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!

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.

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.

Insurance for homes is necessary, as it helps offset costs and financial losses. As an essential financial safety net, here are a few reasons why you need a quality policy from a reliable company.

Property Protection

Insurance for homes protects one’s property from perils like fire, storm damage, floods, and theft. Such a policy can cover the costs of property damage from a covered event. This can keep you from having to tap into your savings. Plus, many contractors will work directly with the insurance companies.

Getting necessary repairs or rebuilding services for your property is easier when insured. You can avoid financial hardship by having a homeowner’s insurance policy. Additionally, there are so many events that you can enjoy protection from, which is essential.

Liability Protection

Insurance for homes doesn’t only protect your property in the case of damage; it also protects you. Liability coverage is available as well, which protects you if someone is injured on your property or if you indirectly cause damage to someone else’s property.

For example, if a tree on your property lands on your neighbor’s roof during a storm, your home insurance policy will cover the cost of repairs. If someone is injured on your property, that would also be covered. Liability coverage is important, as it can protect you from becoming financially bankrupt and dealing with court matters.

Additional Expenses

There are other forms of coverage that homeowners with house insurance enjoy, like coverage for additional expenses. For example, according to the Insurance Information Institute, wind and hail drive about 2.97 out of every 100 claims. If a windstorm damages your roof and your residence becomes inhabitable, you will need temporary housing. Insurance can cover temporary housing costs while your home is being repaired. Plus, other incidental costs may also be covered. Ensure you have coverage to protect your home and your lifestyle.

Protecting your residential investment is essential. It’s time to get the coverage that you deserve for your property. Find the homeowner’s policy that fits your budget and provides the protection you deserve. Call our experienced and dependable team here at AOA West Insurance today! As a local, family-owned, and independent agency, we are here to meet your needs with ease.

As an adult, there are many types of insurance coverage you should have for your protection. Every homeowner understands how vital having the right home insurance coverage is. However, all policies are not made equal, so you need to understand your needs as a residential property owner. If you’re thinking about getting professional assistance, here are things to look for in a home insurance agency.

1. Coverage

To put it simply, it’s critical to be covered under a policy that is comprehensive. It should provide layers of coverage for inside or outside your home. For example, if somebody crashed their car in your gate or hit another part of your property, insurance should cover repair. If you suffer property loss due to theft, your home insurance policy should cover replacement items and damage. Other calamities such as fire, water damage from a broken pipe, or flooding should also fall under your policy.

2. Liability

Liability should also be a part of a good home insurance policy. If somebody injures themselves on your property, your personal liability insurance can cover that. This personal liability insurance can also cover you if you damage someone else’s property.

3. Deductible

Your home insurance policy has a deductible, just like your health insurance. Your deductible refers to any money you must pay out of your pocket before coverage kicks in. Make sure your home insurance plan deductible can fit your budget. After all, you don’t want an insanely large deductible that would lessen the financial benefit of having coverage.

4. Customer Service

A professional and communicative insurance agent is invaluable when it comes to your home policy. So choose an agency that has made it easy for you to get such reliable service and have your questions answered efficiently. Ideally, agents can work to customize the ideal plan for you and your home. They should be willing to share any knowledge about the plans available.

A good insurance agency can make your life easier. Regardless of how solid or new your home is, anything can happen that would require coverage. Whether it’s water damage, theft, a fire, or personal injury, there are many reasons why you must be mindful of having the most comprehensive home insurance policy available. For top-tier assistance from an agency that can meet all of these needs and more, consider working with AOA West Insurance.

Your home is more than just another structure; it’s where your heart is. Your home is packed with memories and valuable items! Home insurance is one of the most crucial aspects of being a homeowner. There are several ways it can help you during an unforeseen emergency, so let’s review them below.

Item Reimbursement

Home insurance is necessary to ensure you receive proper reimbursement for items in your home. This can range from necessities like dishes to expensive computers and televisions. According to the Insurance Information Institute, 47% of respondents said they prepared an inventory of their possessions if they needed to file insurance claims. You should do the same.

Rebuilding Property

The most significant losses during an emergency are usually structural damage. Floods can cause damage to all the wood in your home. Fires can destroy everything except the foundation. Filing an insurance claim can help you rebuild as soon as possible to get back to your life.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance can also help protect you against lawsuits. For example, if someone slips and falls on the sidewalk outside your home, they can file a lawsuit against you. Many types of insurance offer liability insurance as an add-on, meaning it’s optional. This additional protection can save you a lot of money.

Other Structures

Most insurance coverage includes various structures on the property, such as detached garages and sheds. If something happens to these, such as a tree limb falling on them and damaging them, your homeowner’s insurance will more than likely cover the cost of damages. Knowing that every structure on your property is insured provides instant peace of mind.

Tailored Protection

Homeowners insurance protects the specific disasters you’re most likely to experience. For example, you can get flood insurance if you live in an area that frequently experiences flooding. The same thing applies to homes in hurricane or tornado-prone areas. This level of protection ensures that your home is protected from the most common natural disasters.

Home insurance is essential to ensure you don’t have to pay the high price of repairs or replacing all your belongings if there’s an emergency. Our professional agents will work with you to help you find the ideal coverage for your home. Contact AOAWest when you’re ready to learn more.

Most states and insurers consider any vehicle that was built more than 25 years ago to be a classic car. A classic car can get special license plates that affirm its classic status and specialized car insurance if it’s not a vehicle that you use as a daily driver. According to PrivateAuto, industry insiders say the classic car market should grow by about 9% through 2024. If you have a classic car or are considering buying one, here are some ways that a classic car insurance agent can help.

Full Coverage for Classic Cars

Your classic car insurance agent can help you get a suitable amount of full coverage insurance for your classic auto. Whether it’s a car, truck, or another type of vehicle, you can obtain collision and comprehensive insurance coverage for your classic auto. If your classic is damaged in an accident, is stolen, or suffers damage in any way, full coverage should apply and repair your vehicle if possible or replace its value when repairs are impossible.

Liability Coverage While Driving or at Shows

Classic cars, vans, and motorcycles are just as capable of causing property damage and bodily injuries to others as currently produced vehicles. That damage might occur because of an accident that happens while on an occasional drive. It also might happen while the vehicle is at a classic car show or another special event. For example, someone might cause the open hood to shut on someone’s fingers and injure them. Liability coverage could pay up to policy limits for the bodily injury.

Agreed-Value Policy Limit

It’s important to pay attention to a vehicle’s value and have it insured for that amount. The value of classic cars changes often. A qualified appraiser of classic vehicles could assess the vehicle and apply a value based on its condition and the recent selling prices of similar vehicles. Classic car auctions help determine the value of classic cars and other vehicles.

Affordable Classic Car Insurance Rates

Most people who own classic cars store them indoors in climate-controlled environments. Indoor storage protects classic vehicles against the weather and potential theft or vandalism. It also helps prevent accidental damage from falling objects, kids playing outdoors, or any other unexpected causes of damage. Affordable classic car insurance is the final component in protecting classic car owners against financial loss.

You can get a coverage quote from an experienced classic car insurance agent by calling or visiting AOAWest today. We look forward to helping you.

When it comes to protection and quality of life, there are various types of insurance policies you can get. One such policy you may need is renting insurance. It isn’t the same as homeowners insurance, as this type of insurance covers people who rent a property. Read on for four key facts you should know about this coverage.

1. Get Coverage Easily

Unlike some other types of insurance, getting renting insurance is usually a simple process. In most cases, you can complete the application online. It’s a good idea to photograph your items and keep an inventory of expensive ones on a spreadsheet in case you need evidence to file a claim.

2. Protect Your Personal Items

Nearly half of all homeowners are unsure of what their insurance covers exactly, according to Value. What home insurance doesn’t cover is personal items. Homeowners usually need insurance to cover their actual property structure and are required to do so by a typical mortgage company. While renters insurance isn’t a requirement, it’s a good backup for renters who want to protect their items while living on someone else’s property. If you’re renting an apartment or home and your structure has been broken into, any stolen items can be covered by this insurance. If your items are damaged by fire or flood, you can also get coverage.

3. Covers Additional Living

As a renter, you don’t have much control over the structure you’re living in. Therefore, there may be issues with the underlying property you’re unaware of when you move in. If those structural issues need repair while you’re still on a lease, you may need to temporarily move. With renters insurance, the cost of a hotel or other temporary property will often be covered or at least reimbursed.

4. Covers Liability

As a renter, you may have to deal with liability issues with other people. If an injury or damage to someone else’s property occurs in your rental space, you can have coverage for that liability. The amount of coverage you get depends on your policy limit. In most cases, it starts at around 100,000 but can go up to 300,000.

These are some things to consider as a renter. Now you understand that property insurance isn’t just for someone who owns a home. You have items that you may care for, whether it’s electronics, heirlooms, or other valuables. Get started protecting these items by contacting AOAWest for renting insurance information.

If you own a classic car, you have the option of insuring the vehicle using a traditional auto insurance policy or a classic car insurance policy. Most people opt for the latter because it meets the unique needs of these vehicles. According to the Insurance Information Institute, every year, the national expenditure for car insurance increases by approximately 1%. With this statistic in mind, here are some key factors to keep in mind from an insurance provider.

Qualification

Not everyone meets the requirements to insure their vehicle under a classic car insurance policy. It’s important to note that different companies have different criteria for these types of automobiles. As a general rule of thumb, most require the vehicle to be anywhere from 15 to 25 years old and that only limited mileage has been used. Some may also require that the car not be your main source of transportation. There may even be requirements about where and how the vehicle can be stored.

True Value

If you meet the described requirements above and want to go further, the next thing you have to consider is the true value of your car. If you were to obtain a traditional auto insurance policy, you would only be entitled to the actual cash value of the car. This is generally very low for older cars. However, classic auto insurance allows you to get the true value of your car based on the modifications, restoration work, and upgrades that you have completed. You and the insurer will agree on the true value of your car when you obtain a policy.

Your Driving Record

Lastly, you need to think about your driving record. Classic car insurance is considered a premium insurance product, and as such, most insurers will only insure these types of vehicles for drivers with good driving records. If you have multiple accidents, speeding tickets, or a DUI, you may have trouble getting your classic vehicle insured.

You are legally required to insure a classic car, even if you rarely drive it. As such, many classic car owners prefer classic car insurance because the rates are lower due to the decreased usage of the automobile. If you’re in the market for a new policy, our team at AOAWest can help. Call us today to obtain a quote.

Do you actually know what your home insurance policy covers and doesn’t cover? If you can answer “yes” to that question, you’re in a pretty good spot. Value Penguin found that 47% of homeowners claim they are unsure what their insurance covers. It’s also quite likely that other people have misconceptions about what is and isn’t covered. Given how important insurance is, it’s a wise idea to regularly review, and if necessary, update your insurance policies. It’s also wise to work with professional insurance agents to better understand specific policies.

Some Things Aren’t Covered Under Standard Home Insurance Policies

Home insurance can provide protection from many events. However, not everything is covered under the standard insurance plan. For example, most standard insurance plans won’t cover damage caused by flooding. These events are considered “acts of God” and because the damage is so widespread, insurance companies can’t afford to cover all of the damage. It’s possible, however, to take out flood insurance plans, many of which are backed by government authorities.

Floods aren’t the only thing that typically isn’t covered under a standard insurance plan. Many plans also won’t pay for damage caused by earthquakes or other earth movements (like sinkholes). Acts of war and nuclear accidents might not be covered as well.

By regularly reviewing your insurance policies, you can find gaps in coverage. If you find a gap, you should assess the risks and then consider updating your insurance policy to increase coverage. You might also opt to take out separate insurance plans to cover the gaps. Besides evaluating your home insurance, it’s also smart to analyze other policies, like auto and health insurance.

Keep Deductibles and Co-Pays in Mind

Many insurance plans feature a deductible and coverage may not kick in until you pay a certain amount out of pocket. If you’re tight on money and don’t have an emergency fund to cover any deductibles, you might want to select an insurance policy with a lower deductible. On the other hand, if you’ve built up considerable savings, selecting an insurance plan with a higher deductible could save you money on premiums.

Do you need help understanding your insurance plan? Want to close gaps and increase coverage? Contact AOAWest today and we can provide assistance with home insurance. We can also help with other types of insurance policies.