What should I look for when Purchasing Umbrella Insurance in Lakewood, Colorado?

Umbrella insurance is available as extended coverage. These days lawsuits are everywhere, and lawsuits, however ridiculous they may be are winning with enormous awards. Our independent agent in Lakewood, Colorado can help you get this added security. Policies have limits as to what they will pay. An umbrella will extend those benefits and pay over what the policy pays. Automobile, homeowners, business, and watercraft policies all have limited protection on liability.

Accidents do happen, and no matter how careful you are, the accident may be your fault. If the accident is serious, you could be looking at a lawsuit. If found guilty for negligence, related to your accident, you could face a liability taking all your assets, if you do not have the correct benefits. As soon as your primary insurance has paid up to its limits, this extension will take over.

If you want this coverage added for your full security, make sure the benefits include certain coverage in the policy.

Look for benefits in this extended policy covering medical bills for the injured person, lost wages and any rehabilitative therapy care needed. Make sure that your benefits pay for legal defense and legal bills. This should include property damages. If your accident causes the injured permanent disability, your company may be appointed to pay for life.

Do not be caught in a situation, only to find out you do not have sufficient benefits to cover the unfortunate situation. You could find yourself in a lawsuit, all of your personal assets could be frozen and awarded, if you do not have the right coverage.

Umbrellas are inexpensive to get for what they provide in return. This liability benefit will protect personal activities throughout America and anywhere overseas. It is difficult to understand why people are not purchasing these benefits. Our independent agent believes it may be a lack of knowledge. Call our independent agent in Lakewood, Colorado today to help you secure your future.

Does High Mileage Affect Auto Insurance Rates in Colorado?

How many miles are on your vehicle is something your insurance company will probably ask you, but what’s even more important is how many miles you’ll be putting on your vehicle each year. High mileage will cost you more when you buy coverage in Lakewood, because the more you drive the higher the chance you’ll have an accident. All Colorado companies are concerned about this, and their concern will be reflected in your auto rates. That doesn’t mean you should lie about your driving, though, because that could get you into big trouble if you need to make a claim.

An older car can save you a lot of money if you’re going to be driving it frequently. The older the car the less it typically costs to insure it. Most older cars also don’t need collision insurance, because of their low replacement value. If you have only the minimum coverage on a car, you’ll pay a lot less for your insurance – even if you drive a lot of miles each year. The more insurance you have, the newer the car, and the more miles you put on it, the higher rates you’ll pay.

No matter what kind of car you have and how much you drive it, come in and see us. As an independent agent, we work with a lot of different companies and can help you find the best insurance option for you and your vehicle. High mileage is going to cost you more, but it doesn’t have to break the bank when it comes to covering your car. Just be sure that you work with us, since we know what questions to ask and how to find you the lowest rate while still being sure that you have all the coverage you need. That can provide you with great peace of mind, as well as a great policy.

Does my Homeowners Insurance Cover my Belongings in Storage in Colorado?

If you’re moving or remodeling, or if you just have too many things in and around your home, you might want to put some of your things in storage. One of the items the storage company may offer you is insurance. Do you need it? Well, that depends. Instead of automatically taking that storage insurance (and paying extra for it), make sure you stop in and talk to us. We can help you determine if your homeowners coverage is enough to protect your stored belongings, or if your policy isn’t designed for that.

Whether you’re putting them in storage in Lakewood, Colorado or somewhere else might also matter, and you don’t want to end up with unprotected furniture and other items because of limits on your homeowners policy. Finding out what kind of coverage you have ahead of time is a much better way to protect anything you own, since you’ll know whether you need the storage company’s insurance before you arrive with your belongings. You may also be able to get a temporary rider on your insurance policy that covers items that are stored off-site.

Some policies have restrictions as to how things can be stored, so make sure you choose your Lakewood facility wisely. You’ll want a storage company that is secure, and that protects your belongings properly. We can help you answer any questions about what your policy covers and how your belongings must be secured, so you’ll have peace of mind. Short-term or long-term storage issues can be addressed, and it’s very important that you get the type of coverage that will protect you and your belongings, no matter where they are. Let us help you locate the perfect policy. As an independent agent, we handle multiple companies and know what questions to ask to make sure the policy you get is the right one for you.

Are you covered for Natural Disaster Insurance in Lakewood, Colorado?

No matter where you live, natural disaster can occur without warning. Your Lakewood, Colorado homeowner’s insurance should cover most disaster damage to your home. However, there may be some events that are not covered by your policy. You should also ensure that you have enough insurance to meet your current needs.

Normal coverage

Damage to your property due to storms, tornados, wildfires and hurricanes is normally covered. The important issue to keep in mind is the amount of coverage your policy provides. If your home has been increasing in value, or you have made improvements, you may need to increase the dollar amount of your coverage. If you are a renter, you need your own renter’s policy. While the owner’s insurance covers their property, it will not cover your possessions.

Floods

Water damage to your home will be covered for roofing leaks, broken windows and most plumbing problems. You should check your policy to determine if damage from breaks in sewer or main lines outside your home is covered.

Water damage that is cause by a flood is not. Flood coverage must be purchased separately. You need to determine if you are in an area considered a flood zone. Keep in mind that these zones can change; you should check the information yearly.

Earthquakes

If your home is damaged from an earthquake, the event is not normally covered under a basic policy. If you live in an area that could be affected by earth movement, consider purchasing a separate policy or add an endorsement to your current insurance.

We are your independent agent for the Lakewood, Colorado area. Contact us today; we can go over your homeowner’s insurance with you to make sure you are fully covered for any natural disaster. We will also make sure that the amount of coverage you have meets your current value needs.

Safety measures on Homes with a Gas Fireplace in Colorado

If you live in Lakewood, Colorado, it’s a safe assumption that you actually use that gas fireplace that came with your home. Chilly nights and snowy days can be great times to have a fire going in the background. It helps to keep the room warmer, but it also provides a great, cozy feel to the house. While you’re using that fireplace, though, you need to think about the safety measures you’ve got in place. Without the ability to be safe and careful, you could be risking your home. Fortunately, gas fireplace safety is not terribly complicated.

First, make sure you don’t use the fireplace when no one’s around. In other words, it should be attended, and people should be in the room. It’s one thing to leave the room to get a drink of water, but another thing entirely to go out for a few hours and leave the fireplace running. You should also be aware of any strange smells coming from your fireplace. While gas is odorless, many companies add a chemical to it that you can smell. If you suspect a leak of any kind, turn off your fireplace, leave the house, and call the gas company.

If you’re not sure how much that gas fireplace will cost you on your home insurance, come in and talk with us about the policy you have or want. It’s possible that you won’t be paying very much extra, depending on the age of the fireplace, how it was installed, and other factors. We can provide you with quotes from several different companies, but we’ll also be able to help you with safety tips if your fireplace isn’t up to the current code. The best thing to do is to have your gas fireplace checked thoroughly when you move in, and to periodically have it checked over its lifetime, just to have peace of mind.

What to do after a Winter Storm Blast in Lakewood, Colorado

The Rocky Mountain State is no stranger to snow storms. Although Colorado residents all probably have a good idea of how and when to stock up on food and blankets before a big winter storm is scheduled to hit, it’s less certain how we should respond when the storm results in damage beyond weight gain and a high heating bill. If you’re not sure what actions to take to protect your Lakewood home or vehicle, consider the following helpful tips.

1. Record the Damage

Thanks to modern technology, essentially everyone can make a substantial record of any home or car damage right after it happens. These records can act as evidence for your insurance company in the event that you will need to file a claim to receive compensation for the damage. Make sure to take multiple pictures of your home and car– remembering to account for the roof, engine and other less obvious areas as well.

2. Immediately Contact Your Insurance Provider

There are probably a million other things you’d rather do instead of sorting out the logistics with your insurance provider, but it’s important that you get this out of the way as soon as possible. The sooner you file your claim, the more likely you are to be approved and the quicker you’ll receive your compensation.

3. Take Precautions for Next Time

When you file a claim, your insurance rate will go up, but you can still cut costs by taking precautions for next time. For example, you can prepare your Colorado home by repairing roof leaks, installing new insulation and cutting away tree branches that could potentially fall on your home during a storm. You can protect your vehicle by having a covered port or garage installed or simply investing in a full body cover.

Our Lakewood independent insurance agents are here to help you acquire the best price for your coverage needs, so feel free to contact us for a personalized quote and professional advice today.

Tips on How to Prepare for Driving in Bad Weather Conditions in Lakewood, Colorado

Being prepared for driving in bad weather will help you avoid an accident. Have regular car maintenance performed to catch problems before they become serious. Always allow yourself enough time to reach your destination. In addition, follow these tips for safety in bad weather.

Tires

The condition of your tires can make a significant difference in how safely your car handles bad weather conditions. Snow and ice in the winter can make driving treacherous. Heavy rains can cause your car to hydroplane. Your tires need to have adequate tread depth to grip the road.

In general any less than 1/16 inch of tread is insufficient. Many professionals recommend no less than 1/8 inch. Some areas of Colorado will require chains in the winter. Carry a set in your trunk to use when needed.

Wiper blades

Check your wiper blades to ensure they operate correctly. Make sure the rubber fully contacts the windshield surface without leaving streaks or gaps. If you cannot see the road in front of you, you cannot avoid danger. Periodically check the level of wiper fluid in the reservoir. Carry a small container in your trunk in case you run low due to heavy road salt.

While Lakewood, and the rest of Jefferson County, can experience extreme winters, the summer can have very hot days. Heat can be damaging to the materials in windshield wiper blades. Take the time to inspect your blades before the heavy spring rains and again before winter.

As your independent agent in the Lakewood, Colorado area, we want you to prepare and stay safe on the road. Remember that you should check your insurance coverage each year to keep it up to date. Give us a call, we can provide you with competitive quotes to ensure you have the right insurance at the best possible prices.

The Facts on Collision Coverage for Drivers in Colorado

Collision coverage is optional for Colorado drivers. However, each driver should carefully consider the facts about collision coverage to decide whether or not he is likely to benefit from purchasing it. Although it can seem like opting out will keep your expenses lower by minimizing your monthly insurance bill, it does not necessarily save you money over time.

Collision Coverage Uses

Collision insurance covers the damage to your vehicle that could result from an accident with another car or from hitting an object. Drivers who need to repair or replace their cars after such an incident may rely on their collision coverage.

It’s an unfortunate fact that not all drivers obey Colorado law. Some don’t carry liability coverage even though it is required by law, and others may participate in hit and runs. If you’re in an accident in which you are not at fault, but the other driver does not have insurance that covers damage to your car or the other driver cannot be identified, your collision coverage could come into play and cover your repairs.

What to Consider When Making Insurance Buying Decisions

If you are still in the process of purchasing your car by paying off a loan, your lender can require that you have collision insurance. This is a common requirement as lenders want to protect their investments and avoid suffering from losses if the items securing the loans are damaged. Although collision insurance is not required by law, it can be required by your lender. This is an agreement that you should honor, and one that benefits you as well. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you are still paying off a loan for a vehicle you are unable to drive.

If you own your car, then you should consider your vehicle’s value, your financial situation and other considerations in order to decide if collision coverage is right for you. Vehicle owners whose car carries a high value are more likely to opt in to collision coverage than those whose vehicle is an older model with a lesser value. Contact us today and an independent agent in Lakewood will help you evaluate your needs and determine of collision coverage is right for you.

Penalities for not having Auto Insurance in Lakewood, Colorado

Nearly every state has some penalties for not having auto insurance when you are on the road, but knowing the local laws is essential. In the state of Colorado, there are some stiff penalties for driving your car without auto insurance today. Maintaining at least a minimum policy is essential because it is the law, and because it will protect you!

The State Minimum Insurance Levels in Colorado

In Colorado, a couple of types of auto insurance are required. Liability insurance is the first of these. This is the part of an auto insurance policy that covers property damage that was caused by you if you were using the vehicle in a negligent way. This could include accidents caused by you because you were speeding, because you failed to yield, or any type of damage caused by you due to driving mistakes. Liability insurance also covers bodily injury that was caused to others by your negligent driving. This is the coverage that pays for the hospital and other medical bills of anyone who was injured due to your negligent driving. In Colorado, it is required that drivers maintain $25,000 per person bodily injury up to a maximum amount of $50,000 per accident in addition to $15,000 in property damage. Colorado also requires its drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage, which covers you in case an uninsured driver damages your vehicle. However, this is normally a part of the liability insurance. Check with your independent agent to make sure you have both types of coverage.

Penalties for Lakewood Drivers Without Insurance

In the state of Colorado, people who are driving without insurance are typically issued a ticket for this offense. The state requires that offenders not only pay the ticket, but that they obtain auto insurance within a set period of time determined by the court. Offenders who get more than one citation for driving without auto insurance will be assessed higher fines and penalties, and may even have their drivers license revoked. If a person is driving without auto insurance and causes an accident, they may be sued by the accident victim in order to recover damages.

As your independent agent, we can help you to determine the right type of auto insurance coverage for you. Even though liability insurance is required and comprehensive and collision coverage are not legally required in Colorado, getting full coverage is wise because it protects not just others, but also you.

Home Insurance Tips on a Paid off home in Lakewood, Colorado

Any homeowner needs to make sure that they have adequate coverage on their home insurance policy, but how does that change if your home is paid off? If you are a Lakewood Colorado home owner and you have finally made that last payment on your house or condo — or if you are getting very close to paying it off and being debt free — it is definitely time to reconsider your home insurance needs. Here are some tips about dealing with home insurance when you own your home outright.

How Owning a Paid Off Home Changes Insurance Needs

When you own your home outright, you are more invested in it than you have ever been before. For most people, their home is the biggest asset that they have, and when the house or condo is paid off that asset needs to be protected more than it ever has before.

When you still owed money on your home, the focus of your insurance policy may have been to make sure that your coverage was sufficient to pay off your mortgage, and to rebuild a new home, in case the home was destroyed. However, once you own your home outright you will no longer have the concern about paying off the mortgage. This means that you could potentially lower the amount of home insurance that you carry — but it is vital that you discuss amounts with your independent agent before making any changes.

Now that you do own your home, it is especially important to be prepared for disaster, just in case. Carrying an insurance policy large enough to rebuild your home — or to buy a comparable new home for cash — should now be your top priority when it comes to home insurance. If something happens and your home is destroyed, or even if you suffer from a serious loss of property, you want to be able to pay for the problem to be rectified, and to remain debt free.

When you are ready to buy insurance for your paid off home, be sure to get comparison quotes from an independent agent that gives you all the info you need in one single place online. This gives you the opportunity to get the best price, while still having the coverage level you need!