5 years ago
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by
Kris Castle ·
Comments Off on POTHOLES – What Do I Do If I Hit One?
Aren’t potholes the worst?!
It seems that the more I try to avoid hitting a pothole, the more likely I am to actually hit it. I immediately cringe and hope I didn’t just destroy my rim, wheel, or tire! Sometimes, especially at night, it is really difficult to see one, but the unmistakable huge bump and scrape lets you know what just happened.
How does your insurance carrier handle claims regarding potholes? Insurance companies will consider this a collision-type of claim and it will show as an at-fault claim on your claims history.
What should you do if you hit a pothole?
- Be sure the car is safe to drive. Your steering may be impacted or you may get a flat tire.
- Get an estimate on the repairs to fix the damage done to your wheel.
- Depending on your deductible, you may want to fix the damage without filing an insurance claim.
Always discuss claim situations with your agent. They are there to assist you as needed!
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6 years ago
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by
Kris Castle ·
Comments Off on Comprehensive Coverage
How comprehensive is comprehensive coverage? What the heck does that even mean?
Comprehensive coverage for your car, also known as other-than-collision coverage, can be used in a few different ways.
The number one way I see my clients use this coverage is for glass – such as your windshield or back window. In Kentucky, there is no deductible for glass claims, so it will not cost you out of pocket.
Another way comprehensive coverage works is for vandalism or theft. If your ex keys your car or your cousin’s shady friend steals your car and takes it for a joy-ride, the comprehensive part of your policy (if you have purchased it) will be used.
If you have never had a deer run into your vehicle, the damage can be pretty severe. A repair can be thousands of dollars, so you’ll be glad you had this coverage!
Wind, ice, snow can really shake loose old or diseased tree branches. If a tree limb falls on your car, that would be a comprehensive claim. A good tip is to park in the garage when possible and to avoid parking near trees, especially if inclement weather is forecasted.
Hail damage. See tip above.
Lastly, road service is included in this part of your coverage. Keep in mind, if you use your insurance for any reason, including a jump or a lock out, that is considered a claim. If you have AAA or other road service options, you may consider utilizing them as well.
Please find additional information from the Insurance Information Institute. Click on the link below.
https://www.iii.org/article/what-is-covered-by-collision-and-comprehensive-auto-insurance
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6 years ago
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by
Kris Castle ·
Comments Off on Back Up Safety
Back Up Collisions
Back up collision damage is the largest percentage of accident claims. Nearly everyone has backed up into an object in their driving career. Younger drivers are more prone to making this mistake.
A few helpful tips:
- Whenever possible, drive forward into a parking spot where you can drive out forward to avoid backing out of spaces.
- Use your mirrors, but also turn around and check all blind spots before moving.
- Be aware of what is behind you when you get in your car. Poles, curbs etc often are not visible from inside the car.
- If your car has built-in sonar sensors, pay attention to them. Get familiar with your car by walking around back to test the sensitivity is of the vehicle sensors
- Install (or use) a backup camera system. Using these systems greatly decrease the instance of a backup accident and claim
See: https://www.dmv.com/blog/do-rearview-cameras-really-prevent-backup-crashes-520667
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