4 Common Mistakes in Choosing RV Insurance

An RV insurance policy is not quite different from other types of policies. The main difference is the array of uses, models, and liabilities that are specific to RVs. The different types of recreational vehicles from pop-up campers, toy haulers, and truck campers, can make choosing the right policy a bit confusing. In addition, the different activities, risks, and liabilities for owning this kind of vehicle could also make choosing a policy even more stressful. This article discusses the most common mistakes that owners make when buying RV insurance.

Mistake 1: Assuming that a car insurance is enough

As an RV owner, you need to understand that this automobile is more than just a big car. It is a specialized vehicle that needs a different kind of policy and coverage. For one, it needs a coverage that also accommodates the personal belongings stored inside it. The policy should also include discounts that reflect when and where you will drive the vehicle, as well as the services it needs. With that said, you need to make sure that the policy will have the right coverage suited for a specialized automobile.

Mistake 2: Choosing Insufficient RV Liability Insurance Coverage

Liability coverage protects you in case an unfortunate incident occurs, such as theft, vandalism, fire, which may damage your vehicle. Choosing insufficient liability coverage may result in huge financial losses, especially since medical expenses and loss wages can quickly exceed the limit of the coverage. For this reason, you need to choose one that reflects your financial situation. Avoid blindly following the state-required minimums.

Mistake 3: Buying The Policy With The Lowest Price

Although you are trying to save money, avoid buying the lowest price available. You need to understand that a reliable and specialized RV insurance is very important. You should compare the features and services on top of the prices.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Potential Discounts

There are a lot of things that can reduce your premium. The built-in premium savings and the discounts can help you in that area. Here are some of the discounts you may be eligible for:

    Combine coverage for insuring your RV and other automobiles on the same policy or carrier.
    Renting a storage unit which allows you to suspend the coverages you don't need when you're not using your RV.
    Installing safety and security features on your vehicle
    Having a safe and clean driving record.

To avail these discounts, you need to consult with an agent. Take advantage of these discounts to enjoy more savings.

Enjoy the Perks of Motorcycle Insurance Into Autumn

It's been a hot summer! Too hot to enjoy a carefree afternoon on the open road with your motorcycle. As you prep your bike for cooler autumn rides, it's a good time to confirm that you're getting the most out of your motorcycle insurance to make sure your bike stays in roadworthy condition. Read over these tips to ensure your motorcycle coverage is riding in your favor:

    Verify that your coverage is current: Though it sounds obvious, it's a good practice to double check the expiration date of your policy before beginning a period of heavy riding. Be aware that some insurers have layaway periods during the changing seasons in which coverage might be restricted. If you like to ride in the cooler months, check with your insurer to see if your policy contains similar limitations.
    Keep your policy up-to-date: Inform your insurer of any changes such as additional riders, a change of address, or a new bike purchase. A quick call will take care of these instances.
    Cover custom parts and equipment: If you've installed chrome plating or given your bike a custom paint job, it's likely that the value of your motorcycle will increase. Be sure to add these upgrades to your policy to ensure complete coverage in the event of theft or a collision.
    Drop unnecessary coverage: Older bikes may not need as much coverage as you're currently paying for. It's recommended that you consider eliminating collision coverage if that premium equates to ten percent of your motorcycle's market value. In this case, it may be cheaper to pay for repairs out-of-pocket in the event of an accident than to continue paying the monthly collision premium.
    Raise your deductible: By raising your deductible to the maximum amount you can afford if filing a claim, your premiums will decrease and you can save money every month.
    Check for discounts: Call your independent insurance agent to ask if you are eligible for any discounts that may be available. Remember that prices can vary widely between companies. Your agent can shop around for you and review quote comparisons to ensure that you're getting the best deal.
    Motorcycle insurance specialization: Some insurers specialize in motorcycle insurance. These companies understand your particular needs and offer specialized coverage designed for motorcyclists and their bikes. Ask your independent agent if one of these insurers is a good match for you.

With the appropriate policy in place, you can rest assured that you and your bike are safe to enjoy those long autumn rides. Visit us at our website for a free quote on Oklahoma motorcycle insurance today!

Getting the Right Insurance for Your Caravan

When shopping for insurance, it is essential for you to take a number of factors into consideration. Failure to do so may mean that you do not acquire the right insurance for your caravan.

The primary consideration to make when buying insurance is the cost of the cover. In addition, you will need to understand precisely what you will receive in return for the price that you pay out. If you fail to select adequate insurance cover for your caravan, you could lose the money that you invest in your caravan in the event that it is stolen or accidentally destroyed in some way.

Your chosen caravan insurance policy should include replacement of old for new. It must cover all of the fixtures and fittings, furnishings and contents of the caravan. In the event that these parts of your caravan are stolen or destroyed, you should be presented with replacements at the current market cost of the items. This old for new coverage may only be available on caravans of a certain age. In order to decide whether your chosen caravan insurance policy provides you with adequate coverage, you will need to value the contents of your caravan, in addition to the caravan itself.

In the event that you damage a third party property or injure a person with your caravan, you will require liability insurance coverage. Liability insurance is also required when you rent your caravan to others and an individual is injured during their stay in the caravan.

The cost of caravan insurance policies varies greatly between the different insurance providers. Some caravan dealers offer caravan insurance to those purchasing a caravan from brand new. It is always advisable to compare the cost of caravan insurance online before selecting a caravan policy to purchase. A range of price comparison websites are available to you if you wish to compare the price of caravan insurance. However, you can also compare policy prices by contacting individual insurance companies directly by telephone. Some insurance companies do not advertise on price comparison websites. As such, these companies' policies may need to be investigated separately. Many caravan owners find that they are able to acquire cheap caravan insurance by taking out their insurance policy with an insurance provider that they have used to acquire other types of insurance coverage in the past.

Once you have made comparisons between various insurance quotes, you must pay attention to the small print of the policies. While this may seem like a chore, it is an essential task as this is the section that contains information regarding the exclusions and limitations of the policy. The small print is where the cost of the excess to be paid by yourself when you submit a claim will be detailed. Every caravan insurance provider, including caravan dealers, defines the minimum amount that must be paid out by yourself whenever you file an insurance claim. If you take out an insurance policy associated with a costly excess, you will benefit from reduced cost monthly insurance premiums.

Auto Settlement or Insurance Claim? How to Decide

Bet you that the German mastermind and inventor of the first working car, Karl Benz, never imagined the full extent of where his life-transforming brainchild would take those involved in accidents.

While there are various opinions about who actually thought of auto insurance, there is evidence that it was Herbert Stanley Morrison who was responsible for the federal government to require every driver to have an insurance policy that would protect them from associated liability risk exposure.

Despite the obvious great benefits to owning auto insurance, every driver is aware of the pitfalls to filing too many related accident claims: a subsequent peak in coverage rates!

It is for that very reason that many consider settling on a private arrangement between the drivers involved in a collision. If you are the one at fault in an accident and you have a history of insurance claims that name you as the guilty party, it may be wise to opt for this type of settlement. Before making any decision about it, though, it is wise to review a few particulars.

Disclaimer: Prior to agreeing to any form of private settlement, always exchange insurance information so that if you decide to opt out of the plan, you have the necessary info to share with insurance companies.

When a Settlement Makes Sense

If you are the one who caused the accident:

• Make sure to get a mechanic's honest estimate for the repair. Will the auto repair cost less or a little more than your insurance deductible? If so, it's sensible to pay out of the pocket for damages.

• Is the other driver a complete stranger? Can you trust him to be honest in regard to true damage and price evaluation? Only agree to a settlement if you understand you are not being 'taken for a ride'; that damages on the car are the ones your accident caused and that you are not being asked to pay for extraneous fees.

• Make sure no one has been injured. Remember that medical costs can and often do exceed your cost expectations. In addition, if the other party is unscrupulous, he or she can bill you for a phony health problem, adding thousands of unnecessary dollars to your bill.

If you are the victim of the accident:

• Is the at-fault driver someone you know? If he is stranger, you may be taking a risk in trusting him to make payments on your losses.

• If you have been injured, your medical bills could very well exceed any amount the other driver is willing or can afford to pay.

• Establish that you will be the one selecting the mechanic to do repairs. Do not trust any agreement based on the other driver's offer to do self-fixing or his repair shop preference.

• Refuse any cash deal settlement before getting a thorough evaluation of true damage.

• Refuse any settlement if the at-fault driver does not respond immediately to your attempts to contact him.

PRIME Insurance is an experienced independent family-run agency. Winner of numerous prestigious related awards and appointed to deal directly with scores of the leading companies, PRIME's association with top names like ACE, ASSURANT, CHUBB, FOREMOST, The Hartford, MetLife, Liberty Mutual, MAPFRE, USLI, PROGRESSIVE and more allows it to shop optimally for your best interests, getting you a tailored comprehensive plan at the competitive lowest quote.

Car Insurance Quotes - Understanding Policies, Conditions and Buzzwords

To get the best value from car insurance quotes, it is important to understand the various terminologies included in your insurance policy. A thorough understanding of these conditions and catchwords will ensure that you are not caught off-guard in the event of a claim. It is important to remember that the point of car insurance is to offer a safety net in times of crises to ensure that you don't need to dip into your savings account to replace or repair a vehicle.

In order for this safety net to work efficiently, it is important to recognize the various limitations, conditions and terms. Not only will this understanding offer you peace of mind, it will also ensure that you are educated on your insurance company's various legal and practical procedures.

When it comes to car insurance quotes, most of us can feel a little overwhelmed by the many terms, conditions and buzzwords that appear in our insurance policies.

Few of us understand the jargon of the insurance industry and often find ourselves agreeing to terms that we do not fully understand in the hope of obtaining reliable and efficient vehicle insurance.

I compiled a list of 9 commonly used terms which will arm you with all the necessary information to assist in making a sound decision before singing on the dotted line.

1. Policy Schedule or Coversheet - When it comes to taking out reliable car insurance, you will be required to enter into a contract. This contract can be entered into via telephone, online or, in some cases, in writing, but by law your insurer is obliged to confirm the conclusion of the contract in writing within 30 days. This confirmation is in the form of a policy schedule (Coversheet) summarising all of the specific information of your insurance policy.

2. Claim - You submit/report a Claim to your insurance company when you have suffered a loss or damage to an insured item and you need your insurer to get you back into the same financial position you were in prior to the loss. The merits of your Claim will be validated - and based on the terms and conditions of the policy, the Claim will be accepted or denied (rejected) by the insurance company.

3. Excess - An excess is an agreed amount of money that the policyholder is liable to pay in the event of an insurance claim being settled. For example, if the excess on your car is $300 and the damages amount to $5000 your insurance company will pay the remaining $4700 once you have paid your excess to the repairer. Insurance companies charge an excess to assist clients in managing their risks by not claiming for minor incidents - as well as to ensure that customers do not submit minor or fraudulent claims. If the claimed amount is less than the excess, there would be no claim.

4. Perils - Perils refer to a variety of risks that can cause damage to your car. These include accidental and intentional damage, theft, hijacking, attempted theft or hijacking, fire or explosion, earthquake, storm, hail, flood or snow and glass damage.

5. Premium - A Premium is the amount of money that is paid upfront on an annual or monthly basis to ensure that your vehicle is covered. Your insurance Premium will increase or decrease depending on a variety of factors, referred to as underwriting criteria.

6. Retail Value - Retail Value is the average current selling price (on a dealer's floor). If you were to insure your vehicle for its Retail Value, it would be insured for the value closest to the replacement cost. Although it is the more expensive option, it has a large number of benefits if anything had to happen to your car. It is also important to remember that the Retail Value of your vehicle decreases on a monthly basis.

7. Market Value - Market Value is the average between the vehicle's retail and trade value. It is important to note that although you are paying less for your insurance, you are covered for a substantially lower value.

8. Trade Value - When searching for car insurance options, the most attractive deals are those that seem to be the cheapest. If you choose to insure your car for its Trade Value, it would be valued at the average price that a motor dealer will pay you for the vehicle. Trade Value is the lowest value.

9. Specially Agreed Value - This is applied to unlisted, vintage and collectors' vehicles, caravans and trailers from an authorised source.

To fully understand the details of your car insurance quote, it is best to read through the documentation supplied by your insurance provider and use these definitions for your reference. Not only will this clarify the complexities of car insurance terminology, it will also ensure that you are up-to-date with that which you are covered for and the parameters thereof.

Ways To Reduce Auto Insurance Premiums

As a prior insurance agent, I was always quick to look for ways to reduce my client's costs. As I learned more about my field I uncovered a few surprises that you may not have heard about (and your agent may not even know). I recommend that you do your own research by talking with your carrier's underwriting agent.

First, one that you likely already know about is the potential savings when bundling with property insurance and multiple vehicles. Not only should you research the multi-vehicle discount, but consider bundling in the home insurance too. Most carriers offer both home and auto insurance and will discount the auto premium a few percentage points if you insure both home and auto with them. However; you should consider a few things when making this decision. (1) Make sure that the discount is really an overall cost savings to you. If you can save more by using different carriers then there is no financial advantage to combining. A 5% savings on your auto policy is not a benefit if the carrier is charging 10% more than the competition. (2) If an auto or home insurance agent or carrier's reputation is not acceptable in your neighbourhood, then the potential for heartache may not justify the savings.

The second way that you might save is based on the usage if you have multiple vehicles insured. Check with your carrier if one or more vehicles stay at home frequently or are a very short commute to work / school. Several carriers offer a discounted rate for vehicles that are driven fewer than 10K miles each year. This is especially true of "pleasure" vehicles which are not used for daily driving.

Our third potential discount applies to motorcycles. Many years ago my "big name" insurance company quoted me an outlandish rate for just liability coverage when I purchased a used motorcycle. Their premium quote was equal to the value of the motorcycle each year. I was shocked and called the company to explain that I was not seeking full coverage, but only liability coverage for this inexpensive motorcycle. I learned that they had not made an error, but they admitted that they quote extreme premiums because they don't want to insure motorcycles. I sought another insurance carrier and insured the motorcycle for less than 10% of their quote.

Another consideration is the amount of the deductible. It is true that a higher deductible will save some money, but it is a diminishing return. You should consider this carefully based on what amount you can absorb if you must pay this deductible following an accident. With many carriers there is not much savings when increasing the deductible beyond $500.

Last on our list is a hidden gem. Years ago I lived in Houston, TX. Full Coverage auto insurance in large cities definitely costs hundreds more per year in premiums as compared to what I have paid in a small town or rural community. I was reading my policy and stumbled upon the Medical coverage section under full coverage. This particular section contains a clause to cover your personal medical costs - not that of others. It is important to understand that the section referred to does not provide coverage for damage to other's property or bodily injury (Liability), but covers your own bodily injury in an accident which as provided by Full Coverage insurance. This personal health insurance is only applicable if no one else is liable. (An example would be if you slid on ice and had an accident as a result.) The issue is that this is secondary insurance and not the primary health insurance. If you already have health insurance through your employer or other means; then the secondary insurance provided by your auto policy is untapped unless your primary insurance runs out of coverage money. Even then you must first be aware of this insurance to order to engage the carrier. Most of us do not even know that this coverage is buried in the auto policy we pay. When I discovered this clause I called my underwriter to clarify. What I learned from the underwriter was that I could waive this coverage and reduce my premium by $80 annually. (By the way... the underwriter admitted that she waived this coverage herself.) This must be a personal decision. I urge you to call your underwriter and thoroughly discuss your options and implications before making your decision. If you do not live in a high premium area then the dollar amount of this savings is not as great... perhaps 5% of the premium.

Finally, do yourself a favor and call your carrier even if you are totally happy with your coverage. You will likely find that they can reduce your cost simply because you asked. This is a competitive market and all the carriers want to keep a good customer. To keep you happy they will likely have some promotion or gimmick to offer you that will save you money. One thing is sure... you won't get any discounts unless you ask.

How to Prevent Your Car From the Risk of Theft

You are a responsible car owner. You own a good auto insurance policy with comprehensive coverage from a reputable company in the event of collision liability or auto theft. While you probably have experienced a car accident, having your car stolen is something you might imagine as a low possibility.

Unfortunately, car, truck and even motorcycle thefts are a general fact of life. Quotes from numerous victims underscore the need to implement a form of protective plan against the occurrence.

Of course, you probably have been cautioned about all the car theft scenarios before. You know good and well that you should select a well-lit spot for parking. You also know to make sure all car doors and windows are securely locked and never to leave keys dangling inside. But do you know how to really deter the die-hard car thieves?

The following tried and true suggestions may prevent one of the losses you'd never want to deal with.

Four Clever Car-Theft Prevention Tips

• Install lock safety gadgets. These have proved to be well worth the relatively cheap investment in deterring car thievery:

- A hot-wiring prevention steering column collar lock
- Locks that are designed explicitly for the steering wheel, floor board, gear shift, hood, or tires
- Deflators that lock on to your valve stem and rapidly remove air out of tires if your vehicle is driven without deflator-disconnection with a key

• Etch your car with its VIN - vehicle id number. According to experts, cars that have VIN numbers fixed into windshields, windows or other visible spots have less of a car theft risk exposure. That's because car thieves know vehicles that have a recognizable mark are easily detected by police.

• Add a device that breaks the ignition action for anyone that is not you. This includes incorporating a smart key or a wireless ignition authentication system that must recognize the distinctive radio frequency or computer chip located within your vehicle before starting up. You can also find cheaper gadgets that do this effectively. If you opt for this, hide the on and off controls so a potential thief cannot find them and make off with your car.

• Mount a personalized GPS tracker. This comes with associated software or mobile apps that are set in motion once you pay per month. It sends notifications to your computer or mobile phone, etc. so you know where your vehicle is. Additionally, you can install mechanisms that trace your car either through radio transmission or cell tech that is teamed up with GPS. These can signal a watch center or police headquarters about your vehicle's location. This method may even allow you to make a remote engine shutdown without incurring damages to your car.

PRIME Insurance is an A++-rated agency that focuses on customers' best interests. We've been recognized by numerous industry awards and appointed to conduct direct business with over 40 of the leading companies, like ACE, ASI, ASSURANT, CHUBB, FIA, Foremost, GUARD, Liberty Mutual, MetLife, Peerless, Safeco, USLI and more.