When it comes to purchasing insurance, there are two types of agents you can work with – independent insurance agents and captive agents. While both types of agents can help you find the coverage you need, there are some key differences between the two that can affect your insurance experience. We’ll explore the differences between independent insurance agents and captive agents and explain why choosing an independent agent can be a positive choice for you.
Captive agents are agents who work exclusively for one insurance company. They can only offer you policies from that company, which means you may not have access to other options that could better fit your needs or budget. Captive agents often receive training and support from the insurance company they work for, which can help them provide a consistent experience to customers. However, their ability to offer customized solutions is often limited. Think of State Farm or Allstate in this category.
On the other hand, independent insurance agents work with multiple insurance companies. They can provide you with a range of policy options from different carriers, giving you more flexibility and choice. Independent agents are not beholden to any one company, which means they can recommend policies based solely on what’s best for you. This can be particularly useful if you have unique coverage needs or a challenging claims history. Independent agents are also often better equipped to find discounts and cost-saving options because of their access to multiple carriers.
Another benefit of working with an independent agent is that they can provide more personalized service. Since they are not working for a specific company, they are free to focus on building long-term relationships with their clients. This means they can take the time to understand your individual needs, answer your questions, and provide ongoing support.
Kris Castle
All insurance agents are also licensed and regulated by the state, which means they must adhere to strict ethical and professional standards.
While both independent and captive agents can help you find the coverage you need, I think there are distinct advantages to working with an independent agent. That’s not surprising, is it? Independent agents offer more choice, personalized service, and objective advice. They can also help you save money and provide peace of mind. So, if you’re in the market for insurance, consider working with an independent agent to get the coverage you need and the service you deserve.
As a parent, buying your teenager a car is a big decision! It’s a major purchase and it’s important to make sure you make the right choice.
Teens in car
Here’s what you need to know before taking the plunge.
Consider your budget. How much can you afford to spend? New cars are expensive, but you can often get a good deal on a used car. Consider the cost of insurance, gas, and maintenance.
Think about safety. Look into crash ratings and make sure the car you choose has as many safety features as you can afford. You may also want to look into cars that offer additional driver-assist technologies like blind spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. Unfortunately, the chances are very high that this car will be in an accident, so keep that in mind.
Consider practicality. Does it get good gas mileage? Is it reliable?
Talk to your teenager. Ask them what kind of car they would like and let them help you in the shopping process. It’s important to involve them in the decision-making process and make sure the car you choose meets their needs. If possible, have them contribute financially to the car purchase.
Take your time. Don’t rush into a decision. Research your options and make sure you’re getting the best deal.
It’s also important to consider insurance premiums when buying your teenager a car. Insurance companies typically charge higher premiums for teenage drivers due to their inexperience and higher risk of accidents. Make sure to shop around for the best rates and look into common discounts such as good student discounts and multi-car discounts.
Make sure to do your research, talk to your teenager, and shop around for the best insurance rates. With a little work, you can find the perfect car for your teenager that is safe, reliable, and fits within your budget.
Trees are a beautiful and essential part of our environment, but they can also pose a significant risk during storms. When strong winds and heavy rain hit, trees can fall and cause extensive damage to property and even result in injury or loss of life. What a lesson we learned in Kentucky early in March! This is why it is crucial for homeowners to understand how insurance policies cover damage caused by falling trees during storms.
Homeowners insurance typically covers damage to property caused by falling trees, including damage to homes, garages, fences, and sheds. However, it is important to note that insurance policies can differ, so homeowners should review their policies and speak with their insurance agent to ensure they have adequate coverage.
Here are some key factors to consider when it comes to insurance coverage for fallen trees during storms:
Cause of the fallen tree: If a tree falls due to natural causes such as high winds or heavy rain, it is generally covered by homeowners insurance. However, if a tree falls due to neglect or lack of maintenance, such as diseased or rotting branches, the insurance company may deny coverage.
Damage caused by the fallen tree: Homeowners insurance typically covers damage to property caused by a fallen tree, including damage to the structure of the house, as well as personal property such as cars, furniture, and other belongings.
Clean-up and removal: Homeowners insurance typically covers the cost of removing fallen trees from your property, up to a certain limit. However, if the tree falls on a neighbor’s property, the neighbor’s insurance may be responsible for the removal costs.
Additional living expenses: If your home is uninhabitable due to damage caused by a fallen tree, your homeowners insurance policy may cover additional living expenses, such as temporary lodging and meals.
Deductibles: Homeowners should be aware of their insurance policy’s deductible, which is the amount the homeowner must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Depending on the policy, the deductible may be a flat fee or a percentage of the total claim.
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To prevent fallen trees during storms, homeowners can take steps such as regular tree maintenance, including pruning and removing diseased or damaged branches, as well as planting trees away from power lines and structures. It is also important to review your homeowners insurance policy regularly and ensure that you have adequate coverage for storm-related damage.
Click on the link to find out more information about trees and your home insurance policy from Erie Insurance.
Floods are one of the most common and devastating natural disasters that can occur, causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Unfortunately, many people assume that their standard homeowners or renters insurance will cover flood damage, but in most cases, this is not true. That’s why it’s important to consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy to protect your property and assets.
What is flood insurance?
Flood insurance is a type of insurance that covers losses or damages caused by flooding. It’s a separate insurance policy from your standard homeowners or renters insurance, and it’s typically offered through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Who needs flood insurance?
Anyone who lives in an area that is prone to flooding should consider purchasing flood insurance. This includes people who live near rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water, as well as those who live in low-lying areas or areas that are prone to heavy rainfall. Even if you don’t live in a high-risk flood zone, it’s still a good idea to consider purchasing flood insurance, as floods can happen anywhere.
What does flood insurance cover?
Flood insurance typically covers damage to your property and belongings caused by flooding. This includes damage to your home’s structure, as well as damage to your personal property, such as furniture, electronics, and clothing. It may also cover damage to your home’s foundation, electrical and plumbing systems, and appliances. However, it’s important to note that flood insurance does not cover damage caused by other types of water damage, such as a burst pipe or a leaking roof.
How much does flood insurance cost?
The cost of flood insurance depends on a variety of factors, including the location of your property, the level of flood risk in your area, the age and value of your home, and the amount of coverage you choose. Generally, flood insurance premiums are higher in areas that are at higher risk of flooding. The cost can vary widely depending on your specific circumstances.
How do you purchase flood insurance?
Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). You can purchase a flood insurance policy through an insurance agent or broker who is authorized to sell NFIP policies. It’s important to note that there is usually a 30-day waiting period before your flood insurance coverage takes effect, so it’s a good idea to purchase flood insurance well before flooding could become a problem.
Driving while videoing, or more commonly known as “distracted driving,” is a growing problem on the roads. It refers to any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from the road, such as using a cellphone, eating, or applying makeup.
In recent years, video recording while driving has become a popular trend among social media users, but it comes with serious risks and legal consequences.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving caused 2,841 deaths in 2018, which is a 12.4% increase from the previous year.
Additionally, the NHTSA reports that in 2019, 3,142 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. Video recording while driving can contribute to these statistics by creating more distractions for the driver, making it more challenging to react to potential hazards on the road.
Car Accident
Video recording while driving also poses a significant risk to other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. It diverts the driver’s attention from the road and can cause them to miss important traffic signals or signs, resulting in accidents. Additionally, drivers who are video recording may drive erratically or drift out of their lanes, creating further hazards for those around them.
Legal ramifications of driving while videoing vary by state, but most have strict laws in place to discourage it. In many states, it is illegal to use a phone while driving, including for video recording purposes. In some states, video recording while driving is considered a primary offense, meaning that police can pull over drivers who they see doing it. Offenders may face fines, points on their driving record, or even have their licenses suspended.
In some cases, video recording while driving can also result in criminal charges. If the driver causes an accident that results in injury or death, they may be charged with reckless driving, vehicular manslaughter, or other criminal offenses.
Think about this – you’ve just given attorneys recorded evidence that can be used against you. The severity of the charges will depend on the circumstances of the accident, including whether the driver was intoxicated or violating other traffic laws.
In conclusion, video recording while driving is a dangerous practice that can lead to accidents, injuries, and even death. You may think that you are fine, you are keeping your eyes on the road and that it’s no big deal. However, you are fooling yourself. Pull over and take the 60 seconds to record your message or content while you are safely stopped.
It is important for drivers to remain focused on the road and avoid any activities that can distract them while driving. Furthermore, obeying traffic laws and regulations is essential to keep everyone safe and prevent legal repercussions. Remember, no video or social media post is worth risking lives on the road.
Comprehensive insurance is a type of car insurance that provides coverage for a range of damages that can occur to your vehicle that are not the result of a collision. This type of coverage is often referred to as “other than collision” coverage, and it can protect you against a wide range of risks.
Here are some of the most common types of damages that comprehensive insurance can cover:
Damage from natural disasters: Comprehensive insurance can cover damages to your vehicle caused by natural disasters such as tornadoes, earthquakes, hailstorms, floods, and wildfires.
Theft or vandalism: Comprehensive insurance can cover the cost of repairs or replacement if your car is stolen or vandalized. This includes damage to your car’s exterior, interior, and any personal items left inside the vehicle.
Animal damage: Comprehensive insurance can cover damages to your car caused by animals such as deer, elk, moose, or other wildlife.
Falling objects: Comprehensive insurance can cover damages caused by falling objects such as tree branches, rocks, or debris.
Glass damage: Comprehensive insurance can cover the cost of repairing or replacing broken windows or windshields.
Damage from civil disturbances: Comprehensive insurance can cover damages caused by civil disturbances such as riots or civil unrest.
Miscellaneous damages: Comprehensive insurance can cover other types of damages that are not related to collisions or accidents, such as damage from a fire or explosion.
It’s important to note that comprehensive insurance coverage may have limits, deductibles, and exclusions. It’s essential to review your policy carefully and understand what is and isn’t covered. Additionally, comprehensive insurance coverage is often optional, so it’s up to you to decide whether you want this coverage as part of your car insurance policy.
Comprehensive insurance provides protection for your vehicle against a wide range of damages that can occur that are not related to a collision or accident. By understanding what comprehensive insurance covers, you can make an informed decision about whether this coverage is right for you.
Since this topic is one of our most popular, I thought I would repost and add more information to this blog. Keep reading to find out when you have to add your youthful driver to your auto policy.
When do you have to add your teenager to your auto insurance policy?
This is a question I get asked all the time and I have heard all kinds of wrong answers. Let’s talk about it!
Most insurance companies require that all people that live at your address and have a driver’s license are added to your policy or can show proof that they have a policy of their own. This includes your children.
In Kentucky, a teenager can get a beginner’s permit at 16 years of age. This permit requires that a legal parent or guardian is in the car with them at all times and they must keep a log of hours driven, including night-time hours. You are not required to add them to you policy during this stage.
After these basic licensing requirements have been met, a youthful driver can get their intermediate permit. This doesn’t require a parent to ride along and there are some time restrictions that must be followed.
IT IS AT THIS TIME YOU MUST ADD THEM TO YOUR POLICY.
Your rates will definitely go up, but you don’t want to put yourself in a position where a carrier won’t pay a claim because the driver wasn’t added or to have your auto insurance be canceled because you didn’t have your new driver added.
There are some insurance agents that will tell you not to worry about adding your teen driver. They have “permissive use” and are automatically covered on your policy. I would ask to see this in the policy documents, in writing!
As I always recommend, be sure to discuss any changes in your household with your insurance agent so they can make sure you have the proper coverage in place to keep you protected. You don’t want to find out after an accident or claim that you don’t have the proper insurance for all the drivers in your household.
Like your mom used to tell you, if it seems to good to be true, it probably is. It will be expensive to add your teen driver to your policy, but not as expensive as a claim that isn’t covered or a subsequent lawsuit.
Don’t take chances with something as important as coverage for your kids. Since kids between the ages of 16 and 19 years old are the most likely of all drivers on the road to be in an auto accident, you want to be sure you are planning for that day. You’ll be worried about them being hurt and about replacing or repairing their vehicle. Make sure you have peace of mind about your auto insurance.
Here are some helpful websites you can visit for more information, as well as the link for the original post.
There are many personal elements that factor into your insurance rates – such as your driving and claims history, as well as the type of vehicle you drive, but there are other factors that are outside your control and affect all car owners.
Here is a list of the main reasons auto insurance is high as we begin 2023.
Pricey Technology
All the fancy safety features, such as lane assist, cameras, and sensors on your car help keep us safe, but repairing or replacing these parts due to an accident or insurance claim can be expensive. For example, instead of just replacing the glass for a windshield claim, auto body shops also have to adjust and calibrate sensors and possibly cameras. This increases the labor costs for this repair.
Vehicle Parts
Prices are up by more than 10% this year for car parts. Not only are they more expensive, but it is taking weeks and in some cases months to get the needed parts in stock. When an insurance company has to pay for a rental car for weeks and weeks instead of several days in many cases, that is extra cost for a claim.
Repair Costs
We have all heard of issues with the supply chain. While this is running smoother than in 2020, there are still issues. Labor costs have risen over 20% this year too, which makes repairs so much more expensive.
Vehicle Prices
Did you know that prices of used vehicles jumped more than 27% in 2021? New vehicle prices were up more than 14%. While those prices seem to be leveling out a little bit, we are still seeing high costs to acquire a new (or new to you) vehicle.
Inflation
The Consumer Price Index has risen several percentage points. That means we are all paying more for the same goods and services. You are feeling this in all aspects of your family budget.
Labor Shortages
A decline in available auto repair techs and mechanics is a challenge. Shops are having difficulty hiring new talent that has the skills needed for repairs.
Health Costs
With car accidents come injuries and that affects your insurance rates too. The high cost of health care is passed along to the insurance consumer too.
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At Castle Insurance, we are here to help you understand your auto insurance and provide personalized discounts and other ways you can save.
Many Kentuckians, as well as more than half of the country, were hit with a frigid arctic storm over the holiday weekend. You wanted a white Christmas? You got it!
Along with that pretty snow, we have had many clients filing claims due to car accidents. We’ve also filed claims for homeowners for water damage, mainly due to frozen pipes bursting.
Icy pipe
Here are some pointers in dealing with burst pipes and water damage in your home.
Turn off the main water supply to your house.
Do anything and everything you can do to mitigate the damage. What does mitigate mean?
to cause to become less harsh or hostile : mollify.
to make less severe or painful : alleviate.
to lessen the seriousness of : extenuate.
Contact your insurance agent to discuss your home policy and see what coverage is available to you. Your renter’s policy should have some coverage for this situation too. Keep in mind the amount of your deductible, especially if there isn’t much damage.
With an event of this magnitude, it will take the insurance company’s claims representative longer to respond than usual, as they are working with dozens if not hundreds of clients. Do what you need to do to protect your family and your property.
Take pictures of the damaged areas of your home. This is an occasion where more is more. Be thorough!
If you need to purchase items, get a hotel room, or other items due to the claim situation, keep all of your receipts and records. Also, keep any parts. For example, if a plumber comes to repair the pipe and cuts out a section, keep it in a box for the adjuster – just in case.
Even if your mortgage is paid and homeowner’s insurance isn’t “required” anymore, basic homeowners insurance is a great way to ensure that the equity in your home will never be lost due to basic unforeseeable accidents. Things like fire, hail damage, wind damage, and other weather events are covered on your policy.
However, if you are more concerned about your property or live in a low-lying area or by a body of water, then flood insurance may be purchased for added security.
But a commonly overlooked policy deals with earthquake losses. Earthquakes? In Kentucky? Did you know there have been a couple hundred quakes in the last 120 years?
Here are the numbers, according to Volcano Discovery:
QUAKES SINCE 1900:
7 quakes above magnitude 5
64 quakes between magnitude 4 and 5
197 quakes between magnitude 3 and 4
Your insurance agent can add earthquake coverage to your home policy. There is a higher deductible than your regular policy perils, so be sure to find out about all the details!
Do I really need to think about insurance during the holiday season? I am already so busy and being pulled in lots of different directions! I don’t like to think about insurance on a normal day, much less in December!
I am right there with you! My to-do list is ever-growing.
However, Merry Christmas can become Miserable Christmas quickly.
Here is a short and easy list of things to remember during this time.
1. Are you purchasing any jewelry this holiday season? If so, be sure you contact your insurance agent, especially if it’s an expensive piece. Engagement ring? Special bracelet? The value of the item may push it out of range for the basic coverage on your homeowner’s policy or your renter’s policy. Quickly email your agent with a description of the piece and the valuation and find out if it needs to be scheduled on your policy separately. Do this as soon as you buy it, just in case.
2. DO NOT LEAVE VALUABLES IN YOUR CAR. Whether your car is parked in the mall parking lot or your driveway, be sure you remove everything from your car that could be attractive to thieves. Remind guests at your home to do the same. A smash and grab can happen so quickly! You would hate to have to replace the items stolen AND file an insurance claim.
Breaking into Vehicle
3. Be aware of extra fire risks. Lots of people use more candles, light fires, etc. at this time of year. Extinguish anything burning before you leave the house. Pay attention to curtains, pillows, extra blankets, the Christmas tree skirt and coats.
House Fire
4. Slip and falls accidents are a real hazard with the icy weather and more guests visiting your home or business. Keep up with ice/snow removal and assist guests or family members as needed.
Home in Winter
5. Your furry family members disguised as dogs might need some special attention this time of year too. Extra people in the house and lots of excitement can put pressure on your dog and cause them to behave in ways that are outside of their norm. Dog bites are one of the top homeowner’s claims so be aware of how your pet is dealing with the fun and put them safely away.
Scared Dog
A couple of extra minutes to ensure your home, vehicle and family members are safe can keep your holiday season merry.
With the current uncertain economy, inflation, and rising costs on everything from cars to dinners out, many families are looking for ways to save money.
If you could save money in your monthly or annual budget for your insurance policies, what could you use that money for?
A fun family summer activity?
An extra date night out?
A little padding in your savings account?
A donation to a charity or organization that you support?
You may think that you have to wait until your current policy expires or renews, but for most personal insurance policies, you can move your insurance to another agency or insurance carrier at any time.
There are some benefits to staying with your current carrier and your current insurance agent. There may also be benefits to shopping around during these difficult financial times. I’d recommend you stay with your current carrier if you’re happy with your service and the savings are minimal to switch.
Also, after getting a couple of quotes, you may find that your current rate is fair and similar to what another carrier would charge. Maybe you don’t want or need to move your policies. Hopefully you have a great agent that provides education and advice on your policies, and you are willing to pay for their expertise.
Of course, you may find that you can obtain a better rate, without cutting your coverages or benefits You can make an informed decision about where to place your insurance coverage. You’ll want to be sure the quotes you receive aren’t increasing your deductibles or cutting liability limits without your knowledge. But all things being equal, sometimes change is good!
Look for an insurance carrier or agency that is out in the community and has a local agent you can call or visit if you need help. No matter what your insurance premiums are, if you have a claim, you want to speak to a live person that knows you and your family and can advocate on your behalf.
After doing your homework, sit back and relax. You’ve got this!
Boat insurance is an insurance policy that covers the boat, its equipment and accessories, personal property on the boat as well as liability for injuries you may cause others while boating. You can also purchase coverage for your own injuries sustained while boating, if someone causes injuries and doesn’t have the proper insurance coverage.
Boats are exposed to many risks such as theft, fire, vandalism, collision with other vessels or objects on land or water. Boat insurance can cover these risks and also provides coverage for other liabilities related to the boat.
The most common types of boat insurance are: hull and machinery coverage (covers the cost of repairs due to a collision or other covered loss), liability coverage (covers damages to other people’s property), and medical payments coverage (covers medical expenses to passengers).
You can purchase tow service, removal from the water service, fishing equipment and other coverages. You can also choose to insure your trailer.
Some factors the go into the pricing of your boat policy include:
Size and power of your motor
Replacement value of the boat
Where you store the boat (at your residence, in a locked storage facility, etc.)
The number of years of boating experience you have, as well as any watercraft safety classes you may have taken in the last few years
Most boat insurance policies are purchased for a specific period of time, such as six months or one year.
Some discounts you may qualify for include:
Homeowner
Boating experience and safety classes
Paying the premium in full
Multi-policy
Be sure you have an onboard safety plan, life jackets, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment before you leave the dock!
Check out more safety tips at https://www.safeboatingcouncil.org.
Confer with your insurance agent to be sure you have the coverage you need and want for your summer toy!
SCOTT COUNTY, Ky. (LEX18) — As costs continue going up and people are feeling the weight of inflation – in their pockets. One thing many people may not have considered is the rising cost of home and auto insurance.
Kris Castle, owner of Castle Insurance in Georgetown, has been an insurance provider for six years. She says she’s served hundreds of clients. As prices continue to rise insurance rates have been no exception.
Castle says, “What I think a lot of people don’t understand is that there are other factors at work as well. And inflation really does impact your insurance rates.”
One Castle Insurance client, Aaron Rajchel, says he and his family have felt the weight of inflation. He’s noticed an increase in property taxes.
“So if insurance goes up too that’s going to continue to push up our insurance price, continues to push up home prices, and then obviously affect things like our auto insurance as well,” says Rajchel.
Castle says the market has been soft over the past few years. Now, this insurance agent admits this is the biggest over-arching increase she’s seen.
“In a lot of homeowners insurance policies I’ve seen double-digit increases on premiums from last year, of course, the horrible weather that we’ve had, the last 12-18 months here in Kentucky. With the tornadoes, all the ice storms, the flooding — that has definitely affected insurance rates as well,” explains Castle.
Castle Insurance agency suggests looking over your policies as soon as possible. They say that many people don’t realize that you don’t have to be up for renewal before you make changes.
“Look at your auto insurance policy and your homeowner’s policy. Make sure you know what you have,” says Castle.
Castle explains some of the best ways to save money are, again, not waiting for your policy to renew, before you review it. Consider increasing your deductible — to save on your homeowners’ policy. Keeping your home and vehicle maintained — to avoid opening yourself up to unnecessary claims and checking your policy for added benefits.
Castle suggests, “Have a conversation with your local insurance agent, ask them questions and make sure that you’re protected properly. Make sure that you’re getting all the discounts that you deserve in your policy as well and have that consultation and make sure you have the education to make wise decisions about your insurance.”
Windshield Repair Insurance: What You Need to Know before Buying
Windshield repair insurance is a great way to protect your car, but how do you know if or when to file a claim?
There are many types of windshield repair insurance endorsements. The most common type is called “claims-made” coverage, which means that it covers repairs only if they happen while the policy is in effect. Another type of coverage is called “continuous” coverage, which means that you can get repairs at any time, even if the policy has expired. Claims-made is by far the most written type of policy in most insurance agencies in our area.
Windshield Replacement – Important Things You Should Know
Windshield replacement on your policy is a good way to cover these costs in the event that your windshield is damaged or broken.
The cost of a windshield replacement varies depending on the type of glass, the size and shape of the windshield and the damage. Since there is so much technology in our vehicles these days, many times you’ll have to calibrate or replace sensors in the glass too.
Windshield Replacement – The MOST Important Thing You Should Know
In Kentucky, there is no deductible (out-of-pocket expense) for a glass or windshield claim. However, keep in mind that a claim filed on your insurance policy is still viewed by your insurance company as a claim. It can affect your claims history, which of course can affect your rates. It can also make you ineligible for a new policy with a new insurance company.
For example, here is a real claims history for a quote that I was working on a few weeks ago.
Glass 05/23/2021
Glass 12/08/2020
Glass 06/08/2020
Glass 09/30/2019
Glass 12/03/2018
Because they had 5 glass claims in less than 4 years, I couldn’t help them with a good policy with great rates. They had too many claims, even though there weren’t any collisions or accidents.
I would recommend you find out how much a new piece of glass will cost before you file a claim for replacement and be sure that it’s a claim that is worth filing with your insurance company. Sometimes a chip repair will work and that is a pretty inexpensive repair.
Your insurance agent can walk you through setting up a claim and making sure your vehicle is road-ready again.
If you’re looking for ways to tighten your monthly budget, there’s an unexpected place you can look: Your garage.
No, we’re not telling you to sell your car (although that’s certainly an option). Rather, it’s time to take a closer look at the way you drive and take care of your vehicle. As gas prices climb, both of these habits can make a bigger impact on your wallet than you think.
And if you’re looking for car insurance that is affordable, we can help with that, too.
WHAT IS GAS MILEAGE?
Gas mileage (also known as miles per gallon or MPG) is measured by calculating the number of miles that a vehicle can travel using a single gallon of fuel. Fuel economy is another term that’s commonly used. It’s often referred to in relation to improving fuel efficiency — which means using less gas when you drive.
HOW CAN I FIGURE OUT MY VEHICLE’S MPG?
Since 1977, auto manufacturers have been required to publish some form of miles per gallon metric on new car labels. For modern vehicles, this includes ratings for city, highway and combined MPG values.
In general, vehicles tout better gas mileage during highway driving rather than city (i.e. stop and start) driving. But the combined MPG rating, which represents 55% city driving and 45% highway driving, provides a quick and easy way to compare the fuel efficiency of gasoline vehicles — which is especially helpful if you’re shopping for a new car. You can find these values for your current vehicle through a quick internet search.
If you want to measure the real-world gas mileage of your car, it’s easier than you might think. Follow the steps below from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy:
Step 1: Top off your tank. Fill your tank all the way up, then record the current mileage from your odometer (or set your odometer’s trip meter).
Step 2 : Run it out, then record your numbers again. Once it’s time to fill up again, record the new odometer reading as well as the number of gallons it took to refuel.
Step 3: Subtract your readings. If you used the trip meter, you can skip this step. If not, put those elementary math skills to use and subtract your first odometer reading from your second to see how many miles you traveled on one tank.
Step 4: Do a little division to determine your MPG. Take your figure from step three and divide the number of miles you drove by the number of gallons it took to fill your tank. Your final number is your MPG for that driving period.
WHAT’S CONSIDERED “GOOD” GAS MILEAGE?
Getting good gas mileage means that you can travel further using less gas.
As a general guide, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has designed a fuel economy rating that evaluates vehicles on a scale of 1 (worst) to 10 (best). These numbers can also be found on new car labels. For the 2020 model year, vehicles earning a 1 rating return an MPG of 14 or less, while a score of 10 requires 44 or more MPG.
But there are a lot of other variables that factor into this ‒ from the type of vehicle you drive to the way you drive it. And all of these can add up when it comes to how much you end up spending on gas.
WHAT CAUSES POOR GAS MILEAGE?
Regardless of what kind of vehicle you drive, all of these factors can negatively impact gas mileage:
Speed: The faster you drive, the more fuel your vehicle burns up. This includes how fast you accelerate, too.
Idling: Keeping your car on for it to warm up or cool down, queuing up at a drive-thru or waiting to pick your kid up from soccer practice can all decrease your vehicle’s fuel economy.
Aerodynamic drag and excess weight: Driving too fast or traveling with a rooftop cargo carrier? These can increase wind resistance, which causes your vehicle to use more gas. And towing any kind of trailer or hauling too much in your trunk, bed or back seat also requires more fuel.
Poor maintenance: From underinflated tires to an unattended engine issue, failure to consistently “tune up” your vehicle can cost you a lot more at the pump. It also can create potential safety risks.
Quick trips: A quick run to the supermarket on Monday. Stopping by the bank on Wednesday. While it may be convenient to run these errands one at a time, it can wreak havoc on your fuel economy. Quick, short trips like this from a “cold start” eat up fuel, because your engine needs to warm up before it can run efficiently.
HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY GAS MILEAGE?
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy and Consumer Reports offer several ways that you can improve your MPG:
Drive more efficiently.
Follow the speed limit, and drive sensibly ‒ not aggressively (e.g. quick accelerations, hard stops, etc.).
On the highway, don’t speed up and slow down (unless you need to for safety). Once you get up to speed, stay there. Use cruise control when possible.
Remove unnecessary extra weight, avoid idling and take the cargo box off the roof of your vehicle (unless you really need to use it) to help even more.
Keep your car in shape.
Make sure your engine is tuned, keep tires properly inflated and use the right grade of motor oil. Check out 9 Things You Should Never Do to Your Car for basic car-care tips.
Plan and combine trips.
Spend less time sitting in traffic by avoiding rush hour on daily commutes.
Run all your errands on one day rather than taking multiple short trips during the week.
If you have an especially long commute, ask your employer if you can work from home a day or two per week.
Opt for a more fuel-efficient vehicle.
If your budget allows it, consider purchasing a vehicle that touts better MPG than your current one. With fuel prices rising, you could save hundreds of dollars in fuel costs per year switching from a vehicle with 20 MPG to 30 MPG. Check out the fuel savings calculator on fueleconomy.gov.
Kids driving golf carts are a common sight on golf courses. Many parents and kids are not aware of the legal implications that come with this type of driving, not to mention the fact that it’s illegal for non-licensed drivers to operate a golf cart.
Some excuses I’ve heard for allowing kids to drive a golf cart:
It’s good practice for driving a car.
It’s just fun!
Golf carts don’t weigh much.
Golf carts don’t travel very fast.
They are driving on a cart path, not a street.
What would happen if your child was driving with a few friends as passengers and someone really gets hurt? Who would pay for the doctor and hospital bills? If there is a liability lawsuit, who is going to pay for those damages? Most families don’t have thousands and thousands of dollars sitting around to pay a judgement. I know I sure don’t!
What are some insurance coverages that you can purchase to help protect yourself?
Liability Protection
Golf cart liability insurance provides coverage for any injury or accident that may occur while using a golf cart. Liability insurance is often required by the club or course and it is important to purchase this insurance before using a golf cart.
Injuries and accidents happen all the time, so it is important to be prepared when they do happen. Liability insurance can help cover costs like medical bills, lost wages, punitive damages, and pain and suffering if someone gets hurt while driving your golf cart. Ask your agent about adding an endorsement for the cart, and transfer that risk from your personal pocketbook to your insurance company.
2. Theft Protection
What will happen if your golf cart is stolen? Would you have the funds available to replace it? If you have comprehensive coverage on your golf cart, you would able to file a claim to receive compensation if it is stolen.
3. Property Protection
If you include collision coverage, the insurance company helps pay for repairs to your own golf cart if you are in an accident. This coverage is very helpful for the more expensive golf carts out on the course.
The best way to prevent an accident with your non-driving age kids and your golf cart is to make sure they don’t drive the golf cart. Remove the keys and put them in a safe place that is inaccessible.
Golf carts can be fun, but the damage and injury that can be caused by inexperienced drivers is no laughing matter.
Has your roof sustained storm damage or just in need of a serious face-lift?
Having your roof repaired or replaced is the last thing you want to worry about when the weather is nice; however, neglecting to have repairs made can result in chronic, long-term issues to both the exterior and interior of your home. Cracked, brittle, curled or missing shingles can be the gateway for severe damage if not addressed.
We know the process of selecting a contractor to complete the repairs is not easy and requires some homework. We also believe most contractors are honest and reputable; unfortunately, some are not.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when having your roof repaired.
Contractor:
Work only with a licensed contractor who can show proof of insurance.
Request references from the contractor and check them out.
See if the contractor is rated by the BBB.
Be present when the contractor inspects the roof and ask questions.
Request a detailed estimate identifying the cost breakdown, when the work will be completed, guarantees, warranties and payment schedule.
Avoid contractors who solicit business door to door.
Make sure the type of roof covering is appropriate for your roof slope. Keep in mind that shingles are not appropriate for a flat roof.
Make sure the contractor inspects and addresses the flashing on th roof such as the valleys, roof vents, and chimneys.
Make sure the roof is ventilated properly. Heat that is trapped in an attic can cause condensation issues or decrease the life expectancy of your roof.
Review local building code(s) to ensure the proposed repair is in compliance, such as the type of sheathing and use of ice/water shield.
Avoid applying new shingles over a deteriorated roof.
Make sure the weather is appropriate when the repairs are made. Remember shingles will not seal properly in colder temperatures.
Just imagine that you have gotten some of the worst news you could possibly receive.
Your spouse/partner has been killed in a car accident. While dealing with all of the emotions and heartbreak of this news, you have to slog through this devastating circumstance and take care of yourself and your family in practical ways.
You will need to find the life insurance policy that was hopefully purchased to help continue to pay your bills. You will need make changes to bank accounts and other financial accounts. You will need to be able to access your auto insurance and home owner’s insurance policies and various legal documents.
Human beings prefer to deal with things they know about and have an affinity for, or have the education and learning to be successful. If you are like many couples, it seems one of you deals with the finances of your household and one of you wants nothing to do with all that! One of you loves it, or at least doesn’t mind dealing with these types of things, and one of you really hates it.
I would propose that you may want to rethink this in your relationship. Both people should be aware of all account passwords, login information, insurance policies (especially life insurance), your last will and other legal documents. Maybe you store this in a safe in your home or a safety deposit box at the bank. Many families utilize an password application that stores everything in one place electronically. Even if one of you makes most of the banking, investment, insurance, medical and other type of life decisions, both of you should know what is happening. Even if you have separate bank accounts, be sure you can access all accounts in the case of the death of the account holder.
I have dealt with insurance customers that have lost their spouse, and are completely clueless how to move forward with everything. They have no idea what is going on with their insurance, how to pay the bills, and even how to access sorely needed funds. It can be months and months of struggle, on top of dealing with the loss of their loved one.
A very stressful situation can be made SO MUCH EASIER if you will take a couple of minutes to have a discussion about your accounts and the access needed, just in case.
