home insurance

Should You Get Homeowners Insurance as First Time Buyers?

Most first-time homeowners ignore the importance of having insurance cover their house. A home is probably one of the most expensive assets you can buy in a lifetime. Therefore, insuring your house is not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended. Here are some of the reasons why a house owner may need insurance.

For Security Purposes

According to Policygenius, in 2019 more than 5% of house owners filed home insurance claims. Accidents are bound to happen in the house. For instance, if your house is not properly insulated, it may catch fire and burn down. The cost of rebuilding may make it impossible for you to complete the project. If you have your house insured, you will get your house rebuilt with the help of the home insurance policy.

Acts as a Cushion

Numerous insurance covers depend on the location. For instance, in places that experience destructive seasonal winds, having a home insurance company cover your roofing is a good idea. The insurance covers all the necessary roof repairs in case of such calamities. Natural hazards and disasters may cause massive damage and, at times, may require building from the foundation. With given policies, you can quickly rebuild your house to the roof with the help of home insurance.

It Helps You Worry Less

Having an insurance policy at your side keeps your mind at ease. You can easily concentrate on other things instead of worrying about accidents or break-ins that may happen when you are away. Living with no fear of the future promotes a healthy and better life.

Compensation in Case of Damage

Insurance policies can cover different parts of the home, much like your health insurance. For instance, you may have a policy that covers your house against natural disasters, a fire, or water leakage into the house. The policy you choose may depend on the probability of the accident happening. Some policies also cover two to three areas of insurance. Ensure to check what your policy covers to avoid frustrations if an accident happens. It’s necessary to have more than one policy covering your house to increase house safety. If accidents within the policy occur, the home insurance company estimates the damage value and pays.

If it’s your first time owning a home, you may note that it’s not necessary to have homeowners insurance, but it’s safer and logical to have one. Insurance will help you deal with any damage that may result from accidents in the house, a natural accident that may result in considerable damage, and a considerable budget for repairs. You’ll also be at ease knowing that your house is safe in case of a burglary. To get started with your policy, call us today at AOAWest. We’ll provide more information about the best home insurance cover for your home.

5 Benefits of Having Homeowners Insurance

Being a homeowner is a wonderful thing; it frees a person from having to worry about rent, and you can proudly bask in the achievement. That said, many homeowners don’t consider getting home insurance. Homeowners insurance is a type of insurance coverage homeowners should consider, as it covers damage and losses to one’s home. Below are five benefits that come with adopting a homeowners insurance package.

1. Protects the Main Structure

A homeowners insurance policy’s primary purpose is to safeguard your principal residence, which is the section of your home that you live in. For example, you would suffer a significant financial loss if you do not have homeowners insurance and suffer a house fire or a natural disaster such as a hurricane. It is preferable to insure your home for up to 100% of its value. Nevertheless, insurance coverage of up to 80-90% is commonplace. Most of these plans cover catastrophic damage, minor damage, and entire replacement expenses.

2. Covers Your Gadgets

Many homeowners do not keep an inventory of their possessions. In fact, according to Policy Genius, only 49% of homeowners keep a house inventory of their belongings! When insurance for homes is purchased, you should list all appliances, gadgets, and other personal items the policy covers. If a covered event, such as a hurricane or tornado, damages some of your property, you may be compensated in part or in full depending on the specifics of your policy. This is a significant benefit of this type of insurance that many homeowners ignore.

3. Provides Coverage Inexpensively

Some individuals may view home insurance as unnecessary, but it provides significant relief if an unexpected tragedy occurs. The benefits of the coverage much surpass the investment you make. You can always opt for more basic coverage, too.

4. Protects from Lawsuits

Insurance for homes provides coverage for property-related claims depending on your coverage. Your home insurance will protect you if you mistakenly damage another person’s property, such as in a fire or with mechanical damage. It also covers the medical costs of a visitor who is hurt on your property.

5. Provides Peace of Mind

A homeowners policy gives significant relief. You don’t have to constantly worry about facing the costs of damage to your property. Home insurance coverage may be advantageous whether you own a big house or a little one. After you’ve selected your policy and paid the premium, you can relax knowing that your home’s security is no longer your major responsibility.

Insurance for homes is beneficial for the reasons examined above. If you’re a homeowner who has yet to insure your home, consider doing it immediately. Do you want to insure your home from future risk? Contact AOAWest today!

homeowners insurance

The Pros of Getting Homeowners Insurance Early On

Are you in the market to buy a house shortly? If so, you must do your research on homeowners insurance. This will help you figure out when you need to get it! Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or you need new insurance for your new home, it’s beneficial to know the pros of getting it early on.

Gives You Ample Time to Compare Different Coverages

It is recommended that you start looking for home insurance about a month before your actual closing date. This ensures that you will have the time to research and compare different types of coverage for your beloved new home. There are different kinds of rates for different locations and the cost could go up or down based on your home’s value, so that’s why it’s so important to give yourself time to find the insurance that fits your needs and budget.

Ensures Your Closing Date Will Stay the Same

When you are in the motion of buying a house, it is well known that you need to have your homeowners insurance policy in place by the closing date. If you don’t, you could be delaying the closing. This not only affects you but also the buyers and real estate agents. So, you should get everything set up and ensure it will be in effect by the closing date. Disclose the closing date with your insurance center to make sure they know when it should be in effect by.

Allows the Process to Go Smoothly

The process of buying a house can be stressful for all parties involved with all of the paperwork and deadlines that need to be met. As a soon-to-be homeowner, the last thing you want to do is scramble around last minute trying to find the right home insurance coverage. Being prepared early on can ensure that the entire closing process is smooth and that you won’t have to worry about a thing.

Buying a home doesn’t need to be stressful if you are prepared for all of the requirements needed. According to Policygenius, 93% of homeowners have insurance for homes. Getting the right homeowners insurance can keep your home and family safe from many different unexpected events. If you are a first-time home buyer or you are planning on switching your homeowners insurance policy, reach out to us today to speak with an insurance agency for more information.

insurance agencies

Why You Shouldn’t Skimp On Car Insurance

Car insurance is one of the most important investments you can make for yourself and your family. According to Statista, in 2018, over 34 thousand people died, 1.8 million people were injured, and five million vehicles were involved in property damage accidents. Below are some of the reasons why you shouldn’t skimp on car insurance.

1. Protection in Case of an Accident

Insurance agencies play an important role in providing protection in case of an accident. They act as a buffer between you and the other party involved in the accident and can help to cover the costs of damages and injuries. While it is possible to get by without insurance, it is not advisable. If you are involved in an accident, repairs and medical treatment costs can quickly add up, and you may find yourself unable to pay them. Insurance can help to reduce the financial burden in such a situation, and it is, therefore, essential to make sure that you have adequate coverage. Skimping on insurance may seem like a good way to save money, but it could end up costing you more in the long run.

2. It Is Required by Law

In most states, it is mandatory to have some form of car insurance. If you are caught driving without insurance, you could be fined or even lose your license. Not having insurance can also make it difficult to get insurance in the future. Insurance companies view drivers who have been caught driving without insurance as high-risk customers and, as a result, will charge them higher premiums. It is, therefore, important to make sure that you are properly insured before you get behind the wheel.

3. It Offers Peace of Mind

Knowing that you are properly insured can give you peace of mind in case of an accident. With the right level of coverage, you will know that you are protected financially in the event of an accident. This can help to reduce your stress in such a situation and allow you to focus on getting better instead. Whether you already have adequate insurance or need to get additional coverage, be sure that you take the time to compare different policies and choose the one that offers the best value for your money.

Looking for car insurance can seem like a daunting task, especially with so many options available. However, with some research and careful consideration, it is possible to find the right policy for your needs at an affordable price. Do your research today and invest in quality car insurance for peace of mind on the road. For more information on car insurance, contact our insurance agencies today.

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.