It’s one thing to get a car. It’s another matter entirely to invest in a classic car. Classic cars are more often owned by collectors than they are the average vehicle owner, and they have a specific appeal to car enthusiasts and those who want to financially invest in automobiles. While 6 million cars are sold every year in the United States, relatively few of them are classic cars. This is in part because many cars break down and are destroyed before they reach classic status, and in part because classic cars in collectible condition don’t often go up for sale. But when they do, buyers need to take their purchases seriously.

While new cars typically begin losing value as soon as they are sold, collectors’ items are entirely different matters. A classic car, if it’s considered a prized model and is in great condition, could potentially accumulate or at least retain its value over time if it’s well-maintained. This is why these cars need to be protected through not only typical car insurance, but classic car insurance that is meant for unique vehicles. But what does that mean? Let’s explore the concept below.

What Makes a Car Classic?

So, what is the difference between a typical vehicle and a classic car? Aren’t classic cars just old cars? Not quite. The exact definition of what makes a car classic varies, but generally speaking all classic cars at least 20 to 25 years old. Normally, the car will have some kind of unique feature that makes it historically interesting to car enthusiasts. This is why the car would be considered worth preserving or restoring rather than scrapping, and why it would need classic car insurance.

There are organizations that owners can refer to, like the Classic Car Club of America, that offer lists specifying different models of cars that have been designated as classic according to their standards. Classic cars, according to those standards, can be American or foreign built and must have been produced between 1915 and 1948. For cars produced after World War II, the definition of classic becomes a bit more difficult to navigate, but these cars can certainly be extremely valuable and collectible. Therefore, it’s a good idea to visit an insurance center to explore insurance options.

What Is Classic and Collector Car Insurance?

Classic car insurance differs from regular car insurance in a few significant ways, but at its basis, it also offers the same benefits that you would receive from standard car insurance obtained from an insurance agency. All vehicles in the United States must be insured with policies that meet minimum standards according to the state in which the car is registered. The reason why classic cars need additional insurance is that they often require more specialized and complex repairs if they are damaged, and they are more at risk of being stolen or vandalized than typical vehicles.

Classic car insurance will usually cover standard liability issues as well as collisions. It will also offer comprehensive coverage and the coverage of medical payments, typically. But if the car is completely lost, this form of insurance will also pay out the agreed or guaranteed replacement cost. Conversely, typical vehicle insurance will pay out the actual cash value of the vehicle, which is usually its depreciated value.

What Else Should I Know About Classic Car Insurance?

Usually, there are limitations that come with classic car insurance, which is why you should work with an agency to navigate the policy that is right for you. Most classic car insurance policies require owners to limit their use of the vehicles, as the more an older car is used the more likely it is to break down. Some will restrict the vehicle’s travel abilities. They also will typically require that the car is stored in a locked garage or storage unit. These policies are often not available to drivers with serious offenses on their records.

There is much for classic car owners to worry about, but the right policy can help abate those concerns and ensure the safety of their vehicles. If you’re interested in collecting cars, speak with a professional at an insurance center to ensure that you’re choosing a policy that works for you.

Insurance premiums are the amount you have to pay to an insurance company when you renew your policy. Most motor vehicle insurance companies have an insurance process that uses algorithms that analyze your details to determine your premiums. By understanding the factors affecting your premium rates, you stand a better chance of making informed decisions before you purchase that insurance.

1. The Type of Vehicle

The type of car you own impacts the premium rates that insurance companies will charge. For those who have classic cars and other unique vehicles, the insurer will likely charge higher rates. Additionally, the insurance process involves determining whether your type of car is prone to accidents. If it is, you will pay a higher rate.

2. Your Driving Patterns

The insurance firm has to analyze your previous insurance claims and whether you’ve received tickets. It also analyzes your accident history and whether you have personal insurance during the insurance process. Those with a tainted history are likely to pay higher car or motorcycle insurance premiums than those with a good track record.

3. Your Location

The insurance process analyzes your location to determine whether the places you frequently visit are prone to accidents, theft, or vandalism. The chances are high that insurance firms will charge higher premiums if your location is prone to such acts. Anti-theft features and your parking location will also affect insurance premiums.

4. Purpose of The Car

During the insurance assessment process, your insurance company determines whether you use the car for commercial or private purposes. The premiums will vary depending on the vehicle’s purpose, and the chances are good that you will pay higher rates for commercial vehicles than a private vehicle. Again, if the vehicle you are insuring, whether personal or commercial, is being used in high-risk situations, chances are your premiums will be higher.

5. Credit History

Your car insurance company may also refer to your credit history during the insurance process. They analyze your profile and determine your level of risk. A poor credit score might affect your insurance premium. However, with a good score, chances are you will pay lower premiums than defaulters.

6. Age of the Vehicle

Before you can be insured, the insurer will have to determine the insured declared value and your car’s depreciation. If you have a unique vehicle, the insurance assessor will have to determine the asset value resulting from wear and tear over a given duration. Old vehicles have higher depreciation. Hence, insurance companies will charge you higher premiums compared to newer vehicles.

7. Age and Driving Experience

Studies conducted in 2016 show that over 268 million vehicles had insurance coverage on U.S. roads. They also revealed that young males were more prone to accidents compared to females of similar age. The insurance process considers such demographics when determining your insurance premiums. Chances are high that young male drivers will pay higher premium rates compared to female drivers. However, most insurance companies adjust the premium rates once a driver reaches 25 years of age.

Several factors will determine your insurance premiums. It’s important to analyze different insurance providers’ policies before settling for one. When picking an insurance company, consider the availability of agents, customer service, and insurance policies.

Home insurance is a must-have. But that does not mean you have to overpay to have great coverage. There are ways that you could be saving on your home owners insurance. In fact, saving on your home insurance could be easier than you think.

One of the ways you can save on the home insurance Tigard homeowners rely on is to connect with the right insurance agent. Having personalized care for your home owners insurance can provide you with discounts you would not even know to look for. What else should you know about saving on these home policies?

Audit Your Policy

If you are like most American homeowners, you may be a little slack when it comes to reviewing your policy annually. In many cases, saving on your home owners insurance can be as simple as comparing what other carriers have to offer. Making this an annual activity (right before your policy is up for renewal) can literally give you an opportunity to claim hundreds of dollars in savings.

Having a trusted insurance agency looking out for your best interests can come in really handy when it’s time for renewal. Your agency will put in all the work for you and do the brunt of the comparisons for savings so you do not have to.

Surprising Ways to Get Discounts

Did you know that if you keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen, it may make you eligible for a home owners insurance policy discount? Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and other fire safety equipment can all add up to savings. Ask your agency as to whether installing this equipment can save you some money.

Fire protection equipment isn’t the only thing that can lower your premiums. You can get discounts for having a security system, as well. Have you had a new roof installed that is rated for hail damage? That can get you a discount, too. If you have a pool with a fence around it, this can lower your premiums. You may also get up to a 20% discount if you have not filed a claim in the last decade. Don’t be afraid to ask your agent about home improvements that can translate into savings.

There are plenty of discounts that you could be taking advantage of. Finding discounts is a lot easier when you have an insurance agent working for you. A well-established insurance center will have the agents that know how to find the discounts that you deserve. Find the savings and the support that you need with a local agent that is committed to putting your best interests first.

Collector vehicles are no ordinary cars. The classic, collectible, or antique car in your garage needs more than the ordinary auto-insurance. You may require special insurance coverage to protect your high-value investment. Classic car insurance reflects the uniqueness and value of your ‘baby.’ Special coverage for your unique vehicles includes a standard liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.

The top three insurance claims are for ‘fender bender,’ theft, and whiplash. If an accident or any other loss occurs, the insurance company will pay for the repairs or replacement of the car as a unique vehicle, not some old junk.

Collector Car Insurance Vs. Standard Auto Insurance

Nearly half of all unique vehicle owners wrongfully place their cars under a standard motor vehicle insurance. Typically, classic car insurance covers differ from ordinary policies in two significant ways.

Lower Premium Rates

The American driver clocks an average of 13500 miles on their vehicle annually. This significantly increases the risks associated with insurance claims, including accidents and theft. Collector vehicles travel less frequently, spending most of their time in storage. Most insurance providers will offer lower premium rates, ranging between 20-40% less than the regular policy.

Guaranteed Value

Insurers calculate ordinary car policies from the ‘actual value’ of the vehicle. The total compensation will be the actual value insured minus depreciation. Unlike ordinary cars, unique vehicles tend to appreciate. Most specialty insurers offer the full cost, ‘guaranteed value,’ for the car as compensation.

Qualification for Classic Car Insurance

Standard auto insurance may not have strict requirements before the purchase of a particular policy. A special cover for your unique vehicles may demand specific qualifications. Some of the common conditions include.

1. Limited Use

Your collectible may not be suitable for everyday commute and running of errands. Some insurers place mileage restrictions, in which owners may not exceed 7500 miles a year. You may need to prove you own a primary, ordinary car that you will use for your multi-day, high-mileage drives. For trips to classic car shows and events, your insurer can create a custom package that protects your unique vehicles during the journey.

2. A Clean Driving Record

Serious offenses that taint your driving record may disqualify you from the classic car insurance program. Some traffic offenses such as driving while intoxicated, excess speeding and reckless driving may contribute to your policy being rejected. Some insurance companies may require the driver to be above 30 years or have five to ten years’ experience.

3. Secure Storage

You may need to provide proof of secure storage spaces for your unique vehicles. Most insurance firms will accept private garages, pole barns, or storage units. The protected areas not only safeguard your car from thieves but also shield it from nature’s destructive elements.

4. Age

Your vehicle may need to be well-maintained for the insurer to enlist it for a classic car insurance package. Each insurance agency has its method to classify collector vehicles as classic, antique or vintage. An insurance expert may help determine the value of your car, depending on its age and condition.

It is not right to place your unique vehicles under standard auto insurance policies. Proper care of your beloved collectible is not enough; you need to purchase the right classic car insurance cover. AOA West Insurance can help you source the best policy for your vehicle and address your other insurance needs.

Every year in the U.S., around six million cars are sold. People are buying new cars all the time, but true collectors know it’s the classics that matter. The rare cars, the old cars, the really cool cars — only these cars are worthy of being collector vehicles. You can have a very small collection — just one car, actually — and still call yourself a car collector. That’s what’s so great about having collector vehicles.

And once you’ve got one, you definitely won’t want to stop. There are many ways to get collector vehicles, and it can be affordable if you do a lot of the work on them yourself. However, there’s something very important you don’t want to forget about the cars in your collection: they all need to be insured. But do you know what kind of insurance you need and where to go to get it?

The Difference in Insuring Collector Vehicles

For most people, collector vehicles are not everyday vehicles. You take your regular car to work and to the supermarket. You take your usual ride out when you’re running errands. But your collector vehicles or vehicle, now that’s special. Whether you have classic cars, unique vehicles, or even a motorcycle, you don’t drive these vehicles often. These are special vehicles for special occasions. So you don’t need regular everyday insurance for collector vehicles that aren’t regular everyday cars.

Insurance for antique cars, classic cars, and other cars that aren’t driven very often is different fro the insurance you get on your regular vehicle. These cars don’t have to meet the same state minimum requirements. However, there are requirements that these cars do need to meet. Only an expert can help you figure out exactly the right policy for your collector vehicles. Not all insurance agents know what needs to be done to insure those collector vehicles. You need to know how to find the right agents to give you the exact right insurance for the collector vehicles that you have.

How can you find the right insurance agency for your collector vehicles? Once you know how to find the right insurance agency, you can find the right insurance for all your collector vehicles.

Finding the Right Insurance Agency

Insurance agents have a bit of a bad reputation. You’ve heard the jokes and seen the characters in the movies. You’ve been told that insurance agents are annoying. And it’s all pretty funny. Insurance agents laugh at these jokes, too. But the truth is, sometimes you really need insurance gents. These people specialize in knowing insurance and knowing what the state requirements are.

They know exactly how to insurance collector vehicles so that you pay as little as possible to get the insurance that you need. Focus on finding insurance agencies and agents that provide insurance for collector vehicles. If you have a specific type of collector vehicle, such as a classic car, look specifically for insurance companies and agents that provide services for this.

Search online to find insurance agents in your local area, or at least within your state. These professionals will have in-depth knowledge of your state requirements for insurance and they can provide you with answers quickly. It’s often easier to work with an insurance agent in your local area rather than turning to a large, national company to get our own estimates.

An agent can get estimates from several different insurance agencies so you can compare prices and pick the best policy for your specific needs. They can perform the work much more quickly to get estimates and help you get the best deal. You’ll pick the policy you want and if there are any problems, you contact your agent to give you help almost immediately. Having an insurance agent is the best option for your collector vehicles because you need someone with expert knowledge to advise you on the right policies.

Classic cars are the original show-stoppers, allowing us to relish in a time before our own. These collector vehicles often travel many miles to attend shows or gatherings. While some people may think that you do not need insurance for these cars, they would actually be mistaken. Here is why you need classic car insurance.

It is Illegal to Drive Without Insurance

When it comes to car insurance, some classic car owners are not sure where to turn or where exactly their situation lies. That is why it is important to speak with a qualified insurance agency that can point you in the right direction, as driving your classic car without insurance is illegal in all states. If you happen to get into an accident or something happens to your car, you could face serious penalties and costs associated with the issue. Maintaining proper insurance for a classic car is a unique situation, which will be highlighted below.

Classic Cars are Unique

The situations surrounding classic cars are unique. Classic car owners often only drive them a few times a year, keep them in storage, and keep them maintained. This means that you will want to find an insurance agency that is familiar with collector car insurance, as they will take these factors into account. This means that insurance premiums are often lower than that of other vehicles that you may own and drive more frequently. The price can depend on many factors, such as the year and how many miles are already on the vehicle. Unique cars require a unique insurance policy.

You Will Want to Protect Your Car

Driving without insurance is risky for both you and your car. Even though you may not drive your classic car that often, the risk for an accident is still there. The 3 most common insurance claims are whiplash, theft, and fender benders. All three of these can happen to your classic car, which means if you do not have insurance then you will be left in the dark. Speaking with a qualified rep from an insurance agency can help you determine your options.

Getting insurance for your antique cars or classic cars does not have to be a hassle. AOA West is a family-owned and operated insurance agency that will put you first, finding you the best deal for you and your needs. Speak with a rep today to learn more about the different options that you may have.

A family-owned insurance agency can help to meet your insurance needs and deliver the personal care that you deserve. There is something lacking in today’s insurance process that a family-owned agency can help to remedy.

Insurance whether it is personal insurance, home insurance, RV insurance, car insurance or motorcycle insurance should come complete with personalized care. Unfortunately, far too many times today, personal care has been replaced with automation.

The Personal Touch

If you have ever had one of those discount online secured policies and had a question, you know what it is like to try to find an answer. It can be very challenging to make informed decisions when you cannot tweak a policy with the help of a dedicated agent to meet your needs.

Personalized care for your insurance needs is vital to ensure you get the coverage that you deserve for your property. When you choose a family-owned insurance agency to manage your insurance needs, you get the personal touch that you deserve. Having a hardworking agent on your side can help you to:

• Get the customized policy that you need to fit your unique insurance needs.
• Save money. An insurance agent can help you to save money on your premiums without giving up any coverage.
• Understand your options. An insurance agent can answer questions and explain your options.

When you have an expert on your side, you can feel confident in the insurance choices that you are making for you and your family. You do not have to go into your insurance policy blindly. You can ask all the questions that you need to ask and be presented with custom options that make sense for your budget.

That personal touch that you can find at a family-owned agency can make a huge difference in the protection that you have for your home, auto, and more. Getting the best coverage at the fairest price point is easy when you have professional support.

One Size Fits All Customer Care

The best reasons to consider having your insurance needs fulfilled at the trusted family-owned agency is the customer care and the savings. You are an individual that needs individualized attention when it comes to something as important as insurance. Many of your neighbors are already making the choice to forgo the one sized fits all approach to automated customer service and choosing a real live agent instead.

Home insurance, personal insurance, car insurance Tigard neighbors have come to depend on is available at your local family-owned agency and it all comes complete with personalized client care services.

Most of us take our cars for granted — until we can no longer drive them. If you rely on your vehicle for commuting to work, traveling to new destinations, or simply running errands around town, you probably value the sense of independence and protection your car provides. However, if your car is stolen or is involved in an accident, you may suddenly have those feelings taken away. That’s especially true if you didn’t bother to go through the insurance process for your vehicle.

Obtaining car insurance isn’t merely smart; it’s also required by law. While insurance requirements do vary by state, having some form of insurance is necessary. If you’re caught without insurance coverage, you’ll face some harsh punishments and could leave yourself vulnerable to financial hardship. In today’s post, we’ll talk about why you should never get behind the wheel without attending to your insurance needs first.

What Are the Consequences of Driving Without Insurance?

The penalties for driving without car insurance will depend on where you’re located. However, here are just some of the consequences of being caught without car insurance (even for a first-time offense):

• Tickets and/or fines
• Driver’s license suspension
• Vehicle registration suspension (plus reinstatement fees)
• Impounding of vehicle
• Required proof of insurance form filing
• Possible jail time

Lest you think you might be willing to take the risk for a nominal fee, keep in mind that your state may take this crime very seriously. In some states, the fine alone can be anywhere from $500 to $5,000. That could equal more than you’d pay for car insurance for a five-year span, depending on where you live and what your premiums might be!

Of course, another huge risk of not carrying vehicle insurance is what might happen if you’re involved in an accident. If you’re responsible for the accident, you’ll have to pay for the damages out of your own pocket. While car insurance provides a financial cushion in situations like these, you may be completely out of luck if you have no coverage. Some states even require uninsured motorists to pay a substantial deductible. The other driver involved may also be able to sue you for damages.

Do I Need Insurance For Every Vehicle I Own?

Contrary to popular belief, insurance policies typically follow the automobile — not the driver. That means if you let a friend borrow your car and they’re involved in an accident, it’ll usually be your insurance policy that takes the hit if they’re found responsible. This also means that if you own multiple vehicles, you’ll have insurance needs for each auto.

Your insurance agency may be able to offer coverage for a few vehicles on the same policy (and may even be able to offer a discount on coverage for doing so). But if your family already owns several vehicles or some of those vehicles come with higher insurance risks (like more significant repair costs, for example), it may not be possible or advisable for you to insure them all on one policy.

Those who collect classic cars usually require separate insurance policies for their vehicles. Although the average car owner puts around 13,500 miles on their vehicle every year, classic cars are usually driven far less frequently. Still, you’ll probably have specific insurance needs for any classic cars you own.

Classic cars actually appreciate in value over time. Premiums may be lower for classic cars than for modern vehicles, though the replacement cost will usually be much higher. How you use your classic car may also determine your insurance needs, as some of these vehicles are permitted to be used only for special events. But no matter how you intend to use your classic vehicle, you certainly won’t want to go without insurance. Since the monthly cost of insurance might be even more affordable — and the cost of replacement may be even higher — than you’ll find with a modern car, it makes a lot of sense to work with an agent for classic car insurance Portland drivers trust.

Whether you own just one vehicle or love to collect classic cars as your passion project, you should never go without auto insurance coverage. For more on how we can help with your insurance needs, contact us today.

Your home is the biggest investment you’re ever going to make. Having a home is truly the American Dream, the thing that everyone wants and strives toward. After you get your home, whether you’re able to buy it outright or you’re making mortgage payments, it’s important to protect your property and the things inside it, too. That’s why it’s so essential that you get home insurance. With this, your belongings and your property will have an extra layer of protection that safeguards you against many of the curveballs that life may throw your way.

Why Do You Need Home Insurance?

Home insurance, or homeowners insurance, is something that every homeowner should have. A home insurance policy can protect you from theft, storm damage, and other events beyond your control. Home insurance will replace items you lose or damage your home sustains due to violent storms, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. You can also recoup your losses due to theft through a home insurance policy. Damage such as vandalism to your home is often covered as well.

However, there are some things that a home insurance policy will not cover. You need to speak with your insurance agent and go over your policy carefully to find out what is covered and what is not. Flooding is a common catastrophe that is not covered in a home insurance policy. Fire may also not be covered by your policy. Your insurance agent can help you make additions to your policy so that these events and others will be covered by your insurance.

Work With an Insurance Agency

Having an insurance agent to answer questions and explain your policy to you is absolutely invaluable. Work with an insurance agency that will provide you with an agent, someone you can contact with all your questions and concerns as needed. When you have an agent, you have someone you can contact immediately if you need to make an insurance claim or you want to make a change of some kind to your insurance policy.

Having an agent means you always have access to easy answers and quick help for all your insurance needs. You should also speak to your agent about bundle deals that can help you save money ad reduce your monthly payments. If you bundle your home insurance and your car insurance, for example, you may be able to take advantage of reduced rates.

Finding ways to save money on your personal insurance needs is just smart because rates tend to rise over time. For instance, the average auto insurance expense in the U.S. increased by 5.3% in 2016. The average expense rose from $889.09 in 2015 to $935.80 in 2016, according to tot the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Talk to your agent about classic car insurance, motorcycle insurance, and any other types of insurance you need. Chances are, your agent can help work out a great deal for you to give you all the coverage you want at a price that’s truly affordable.

Whatever you do, don’t neglect the home insurance you need to have. You never know when a tree will get knocked down by the wind when a thief will break in through a window when a neighborhood kid will pull a stupid prank that causes thousands of dollars of damage to your home. You never know when you’re going to need home insurance and maybe you never will, but it’s always a good idea to have it just in case.