Available Discounts
Snowmobile insurance plans often include discounts for customers to pay subsidized prices with equal benefits. Here are some of the common snowmobile discounts:
a) The multi-policy discount – Customers enjoy discounted rates for buying coverage for two or more snowmobiles.
b) Easy-pay plan – Also called autopay, clients can set up scheduled installment payments by allowing the carrier to make automatic withdrawals from their bank accounts. Choosing this payment option can result in a discount.
c) The full-pay discount – Clients enjoy this type of discount for purchasing insurance and paying the policy’s full cost upfront.
d) Safety course discount – Customers can register to take a safety course to improve their skills and benefit their wallets.
e) Homeownership discount – There is no doubt that owning a home has its many benefits, one of which is a discounted premium for snowmobile insurance.
Payment plans
When looking at different snowmobile insurance providers, one thing to consider is the type of payment plans that are offered. It is best to have multiple payment options to choose from, whether to pay in full or in installments.
Physical damage to your snowmobile
If you are involved in an accident it’s important that you have coverage to repair your snowmobile. Liability coverage is also important (see below).
Liability coverage
You may face legal charges if you cause bodily harm to someone or damage another person’s property. To help protect against these charges make sure you purchase an adequate amount for liability insurance.
Equipment and safety apparel coverage
Many snowmobiles offer customization options. It is advisable to ensure that any optional equipment is covered under your insurance. Optional equipment may be included under comprehensive coverage and may extend to cover damage to safety apparel also. Safety apparel consists of the gloves, masks, suits, boots, and other clothing items needed for snowmobiling.
While most insurance agents include coverage for damages done to safety apparel, theft coverage is often excluded. Check with your agent to see if theft is included in the policy or if it is an optional coverage that you can add.
Deductibles and limits
It is important to note that, like all coverage plans, snowmobile insurance also has its limits, which is the maximum insurance amount that can be paid when damages happen. Some providers may also require clients to pay a deductible, which is the amount you need to pay for damages and repairs before your carrier begins to pay for coverage. Be sure to go over the policy to understand both numbers so you can ensure you have the coverage you want with the deductible that you are willing to pay.
Comprehensive coverage
Comprehensive coverage is an all-encompassing type of insurance that includes provisions for optional equipment and damages done to the snowmobile other than an accident, for example, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
To get the right coverage for your snowmobile, contact the experts at James Page Insurance today. We are ready to assist with all your insurance needs.
Three Statistical Factors that Affect Your Car Insurance Rates
Car InsuranceInsurance companies use many factors to determine the premium rate specific to each client. Persons with expensive possessions, cars, or businesses may be charged higher than others. Insurance providers also consider statistics to set prices; that is, they study facts and figures and use them to determine their rates.
Here are some of the car insurance industry statistics that are likely to affect your rate.
1. Credit Score
Although it may seem unfair that persons with a low credit score are charged higher coverage rates than others, statistics have shown that this group of people are more likely to file claims than those with good credit. People with high credit scores may choose to pay for easy repairs or minor damages, while the low credit group is unlikely to have extra income for such. The provider considers the pros and cons for both groups of people to make correct predictions and estimations.
2. Age
The insurer will consider the age of the person before deciding on the rate for the automobile. Reports have shown that teenagers are at a significantly higher risk of getting involved in car accidents compared to adults; hence, your provider may consider if you have teenage drivers at home. Intoxication, texting and driving, speeding, and tailgating are some of the dangerous behaviors that are common among teenagers, increasing the likelihood of car crashes.
Let’s take a look at the statistics on teenage drivers:
Per mileage, persons aged 16 to 19 are three times more likely than those aged 20 and above to have fatal car accidents.
The percentage of male teenagers involved in auto accidents is significantly higher than females.
Also, because there is no driving history to consider when starting an auto coverage plan for a teenager, the provider makes estimations based on statistical data.
For elderly drivers, age is not the direct cause for an increase in risk but age-related health conditions such as stiff joints and vision problems are red flags for insurance companies. Generally, it is advisable to stop driving at age 80 because there is a likelihood of sudden loss of motor skills.
3. Location
Some states or cities are safer to drive in than others. Insurance companies also consider geographical locations when deciding on rates. Accidents are higher in cities or urban areas than in rural areas due to the number of drivers and the commotion caused by heavy traffic. Congestion is one of the leading causes of car crashes, and small towners do not suffer regular traffic patterns compared to city people. The traffic fatality rate in America is 12.4 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants. Deducing from the statistical reports, persons living in the populous zones will tend to pay more in insurance than those living in lesser populated areas.
Note that your provider relies on the general statistics regarding your age, sex, credit score, driving frequency, and geographical location before setting the cost of auto insurance. However, you can make use of the available discounts for good driving behavior to keep your premium low.
Willing to learn more? Contact our car insurance experts at James Page Insurance today! We will be happy to assist you.
Term vs. Whole Life Insurance: Which One is Better?
Life InsuranceTerm life insurance is coverage for a specific sum of years where the benefits are awarded to the beneficiaries if the insured dies within the coverage period. Whole life insurance is protection for benefits to be paid to the beneficiaries at any time the insured dies. Both coverages have their pros and cons, but the former is significantly cheaper than the latter. Whole life premiums can cost five to 15 times more than term policies with similar benefits.
Now, we’ll compare Term life vs Whole life insurance before deciding on which is the better option for you.
1. Risks Involved and Resultant Cost
Term insurance can be a better option than life because it costs significantly less. The difference in rate is due to the low probability of claiming within this period, which is low-risk for the insurance company. Investing in term coverage is a high-risk decision for the insured person because there is no guarantee that death will come before the plan expires. The risk may be reduced where the client is battling a terminal illness like cancer with low life expectancy.
Whole life insurance is a safer investment because it builds up cash value. In contrast, term life insurance has no cash value because it has an expiration date. There are no restrictions for whole coverage. It is a full-ride investment that remains valuable until you die. You may choose to switch a term policy to whole if it expires while you’re still alive, but you will be asked to pay a significantly higher premium upon renewal.
2. Benefits Provided
A term life policy only provides death benefits while whole life includes other benefits such as automatic savings, borrowing, and dividends. Just like savings, whole life policy cash value accrues over the years until you die as your investment continues to earn tax-free interest. You also receive annual dividends, which are rewards from the company determined by the amount of profit made per year. The insured may choose to receive the dividends or re-invest them to add to the policy’s cash value.
Lastly, you are allowed to loan your insurance benefit under a whole life policy. The cash value is affected when you borrow from your benefit. but there are no penalties or charges for this type of loan transaction. Term coverage features none of the additional benefits of whole insurance, including savings, dividends, and loans.
So, Which One is Better?
When you have tight finances and a solid prediction that your life will end within a specified period, a term policy is a financially savvy option. It doesn’t include other benefits that the whole policy does, but it can keep you from going broke with affordable premium rates. The better choice is dependent on your specific situation and financial capability. Whole life offers a better deal but may be unattainable for some persons; hence, neither is unimportant or of lesser quality than the other.
If you need assistance with your life insurance coverage, contact the experts at James Page Insurance. We’re always available to answer all your insurance-related questions.
Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover My Child at College?
homeowners insuranceInsuring your home is an important step in protecting your family. As your children grow up and move off to college, they may no longer be covered by this layer of protection. These kids are living outside your property, and it can influence the coverage of your homeowners insurance.
Is your child on campus?
It all comes down to your insurance policy and what it covers. Usually, your homeowners insurance policy covers kids at college, provided they stay on campus. When their items or belongings are affected by any damage your insurance covers, you can make a claim on your insurance. Your child would also have access to paid legal fees for a covered liability lawsuit.
Despite the fact that your homeowners insurance covers your kid at the college’s campus, it is wise to check with your insurance company exactly what property coverage your insurance provides for your child while they are on campus. For example, a worldwide coverage in your policy means coverage for your property irrespective of where they are located in the world. Anything outside a worldwide coverage would only cover property in a dorm room.
How about children off-campus?
Home insurance rarely covers children off-campus. You’d need to find a better-suited insurance package for children who stay in a fraternity house, sorority house, or other off-campus apartments. You can get a renter’s insurance policy for your child if they choose to live off-campus. It is best to pick an insurance policy that covers your child only, rather than one that covers your child and roommates.
How much coverage is usually offered for your child at college?
Whether your child is living on or off-campus, your home insurance policy can be purchased on terms that provide coverage for the valuables of your children. Usually, items and valuables such as computers, electronics, firearms, jewelry, silverware, cash, and other expensive items have limits of protection from insurance companies. If the limit of your insurance doesn’t sufficiently cover your child’s valuables, you can increase the limit to enjoy more coverage. If increasing the coverage doesn’t do the trick, seek special insurance for your child’s valuables.
Usually, for a child who lives on campus, your homeowners insurance extends 10% of your policy to your child. This means if you purchased the insurance at $300,000, your child enjoys coverage of $30,000. If the 10% is insufficient to cover your child and their valuables, you can always increase the limit or seek a separate insurance plan.
What are the available insurance options?
Although your homeowners insurance covers your child at college, it has a few lapses. You cannot make claims for any damage less than your deductible. Also, your insurance score can be negatively impacted when your child makes claims, which can lead to premium increases. What’s worth your concern is the fact that damages on your child’s property would most likely be less than your deductible. This means you’re as good as not having protection for your child’s property or valuables. A renter’s insurance has a much lower deductible and is way cheaper for your children. Nevertheless, if the deductible doesn’t cover probable damage, dorm insurance might be the route to take. This way your child can make claims for the smallest damages in college.
Yes, your homeowners insurance provides some coverage for your children in college. Nevertheless, there are better options to consider depending on the situation. Do you have more questions about the coverage offered by your homeowners insurance? If so, then contact the experts at James Page Insurance. We are ready to assist you with all your home coverage needs today.
Stay at Home Valentine’s Day Ideas
homeowners insurance, Life InsuranceValentine’s Day is a special celebration of love. We often think special days like this should be celebrated in special ways. Of course, it should, but our concept of special can become distorted. We want to make reservations in a restaurant like others or go through the hustle and bustle of pushing through crowds to see a movie. Here is a list of stay-at-home valentine ideas that could be more rewarding and special.
Spend Valentine’s Day talking about love with your family.
Tell them what love means to you, how much you love them, and the remarkable ways they have brought joy into your life. Read books about love. You can always get suggestions of books to read for valentine’s Day from the librarian. Eat fancy or new home-cooked meals. Most importantly, show love to your partner, and family in unique ways. For meals with a love theme, you can try out: Apple heart sandwiches, strawberry heart French toast, heart-shaped pizza, peanut butter heart cookies, and more.
Never underestimate the reward of Netflix and chill on Valentine’s Day.
Carefully handpick what movie you want to see at home and make special arrangements for movie night. Choose movies that have a history with you and your partner or helps you relax while making the moment special. You can also learn a few massage tricks and treat your partner to an in-house massage. Get the candles set, get the massage oil ready and turn on some calm mood music. A facial mask may help your partner relax. Surprising your partner with a foot spa alongside a few massage lessons always does the trick.
Games can help you and your family members and relax in remarkable ways.
When was the last time you played a fun game with your family? The spark of friendly competition can be fun and exhilarating while adding a bit of spice to an evening. You can try board games, never have I ever, truth or dare, hide and seek, whatever works for you and your loved ones. As long as it is fun, special, and helps you and your family spend quality time together, it is a good choice.
Treat yourself to your favorite food.
Certain foods can improve or dampen your mood, but your favorite food always is a good choice for a nice treat. Its valentine’s Day, order or make your favorite food and give yourself a day to indulge. Valentine’s Day isn’t one of the days you keep-up with your diet routine. Take a break and allow yourself the freedom to enjoy your favorite food without guilt.
Staying at home during valentine’s Day can be rewarding and special. You only need to see the possibility and allow yourself a chance to make this valentine’s Day a memorable one. If you need assistance with your health and life insurance coverage, contact the experts at James Page Insurance. We’re always available to answer all your insurance-related questions.
Things to Consider before Buying Insurance for a Snowmobile
InsuranceAvailable Discounts
Snowmobile insurance plans often include discounts for customers to pay subsidized prices with equal benefits. Here are some of the common snowmobile discounts:
a) The multi-policy discount – Customers enjoy discounted rates for buying coverage for two or more snowmobiles.
b) Easy-pay plan – Also called autopay, clients can set up scheduled installment payments by allowing the carrier to make automatic withdrawals from their bank accounts. Choosing this payment option can result in a discount.
c) The full-pay discount – Clients enjoy this type of discount for purchasing insurance and paying the policy’s full cost upfront.
d) Safety course discount – Customers can register to take a safety course to improve their skills and benefit their wallets.
e) Homeownership discount – There is no doubt that owning a home has its many benefits, one of which is a discounted premium for snowmobile insurance.
Payment plans
When looking at different snowmobile insurance providers, one thing to consider is the type of payment plans that are offered. It is best to have multiple payment options to choose from, whether to pay in full or in installments.
Physical damage to your snowmobile
If you are involved in an accident it’s important that you have coverage to repair your snowmobile. Liability coverage is also important (see below).
Liability coverage
You may face legal charges if you cause bodily harm to someone or damage another person’s property. To help protect against these charges make sure you purchase an adequate amount for liability insurance.
Equipment and safety apparel coverage
Many snowmobiles offer customization options. It is advisable to ensure that any optional equipment is covered under your insurance. Optional equipment may be included under comprehensive coverage and may extend to cover damage to safety apparel also. Safety apparel consists of the gloves, masks, suits, boots, and other clothing items needed for snowmobiling.
While most insurance agents include coverage for damages done to safety apparel, theft coverage is often excluded. Check with your agent to see if theft is included in the policy or if it is an optional coverage that you can add.
Deductibles and limits
It is important to note that, like all coverage plans, snowmobile insurance also has its limits, which is the maximum insurance amount that can be paid when damages happen. Some providers may also require clients to pay a deductible, which is the amount you need to pay for damages and repairs before your carrier begins to pay for coverage. Be sure to go over the policy to understand both numbers so you can ensure you have the coverage you want with the deductible that you are willing to pay.
Comprehensive coverage
Comprehensive coverage is an all-encompassing type of insurance that includes provisions for optional equipment and damages done to the snowmobile other than an accident, for example, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
To get the right coverage for your snowmobile, contact the experts at James Page Insurance today. We are ready to assist with all your insurance needs.
Top Six Ways of Reducing Small Business Insurance Premiums
BusinessHere are the top six ways to reduce your premium while still ensuring quality coverage.
1. Thorough Background Checks on Workers
The key to lowering premiums is to reduce the number of liability claims against your business. One of the steps to limit claims is to do a thorough background check before hiring employees because workers with past criminal records may increase the risks of liability claims against your business.
2. Bundled Policy for Multiple Coverages
There are various types of insurance coverage for businesses. The most cost-effective way to purchase coverage is by bundling all your purchases into a single package like the business owner policy (BOP). A bundled policy can reduce the premium rate by purchasing coverage from a single agent rather than individual policies from multiple insurance companies. You may enjoy even more discounts by bundling personal and business coverages all into one policy.
3. Employ Adequate Safety Measures
Imputing top-notch security and safety measures like fire alarms and extinguishers in your business may reduce the risk of damages and, as a result, help lower your premiums. Emergency measures and preparations for natural disasters may significantly reduce the premiums that a business has to pay compared to its contemporaries.
4. Maintain Good Credit
Insurance companies will consider your business’s credit history before deciding on a quote. Building and maintaining a good credit score will lead to higher insurance limits and reduced premiums. An excellent credit rating for your small business is even more important when you have a low personal credit score.
5. Stick With the Essentials
Insurance agents may try to sell their products by convincing you that you need multiple coverages for maximum protection. While having extra coverage is not bad, it does lead to an increase in your premiums. It is essential to avoid unnecessary coverage if you aren’t willing to deal with higher premiums. There are some coverages with similar or overlapping benefits, which may amount to waste if more than one policy is purchased. It is advisable to study what each policy entails to have a clear understanding of the ideal coverages for your business.
General liability, auto and property insurance rank in the top spots for necessary coverages for any small business.
6. Compare prices
Being a savvy shopper is important when looking to purchase insurance. Be sure to explore multiple insurance companies to compare prices before deciding on your business’ best offer. Contact the experts at James Page Insurance today. We have access to dozens of insurance companies. We look forward to helping you with all your coverage needs.
What Are the Items Covered By Valuable Personal Property Insurance?
Liability Insurance, LifestyleValuable personal property insurance is purchased to cover special items that may be valued differently than other items you own. Items that are valued significantly higher due to their age or uniqueness may require a special policy that will provide additional coverage if they are lost, damaged, or stolen. It’s important to know what type of damage is covered for each type of item.
Jewelry
Jewelry that is made from precious metals and gemstones like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are worth much more than basic costume jewelry. While cheaper jewelry can still be insured, the pieces may not be valuable enough for their own policy. Expensive jewelry like diamond wedding rings should always be appraised before an insurance policy is purchased. Heirloom jewelry pieces may hold value simply due to their age, but an appraisal to determine their value is recommended.
Antiques
Antiques are items that hold significant value due to their age or the fact that they cannot be easily replaced. Antique and vintage style furniture, clothing, vehicles, and other household items can be quite costly to buy. While many old items have sentimental value, that doesn’t necessarily mean they hold monetary value that would require an additional insurance policy. If you are unsure of how valuable a particular antique or vintage item is, you may want to talk to an antique dealer to determine item’s real value.
Artwork
Artwork can include pen or ink drawings, sculptures, paintings, pastels, and any other type of work that holds substantial value. Pieces of art that were created by well-known artists are usually much more valuable than items made by an unknown artisan. Before you purchase personal property insurance for pieces of art, you should have your artwork appraised by a reputable art dealer who specializes in the type of piece you own. You should discuss your options with your insurance agent.
Musical Instruments
Quality musical instruments, whether they are antique or not, can be extremely valuable. Antiques can hold additional value, especially if they are still able to be used for their original purpose. Protecting these items may require the use of a case or storage in a temperature-controlled environment. If the instruments are used as part of your livelihood, make sure they are insured for their full value. Any time you buy another instrument, make sure to call your insurance agent immediately.
Insuring your most valuable possessions is essential if you want to protect yourself from financial loss. Purchasing personal property insurance coverage is not something you should take lightly. Contact James Page Insurance if you have any questions about insuring your valuable items. We have the answers you are looking for and will assist you in finding the right coverage.
How Can Life Insurance Policy Be the Best Christmas Gift?
Life InsuranceBuying life insurance as a Christmas gift isn’t such a bad idea. It can be difficult to buy Christmas gifts, especially when you have no idea what people want. Who wants to buy gifts that will only sit on a shelf, end up being thrown in the attic, or donated to a local charity? Instead of buying gifts that will never be used, buy the one gift that will continue to offer benefits for many years to come. The right life insurance policy will serve your family much better than any traditional Christmas gift.
Secure Your Family’s Future
Buying a whole life insurance policy will protect your family from financial loss after your death. If something happens to you, your income will also go away, which means your family will lose their primary source of financial support. Purchasing a whole life insurance policy as a Christmas gift will protect your family’s financial future. Protecting them financially will give them the peace of mind they need to move forward with their lives.
Settle Your Final Expenses
Another reason for purchasing a life insurance policy for Christmas is to take care of your final expenses and settle any outstanding debts you may leave behind. The last thing you want to do is leave behind a large amount of debt that your family will have to worry about after you pass away. A life insurance policy will pay for your burial and funeral expenses, as well as debts you may leave behind in terms of mortgages, car loans, or personal loans. Settling all of your final expenses with a life insurance policy is a great way to keep your family financially secure.
Provide for Your Children’s Education
Buying a term life insurance policy for each of your grandchildren is a great way to provide for their future as well as their education. A term life insurance policy can be set up to reach maturity when the child turns 18. Once they reach 18 years of age, they can choose to let the policy continue to grow interest or they can cash it in and use the money to pay for their college education. The money is then theirs to use however they want. If they are thinking about going into business, cashing out the policy may give them what they need to give the new business a boost.
Know Your Options
There are different types of life insurance policies you can choose from. Don’t guess when it comes to buying any type of life insurance. If you plan on giving the policy as a gift, make sure that you are buying the right kind. Different policies serve different purposes. Knowing what your goals are will help you find the right policy for the right situation. If you are unsure of what type of policy is needed, talk to your agent. They can help you determine what type of policy may be best. In some situations, you may want to invest in more than one policy.
Buying life insurance as a Christmas gift can make your shopping list much easier to complete. Learn as much as you can about each type of policy so that you understand the benefits of each. When you are ready to purchase the policy or policies, contact the agents at James Page Insurance. We have the answers you are looking for and will help you find the policy that best suits your family’s needs.
Who Qualifies for a Business Owners’ Insurance Policy?
BusinessBusinesses of all shapes and sizes have the right to purchase insurance to protect their investment and keep their livelihood on track. All types of businesses have some degree of liability. Many have a large number of assets and employees to consider, as well. Having a business owner’s insurance policy is the best way to prevent financial loss that would accompany an accident. Liability, theft, health, and workers’ compensation are all forms of insurance a company may require.
Any Size Company
No matter how big or small a company is there is a risk of liability that should not be ignored. General liability, product liability, and defective workmanship are all forms of liability that can hurt your business. Even if you only have a handful of employees, provide them with sufficient workers’ compensation and health benefits. This will ensure that your company doesn’t have to pay medical bills out of pocket for injuries related to an employee’s duties. Health insurance policies for employees and their families are also a must for many companies.
Sole Proprietor or Large Corporations
A sole proprietor of a business or a team of management members must all consider the impact of not having a valid commercial insurance policy in place. It is extremely important to have a business owner’s policy if you plan on maintaining your success. At some point in your career span, your company may be forced to file a claim. Having a sufficient amount of insurance in place is the best way to ensure that your company’s assets are protected and that your employees have what they need to feel secure. A sole proprietor and a large corporation both face similar liability and asset protection risks.
Self-Employed or Independent Contractors
Self-employed business owners or independent contractors should also consider purchasing a business owner’s policy. Even if they don’t have a large number of assets, they may be at risk for certain types of liability. If you are unsure what type of insurance an independent contractor may need, call your insurance agent. They will be able to work with you so that you know what types of insurance are available for you and your business. Understanding what types of business owners policy coverage your company may need is half the battle won.
Business owners insurance can be a lifesaver if an accident occurs. James Page Insurance agents have the answers you need if you are opening a business or are looking for a new business owner’s insurance policy. Don’t wait until an accident happens to find out that you are not adequately covered. Call an agent today and find out how we can help your business get ahead.
4 Practical Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Homeowners
homeowners insuranceThanksgiving is a time to enjoy with your friends and family, gathering around a feast of your favorite foods, making memories, and it is all about celebrating life. Enjoying these special times is your main priority, but you should also take precautions to protect your guests from accidents or injuries that could ruin your good times.
Keep Your Home Secure
During the holidays, many people travel to visit family and friends. If you plan on traveling this year, make sure to secure your home so that it is not an easy target for burglars. Install a home security system or add a few exterior lights that have motion detectors. Better yet, have a friend or family member stay at your home so that it isn’t empty while you are gone. Burglars will avoid a home if they believe someone is there.
Reduce Your Risk of Injury
Reduce your risk of accidental injury by clearing paths throughout your home. Eliminate any tripping hazards. Move flammable items away from the fireplace so they won’t be close enough to catch an ember if one escapes. Keep small children away from both the fireplace and the stove. If you serve alcohol to your guests, be aware of how much is being served and cut back if individuals start to consume too much. November is a time for cooler temperatures and a chance for ice and snow. Make sure your sidewalks and outside steps are free of moisture and swept clean before your guests start to arrive.
Practice Safe Habits in the Kitchen
When it comes to cooking, keep handles turned toward the center of the stove. Keep long sleeves and loose fabric tucked away so that it won’t get caught on pot handles or lids. All knives and sharp objects should be kept off the tables and far enough back on counters to prevent them from falling into the kids’ hands. Always be mindful of who is carving the turkey or slicing the pies and other goodies. If a spill occurs, wipe it up immediately to prevent slips and fall accidents.
Enjoy Your Holiday!
Thanksgiving is a time of celebration. Enjoy your holiday, and be thankful for your blessings. Share your joy with those you love. Encourage all of your guests to take their time travelling to and from your home. Being late is fine as long as your guests arrive safely. If a guest has had too much to drink, find them a ride home. As the holiday comes to a close, make sure all of the memories made are the good ones.
James Page Insurance agents look forward to serving their clients throughout the coming year and offering home insurance tips you can use. If you have questions, concerns, or are just looking to find an agent you enjoy working with, call the office today and schedule an appointment. We are looking forward to working with you!