Car Insurance Matters In New York

Monthly 4 Point Safety Check

2011-09-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

To ensure you're driving a safe vehicle, take a few minutes to conduct this monthly Four-Point Safety Check. Your car and your safety may be riding on it!

1.   Check Front End Alignment: Any pothole or bump can knock your car out of alignment. While driving slowly in an empty parking lot, see if the vehicle is pulling to one side. If so, have a qualified mechanic realign your front end.
2.   Take a Brake: When in park, check your brake pressure. There should be resistance to the pedal when depressed. And, any grinding, squeaking or shuddering you hear or feel when you hit the brakes means it's time to have them serviced.
3.   Tire Pressure: Make sure all tires are inflated to the pressure recommended in your owner's manual (not the maximum pressure noted on the tire's sidewall). The correct pressure will ensure your tires wear evenly which will reduce the chance of blowouts.
4.   Keep Your Lights On: Blown out brake lights and turn signals can be a big hazard on the road. Have a friend help you make sure all lights are working properly.

Bonus tip: At least once a year you should check to make sure your insurance coverages are still what you require and shop for car insurance rates in NY so you know you are still getting the best deal.

Earthquake Insurance!

2011-08-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

I must say, I never though I would be talking about earthquake insurance here in New York, until now. Do you have earthquake coverage on your home? Probably not. Can you get it here in New York? Maybe.

Earthquake insurance is a kind of property insurance in NY which handles destruction brought on by earthquakes . Earthquake premiums are determined in different ways by each NY based insurance company and can vary extensively based on a number of factors. Earthquake insurance covers damage caused when the earth shakes or cracks, also known as ground movement.

Earthquakes have been reported in 39 states and caused destruction in every state since 1900, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III.) Earthquakes often create catastrophic damage that can occur without notice. They're probably the most terrifying naturally sourced peril experienced simply because they generally occur without warning or indication.

Coverage for earthquake damage might be available as a rider to existing property insurance if your company provides this endorsement, or can be sought out on a stand alone policy. Though many insurance companies provide earthquake insurance, few of them actively market the coverage due to the large amount of damage that can occur in a condensed area. For information on if you are covered or how to be covered, contact your local NY insurance broker.

Car Pooling

2011-08-03T14:31:00.000-07:00

Environmental considerations, traffic congestion, convenience, need to reduce driver stress, inadequate public transportation, absence or cost of parking are all aspects that contribute to commuters developing motorist organizations or car pools. Parents use such measures to transport kids to school, sporting activities and extracurricular activities. It's also typical for students owning a motor vehicle to carry classmates back and forth between home and school.

Irrespective of the title, driver groups, share-the-ride arrangements or car pools really are here to stay. Generally, numerous motorists alternate accepting the responsibility for driving their companions. It's typical for the turns to keep going for a week and might be performed on a revolving schedule. These folks often live in the same area and work in the same workplace, taking turns driving or frequently traveling in one car and paying the owner an acceptable fee to help pay for gasoline, maintenance and wear and tear.

The process of a parent or guardian taking a group of children on trips, to sports activities, and so forth is commonplace. Other samples of group driving exposures are readily available:

Book club members driving for their regular meeting
Church group activities
Coaches taking players to practice or games
Beginner musicians driving a van to a practice or performance
Adults traveling with each other to bowling league games, softball practices, etc

Liability Insurance Coverage Exclusion:

Drivers linked to car pools as well as other group arrangements might question if the situation is included under their auto policy. This concern is legitimate as many auto policies have constraints. Commonly, liability coverage under a personal automobile policy does not apply to "…liability arising out of the ownership or operation of a vehicle while it is being used as a public or livery conveyance." (A public conveyance is a vehicle used indiscriminately in transporting the public without being limited to certain persons or occasions. A livery vehicle is one that is offered for rental). There's small variance in language among policies issued by different insurance companies, however the intent is the same: to exclude the use of a personal auto for transporting people or property for income. On the other hand, this exclusion does not affect coverage for car pool, driver group, and share-the-ride arrangements. Using a car or SUV that is insured by a personal auto policy to transport people or goods for hire is unfair to insurers. The premium a company charges for private use is insufficient to cover "public or livery conveyances" that are typically:

Driven more miles
Subjected to worse (i.e., high density) traffic situations
Driven under more pressure to meet delivery schedules
Exposed to poorer driving conditions

Quite simply, such use calls for more careful underwriting, different or special coverage's and a higher premium. However, group-driving arrangements are another form of personal use such as using a car for commuting, vacations, personal errands, etc. The result is that a "personal" premium compensates an insurer for most car pool arrangements.

Are There Other Coverage Considerations?

Yes. Vehicle owners may worry if their insurance is affected if another member of a pool is driving their automobile. The correct answer is that any person using the vehicle with the car owner's permission is covered together with the car owner.

Individuals who drive in car pools might want to talk about the details with their NY insurance agent. An insurance agent may propose that you carry higher bodily injury liability insurance limits. Higher medical payments limits may also be in order. Providing detailed information can help an agent make sure that any charges involved in the arrangement represent coverage for the driver's operating expenses and not additional income.

A New Development

A Whole New arrangement has evolved. Some states are coming up with share-the-ride driving arrangements where different drivers use the same vehicles at different times of the day. In California, special legislation was passed concerning such arrangements, including the requirements for insurance. This is a different exposure that will call for special policy provisions. Drivers in such arrangements must be certain to secure the necessary coverage.

Conclusion:

In most instances, utilizing a car in a typical share-the-ride arrangement or car pool will not affect the protection in the private automobile policy. The fact that passengers offer financial help to cover auto expenses is not likely to eliminate insurance coverage since the car is not being used as a "public or livery conveyance." However, any fees received by a driver from car pool passengers should only reflect a reasonable share of the gas and oil expense and depreciation on the car. If you still have questions about your situation, contact your NY car insurance agent, a professional who's in an excellent position to provide you with answers.

All About Car Insurance

2011-07-19T11:52:00.000-07:00

Car insurance isn't a really difficult matter once you understand some basic principles and fundamentals. It can be mandatory in numerous states such as New York. There are actually various legal guidelines controlling the NY automobile insurance marketplace. It can be among your household's greatest expenditures. It is focused on having to pay money in case of unanticipated damages or injuries to you or your vehicle.

NY car insurance rates are influenced by your driving history and may be impacted by your zip-code, grades, other vehicles you possess, as well as other variables. NY car insurance discounts might not exactly apply to everybody, but motorists should know what they might be eligible for. Car insurance companies ought to offer its policy-holders several different insurance coverage alternatives which can be cost-effective without leaving the motorist vulnerable. They should also offer its policy-holders a number of vehicle and driving related benefits, for instance: accident forgiveness for first time offenders, hassle-free payment alternatives, after hours services, 24-hour claims support as well as others.

There is great importance in getting an annual insurance coverage check-up as well. Not many people enjoy searching for insurance coverage, and when that insurance coverage is in place there's a powerful temptation to merely leave it as is. The car insurance estimate that you receive ought to include all of the essential protection. In spite of auto insurance being a necessary requirement of all motorists, don't assume all car insurance company policies are created equally. Just a little auto insurance expertise can give you plenty of strength.

Should Golf Carts Have Seatbelts?

2011-07-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

Golf-cart accidents rarely cause serious injury or death, but after a recent accident that killed a woman in Hilton Head SC; law enforcement officials, cart dealers and customers are thinking more about safety.

Image via Wikipedia

Now granted, most accidental golf-cart related deaths involve either alcohol consumption and or not holding on and sitting properly, but that is the nature of a golf cart and that is why they do not go that fast either. With that being said, there is still cause for concern because golf carts are not designed for a smooth jarring free ride. Some people just get thrown out of them when they hit a large bump or make sharp turns. Getting thrown from a moving vehicle at any speed can result in death or serious injury.

Eric Goldstein, manager of Ridgeland SC-based Lowcountry Golf Cars, said drivers should alert
passengers if they are making a turn, especially at higher speeds.

“If you’re not paying attention, you can fall out of a passenger seat pretty easily at 10 or 15
mph,” he said. “You have to watch where you’re going and lean with the turn.”

Goldstein recommends seat belts, particularly for those who drive carts on public roads. Only
about 25 percent of the company’s customers choose to have them installed, he said. Costs
start at about $25 per belt, depending on the cart model.

Insuring a golf cart in NY is not that costly, but imagine how low they can get if everybody went that extra step and added some more safety to their golf carting experience.Your Montgomery NY insurance agent can give you that latest statistics on golf cart injuries and also show you how to insure your own golf cart for much less.

Preventing Motorcycle Theft

2011-06-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

Motorcycles are stolen at a higher rate than cars. The obvious reason being that it is much easier to steal a motorcycle than a car, but with the values of today's new bikes now starting to catch up to some cars; the incentive to steal a motorcycle is much greater for thieves. Did you know that the majority of stolen motorcycles are never recovered? These are all major factors as to why NY motorcycle insurance rates are steadily increasing as well.

Lets talk about simple but effective ways to prevent motorcycle theft. Some are pretty obvious, some not so much.

First of all, Lock the ignition and take the key with you. Motorcycles often get stolen because the owner left the ignition unlocked. Also Lock the steering. Motorcycles come with a fork lock, which is the equivalent of a car’s steering lock.
Chain your motorcycle to a secure object that is difficult to destroy. It only takes a few seconds for a couple of guys to hoist a motorcycle into a van and take off.
Avoid parking your bike next to or between large trucks, SUVs, or anything that can help give cover to thieves.
Install an alarm or a complete motorcycle anti-theft system.
Lock your disks with motorcycle disk locks.
Sometimes removing the main fuse of your motorcycle when you park can be a good idea if you don't have an anti-theft system installed.
Remove the key numbers off your motorcycle’s ignition lock if they were left by the manufacturer. Don't forget to write them down and store in a secure place at home.
Store your motorcycle in a secured location such as a locked garage or fenced area.

If everybody does their part to help prevent motorcycle theft, it will become more trouble than it is worth to thieves and theft rates will start to fall en mass. Once that happens, NY insurance rates will start to drop again as well. The funny thing is, it's just as easy to prevent motorcycle theft as it is to steal a motorcycle.

Purchasing A Pre-Owned Off Road Vehicle

2011-06-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

If you don't know much about off road vehicles yet and you want to start by purchasing a used model, you may be overwhelmed by your choices. There are many factors involved in finding and buying an off road vehicle.

First you need to decide what kind of ATV you are looking for. There are many different brands and kinds of off road vehicles. If you know what you want before you start looking, your search will be much easier.

You may already have a dollar amount that you're willing to spend. That amount will decide what models and years fit your budget. The higher your budget the newer, bigger, and in some opinions better your options are; but that same philosophy applies to everything in life.

Before you buy a used ATV you want to look it over and test drive it. Never buy an off road vehicle “sight unseen” without an iron clad guarantee. Here are a few things to keep in mind when checking over a potential used ATV to purchase:

Mileage and Hours. This gives you an idea of how much the machine was used.
Frame. Look for bent and/or cracked frame members and joints. Any damage at all to the frame should be an instant deal buster.
Oil. Check the condition of the oil. Milky oil indicates water in the crankcase. Smell for burnt oil too.
Plastic. Broken, missing, or cracked plastic can mean a possible past wreck or accident.
Suspension. Closely inspect the suspension parts for loose hardware or excessive wear and tear. These can be expensive to replace. Check the axles too when going over suspension.
Handlebars. Check for straightness. Bent handlebars indicates the ATV has been rolled in an accident.
Steering. Move handlebars from side to side. Inspect the steering linkage for worn or loose parts.

All of these and more, can mean the difference between paying to much for something you are not familiar with yet, or getting a fair deal to start you out in the wonderful fun world of off roading. One more thing to remember as well is that insuring your ATV is not the same for every vehicle. Rate factors include: value, CC's, and safety of the machine you are looking at. Check NY insurance rates on a few models before committing to the sale.

Off Road Vehicle Safety

2011-06-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

Off roading is one of those rare fun things you can do year round in NY. Recreational use of off-road vehicles has gained widespread popularity during the past several years. People ride to sight see, to socialize, to compete, or just to get out of the house. It has become quite popular now. Lets talk about some safety tips.

Many states require riders to wear helmets. The ATV Safety Institute, recommends that ATV riders use motorcycle or other motorized sports helmets that are certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and/or the Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell), but there are other important pieces of protective equipment to wear while riding an ATV, such as:

Goggles – to protect eyes from rocks and dust thrown up by ATVs.
Gloves – to protect fingers and hands.
Over-the-ankle boots to protect feet and ankles from injury.
Long pants and long-sleeved shirt – to protect skin from rocks, trees, and other debris.

Don't forget that ATVs are designed for interactive riding. This means the driver’s body movement plays an integral part of the handling. The driver must be able to shift his or her weight freely in all directions. If passengers get in the way or shift their weight improperly, the driver may not be able to safely control the ATV. In addition, most ATVs are not equipped with handholds or footrests for passengers. Single rider ATVs display a warning label to remind drivers not to carry passengers. New “2-Up” ATVs on the market are specifically designed to carry a driver with a single passenger. According to manufacturers, these ATVs should never be used to carry children under 12 or to carry more than one passenger.

ATVs should not be driven on paved roads. ATVs on paved roads are at risk of being hit by cars and other vehicles. While passenger vehicles contain safety features designed to protect occupants from collisions, ATVs do not. If struck by other vehicles, ATV riders can be killed or severely injured. This is why it is illegal to drive off road vehicles on paved roads in NY. Also, most ATVs have low pressure tires and a solid rear axle, where both wheels turn at the same speed. When making a turn, the ATV's inside rear wheel is intended to skid because its path length is less than the path length of the outside wheel. ATVs on paved surfaces have much better traction, which prevents the necessary skidding. This can make turning an ATV on paved surfaces unpredictable and unstable.

Visit Hudson Valley Agents for more off road information and super competitive NY insurance rates for your off road vehicles.

How Come No One Uses Snow Tires?

2011-01-13T13:50:00.000-08:00

One of the smartest things anyone can do is invest a little money in snow tires. Most people have gotten either lazy or too cheap to buy and use snow tires in the winter, claiming their "all season radials" will do the trick. Well they won't.
Snow tires have tread patterns specifically designed to dig down and bite into snow, and they're made from softer rubber that retains flexibility in cold weather. This allows the tire to better conform to the surface of the road. This is why snow tires keep a better grip on snowy and slushy surfaces than regular all season radials. Modern automobile safety technologies like antilock brakes, electronic stability or traction control, and all wheel drive cannot do their jobs if the tires can't maintain their grip on the road surface.
So for better automobile safety and to prevent potential insurance claims, spend a few extra dollars on safety and get snow tires for the winter.

No Slip-Sliding Away: How To Stay On The Road

2010-12-23T08:01:00.000-08:00

One thing is easy to foretell: Unpredictable weather can cause reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions that make it challenging for even the most experienced drivers. Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself, your passengers and your car.

The following tips can help you stay safe when faced with treacherous roads:

•    Assemble a winter emergency kit. At a minimum, it should contain a blanket, boots, shovel, nonperishable food and a flashlight.

•    Plan ahead for stopping and turning. “pad” the brakes when approaching a stop, especially if the road is slick. If turning, accelerate very gently through the turn.

•    Don’t make any sudden moves. Keep it slow and steady to maintain control.

•    Be cautious when braking in icy conditions. Coast over ice. Brake after reaching bare pavement. And never slam on the brakes. Brake gently in a pulsing fashion if your vehicle does not have ABS.

•    Steer into a skid. Remember: Locked wheels lead. If your rear tires are in a skid and “locked,” the rear of your car will start sliding to lead the car down the road. If this happens, steer into the skid, not away, and remember, don’t brake during a skid

If you follow these tips but still find yourself in a crash, just remember that what you do after an accident can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe and in helping you and your insurance company work through a claim.

Remember to follow these tips if you get into an accident:

•    Stay calm. Stay at the scene but move off the roadway. Warn oncoming traffic by activating your hazard warning lights and/or setting flares.

•    Call the police.

•    Contact your insurance company to file a claim. The earlier your insurance company knows about the accident, the earlier it can get to work to resolve it.

•    Do not admit fault. Only discuss the accident with the police and your claims representative.

•    Exchange information with the other driver(s). And remember to get contact information for any witnesses. Do not rely on the police to do this for you. Rarely do they get the proper information you need to start a proper insurance claim.

New Car Purchase And Insurance

2010-11-01T08:12:00.000-07:00

One way to avoid sticker shock or buyer’s remorse when purchasing a new car is to consider expenses you may encounter down the road.
For instance, experts say that while most people anticipate the purchase price, taxes and registration fees associated with a vehicle, many forget that the insurance they need to protect their vehicle could come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, there are ways to keep insurance costs down while maintaining the type and amount of coverage a new car typically requires.
To help consumers control car costs—from sticker price to insurance premiums—The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies offers these tips:

Decide ahead of time how much money you can spend and what type of vehicle best suits your needs.

Research crash test and accident data. You can see crash test video and analysis from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety online.

Check with several dealerships and get firm quotes in writing, also try E-Bay and other online directories. Having quotes from several places can help you negotiate your best deal.

Shop around for financing. Rates can sometimes vary greatly between financial institutions.

Insurance Costs:

Before you buy a car, you should check into how much it would cost to insure. Try talking with an independent insurance agent, it may save you some money. Unlike “captive” agents who represent only one company, independent agents and brokers offer products from many different insurance companies. That means more choice and more opportunities for you to find the best coverage and service at the right price.

Here are a few questions to ask an independent agent or broker:

Can I get any discounts for my car’s safety features? Your auto insurance premium is based in part on the car’s value, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for safety features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft.
How does this insurance company handle claims? Price isn’t the only factor to consider. It’s a good idea to deal with a company that will be there for you when you need it around the clock.
What coverage do I need? Your specific needs may vary by the age of the car, your personal situation and other factors.

Select an agent or broker who takes the time to answer your questions and who can help you find the combination of price, service and coverages that you need.

Check Out This AAA Video Regarding Road Rage

2010-10-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

Online NY State Defensive Driving Classes

New Car Safety Features Save Lives and Money

2010-09-22T17:12:00.001-07:00

Statistics show that you are more far more likely to be in a car crash than to be hit by lightning or be the victim of a crime. Alas, you are also more likely to get into a car accident than win the lottery. Just ask your local Walden NY insurance agent.

Given that the risk may be as high as 1 in 4 according to some estimate for being involved in such an unfortunate event, it makes sense to take all reasonable measures lower your risk. These measures can include both HOW you drive, e.g., defensive driving, not drinking and driving, and WHAT you drive, e.g., choosing a safer car.

The good news is that automotive manufacturers continue to roll out features that offer the public safer driving options. New technologies continue to be devised that reduce the chances of an accident occurring as well as the likelihood of serious injuries or deaths if an accident should happen.

If you haven’t driven a relatively new car lately, you may be surprised to discover how things are changing for the better. Here are 5 of the top 10 auto safety features as highlighted by Edmunds.com, a site well known by savvy car buyers. (Watch for the remaining 5 new safety features in an upcoming post.) These new technologies not only might save your life, but they may also save you money if you ask your Poughkeepsie NY insurance

brokers.

1. Tire-pressure monitoring. The NSTA required this to be installed of all US passenger cars as of the 2008 model year. It works via sensors at the wheels that alert the driver when the tire air pressure is too low. Some cars, e.g., the Corvette, come with run-flat tires that allow driving another 50 miles at fairly high speed before attention is needed.

2. Adaptive cruise control/collision mitigation
Remember when cruise control just maintained your car at a constant speed, regardless of conditions, creating potential dangers? Now sensors and radar allow automatic adjustments of the throttle and brakes to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, including those irksome drivers who swerve in front of you. Manual overrides still function of course.

3. Blind-spot detection/side assist/collision warning
Sometimes it could be useful to have eyes in the back of your head, or even antennae, especially when parking. This short-distance radar technology will alert you when a car or other object moves into your blind spot. Some even flash a light in your review mirror or cause the seat or steering wheel to vibrate or sound an alarm when appropriate.

4. Lane-departure warning/wake-you-up safety
Similar to the above, but with a longer reach, this evaluates an oncoming vehicle’s speed and distance to alert you to possible danger in changing lanes. It can also warn you if you wander out of your lane, e.g., if you get distracted or even drowsy. Future improvements are likely to include posture detectors that will activate alarms to wake up sleepy drivers and even slow down the car.

5. Rollover prevention/mitigation
The current systems offered include electronic stability controls, and even preparation systems (which tighten seatbelts and extend rollbars). The new system is even more intelligent as it will sense a potential rollover (e.g., if you take a corner too fast) and apply the brakes and modulate the throttle to help keep control. Each manufacturer has its own name, e.g., “Proactive Roll Avoidance” by GE and “Roll-Over Protection System” by Volvo.

While all of these emerging technologies make car travel safer, accidents still happen. In such cases you will want to have the appropriate insurance. Savvy consumers know how to buy safer cars—and how those safety features can lead to even bigger discounts on insurance from

Albany NY insurance professionals.

Tips To Ensure Your ATV Is Insured Properly

2010-09-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

When it comes to your all-terrain vehicle (ATV), it pays to keep your feet on the ground especially when you're thinking about insuring it. You may think it’s covered by your homeowners policy, but are you really protected? Your “toy” wasn’t cheap, and lacking the right type of insurance coverage could lead to a sticky financial situation.
“Owners should think of ATVs the same way they think of motorcycles,” said Rick Stern, product manager, The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies. “You’d never consider getting on a motorcycle without the proper insurance, and you shouldn’t ride an ATV without the right coverage either.”

If you’re not sure what to do about your ATV insurance needs, here are a few things to consider:
Your NY homeowners insurance policy might not be enough. Most likely, your homeowners policy only covers your ATV if trouble occurs on your property. Anywhere else and you’ll be exposed. Look for an affordable ATV insurance policy that offers coverage no matter where you are. Trail riders should be aware that NY state requires ATV insurance for vehicles operated on state owned land.

What about theft? ATVs are portable and can be easy targets for thieves. You should consider ATV insurance that provides coverage for things such as theft, fire, and vandalism, just like the kind you can get for a motorcycle. Theft, fire and vandalism are covered by comprehensive coverage, an optional physical damage coverage.

Consider uninsured and under-insured coverage. You never know what can happen in the great outdoors. This relatively inexpensive coverage protects you if another rider causes damage to you and he or she lacks adequate coverage.

Keep your rates low. You can do a number of things to save money on your ATV insurance, including maintaining a clean driving record, staying free of claims or choosing a less “sporty” ATV. In addition, most insurers offer a discount if you insure more than one vehicle on your policy, or have more than one policy with the company. This could mean additional savings on your car, motorcycle, boat or RV insurance.

Tips to Secure and Insure College Dorm Stuff

2010-09-13T09:30:00.001-07:00

The first time my friend dropped by his son’s dorm room, he was amazed at how many gadgets he and his roommate had managed to stuff in a tiny space! In addition to the necessary clothes and books, it was crammed with electronics: laptops, iPods, cell phones, printers, stereos, an electric guitar and amp, television, refrigerator, microwave oven, and one very nice bicycle. Figuring out the value per cubic foot boggled the mind!

The only thing more surprising than the sheer value of the personal goods that kids take to college today is the frequency of theft, as your local NY insurance agent can warn you. In many dorms, the norm is to leave the room door unlocked or even open to encourage drop-ins. This creates significant security risks. In fact, dorm rooms turn up on the list of the top five most popular places for laptop theft. Also, given the portability, students drag their laptops to cafes, libraries, and other unsecured places.

What steps can parents take to make sure that the price of a higher education does not get out of hand due to the need to replace any items stolen or damaged in a dorm? The three principal methods are theft insurance, prevention, and enhanced recoverability. Let’s look at each one of these. Your local Middletown NY insurance agents can also provide helpful information.

Insurance for College Dorms

While you can encourage your son or daughter to be cautious and avoid leaving tempting electronics lying about, it also makes sense to get personal property insurance. Do not assume that your homeowner policy will cover all losses that occur at college. These kinds of belongings are usually included in “Coverage C,” which typically has coverage of 50 - 75% of the home’s structural value for all the property in the home, and 10% of that for the contents away from home.

That means that for a home valued at $100,000, contents coverage for property at home would be limited $50,000, and for property away from home, $5,000. You can increase the coverage of all that dorm room “stuff” by insuring the house for more (e.g., $200,000) or by choosing a higher percentage for the coverage for personal goods. Check with your local Newburgh NY insurance agent to find the policy issuer and terms that will meet your family needs.

Preventing Dorm Theft

Naturally prevention is the best policy. Most property that is stolen at college are items that are left in unlocked rooms or cars or that are unattended in public locations, so better vigilance is a good starting point.

The first and most obvious measures is locking the dorm door and keeping the key safe. As laptops tend to be the most popular theft target, with one stolen every 50 seconds according to a report by the student can attach a laptop alarm, e.g., the Laptop Defender, which has a visible light to show that it is “armed” and a 100 decibel alarm. Personalizing items with identification plates, hard-to-remove stickers, etc., also make items less attractive to thieves as they are harder to resell. Keeping iPods and mp3s close to the body (and not easily snatched) is a must. Get a strong U-lock or cable lock for the bike, and carve your name or phone number somewhere on the bike frame.

Make It Easier to Recover

Finally, keep track of serial numbers of valuable property, with a list that is not just on the laptop that might get lifted. Electronic tracing can also help in recovery from services such as Computrace. Such services can be rather costly, however.

This fall, consider an adult-to-adult talk with your almost-grown child about the need to assume greater responsibility for his or her belongings—and for the consequences of failing to take good care. Also be sure to talk to your local Middletown NY insurance agent about your needs for personal property insurance that will adequately cover not only your home and its contents but also those of your college student at the dorm.

N.Y. Workers Comp Board Proposes 30% Rate Hike

2010-09-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

This just in from Business Insurance.

N.Y. workers comp board proposes 30% rate hike | Business Insurance

That's right! On the heals of a 7.7% increase that will take effect, now another 30% increase is in the mix. I have a feeling that a lot of this has to do with the rising cost of health care due to the government hostile take over of our health care industry. Health insurance premiums in NY are going up by as much as 92% on groups in NY right now. There is no way workers comp would have been able to dodge this bullet.

Now is a great time to start shopping your NY workers comp rates. The initial rate may be governed by the NY workers comp board, but there are some insurance carriers that deviate from this rate and offer safety discounts as well.

Sinking Boat Insurance Myths

2010-08-23T10:58:00.000-07:00

You don't believe in the mermaids and you don’t believe your friend caught a sea monster fishing off the Florida coast. So why do most boaters believe boat insurance covers them wherever they go?

Progressive Insurance surveyed more than 1,000 boat owners. It uncovered a few insurance myths floating around. Here's a sample of the findings and the facts behind each:

Myth: Boat insurance covers me anywhere I decide to go boating.

Reality: Seventy-six percent of respondents believed this one. The reality is some insurers only provide coverage where the boat is used most. Insurers may limit coverage to 100 nautical miles of your home port. Some only cover you on “inland waterways.” There are one or two insurers out there that will cover you almost anywhere. See watercraft insurance NY

Myth: I'll definitely get a better insurance rate if I buy from the same company that insures my home or car.

Reality: Buying more than one product from the same insurance company doesn't always mean you'll get the best rate even though 45 percent of respondents thought so. Boaters can save by shopping around and combining specialized policies from different companies. Hudson Valley Agents in New York has over 7 different boat insurance markets to get rates from. Some of those companies write car and home insurance too, but some specialize only in marine type policies.

Myth: Everyone pays more for insurance because of the hurricanes from a couple of years ago.

Reality: Even though it’s believed by 74 percent of respondents, it isn’t true. Boat insurers generally price policies based on claims in each state. For example, New York insurance customers won't pay more for insurance because of hurricanes in Florida.

"It’s important to understand what’s available," said Dominic Mediate of Progressive Insurance. "You want to be properly protected in case your boat is stolen, you get into an accident or contents are damaged. We’re separating fact from fiction so boaters can make the best insurance decisions possible."

Don't forget to print your free copy of Water Safety for Water Craft free from the us government too.

What Is Liability Insurance In NY?

2010-08-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for a specific type of insurance coverage or policy to be referred to by a number of synonymous names. One area of insurance in NY where this is particularly prevalent is in the area of liability insurance.

Commercial insurance brokers in NY are often asked such such questions as: “what is commercial general liability insurance?” It is first helpful to know that this type of coverage is also referred to as general liability, business liability, commercial general liability, CGL, and even just liability insurance.

Though technically some of these terms are quite general and can even apply to such insurance sectors as car insurance, it's helpful to realize that many will use these terms interchangeably.

A quick NY general liability insurance overview may be useful to further clarify some of these terms.

In New York, general liability insurance most typically refers to coverage that protects you from damages due to activities that result in personal injury, bodily injury, property damage, and or damages due to slander or false advertising (also referred to as advertising injury). Your insurance company is responsible to cover the legal costs to defend the claim as well as any compensatory or general damages. Specifically not covered are damages resulting from intentional acts. Automobile liability, employers’ liability, and professional liability insurance are not typically referred to as general liability insurance. Though many will define general liability insurance in much more specific detail, most will include these same fundamental features.

Business or commercial insurance is a broader term that includes general liability insurance as well as other types of coverage that are typically required to fully protect yourself from potential claims resulting from business activities.

Types of Business Liability Insurance

General Liability Insurance: This form of business liability insurance is the main coverage to protect your business from: injury claims, property damages, and advertising claims. In some cases it may be the only type of liability insurance that is necessary to protect a business.
Professional Liability Insurance: This type of coverage is generally needed when a business offers a service. For example insurance agents, accountants, attorneys, doctors and real estate agents. This protects your business from damages resulting from negligence, malpractice, or errors and omissions. Other names for professional liability insurance are errors and omissions insurance (E&O) or malpractice insurance. Oftentimes the label will depend on the industry. For example it is referred to most frequently as malpractice insurance in the medical professions, professional liability insurance in the accounting and financial consulting fields, and and errors and omissions insurance in the insurance sector
Product Liability Insurance: Businesses that manufacture products need to be protected from injuries that resulting from individuals who are injured using their product. Rates for this type of insurance are highly variable and depend on the nature of the product involved. Food products often need to be covered by product liability insurance.

In Case of Accident: Tips for Your Car Insurance Claim

2010-08-07T14:47:00.001-07:00

The most dangerous thing most of us do is drive a car. With more than 6 million accidents last year in the U.S. alone, a new accident is happening somewhere while you read each sentence in this post. Thus your chances of being involved in a vehicular accident and having to file an insurance claim at some point are pretty high.

As your Middletown NY insurance agents can tell you, it is important to know what to do in case it happens to you—and to be prepared.

Before an Accident Occurs

The best preparation of course is safe driving and a great car insurance policy from a dependable company. While you may be tempted to go with the cheapest insurance quote, what you should do is go for value. The last thing you want after an accident is additional frustration due to poor service, delays, and billing problems to add to your challenges.

Pay attention to customer service beginning with your very first contact with the Middletown NY insurance company you contact. Then get the appropriate level of liability coverage and a deductible that you know you can handle. As Money magazine advises, read your policy before you actually need it, and make sure you understand it.

If an Accident Should Happen

Should you have the misfortune to be in an accident, your Port Jervis NY insurance professionals advise you to do the following:

Check for injuries. First determine if there are any serious injuries and call 911 (in most places) for any necessary medical or police assistance. If there are no serious injuries and any involved cars are in drivable condition, police generally do not respond.
Note any damages and accident details. If another vehicle is involved, note its model, make, and plate number. Take various photo of all damages (and any prior damages to other vehicles) and of the overall scene. Note the time of day, weather and road conditions, vehicle speeds, and any other pertinent details.
Record names and relevant data. Also get any other driver’s name, address, driver license number, and insurance company. If the driver is not the owner, get the vehicle owner name and contact information as well. Also record the names of all passengers and any witnesses, with phone numbers as possible.
Note any police intervention. If the police intervene, be sure to note the officer’s name and badge number. Inquire about how to obtain a copy of the police report for your insurance claim.
Protect your rights. As you insurance company would always advice, on the scene you should never admit to guilt. Nor should you accept money from the other driver or agree to “forget about it” if it is minor. You may discover more factors and problems afterward.
Contact your insurer. As soon as possible afterward, contact your auto insurance company. If yours has a 24-hour claims service, as do many, you can call your insurer on the number on your insurance card before leaving the scene.

You may wish to print these steps out and leave a copy in your glove box with your insurance card. Make sure that all who drive your car know these basic steps to protect them, you, and your property. For greater peace of mind, make sure you are protected by the best insurance possible from your Middletown NY insurance

professionals.

7 Ways to Lower Premiums for Your Commercial Vehicles

2010-07-21T14:57:00.001-07:00

A comprehensive insurance policy for your commercial vehicle or fleet is a necessary cost of doing business in a responsible fashion. If your cars or trucks are out of commission, that can mean lost business and thus lost profits.
Furthermore, as any Poughkeepsie NY insurance agent will tell you, it is a requirement in New York State, as in most states, so it is critical to have this policy in place. Keep in mind that your personal car insurance excludes commercial use of your vehicle or your employees’ vehicles.

At the same time that you want to protect your business´s vehicles and the personnel who drive them, you also want to make sure that you are not paying more than you need to for the same coverage.

One strategy for keeping the premiums as low as possible is to review the factors that affect rates and then design your own company procedures for buying and using vehicles accordingly.

The recommendations below are based on information from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. It identifies the following as important considerations for commercial vehicle insurance. Check with your Poughkeepsie NY insurance professionals for details in your area.

1. CHOOSE A GOOD BUSINESS LOCATION. One of the most important factors is your business location, which may be more difficult to change. Nonetheless, keep this in mind if you are still in the process of choosing a site to start up or to move. Premiums for theft will be higher in areas with higher risk of vehicle theft.

2. DESIGNATE SECURE PARKING AREAS. An indoor or locked parking garage may qualify you for lower premiums.

3. HIRE ONLY QUALIFIED DRIVERS. When you hire someone who will have access to company vehicles, part of the hiring or training process should be qualifying them as a driver. The candidate should hold a valid license in the state in which you are doing business, with any special qualifications, e.g., for trucks. In New York, check with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Verify that the person has the proper credential and a safe driving record.

4. CHOOSE A HIGHER DEDUCTIBLE. If your business can take on part of the risk, keep a high deductible. Just as with your personal car insurance, this will drive the premiums down since you will be assuming responsibility for more of the costs due to accidents.

5. INCLUDE SAFETY DEVICES. When buying or leasing a new vehicle, choose one with anti-lock brakes, side air bags, automatic seat belts, and daytime running lights for potential savings.

6. REMEMBER ANTI-THEFT DEVICES. By choosing theft alarms and a global position system (GPS) that helps in vehicle recovery in even of theft, you can lower your premiums dramatically.

7. SHOP FOR THE BEST POLICY AT THE BEST PRICE. You can ask for Albany insurance quotes from different agents to make sure you are getting the discounts you deserve.

Having a good commercial policy is more than adhering to the letter of the law. It also makes a statement about your commitment to the safety and well-being of your employees by assuring them that they will be well covered in the event of a mishap. Your local insurance professionals will attend to your unique situation and work to provide you with the policy that meets your need.

New Car Buyer Shopping Strategies

2010-07-07T07:27:00.000-07:00

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Wikipedia

New car shopping isn't what it used to be. It can be a lot of fun, especially if you’re a car enthusiast. But others can find the experience stressful and or tedious. Either way, there’s a lot to think about. According to a survey of car shoppers, overall purchase price is the most important factor when shopping for a new car (46 percent), followed by make and model (31 percent).

Safety and performance come in a distant third, tied at seven percent. But whether you’re turned on or turned off by the dizzying array of car choices, trim options, incentives, consumer reviews, etc., it definitely pays to approach car buying strategically.

So if you’re in the market for a new vehicle and you find yourself having trouble keeping a clear head, just keep these strategies, courtesy of Hudson Valley Agents, in mind:

Research crash tests and accident data available from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Image via Wikipedia

Shop around for financing. If you can, apply for and get approval for a loan from a bank, credit union or other financier before you even visit the dealership. Being a “cash buyer” gives you a huge advantage when you walk into a car dealership. A sales person and their manager would be very hard pressed to let you walk out of there knowing you already have the money ready to purchase their vehicle. It is the greatest form of leverage you can have when buying a new car.
Decide how much money you can spend and what type of vehicle best suits your needs. Just looking for the basic transport capability of a small or medium sedan? Or do you need the hauling capacity of a van or SUV? Something practical? Something sporty? Something in between?
Test drive the car. Try to drive in conditions that will be similar to those under which you’ll drive every day.
Check pricing for your desired make and model at two or three dealerships or on the internet, and use that information to help you negotiate the best deal. Get a firm quote, in writing. This should include not only the cost of the car, but any fees and the sales tax.
Finally, it’s important to consider the cost of auto insurance, although it seems that few people realize that what they pay for insurance can add significantly to the vehicle’s total cost. Also remember this little saying: "if you can't afford the insurance, you can't afford the car."

Wise car buyers know to shop around for insurance and find out how costs compare. They also know to visit an independent insurance agency like Hudson Valley Agents . They can check with several companies to find the best combination of coverage and price. Albany NY insurance buyers know that Hudson Valley Agents save their customers tens of thousands of dollars a year on their insurance needs.

How Safe Are Your Current Door Locks? Four Keys to Home Safety

2010-07-05T19:56:00.001-07:00

In the time it takes you to read this paragraph, another burglary will have occurred. What makes burglary so common? Surprisingly, burglars march right through a door because it is easier. Even those residents who remember to lock their doors often have inadequate locks that invite intruders, as Middletown NY insurance agents and brokers can tell you.

Fortunately there are several options that can do a better job keeping burglars out and your stuff inside! Even if your home is fairly new, you may need to upgrade your locks for optimal safety and security.

As most contractors install locks based on price, not security, you should make a survey of your existing locks and see which ones need upgrading. Your Newburgh NY insurance agent can offer advice, and here is additional information and advice from lock experts.

1.) Install locks with deadbolts.

Homes usually have either spring-bolts or deadbolts. It is common to find entry doors with both a spring-bolt lock and a deadbolt. A dead bolt differs from a spring-bolt lock in that a deadbolt cannot be moved to the open position except by rotating the lock cylinder. On the other hand, applying force to the bolt of the more common spring-bolt lock can permit retraction. You’ve seen movie characters open those locks by inserting a credit card. Various youtube videos show how easily it can be done. A deadbolt, however requires a key or significant force to open due to its design and weight. However, beware double-cylinder deadbolts, which require a key on both sides, and thus can be a safety hazard in case of fire.

2.) Install quality locks.

Do not just grab something quick at the hardware store or accept whatever the locksmith brings to install. Insurance companies will look for a deadbolt lock with an ANSI Grade 1 classification. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) uses an accepted system for grading the security and durability of locks. You cannot always judge lock quality by appearance, so be sure to look for the designation “ANSI Grade 1.”

3.) Install locks with key control.

How many people currently have keys to your home? Do you even know? In addition to family members and roommates, what about prior roommates or even fired domestic help? Even mechanics have been known to duplicate the house keys on the key ring of cars left for repairs. Burglaries have been traced back to such keys. Consider installing locks that use keys that cannot be copied (as many apartment dwellers know) except by certain locksmiths or by the lock manufacturer.

4.) Install keyless locks.

You may want to consider upgrading to keyless locks in order to prevent the problem listed above. Keyless locks come in mechanical and electronic versions, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Some allow you to change the combination easily, which may be necessary if there are changes in household help or even divorce.

As you upgrade your locks to provide greater home security, you may qualify for insurance discounts. Be sure to talk about your insurance needs, or ask for NY insurance quotes from your local agent.

Affordable New York Insurance

2010-06-21T08:53:00.001-07:00

What’s not to love about the state of New York? You have big-city options or you can live in a smaller community outside New York City -- the choice is yours. However, you may want to keep in mind your insurance options. This is where you can spend a fortune and not need to, where choosing the wrong insurance company can ruin your opinion about New York. Along with the big-city living comes the higher cost of living, but isn’t it nice to know that you can purchase insurance in Poughkeepsie New York through Hudson Valley Agents?

Saving money where your insurance is concerned will allow you spend money where you really want to while knowing that you’re insured with a top insurance company in New York.

The first thing you do when you’re looking at purchasing a new car or a new home is check around for the lowest insurance quote available yet still offering the coverage you need. When looking at Albany NY insurance quotes, look for someone who offers you insurance discounts while still providing you with the coverage you need for your new auto or home. To add to this wonderful package, you also have the options of obtaining quotes on insurance for your business or group health insurance for your employees, all while saving money. Working with an insurance company that knows the importance of saving money while providing excellent coverage is key when looking for

Whether you need Poughkeepsie NY insurance rates or Newburgh NY insurance rates, you can find insurance quotes for your area and your needs. After all living in New York should be fun and not expensive in every area of your life. Knowing you have saving money when it comes to protection of your home, auto, employee health and your own business gives you a peace of mind and a sense of financial security in a world where those two are hard to find. Join the millions of individuals in New York who are already saving tons when it comes to insurance coverage and sign up today to receive the proper insurance you need at the right price.

Insurance in Hudson Valley with Experience You Deserve

2010-06-16T17:47:00.001-07:00

We all know that when it comes to paying the bills, the first check written is the mortgage and the second is the insurance. Although having a home is quite important, insuring it is the key. Middletown NY insurance brokers would love to handle all of your insurance needs. Insurance companies understand the importance of your family, home, and transportation. You cannot rest easy until all are safely insured. Let’s face it; bad things do happen in this world. The idea is not to avoid them, but to be prepared for when they show up.

Shopping for insurance online give you an endless amount of selection and the best place to go to find low cost car insurance in New York. Most insurance companies specialize in the personal touch rather you live in Newburgh New York, or searching through Kingston New York insurance. Even purchasing your insurance needs online you will discover that insurance companies go far beyond that when it comes to meeting your needs. Enjoy being taken care of by an insurance company that cares about those who invest their trust in their company. New York is definitely not the cheapest place to live. It seems like companies are always raising their prices.

There are a ton of multifaceted companies offering you all types of insurance needs, purchasing your insurance online will give you the ability to compare rates and coverages, after all you can find Albany insurance quotes twenty four hours a day. Along with easy access to rates and quotes you will find offers for any kind of insurance you could want. Among a few coverages you will find auto, home, business, and group health. Surf websites to receive your free quote today! Online insurance companies websites are easy to use and available day and night, everything is simply laid out for your convenience. Make sure when you go through an insurance company then you are not just another number to them. No more of being grouped together in a generalized bracket, enjoy being treated as the individual you are and the insurance security you deserve. From Saratoga NY insurance to Poughkeepsie NY insurance you will find agents who want to answer any questions that you may have about varies insurance coverage and rates.

The Traveler's Guide to the Hudson River Valley: From Saratoga Springs to New York City (Traveler's Guide to the Hudson River Valley)

For the Health of Your Small Business: Wellness Plans

2010-05-17T09:08:00.001-07:00

Offering good benefits to your employees is good for your business. Better benefits attract a higher caliber of worker and improves productivity and morale. Traditional benefits can include, among other things, health insurance, retirement plans, workers compensation, disability, dental, and other products.

If you are a small business owner, you may think that wellness programs are only for the corporate giants. But think again. There are relevant provisions for you in the new health care reform laws, and there may even be some kind of subsidy. Of course you need to tailor your program to fit your own situation rather than relying on a “one size fits all” solution, and investigate insurance discounts that may apply.

One employment benefits lawyer had this to say about the complexity of the issue:
"The most common question is to employee a carrot or a stick. The IRS certainly recognizes that there can be up to a 20% penalty (which will increase to 30% under the new reform laws) for non-compliance. But at the same time, HIPAA requires that plan participants have to be offered reasonable alternatives to meeting certain health goals depending on their own limitations. Further, there are individual state laws addressing discrimination that have to be a concern."

He also reported on the motivations for wellness participation:
"I believe that, in the end, a good wellness program is only as effective as the population that it serves. So start by evaluating your population. Are they carrot or stick driven? How likely are they to comply? What "wellness" issues are most important to them and which ones most heavily impact your plan? It is better to start with a limited program based on known data then to assume you can put any program in place and make it work. Knowing your options is the best way to avoid a wellness program that makes your company."

As a conscientious business owner, you should know your options. Consult your insurance professionals about New York employee benefits rates. No matter what size or type of business you are running, Hudson Valley insurance agents are on hand to help you make a healthy, wise choice for you and your employees.

Four Ways to Lower Car Insurance Premiums for Teenagers

2010-05-04T09:00:00.001-07:00

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Car insurance costs more for teens. That’s just a fact, as most parents and teens know. But are you aware of all the ways that you could save big bucks on those policy premiums with a teen driver? If you want low cost car insurance in New York for your teen, there are some things you should know!

Teens may grumble that it isn’t fair that they have to pay more for car insurance, but the bottom line for insurance companies is that the average teen, statistically speaking, is a bigger risk than the average mature driver.

This is due to the lack of driving experience and considerable evidence that they take greater risks. They are involved in accidents more frequently, and with more frequent fatalities and critical injuries.

All that may be true of the average teen, but not of every teen—and insurance companies appreciate that distinction. Thus teens and their parents should investigate policies that take into account the evidence of the teens experience and good judgment.

Teens are involved in a higher number of car accidents with fatal or critical injuries. This statistic translates into higher rates for teenagers. However, there are certain considerations that can affect the overall cost of insuring your teen. Here are four ways that you can keep that premium down when you as for New York car insurance rate quotes:

1. Do not buy a sporty or two-door car. A 4-door sedan will have a lower rate for a teen. Forget about speed and horsepower—those factors will boost the premium faster than you can accelerate the car. Choose a car with a low theft rate as well. If it is an older model with low bluebook value, you might even drop the collision insurance and keep just the liability insurance.

2. Keep a spotless driving record. Even those small insurance claims for a nick or bent fender will be noticed. Teenagers need to learn now the importance of obeying all traffic laws so that they do not accumulate a record. Both insurance claims and traffic tickets can ratchet up the cost of car insurance. Over time, if a teen keeps a perfect record, the premiums may be reduced annually by some companies.

3. Take driver education. Some states even require this before teens can be licensed. If not offered at school or at the community college, contact a local driving school. Successful training here may lower rates—and it is likely to make the teen a safer, more knowledgeable driver in normal and special circumstances.

4. Keep that GPA up. If a teenager is maintaining a good grade average, e.g., makes the honor roll, many insurance companies will give a “good student discount.” Responsible students tend to make responsible drivers, and they are duly rewarded.

Always compare rates and policies before purchasing insurance. Your current insurance policy may be better for you, but may not have the best rates for your teenager. When you want to save money on New York insurance, check around for joint and individual policies as you may find it more affordable to buy care insurance for teenagers on a separate policy.

10 Ways to Safeguard Your Home

2010-04-26T13:24:00.001-07:00

Did you know that a burglary occurs every 15 seconds? You can take some simple steps to keep from becoming a victim. The main idea is to make your home less attractive to burglars who are looking for a quick, easy target. The basic strategies are to make it hard to get in your home and to make it look as if someone is at home.

1. Always lock your doors when you leave. Use a high quality deadbolt lock on all of them. Don’t forget the garage door and back doors—the prime entry spot. Almost half of all burglaries are committed by thieves who gain entry through unlocked doors or windows.

2. Lock your windows and sliding glass doors. Prevent sliding glass panes from being opened by placing a dowel or even a broomstick handle in the track, thus preventing it from being opened from the outside.

3. Install outdoor lights with motion detectors. Aiming them towards doors and windows (which are the favored point of entry, remember?)

4. Install an alarm system. Now place the monitoring stickers where they will serve as deterrents.

5. Put interior and exterior lights on timers when not at home. These inexpensive devices will make it look as if someone is home. Burglars will notice the house that is always dark or that has lights left on for too long.

6. Trim shrubbery and trees near the windows and doors. That way no one can hide there.

7. Be neighborly, Part 1. Going away for a couple days? Ask a trusted neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers or cancel them while you are gone. Return the favor for them.

8. Be neighborly, Part 2. Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway to give the impression that someone is coming and going.

9. Be neighborly, Part 3. Get a trusted person to mow your lawn as well. Uncut lawns are a beacon to burglars.

10. Answering machines. Do not leave messages that indicate you will not be at home.

Final Tip: If anything looks suspicious when you arrive home again, use your cell phone to call the police. Do not enter.

Another way to protect yourself is through adequate homeowners insurance. Talk to a local friendly agent about your needs and ask about Newburgh NY insurance rates. You can save on New York homeowner insurance rates when you let them search the top carriers in the country. Be sure to inquire about insurance discounts as well for security measures such as an alarm system.

Renters Insurance: A Smart Idea!

2010-04-26T13:15:00.001-07:00

I remember fondly my first apartment -- one of four spacious apartments in a lovely Victorian home in upstate New York. When I rented it, I didn’t even know that there was such a thing as renters insurance. I had always heard of “home insurance” and thought it was something I should buy after I purchased a home in case my house burned down or such.

But one of my fellow tenants, another young professional, suggested it to me. So I shopped around for insurance discounts, and took out a policy that was surprisingly affordable. Was I glad I did, because two months later the laundry room washers overflowed and damaged stuff I had stored in cardboard boxes in my storage space in the basement—and it turned out that was covered. It felt great to be prepared!

So even if you don’t own a home, you ought to think about protecting your “stuff.” A standard renters policy provides important coverage in case your property is damaged or destroyed due to particular causes or “perils,” listed in the policy. These usually include the following:

Fire or lightning
Windstorm or hail
Explosions
Riots
Aircraft
Vehicles
Smoke
Vandalism or malicious mischief
Theft
Falling objects
Weight of ice, snow, or sleet
Accidental discharge or overflow of water or steam
Freezing
Sudden and accidental damage from artificially generated electrical current
Volcanic eruptions (but this doesn't include earthquake or tremors)

When you have a rental policy, it will cover your personal property, no matter where you are in the world. This means you're covered when you are on vacation as well as at home.

If you decide to live in an apartment complex, the owner might require you to take out a renters insurance policy. Of course they have their own insurance policies to cover their property and liability concerns. But they do not want you to be lulled into thinking that their policy covers your property or personal liability. So essentially they are getting you to take responsibility for your part, which is a great idea, as I learned.

By the way, if you have a roommate, unless it is a relative, he or she will need to purchase their own policy. Be sure to look for insurance discounts from reliable agents when you shop for Hudson Valley insurance. For very little cost you can be prepared too!

In's And Out's Of RV Insurance

2010-04-13T11:23:00.000-07:00

If you bought a tractor trailer, you wouldn’t add it to your car insurance policy. It’s a specialized vehicle and needs special coverages and claims handling. So why do so many recreational vehicle owners add their RV to their car insurance policy?

Here's why you may want to rethink that strategy:

what if your RV breaks down on a trip?
While a lot of car insurance policies offer roadside assistance, many may not include coverage for your RV. Even if your policy covers some roadside expenses, it may not cover them all. For example, it may pay for towing only up to the amount it costs to tow a car. RV tows can cost three times more. That means out-of-pocket expenses you’re responsible for paying while you're on vacation.
What if your RV is involved in a crash?
Auto insurers typically have someone who normally handles car insurance claims inspect your RV. Specialty RV insurers train claims rep's to look for damage and write estimates specific to RVs. They also work with repair facilities that know how to repair an RV and guarantee the work.
What if the stuff in your RV is stolen?
You may keep things inside your RV that you never keep in your car like jewelry, laptops and camcorders. Your auto policy won’t pay to replace these items if they’re lost, stolen or damaged. Specialty insurers offer “personal effects” coverage that will pay to replace them if they’re used with your RV.

For more information on proper RV insurance in NY contact Hudson Valley Agents for a professional free rate quote and information specific to your RV.

How to Wash Your Car and Protect Its Value

2010-03-20T20:06:00.000-07:00

Nothing grabs my attention faster than a classic car, especially when it’s stopped right next to me at a traffic signal. Who could miss the glistening, fire-engine red 1974 Triumph TR4 purring in anticipation of the light change?

Even though I don’t own one, I love classic cars. I really admire how some folks start taking excellent care of their cars from the outset. Of course the rest of us can do that even if our wheels are not considered “collectible.” Think how much longer your car would last—and how much more you would enjoy driving it—if it looked “good as new” for years.

Surprisingly, the time you invest in a little car care can really pay off -- and low cost car insurance in New York can be a part of that!

One of the simplest, most cost-effective ways you can maintain the appearance and value of your car is by washing and waxing it on a regular basis. During the winter it makes sense to take advantage of a drive-thru car wash, but in warm weather takes hold, you can make it a Saturday project. (If you have kids, this could be a good way of having a good time with the hose and offering a useful life lesson at the same time.)

To get your car shiny and bright, here’s are the simple steps to follow:

1. Gather supplies: hose, bucket, car sponge or mitt, car soap, bug-and-tar remover, car window cleaner, squeegee and paper towels, car wax. (Some car soaps include wax to save you time.)

2. Wet the exterior surface thoroughly to avoid scratches when rubbing.

3. Mix soap and tepid water in the bucket.

4. Apply the suds with mitt/sponge to one area at a time. Work from the top down, without letting the soap dry on the car surface.

5. Open the doors to clean the weather stripping, using a wet rag to remove the soap.

6. Spray bumpers and wheel wells with bug-and-tar remover. Wash and rinse well.

7. Dry the painted and chrome surfaces with a chamois or Sham-Wow cloth.

8. Apply the glass cleaner to the window exterior; dry with a squeegee and paper towel.

9. Waxing instructions will vary with products; follow them for best results.

As you enjoy the results and reap the compliments, consider tackling more challenging aspects of keeping your car shiny and bright following expert advice and videos. Talk to your agent about insurance discounts, too.

Regular maintenance and upkeep of any vehicle makes good financial sense for everyone. To maintain your investment, it also makes good sense to properly insure your vehicle. For great low-cost insurance in New York, you can rely on Hudson Valley Agents for friendly, personalized service.

Tune Up Your Homeowner Policy

2010-03-09T12:19:00.000-08:00

After a long, harsh winter, March heralds a welcome transition to spring in the Hudson Valley. Just as prudent homeowners replace smoke alarm batteries every spring and fall, they can leverage the seasonal prompt to see if it is time to change existing homeowner insurance policies. Think of it as a spring “tune-up” of your insurance policies.

Given human nature, it is easy to overlook insurance issues until there is a loss or until you need to renew the policy. Similarly, we are more sensitized to the major changes, e.g., the purchase of a house, and easily forget that renovations and major purchases may also need updated insurance for true peace of mind. Spending a few minutes now in reviewing and planning might save you thousands of dollars and heart-ache later on if something unexpected should occur. It's a great time to check Newburgh NY insurance rates!

First, review your recent acquisitions of expensive items. For example, in the joy of the holiday giving season, did you receive a snowmobile or a plasma TV or similar high-ticket item? According to official FBI reports, a burglary occurs every 14.5 seconds. You may want to consider riders that protect against theft of damage for your newest prized possessions.

Next, look ahead to any anticipated changes or purchases, including those that involve property loss and liability. With spring and summer approaching, vacation planning is underway. If you are planning to rent or swap your home for a vacation, rest assured with the appropriate insurance policy for property and liability when dealing with vacation tenants.

The checklist below notes the various transitions that should serve as triggers to call to your insurance agent. Which apply to you now or will apply during the coming year? Remember to keep in mind your entire family as you go through the items.

· Recently purchased a new principal residence or second home

· Recently renovated my principal residence or second home

· Plan to renting out my home or second home this year

· Have added a garage, shed, or other building to my/our property

· Acquired a boat, snowmobile, or other recreational vehicle

· Started a small home-base business

· Acquired expensive belongings—electronics, jewelry, furs, or specialty collections

· In the meantime, too, don't forget about your car. Research New York auto insurance rates for the latest.

Now is the time for a free consultation about the insurance implications for the important changes in your home and belongings to avoid unpleasant surprises later on. You can save money on New York insurance when you work with an independent insurance agency such as Hudson Valley Agents – trained, licensed insurance professionals who offer personal service and advice.

Car Insurance Matters In New York

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