Thanksgiving has almost arrived. This is the time of year when we sit back and reflect on all the things that we are thankful for. What immediately comes to mind?
For most of us it’s things like our family, our home, and our good health. And guess what they have in common? All of these things are what insurance protects!
That’s why it is so important to us that our clients have excellent insurance coverage. It’s not just about having an ID card in your car so you don’t get a ticket, or fulfilling your mortgage company’s minimum loan requirements.
No, it's much more than that. Insurance is there to make sure that if the worst happens, you can recover from it. It might not be easy, but we’re here to ease the financial burden after your house burns down or a loved one passes away. Will that cut-rate insurance company that spends hundreds of thousands of dollars on advertising be there for you? Will they care?
All of those TV commercials that just tell you to find the cheapest rate are completely wrong! Of course, no one wants to pay more then they have to, but it’s not the most important part of the equation. Quality coverage, and people who will be there for you when you have a problem; that's what's important.
At SAV-ON Insurance Agencies, we care about our customers. We are a local company who is compassionate about the people in our communities, and we are dedicated to improving the lives of our clients through education and understanding. Our customers aren't just another number, they're our neighbors.
Rather than looking for a cheap bare-bones policy, take the time to interview and meet with a local agent. See who is looking for the best coverage and truly meeting your needs while keeping the rate affordable. Ask the agent how they handle claims and if they do annual policy reviews. You'll find that at SAV-ON we take good care of our customers.
This Thanksgiving, our agency is extremely thankful for all of our wonderful clients. If you need a local agent to look out for your most prized possessions, give us a call at 888-867-2866 today for a free, no-obligation quote.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Monday, November 25, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Scary Fact: Vehicle Vandalism Claims Nearly Double on Halloween
At Halloween, while you're concentrating on what costume to wear, how much candy you should buy and where the kids will go trick-or-treating, you should also be concerned about where you can safely park your car that day so it doesn't get damaged by vandalism!
The Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) has found that Halloween is indeed a scary night for automobile owners in the U.S., with nearly twice as many vehicle vandalism claims as a typical day, and it is considerably worse than any other day of the year compared to the other major holidays.
The HLDI examined insurance claims for vandalism made under comprehensive coverage from 2008 through 2012. Claims such as slashed tires or smashed windows. Data was supplied by 28 companies representing more than two-thirds of the insurance market for private passenger vehicles. The average number of claims per day was 692, and the average cost per claim was $1,528. That's a total average daily cost of more than $1 million per day. And Halloween is nearly double that, approaching $2 million in vandalism claims throughout the country!
Halloween had the highest average number of claims for any of the year with 1,253. The other high-claims days were the Fourth of July, with 987, and New Year's Day, with 944.
The HLDI also found that, holidays aside, vandalism seems to occur more often on weekends and in the summer. Weekdays all had an average or below-average number of claims. In a monthly comparison, claims were highest in July, followed by August and June.
So, while you're handing out candy and enjoying all the creative costumes, keep an eye on your vehicle if it's parked outside. You don't want to be one of the unlucky ones who get "treated" to vandalism.
Source: PEMCO Insurance and the Highway Loss Data Institute
The HLDI examined insurance claims for vandalism made under comprehensive coverage from 2008 through 2012. Claims such as slashed tires or smashed windows. Data was supplied by 28 companies representing more than two-thirds of the insurance market for private passenger vehicles. The average number of claims per day was 692, and the average cost per claim was $1,528. That's a total average daily cost of more than $1 million per day. And Halloween is nearly double that, approaching $2 million in vandalism claims throughout the country!
Halloween had the highest average number of claims for any of the year with 1,253. The other high-claims days were the Fourth of July, with 987, and New Year's Day, with 944.
The HLDI also found that, holidays aside, vandalism seems to occur more often on weekends and in the summer. Weekdays all had an average or below-average number of claims. In a monthly comparison, claims were highest in July, followed by August and June.
So, while you're handing out candy and enjoying all the creative costumes, keep an eye on your vehicle if it's parked outside. You don't want to be one of the unlucky ones who get "treated" to vandalism.
Source: PEMCO Insurance and the Highway Loss Data Institute
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Don't Let Halloween Get Scary...Make Sure Your Home is Safe for Trick-or-Treaters
Here at SAV-ON Insurance we love any excuse to celebrate, but Halloween is an especially fun time around the offices. However, we wouldn't be a good insurance agent if we didn't give a few good liability tips too.
You've heard most Halloween advice over and over, but it bears repeating:
• Pack a flashlight for when it gets dark.
• Put reflective tape on children's costumes.
• Check the kid's candy before letting them eat any.
But what about the risks at your home?
Your homeowners insurance covers you if someone is injured on your property. But there are a few things you can do to prevent accidents before they happen!
1. Change outdoor light bulbs. Is your porch light burned out? What about lights along pathways? Good lightning will help prevent children (and adults) from tripping and injuring themselves.
2. Clear hazards. Tree limbs in your yard? A hole you've been meaning to fill? Loose or worn steps? These are all potential hazards that could cause an injury and subject you to a liability claim. Clean them up before you have people trick-or-treating at your home!
3. No open flames. While candle-filled pumpkins are fun to make, they can be dangerous, too. If you use any open flame candles, make sure they are up high and away from any loose costume pieces. Many costumes aren't flame retardant, and can burst into flames easily.
And the easiest way to protect yourself? Make sure you have plenty of liability insurance! Call SAV-ON Insurance today at 888-867-2866 to schedule a free review and detailed explanation of how we can keep your home and family protected.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Getting Life Insurance is Easy and Affordable!
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. You’ll probably see TV commercials and magazine articles talking about why this coverage is so important. And you probably already know it’s important. But that doesn’t mean that you’ve got your policy set up yet!
The Life Foundation says that only 62% of people who believe they need life insurance, actually have it. And even those that have it only carry enough to replace their income for 3.6 years. If you have young children to support, that is simply not enough time. If you're skipping life coverage all together, then you are putting your family's well being at risk.
So why do people wait too long to purchase life insurance? The Life Foundation also says that 86% of Americans say they haven't purchased it because it's "too expensive”, yet overestimate the cost by more than 2 times!
Life Insurance rates are based on a number of factors, including age, health conditions, and smoking status. By not smoking and purchasing when you're younger, you can save substantial money. In fact, many term life policies are less than $50 per month!
Don't delay! Call the office at 888-867-2866 and set up an appointment with our life insurance specialist. Bring information on your annual income, as well as any debts (like your mortgage). We’ll give an accurate picture of how much coverage you need as well as different ways to make it affordable.
Now Get Life Insurance Online!
For those who want a quick, online method of getting life insurance, SAV-ON is proud to announce a new partnership with EQUOTE to provide an easy-to-use online platform that requires no medical exam. It's the simplest and quickest process in the industry!
Go to www.sav-on.com to find out more about EQUOTE, or call us at 888-867-2866 to set up an appointment.
The Life Foundation says that only 62% of people who believe they need life insurance, actually have it. And even those that have it only carry enough to replace their income for 3.6 years. If you have young children to support, that is simply not enough time. If you're skipping life coverage all together, then you are putting your family's well being at risk.
So why do people wait too long to purchase life insurance? The Life Foundation also says that 86% of Americans say they haven't purchased it because it's "too expensive”, yet overestimate the cost by more than 2 times!
Life Insurance rates are based on a number of factors, including age, health conditions, and smoking status. By not smoking and purchasing when you're younger, you can save substantial money. In fact, many term life policies are less than $50 per month!
Don't delay! Call the office at 888-867-2866 and set up an appointment with our life insurance specialist. Bring information on your annual income, as well as any debts (like your mortgage). We’ll give an accurate picture of how much coverage you need as well as different ways to make it affordable.
Now Get Life Insurance Online!
For those who want a quick, online method of getting life insurance, SAV-ON is proud to announce a new partnership with EQUOTE to provide an easy-to-use online platform that requires no medical exam. It's the simplest and quickest process in the industry!
Go to www.sav-on.com to find out more about EQUOTE, or call us at 888-867-2866 to set up an appointment.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Riding Your Bike: How to Stay Safe on the Road
Summer's warm, dry weather brings out bicyclists in droves. Not only is it good exercise, fun and eco-friendly, but with the price of gas, it is very economical, too. However, without good equipment, proper attire and a high level of alertness, it can be dangerous, especially when sharing the road with automobiles.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 630 deaths and 51,000 reported injuries from bicycle accidents in the United States in 2009.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
• Collisions with vehicles account for a third of all bicycle accidents resulting in injuries and deaths.
• A bicyclist is killed every six hours in the United States.
• About one million children are injured in bicycle accidents annually.
• 75% of serious injuries and fatalities from bicycle accidents are due to head injuries.
Cars and bicycles have a tenuous relationship on the road. Drivers are focused on looking out for other cars and trucks on the road, and don't always see bicycles. In addition, bicyclists are slower than cars, and can be overtaken before the driver realizes they are there. This can result in accidents -- and the bicyclist almost always comes out the loser in this scenario.
While bicyclists enjoy the same privileges as drivers on non-freeway roadways, they also have the same responsibilities. Stopping at red lights, stop signs, and yielding; signaling all turns; not exceeding the posted speed limit; using the right side of the street and not the sidewalk; and paying attention to the traffic all around them.
In Washington state, bicyclists can ride side-by-side, but only two abreast. If the road has a wide shoulder, use it, but if the curb lane has no shoulder it's best to stay to the left in the far right lane so drivers can more easily see you. Ride in the same direction as traffic and wear proper clothing (bright, flashy and reflective). If riding at night, have a white headlight and a red taillight that are functioning properly. These all help drivers see -- and avoid -- you.
Even though Washington state doesn't require bicyclists to wear approved helmets, the city of Seattle and King County require it. For a complete list of cities that require bike helmets to be worn, go to: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/bike/helmets.htm.
What to Do After a Bike/Car Crash
If you are unfortunate enough to be hit by a car, take these steps:
• Remain calm and non-confrontational.
• Call the police and insist that the officer files a police report. In the event that an officer does not respond, go to a police station and file an accident report within 72 hours of the incident.
• Get the driver’s insurance information, address, phone number and license plate number.
• Get the name, phone number and address of every witness.
• Have your bike thoroughly inspected by a reputable bike shop.
• If you have a cell phone camera, take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, your bike and all other involved vehicles.
Sources: WSDOT.wa.gov/bike/laws.htm; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 630 deaths and 51,000 reported injuries from bicycle accidents in the United States in 2009.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
• Collisions with vehicles account for a third of all bicycle accidents resulting in injuries and deaths.• A bicyclist is killed every six hours in the United States.
• About one million children are injured in bicycle accidents annually.
• 75% of serious injuries and fatalities from bicycle accidents are due to head injuries.
Cars and bicycles have a tenuous relationship on the road. Drivers are focused on looking out for other cars and trucks on the road, and don't always see bicycles. In addition, bicyclists are slower than cars, and can be overtaken before the driver realizes they are there. This can result in accidents -- and the bicyclist almost always comes out the loser in this scenario.
While bicyclists enjoy the same privileges as drivers on non-freeway roadways, they also have the same responsibilities. Stopping at red lights, stop signs, and yielding; signaling all turns; not exceeding the posted speed limit; using the right side of the street and not the sidewalk; and paying attention to the traffic all around them.
In Washington state, bicyclists can ride side-by-side, but only two abreast. If the road has a wide shoulder, use it, but if the curb lane has no shoulder it's best to stay to the left in the far right lane so drivers can more easily see you. Ride in the same direction as traffic and wear proper clothing (bright, flashy and reflective). If riding at night, have a white headlight and a red taillight that are functioning properly. These all help drivers see -- and avoid -- you.
Even though Washington state doesn't require bicyclists to wear approved helmets, the city of Seattle and King County require it. For a complete list of cities that require bike helmets to be worn, go to: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/bike/helmets.htm.
What to Do After a Bike/Car Crash
If you are unfortunate enough to be hit by a car, take these steps:
• Remain calm and non-confrontational.• Call the police and insist that the officer files a police report. In the event that an officer does not respond, go to a police station and file an accident report within 72 hours of the incident.
• Get the driver’s insurance information, address, phone number and license plate number.
• Get the name, phone number and address of every witness.
• Have your bike thoroughly inspected by a reputable bike shop.
• If you have a cell phone camera, take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, your bike and all other involved vehicles.
Sources: WSDOT.wa.gov/bike/laws.htm; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Time to Get "Back-to-School" Insurance
As August begins, it's time to start thinking about going back to school! What does that have to do with insurance? Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Good Grades - Do you have a teenage driver in the house (or one on the way)? Many policies allow discounts for students with good grades. Give us a call at 888-867-2866 to see what documentation is needed for your policy. And don't forget to talk to your kids about the importance of keeping those grades up! These discounts can apply to college students, too.
Driver Training - There are different discounts available for Drivers Education classes. We can review all the options available, and let you know which discounts will impact you the most.
Moving To The Dorm - Is your college student living in the dorm this semester? Your homeowners insurance may cover their belongings without additional coverage being needed. This is called Property Off Premises coverage. Remember, any claims would be subject to your deductible which is usually higher on home policies! Let us review your policy to check for the specifics amounts of coverage included.
Moving To An Apartment - Let's say your college student has graduated from the dorms and moved on to an apartment. In this case, your homeowners insurance would not cover their belongings and they would need their own renters insurance policy. Renters insurance is very affordable and covers all of the contents of the property. It also provides liability insurance if someone were injured in the property or if the student caused a fire, etc. By making sure they are properly insured, you are also protecting yourself.
We work hard to make sure all of your clients have the right coverage at all times. The fastest and easiest way to make sure your student is receiving all the discounts they qualify for, and that their belongings are covered at college, is to schedule a review! Call SAV-ON Insurance Agencies at 888-867-2866 to review your policy and situation and we'll make sure all of your questions are answered.
Good Grades - Do you have a teenage driver in the house (or one on the way)? Many policies allow discounts for students with good grades. Give us a call at 888-867-2866 to see what documentation is needed for your policy. And don't forget to talk to your kids about the importance of keeping those grades up! These discounts can apply to college students, too.
Driver Training - There are different discounts available for Drivers Education classes. We can review all the options available, and let you know which discounts will impact you the most.
Moving To The Dorm - Is your college student living in the dorm this semester? Your homeowners insurance may cover their belongings without additional coverage being needed. This is called Property Off Premises coverage. Remember, any claims would be subject to your deductible which is usually higher on home policies! Let us review your policy to check for the specifics amounts of coverage included.
Moving To An Apartment - Let's say your college student has graduated from the dorms and moved on to an apartment. In this case, your homeowners insurance would not cover their belongings and they would need their own renters insurance policy. Renters insurance is very affordable and covers all of the contents of the property. It also provides liability insurance if someone were injured in the property or if the student caused a fire, etc. By making sure they are properly insured, you are also protecting yourself.
We work hard to make sure all of your clients have the right coverage at all times. The fastest and easiest way to make sure your student is receiving all the discounts they qualify for, and that their belongings are covered at college, is to schedule a review! Call SAV-ON Insurance Agencies at 888-867-2866 to review your policy and situation and we'll make sure all of your questions are answered.
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Top 10 Ways to Save on Your Auto Insurance!
Looking for ways to keep your auto insurance premiums manageable? 10 ways you can save on your insurance without sacrificing coverage.
1. Driving Record
Your driving record plays a big role in how much you pay for insurance. By keeping a clean record for 3-5 years, you can save hundreds of dollars! Be a cautious driver, don't speed, and you'll lower your premiums.
2. Defensive Driving Course
Defensive driving courses are an easy way to achieve an extra discount. They can also help keep a ticket from showing up and messing up your clean driving record. Make sure to call us before taking the class if you're using it for a discount so we can verify that your policy qualifies.
3. Anti-Theft Devices
Installing an alarm or other anti-theft device can lower premiums on your vehicle. Make sure to discuss all features with us, sometimes even power locks and a remote can count!
4. Your Credit Score
While insurance uses a different formula then the credit bureaus, your credit still affects the rate you pay. Good credit can save you hundreds (even thousands) on your premiums! Make sure to review your report on a regular basis and have any mistakes corrected.
5. Where You Live
Rural areas pay less for insurance than the big cities do. It's all about risk and with a large population, there is more chance for an accident. Therefore, where you choose to live can impact your rates. Consider visiting with us before purchasing a home if you're concerned about the costs (it is based on the zip code).
6. Type of Vehicle
The vehicle you choose to purchase also makes a difference! Some vehicles cost a lot more to repair than others, which drives up their rates. Easy way to avoid buying a money-sucker? Call us first and let us quote the vehicle before you sign on the dotted line.
7. How Often -- and Far -- You Drive
If you take public transportation and only drive on the weekend, you'll pay less than someone with a long commute. Make sure to review your annual mileage and daily commutes with us (especially if they change) so that you can receive the extra savings.
8. Raise Your Deductible
A higher deductible (your out of pocket cost in a claim) means a lower monthly rate. If you have $1,000 in savings and could afford to use it if you had an accident, then you'll save on your insurance cost by having a $1000 deductible instead of a $250. We can help you review the costs and benefits in your specific situation.
9. Your Agent
And the best way to save? Work with a local agent! You'll get the coverage you need plus you'll have an advocate working on your behalf to find the best rate, all the discounts, and an easy explanation of any gaps in your coverage. It's the #1 to control your risk, maximize your savings, and protect your family.
10. Call SAV-ON Insurance
We want to be your agent. Call us at 888-867-2866 to discuss your policy today. Our goal is to save you money! As an agency, we have more than 30 insurance companies to choose from in getting you the best rate out there.
1. Driving Record
Your driving record plays a big role in how much you pay for insurance. By keeping a clean record for 3-5 years, you can save hundreds of dollars! Be a cautious driver, don't speed, and you'll lower your premiums.
 |
| Save Money on Your Car Insurance! |
2. Defensive Driving Course
Defensive driving courses are an easy way to achieve an extra discount. They can also help keep a ticket from showing up and messing up your clean driving record. Make sure to call us before taking the class if you're using it for a discount so we can verify that your policy qualifies.
3. Anti-Theft Devices
Installing an alarm or other anti-theft device can lower premiums on your vehicle. Make sure to discuss all features with us, sometimes even power locks and a remote can count!
4. Your Credit Score
While insurance uses a different formula then the credit bureaus, your credit still affects the rate you pay. Good credit can save you hundreds (even thousands) on your premiums! Make sure to review your report on a regular basis and have any mistakes corrected.
5. Where You Live
Rural areas pay less for insurance than the big cities do. It's all about risk and with a large population, there is more chance for an accident. Therefore, where you choose to live can impact your rates. Consider visiting with us before purchasing a home if you're concerned about the costs (it is based on the zip code).
6. Type of Vehicle
The vehicle you choose to purchase also makes a difference! Some vehicles cost a lot more to repair than others, which drives up their rates. Easy way to avoid buying a money-sucker? Call us first and let us quote the vehicle before you sign on the dotted line.
7. How Often -- and Far -- You Drive
If you take public transportation and only drive on the weekend, you'll pay less than someone with a long commute. Make sure to review your annual mileage and daily commutes with us (especially if they change) so that you can receive the extra savings.
8. Raise Your Deductible
A higher deductible (your out of pocket cost in a claim) means a lower monthly rate. If you have $1,000 in savings and could afford to use it if you had an accident, then you'll save on your insurance cost by having a $1000 deductible instead of a $250. We can help you review the costs and benefits in your specific situation.
9. Your Agent
And the best way to save? Work with a local agent! You'll get the coverage you need plus you'll have an advocate working on your behalf to find the best rate, all the discounts, and an easy explanation of any gaps in your coverage. It's the #1 to control your risk, maximize your savings, and protect your family.
10. Call SAV-ON Insurance
We want to be your agent. Call us at 888-867-2866 to discuss your policy today. Our goal is to save you money! As an agency, we have more than 30 insurance companies to choose from in getting you the best rate out there.
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