coverage.

Driver Status

In some instances, your age and experience behind the wheel can affect insurance options. Younger drivers and older senior drivers often end up paying more due to a perceived increase in risk and liability.

Location

It is also worth thinking about your geographic location and weather impacts in driving conditions. Factoring in ice and snow or frequent storms can at times affect car insurance costs and coverage.

Lifestyle

Your own individual wants and needs as well as your driving habits will also need to be taken into account. If you drive in the city versus rural areas, for example, it can translate to different coverage needs.

Distances

Just as where you are driving is taken into account when talking to the insurance agency, so too is how far you drive. Long-distance drivers usually pay higher premiums than those who stick close to home.

Finances

The final thing to consider when comparing and choosing car insurance plans is your overall financial situation. It is always a good idea to get the maximum coverage level that you can regularly afford.

These are just a few things to keep in mind when dealing with car insurance plans and premiums. Considering that the average driver in America puts roughly 13,500 miles on their vehicle every year, it is easy to see why insurance coverage is so important. To learn more and to get your personal questions answered, contact your local insurance agency and schedule a consultation today!

insurance center

Why Insurance Centers are Reporting More Accidents and Why You Should Consider Upgrading Your Plan

People spend a great deal of time on the road driving to work, school, doctors, family, and on errands. Add to that people driving for vacation or other travel needs and the number of vehicles on the road at any given time can be mind-blowing. The Insurance Information Institute reports that vehicle claim frequency is on the rise. Over the last few years, there has been a steady rise in collision claim frequency, which generally serves as a good indicator of overall accident rates. But why is this trend occurring, and what factors contribute to the ongoing rise in accidents being reported to insurance center representatives across the country?

Younger and Older Drivers on the Road

One contributing factor to auto accidents is the age of drivers who are on the road today. More and more young people and learning to drive while at the same time more seniors are still driving than ever before. The very inexperienced new drivers and the high-risk senior drivers are making for a volatile mix that can greatly increase the odds of accidents occurring.

Older Vehicles Being Driven Longer

With all the advancements in technology and safety features vehicles have today, you would think driving would be safer. However, more people are still driving older vehicles than what was seen in the past. Vehicles are expensive, so more drivers are opting to keep their older vehicles rather than buying newer ones. This can at times lead to sudden vehicle failure and issues while driving.

Careless Driving is an Ongoing Issue

Wile we have vehicles today with features such as driving assist and rear-camera views, there is still the issue of driver carelessness. Automated features and smart technology can only go so far and do so much when drivers themselves are still being reckless and careless on the road. Distracted and careless driving are still among the leading reasons for auto accidents today.

DUI cases Still Continue to Rise

Unfortunately, the leading cause of auto accidents in the country today still remains driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Deaths related to impaired driving climbs nearly every year and continue to be a major issue for traffic safety and motor vehicle organizations. New laws and regulations aim at reducing numbers, but it is still an ongoing fight.

It is clear that there are a number of factors that are contributing to the growing number of accidents being reported to insurance center reps. By focusing on these causes and addressing the underlying issues, improvements can be made to help keep drivers safe while on the road.

renters insurance

Overlooked Homeowners Insurance Claims That Will Have You Thinking in the Future

Home insurance is designed to protect your home, but it’s easy to overlook some gaps that can cost you down the line. That’s why it’s important to do your homework so you can make the most of your homeowners insurance. Although homeowners insurance might seem like a straightforward thing, here are some overlooked home insurance claims that you need to know about to avoid significant financial losses.

Dwelling Coverage

When you take out your homeowners insurance, it may seem like you have your dwelling coverage all sorted out. But is your main structure really protected? According to recent statistics, about one in 40 insured homes has wind or hail-related property damage claim, while one in 50 insured homes has a property damage claim related to water damage or freezing each year. Without enough dwelling coverage, it means you are liable to pay out-of-pocket expenses. The problem with issues like wind, hail, and water damage is that they all happen unexpectedly, and being underinsured can negatively impact your budget in the future.

Home Improvements

Chances are, you don’t have enough insurance to cover the cost of your making home improvements or rebuilding your structure in the event of a disaster. Also, if you’re planning to make remodels down the line, it’s important that you fully understand the home insurance coverage for your home.

In that case, you should sit down with your insurance agent because your existing policy might cover renovations. However, if you may be underinsured if you are planning to carry out any major upgrades. In that case, you’ll probably need to increase your coverage limit to suit your future home improvement plans.

Liability Coverage

As a homeowner, you may not enjoy thinking about someone getting injured on your property, but it can happen. Your current liability limits may not be able to fully cover you in case of a mishap. For instance, if someone trips and get injured because of a fall, then you would have to pay fr the medical costs yourself because you’ll be underinsured. Some homeowners are not even aware that they have this type of insurance at their disposal. The great news is that liability coverage insurance limits vary widely, so you’ll be able to find something to suit your budget.

These homeowners insurance claims are only just a few of the claims you need to be aware of. Do you know that you may be overlooking your vacant home insurance as well as your coverage for personal possessions like jewelry? Contact us to learn more.

home owners insurance

How Bundling Homeowners Insurance With Another Insurance Plan Can Help You Save Big

A recent study conducted by J.D. Power and Associates found that around 65% of people bundle their insurance to save money. If you want to find out how bundling home owners insurance can save you money, keep reading.

Why Does Bundling Insurance Save Money?

First and foremost, it is the goal of the insurance company to get as many people on their insurance as possible. They want to get as many policies under their belt as they can so that they can turn a profit. This is not a bad thing, it is just good business. When an insurance company is able to bundle policies for one policyholder, it does two things. It saves money and hassle for the policyholder and it gets more premiums for the insurance company.

It is a win-win arrangement where both parties are going to benefit. Insurance companies are able to offer discounts when you hold more than one policy as a means of enticing you to use their insurance company and as a means of getting more business at the same time. This is a great thing. The more policies you bundle, the better your savings are going to be.

Why Bundle Your Policies?

Bundling saves you money, time, effort, and trouble. It is far simpler to have one insurance company that you pay premiums to than it is to have several. It is also easier to make a claim if you only have one insurance company to keep track of and to file with. You can also save money, you can get special discounts, and you can make your life easier and more efficient as well.

Most insurance companies offer great policies with discounts if you do decide to bundle and an agent can talk you through the best policies for you and the best overall policies for your needs. Bundling is a great way to save time and money and to ensure that your insurance needs are met and that your property is fully protected and fully insured in case anything happens and in case any trouble or issue arises.

Home insurance

Why Home Insurance is Something You Don’t Want to Cheap Out On

For most people, their home is the biggest investment they will ever make. Home insurance helps to protect that investment. About 85% of homeowners in the U.S. have home insurance. Choosing the right plan is essential to ensure you have the protection you can count on.

Insurance is Something You Do Not Think About Till You Need It

Unfortunately, many homeowners make the mistake of thinking “that could never happen to me” and do not get the full coverage that they need. Insurance is one of those things you do not think you need until you do and you do not have it.

Comprehensive coverage may cost a little more but it is well worth the investment because you will be fully covered in the event of something you think could never happen to you, does happen to you. Protecting your home investment needs to be a priority. Finding out you do not have the coverage you need and having to pay out of pocket for repairs can be financially devastating.

Discounted Plans

Saving money on home insurance is important but never at the risk of inadequate coverage. Many times, “discounted plans” are discounted because they do not provide the full coverage that you need. There are better ways to get homeowners insurance without giving up coverage.

Most home insurance providers will offer discounts on things like a home security system, a fire suppression system, and more. Upgrading your home with deterrents and protection can equate to big discounts on your plan. Ask an insurance agent how you can save without sacrificing coverage.

Peace of Mind

There is no better feeling than knowing your home is protected by a reputable insurance carrier. If the need arises to file a claim, you can rest assured that your claim will be settled fast so you can get on with life.

Going the cheap route with a little-known insurer that does not have the best customer service rating can cost you a lot of stress and aggravation when you have to file a claim. It may cost a little more to insure with a company that has a strong reputation for customer satisfaction, but it is well worth it.

Home insurance can be affordable without sacrificing quality coverage. Connect with an agent that can walk you through the process.

insurance for a motorcycle

The Best Insurance For a Motorcycle and The Most Common Insurance Claims

Anyone who owns a motorcycle and rides it on public roads needs to purchase insurance to ride legally. Virtually all states require at least a minimum level of liability coverage for property damage and bodily injuries suffered by others. If the motorcycle is financed, the lien holder usually requires full coverage to protect its financial interest in the bike. Full coverage when it comes to insurance for a motorcycle includes collision and comprehensive insurance that protects the bike and requires the owner to pay a deductible when filing a claim.

Type of Bike Affects Rates on Insurance for a Motorcycle

Insurance for a motorcycle could be very costly or very affordable. The factors that usually add up to high insurance costs are age and whether or not the motorcycle is a sport bike. A young rider has relatively little riding experience in traffic and is a higher risk for insurers to cover. Many young riders prefer sport bikes, which are very fast and have lots of costly bodywork. Insurers always charge high rates for young riders who choose costly bikes and are prone to riding accidents. Some large cruisers, like a Harley-Davidson bagger, also can cost quite a bit to insure for some riders.

Why Carry Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage

It always is a good idea for riders of all ages and experience levels to carry uninsured or underinsured motorists insurance for motorcycles. When a typical passenger vehicle strikes a motorcyclist, the biker usually takes the worst of the damage. After all, motorcycles do not have seat belts, air bags, or impact panels that absorb energy and help to prevent or reduce injuries in accidents. And their smaller size and weight ensure motorcycles and their riders take the worst of any collision with another vehicle.

When a motorist causes an accident that sends a motorcyclist to the emergency room, that motorist might not have enough liability insurance to cover the cost of medical treatment and property damage. And if an at-fault motorist either has no insurance or flees the scene and is not found in a hit-and-run, the cost falls upon the motorcyclist. Uninsured or underinsured motorists’ coverage will pay for those costs up to policy limits.

Coverage for Motorcycle Modifications

Many motorcycle owners love to modify their bikes. Many mount aftermarket exhausts, air intakes, and performance modules that enable their bikes to ride better. And handlebars, controls, and other modifications all cost money. Most insurers offer coverage for modifications that smart bikers use.

motorcycle insurance

Why You Need Motorcycle Insurance With Insurance Claims on The Rise

If you own a motorcycle, you probably know that it’s important to get motorcycle insurance. But why exactly is it so important to get motorcycle insurance based on the current trends in insurance claims? Find out three of the most important reasons below.

You May Legally Need Motorcycle Insurance

The first, and possibly most important, reason to get insurance for your motorcycle is that it may be legally required. In certain states, you need to have proof of a motorcycle insurance policy, and if you ever get pulled over by the police you’ll want to be sure that you have your insurance documents handy. If you get pulled over and don’t have insurance, you may incur additional fees, so it’s best to insure a motorcycle before you encounter potential issues.

Accidents Happen

No matter how good of a motorcycle driver you are, it’s possible to get in an accident. Because of an accident, you could damage your own bike, another vehicle, or even someone’s property. In order to avoid having to pay for all of this damage out of pocket, you should be sure to complete the insurance process before you start driving your motorcycle on the open road. Between 2014 and 2016, the frequency of collision claims increased by 2.6%, and if you’re unlucky enough to add to that statistic, you want to be sure that you aren’t financially burdened by any damage caused.

Roadside Assistance

If your motorcycle encounters an issue and you are stuck on the side of the road, you’ll want to be sure that you have roadside assistance built into your coverage, as it is one of the most important insurance needs. Although in a perfect world you would never break down, there can be a wide variety of issues that can come up with your motorcycle that could cause it to break down, from unperformed maintenance to difficulties due to the weather. When you have motorcycle insurance that covers roadside assistance, you won’t have to worry about paying a lot out of pocket if you have to be towed.

Every year is seeing an increase in the number of collisions on the road, but with good insurance coverage, you won’t have to worry about paying for repairs out of pocket. To learn more about the insurance coverage offered by AOA West, Inc insurance, make sure to get in contact with our team today. We look forward to helping you with your coverage!