5 Tips For How To Navigate The Auto Insurance Marketplace In 2023

auto insurance marketplace

Auto rates increased an average of 9% for drivers in 2022, with 1 in 5 US drivers reporting multiple auto rate increases over the 12-month period, according to Insurify. Unfortunately for drivers and auto insurance consumers, these rate increases are expected to continue in 2023. More accidents, rising medical and litigation costs, more frequent and severe natural disasters and inflation-driven auto repair costs are all expected to contribute to continued auto rate increases in 2023. In fact, US drivers are expected to spend on average $1,895 more in 2023 for the same coverage they had at the end of 2021, said Insurify.

As drivers struggle to find affordable coverage, having an experienced insurance agent on their side will be crucial to help navigate the rapidly changing marketplace. Continue reading for guidance on using an agent to navigate the auto insurance marketplace.

Tips for Auto Insurance Buyers in 2023

Although many of the factors contributing to rising auto rates are out of your control, there are several things you can try to help reduce the cost of your premium increases. Consider the following tips to help keep your auto rates down:

  • Bundle your home and auto insurance. By purchasing multiple insurance policies from the same insurer, you could save up to 25% on your auto premiums. Ask your insurance agent to help you find eligible bundling discounts.
  • Find the right vehicle for your budget. Higher-value vehicles are typically more expensive to repair or replace, leading to higher insurance costs. While several factors may affect your auto premiums, purchasing a vehicle with a lower MSRP could help you find less expensive coverage. Before buying a new-to-you vehicle, ask your insurance agent how much you can expect to pay for auto coverage.
  • Increase your deductible. Raising your insurance deductible is one way to offset rising premium costs, but keep in mind a higher deductible will increase the amount you have to pay out of pocket after an accident. Consult your insurance agent to find out if a higher deductible plan is right for you.
  • Consider a low-mileage plan. Driving fewer than 5,000 miles a year might make you eligible for a low-mileage auto insurance policy. These policies can lower your auto rates. Report your actual mileage to your insurance agent to see if this type of plan could be right for you.
  • Ask your agent to help you find the right policy. Your insurance agent can help you shop around and compare multiple auto insurance quotes to find the right policy for your needs and budget. If you have a good driving record, less expensive insurance options could be available with a new insurance carrier.

We’re Here to Help

As you navigate the auto insurance market in 2023, it’s important to remember you’re not alone. Your insurance agent can help you search for eligible discounts and bring your auto policy into alignment with your coverage needs. Contact Rinehart, Walters & Danner Insurance Agency today to learn how we can help you navigate the challenging auto insurance marketplace.

Want to learn more about Auto Insurance – click here.

Tips to Avoid Trouble When Buying Used Vehicles

Buying Used Vehicles - Rinehart Insurance

Buying used vehicles can be a great way to save a little money. However, make sure to be cautious when purchasing a used vehicle. To avoid purchasing a car with hidden problems, consider the below tips when shopping.

What to look for

  • Excessive wear and tear in the interior, regardless of what the odometer says, is a clue that the car has seen some miles. Look for: Break pedal pad worn through the metal beneath – Driver’s seat outer edge is worn through – Water leaking directly under the floor mats
  • Damp, musty odors are indications of leaks in the windshield, weather stripping or heater core
  • Cars that ride lower in the front as compared to the back indicate worn springs
  • Vehicles that bounce when pushed on indicates worn shocks and struts
  • Tires with worn outer edges from the front end represent the need for an alignment
  • Clanking noises when the vehicle is in gear points towards a problem with the drive shaft universal joints
  • Repainted body panels, Check this by looking at the colors of adjoining panels to see if they match the front fender
  • Motor oil that is not full indicates that the engine may be leaking or burning oil
  • Knocking and ticking sounds that increase as the engine speed increases represent major problems and costly repairs
  • Transmission fluid that is black or brown may indicate internal damage
  • Banging, grinding or squeaking noises indicates a damaged or broken transmission mount

Be Wary of Mileage Tampering

Do not be fooled by the mileage on the odometer. To see if the instruments have been tampered with, look for fingerprints or scratches inside the plastic covering. Mileage numbers that don’t line up properly on the odometer offer another fraud clue. This may be a crude attempt at getting you to buy a vehicle that has far more miles (and problems) than what the low mileage would suggest.

Whether new or used, purchasing a vehicle is an investment. Make sure yours is properly covered by calling our office today to do a policy review.

4 Tips You Need To Know When You Do Winter Vehicle Storage

Vehicle Storage

Vehicle StorageWhen winter comes and brings the snow and cold with it, it’s time to think about vehicle storage. You should store your recreational vehicle – or any vehicles that won’t be in use – to avoid damage from the harsh weather and roads and to ensure it’s in good working condition for spring.

Use these tips if you plan on vehicle storage this winter:

  1. Clean your car—Thoroughly cleaning your vehicle inside and out not only makes it look nicer, but also prevents dirt and acidic materials from eating away at your car and causing it to rust.
  2. Change the fluids—Having clean oil, fuel stabilizer and brake fluid, and a full tank of gas will help protect your car while it’s in storage and will help it run smoother when spring comes.
  3. Protect your car—The best way to prevent the winter elements from damaging your vehicle is to keep it covered, whether it’s in your garage, a local storage facility or at a family member’s home. If you plan on keeping your vehicle outdoors, consider using a weatherproof car cover.
  4. Check tires and brakes—Inflate your vehicle’s tires to their maximum air pressure, so they can slowly deflate as the temperature drops. Also, don’t engage your parking brake as it may become frozen. Instead, use chocks (wedges placed under car tires) to ensure your vehicle doesn’t roll away.

Start it Up

Even in storage, it’s wise to start your vehicle periodically for 10-15 minutes to get the proper oils and coolants running through it. If your vehicle has a cover on it, remove it and roll down the windows before running. If your vehicle is stored in the garage, ensure that the garage door is open and the windows are down for proper ventilation before starting your car.

Don’t forget to call you insurance agent to discss your auto insurance coverage as well. 

What You Need To Know Before You Lower Your Auto Insurance Limits

Auto Insurance Limits

Auto Insurance Limits

The cost of living can be pretty expensive. Everyone is looking for ways to cut costs and lower expenses. Auto insurance premiums are one expense many would like to lower. While you may be tempted to lower your auto insurance limits, make sure to weight out all the risks. 

Determining Which Coverage You Need

An auto insurance policy is designed to provide you with a level of protection in the event you are involved in an accident. This includes protection against property, liability and medical costs. Understanding the different parts of coverage is important when selecting your auto insurance limits. 

  • Property coverage pays for damage to or theft of your car.
  • Liability coverage pays for your legal responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage. 
  • Medical coverage pays for the cost of treating injuries, rehabilitation and sometimes lost wages and funeral expenses. 
  • Underinsured motorists coverage pays for property damage and bodily injury caused by another driver whose coverage is insufficient to cover damages suffered.  

Selecting the correct liability limits is fundamental. On your auto insurance policy you will see your limits listed something like this – 100/300/50. In this example 100/300/50 means you are covered for up to $100,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $300,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident and $50,000 in property damage per accident.

Many states have minimum liability limit requirements. You may be tempted to reduce your liability limits to the minimum legal level. Or even dropping underinsured motorists coverage. While it may reduce your premium, it could also subject you to substantial risks. 

Collision Coverage – Know The Value Of Your Car

Your policy will not pay for repairs that exceed the value of your vehicle. For this reason, if you are driving a vehicle that isn’t worth more than a few thousand dollars, it may not make sense to purchase collision coverage. Your agent can help you determine if collision insurance makes sense for you. 

Top Ways To Save On Your Auto Premiums

  • Consider raising your deductible.
  • Keep up your good driving record.
  • Drive less to qualify for a low-mileage discount.
  • Drive a car with safety features such as anti-lock brakes and airbags.
  • Install an anti-theft device.
  • Ask about our multi-policy discount. 

We’re here to help. Accidents happen to cautious drivers too. Having adequate auto insurance limits can save you from serious financial burden should you be involved in an accident. We can help you determine which auto insurance coverage is needed and what limits to purchase. 

9 Ways To Save Money On Gas

save money on gas

save money on gasI think it’s safe to say, we all have been feeling the pain of high gas prices. Regardless of the price of a gallon of gas, it is always great to be able to save money on gas. Often, the small things we do can add up to big fuel savings. If you are looking to spend less money at the pump, here are some easy things you can start doing today. 

  1.  Lighten your load—Extra weight decreases gas mileage.
  2. Avoid long idles—Idling for only one minute consumes the same amount of gas that is required for starting your engine.
  3. Plan your trip ahead of time—Consolidate your trip to places that are close to one another.
  4. Open the windows—Instead of blasting the air conditioning on a hot day, open the windows or use your car vents, which circulate outside air.
  5. Get your oil changed—Stay up-to-date on oil changes. They should be done approximately every 3,000 miles for conventional motor oil.
  6. Drive slower—You can improve your gas mileage by nearly 20% by driving 55 mph instead of 65 mph.
  7. Maintain your tires—Keep your tires properly inflated and aligned and perform regular maintenance checks on your tires.
  8. Drive smart—Be sure to accelerate gradually from a dead stop, rather than stomping on the gas pedal.
  9. Verify your rating—Make sure you are selecting the right octane rating at the pump.

Prioritize Fuel Efficiency When Buying Your Next Vehicle

Considering buying a new or used vehicle? Before making a purchase, check the gas mileage ratings of similar vehicles of interest to you. Then, narrow down your options on a model that is fuel-efficient in the size category that meets your needs.

For additional fuel efficiency tips and auto insurance solutions, contact us today.

If you found these tips on how to save money on gas helpful, please share them. 

6 Tips For Driving In The Rain and Thunderstorms

Driving In The Rain

Driving In The RainDriving in the rain or during a thunderstorm can be pretty nerve-wracking for most people. Worrying about having an accident or being stuck on the side of the road can be very overwhelming. It can also be very dangerous. However, a few tips and adjustments can take away some of the anxiety and help you stay calm during your commute.

Driving in the rain and thunderstorms

If you happen to get caught driving in the rain or thunderstorm, don’t panic . There a extra precautions you can take to make your trip a safe one.

A few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Turn on your headlights, wipers and defroster to increase visibility.
  2. Drive in the tracks of vehicles ahead of you and reduce your speed.
  3. Allow for increased space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
  4. If you hydroplane, hold the steering wheel straight and remove your foot from the gas.
  5. Do not use cruse control during inclimate weather.
  6. Pull off the road in an open area away from trees to avoid a lightning strike.

Helping you to avoid claims is just one of the many value-added services we provide. In the unfortunate event you do have an accident, we will help you through the process. Give us a call during business hours or click here to view our after hours claim contacts. 

What You Need To Know About RV Insurance

RV InsuranceFamily time together, the open road, and visiting beautiful scenery. Those are just some of the benefits of having an RV or Travel Trailer. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full time travel buff, there’s lots to see on the open road. Your RV is your home away from home. That’s why you need to make sure it is protected. Just like you purchase Auto or Homeowners Insurance, you need RV Insurance to cover this investment. 

What is RV Insurance?

Travel trailer or RV Insurance has similar coverage to auto insurance, however it is more comprehensive and specialized for RV owners. RV Insurance is designed for the following vehicles:

  • Fifth-wheels
  • Pop-up campers
  • Stationary travel trailers
  • Park model travel trailers
  • Truck-mounted campers

Click here to read about auto insurance.

Types of Coverage Available:

A typical policy will include the following overages:

  • Comprehensive/Collision Coverage. Protects your RV from damages, such as fire, landslide, windstorm, vandalism and collision with another vehicle or objects. 
  • Liability-Only Travel Trailer Policy. Protects against accidental damage to other people’s property or personal injury to individuals not listed on your policy. 

Additional Endorsements:

Because RV Insurance is specialized coverage there are additional endorsements you can purchase. These endorsements let you add extra protection not included in a standard policy. These additional option include:

  • Emergency Expenses: Protection in case of a breakdown or damage to your RV or Travel Trailer.
  • Accessories Endorsements: For items attached to your trailer.
  • Full-timer Trailer Coverage: For those who live in their travel trailer most of the year.
  • Campsite/Vacation Liability: Coverage while your travel trailer is parked in an RV park. 
  • Low Branch Collision: Protection against damages from low-hanging branches to your trailer, awnings, and air conditioning units. 
  • Towing and Roadside Assistance
  • Total Loss Replacement

What Are The Benefits Of A RV Insurance Policy?

RV Insurance is specialized coverage different than auto insurance. When traveling in your RV, you will have additional items with you that you may not normally carry in your car. Jewelry, a computer, television, and camping gear are just a few examples. When you’re at a campsite, you are liable for other people’s safety around your trailer. Also, if you have an accident while traveling, you will need a place to stay  while the trailer is being repaired. Without an RV Insurance policy, none of these would be covered in the event of a loss. The biggest benefit is the peace of mind you receive. 

If you love the open road and seeking adventure, contact us today to get covered today. 

 

 

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April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month And We Have Prevention Tips For You

Distracted Driving Awareness








Distracted Driving AwarenessThe National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize potential distractions behind the wheel. Review the following article for more information on distracted driving and ways you can help prevent it.

Distracted Driving Overview

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, distracted driving refers to any activity that may divert a motorist’s attention from the road. There are three main types of distractions that can interfere with drivers’ attentiveness behind the wheel, including:

  1. Visual distractions—These distractions involve motorists taking their eyes off the road. Some examples of visual distractions include reading emails or text messages, focusing on vehicle passengers, looking at maps or navigation systems, and observing nearby activities (e.g., accidents, traffic stops or roadside attractions) while driving.
  2. Manual distractions—Such distractions entail motorists removing their hands from the steering wheel. Key examples of manual distractions include texting, adjusting the radio, programming navigation systems, eating, drinking or performing personal grooming tasks (e.g., applying makeup) while driving.
  3. Cognitive distractions—These distractions stem from motorists taking their minds off driving. Primary examples of cognitive distractions include talking on the phone, conversing with vehicle passengers or daydreaming while driving.

Regardless of distraction type, distracted driving is a serious safety hazard that contributes to a significant number of accidents on the road. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that more than 2,800 people are killed and 400,000 are injured in crashes involving a distracted driver each year—equating to approximately eight deaths and 1,095 injuries per day. Considering these findings, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent distracted driving.

Distracted Driving Prevention Tips

Whenever you get behind the wheel, keep these distracted driving prevention measures in mind:

  • Put away your phone. Silence your phone and store it in a location that is out of reach while driving to lower the temptation to check it.
  • Plan your trip before you leave. Program your navigation system prior to hitting the road to get familiar with your journey and feel confident in your route.
  • Don’t fumble with your playlist. Select a radio station or plug in a predetermined playlist before driving to limit the need for music adjustments.
  • Secure passengers. Ensure kids are properly situated in car seats (if needed) with seat belts fastened. Keep pets stationary in the back seat.
  • Avoid multitasking. Never complete additional tasks—such as eating or personal grooming—behind the wheel.
  • Stay focused. Concentrate your mind on the road by keeping distracting conversations to a minimum and looking straight ahead.

For additional driver safety tips, contact us today.

Click here for more information on Auto Insurance








Do You Know The Difference Between Collision And Comprehensive Coverage?

Collision And Comprehensive Coverage








Collision And Comprehensive CoverageThough state laws may not require you to purchase both collision and comprehensive coverage for your policy, doing so can protect your financial well-being. Read on to learn more about these types of coverage.

The Basics

Collision and comprehensive coverages provide financial safety nets in the event that your vehicle is physically damaged and needs to be repaired or replaced. Although these coverages are generally not required by state laws, they can reduce your financial hardship during a loss.
Also, if you are financing a loan for a car, your lender will most likely require both collision and comprehensive coverage as part of your car insurance policy.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage pays for the cost to repair damages to a vehicle due to an accident, either with another vehicle or an object. Typically, you will collect only the actual cash value of your car versus the replacement cost value. Gap insurance protects you in the event you owe more than your vehicle is worth.

  • Collision coverage is generally the most expensive portion of a car insurance policy.
  • Premiums are based on a number of factors, including your deductible, driving record and the type of car you drive. If your driving record is fairly clean (no or very few tickets or accidents), your premiums will be lower because you are less likely to have a collision.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your vehicle that is caused by theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters or hitting an animal.

  • Comprehensive coverage comes with a deductible and the insurer will only pay as much as the vehicle is worth at the time of the incident.
  • To calculate how much your car is worth, look up the Kelley Blue Book value or the National Automobile Dealers Association’s Official Used Car Guide value. If your car is low in value, the yearly premiums for comprehensive coverage may not be a sound investment.
  • Comprehensive coverage has many limitations, so it’s best to review your policy carefully to make sure you are properly covered.

We’re Here to Help

Call our office today at 419-522-9892 to learn more about collision and comprehensive coverage. Ask how we can protect you against losses.

4 Ways to Save on Your Auto Premiums:

  1. Consider raising your deductible.
  2. Maintain a clean driving record.
  3. Establish a solid credit history.
  4. Install an anti-theft device in your vehicle.








Antique and Classic Car Insurance; What Makes It Different?

antique and classic car insurance








Antique and classic cars are visibly different than the cars we drive today. You use them differently than your day to day car, so why treat them the same when it comes to insuring them? Antique and classic car insurance is specifically designed with your vehicle in mind.

antique and classic car insurance

The Basics

When insuring your antique or classic car, consider how you will be using the vehicle.

  • Will you only drive the vehicle to car shows or in a few parades? If so, your policy should be limited to those circumstances.
  • Are you going to use your antique vehicle to go to the grocery store, hit the beach or visit a relative? Then your policy should reflect this kind of use.

A typical classic car insurance policy includes the following:

  • Agreed value coverage: Pays for the car’s full-insured value with no depreciation in the event of a total loss, less your deductible.
  • Inflation guard: To compensate for inflation and appreciation, the policy increases the vehicle’s value quarterly.
  • Spare parts coverage
  • Flexible usage: Limits on mileage ranging from 2,500 o 5,000 miles annually. Not limited to parades.

Additional Coverage Options

You can also purchase the following additional coverage’s for you antique and classic car insurance:

  • Emergency towing in case of breakdown
  • Roadside assistance
  • Emergency lockout
  • Emergency travel expenses in case your vehicle breaks down while away from hoe
  • Theft reward
  • Car show expenses: This policy will pay for expenses associated with missing a car show due to a breakdown
  • Personal effects: This policy will reimburse you for items that are vandalized or stolen when reported to police

Your Needs Are Unique

Since antique and classic cars are all so different, your insurance coverage will be specific to your vehicle. There are many considerations that you and your agent will discuss while creating a policy to suit your classic car. Contact us to day to build your personalized antique and classic car insurance policy.

Click here to learn more about auto insurance.

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