Three Essentials for Your Car Accident Preparedness Kit

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Taking preventative action before a car crash can save you from the stress of scrambling at the scene of an accident. First, you should make sure you have a good car insurance policy. If you live in Pismo Beach, CA, Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc is a good option.

Next, you need to put together a safety kit. Here are a few ideas for you to consider.

1. Basics

You should always have extra food, water, and an extra battery for your cell phone if you cannot charge it in your vehicle. If hot weather is common in the area, include instant cooling packs and a fan that runs on batteries. 

2. First Aid

You can create your own first aid kit or find a pre-assembled one. Ensure you include a medical card with pertinent information about any medications, allergies, or medical conditions that medical personnel might need to be aware of. 

You must also list your preferred emergency contact in case you are unconscious. If you have a medication you need every day, be sure to keep extras on hand in the kit as well.

3. Car Care

Your car needs a care kit too! You can include a tarp in case of inclement weather, jumper cables, gloves, a flashlight (or use your phone), flares, and towels. 

You may want to consider taking a class on basic car maintenance so that you know how to use everything in your kit.

You should also have proof of car insurance in your glove compartment. Luckily, Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. is serving the Pismo Beach, CA area; call today to learn more about your auto insurance options!

Why Would My Need for Flood Insurance Change?

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The Federal Emergency Management Agency regularly updates its flood maps and the flood zones in which a home resides. If, in remapping, your Pismo Beach, CA home moves from a zone that doesn’t require flood insurance to one that does, you will need to purchase a policy.

At Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc., we understand how complex flood mapping and flood insurance can seem. If you resided in a home in a flood zone A or V and took out a federally backed mortgage, you must purchase flood insurance.

Your bank typically requires proof of this purchase, just like your home insurance policy. Of course, when remapping occurs, your home that previously did not sit in either zone A or V can move into one.

That’s because flood risk changes over time. An area’s topographical features change, which can alter water flows from creeks, rivers, lakes, etc.

If you rent, your landlord may include a rider in the lease that requires you to obtain renter’s insurance but won’t require flood insurance. That’s because the landlord’s flood policy covers the structure. It won’t cover the contents that belong to you, so you should still obtain a flood policy for contents only if the flood zone for the home changes.

FEMA continually conducts flood map updates, so your flood zone could change at any time. The agency sends the homeowner a notice that the zone has changed.

If you reside in a home that now belongs in zone A or V, you’ll need flood insurance. Contact Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc., serving Pismo Beach, CA, for more information.

Motorcycle Safety Essentials for New Riders

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Once you obtain your motorcycle license in Pismo Beach, CA, you probably want to hit the road. Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. wants you to do so safely. In addition to carrying your motorcycle insurance, we put together this short blog to help you ride more safely.

1. Consider completing a safety course.

Completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course boosts your riding skills, road knowledge, bike know-how, and can help you with your insurance qualifications. Some areas offer these courses for free, so enjoy one.

2. Always ride wearing an appropriate helmet.

Sure, your granddad’s war helmet looks cool, but it wasn’t designed to protect you while you ride a motorbike. Only ride while wearing an appropriate motorcycle helmet. These weigh about three pounds and feature a thick polystyrene-foam inner liner. Always use the chin strap to affix the helmet to your head.

3. Conduct a quick bike check before riding.

Know your bike well. Before you hit the road, check your tire inflation, brakes, and look for fluid leaks. If you’re giving a person a ride on the bike, adjust the suspension and tires first to accommodate the added weight on the bike.

4. Sit down fully on the bike seat and hold on to the handlebars with both hands.

The only time you should take your hands off of the handlebars should occur when you signal. Explain safety to any passenger before riding.

5. Obey all traffic laws.

Remain aware of the road and other vehicles. Obey all traffic laws. Ride with at least one car length between you and the vehicle in front of you.

You can stay safer on the road with the proper precautions and motorbike insurance from Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. Contact us for insurance if you reside in the Pismo Beach, CA area.

Do I Need Commercial Auto Insurance as an Uber Driver in California?

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If you’re contemplating becoming an Uber driver in Pismo Beach, CA, you must consider commercial auto insurance. The short answer is yes—all Uber drivers in California are required to have commercial auto insurance.

Why Commercial Auto Insurance is Required for Uber Drivers in California

In order to Uber in California, you must have commercial auto insurance—this is non-negotiable. This is because personal auto insurance policies typically exclude coverage for business-related activities. So, if you were to get into an accident while driving for Uber, your personal auto insurance policy would likely not provide any coverage.

This would leave you on the hook for any damages or injuries resulting from the accident, which could end up costing you thousands of dollars. To protect yourself financially, ensuring you have the right insurance before driving for Uber is essential.

Your Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc representative can help you get the right commercial auto insurance policy in place so that you can focus on driving in Pismo Beach, CA, and earning money—not insurance.

What Kind of Coverage Do I Need?

The level of coverage you’ll need will depend on a few factors, including the state in which you’ll be driving and the size of your vehicle.

You may also consider getting uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, collision, and comprehensive coverage. These coverages will help protect your vehicle if it’s damaged or stolen.

Remember that your commercial auto insurance policy will probably be more expensive than your personal auto insurance policy. However, it’s important to remember that the peace of mind and financial protection that comes with having the right insurance is well worth the additional cost.

Besides commercial coverage, you still need to maintain a personal auto insurance policy. Your commercial policy will not cover you when you’re not working or if you use your vehicle for personal reasons.

Your Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc representative can help you understand the coverage and customize a policy that meets your needs.

Will condo insurance pay for the repair of my front door?

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Condo insurance, like homeowners insurance, provides protection and coverage for many things. However, it can be confusing when understanding what’s covered and what’s not. Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc can take the confusion out of understanding condo insurance for Pismo Beach, CA residents. 

What is Condo Insurance?

Condo insurance is also referred to as H06 insurance. This insurance covers legal liability and much more. A condo insurance policy can cover damage to the interior of your condo unit, your personal items, and even living expenses. However, condo insurance is only designed to cover the interior of your condo unit. The condo association covers the exterior of your condo unit. As a result, who covers what can be confusing when determining how to get something fixed.

Will Condo Insurance Pay for the Repair of my Front Door?

As a condo owner, your condo association may be responsible for repairing your door, depending on how it was damaged. If the damage fits the condo association’s coverage guidelines, your condo association will repair it. However, your condo insurance may cover the repair of your front door if the damage is within the covered policy guidelines. You’ll likely need to speak with the condo association and your condo insurance company to determine who’s responsible. Conversely, if your front door is damaged due to negligence, you may have to pay for the repair of your door out of pocket. Likely, the damage may not be covered under the condo association’s policy nor your condo policy. If you have questions about condo insurance, call us. We’d be happy to help you explore the benefits. 

Common Auto Insurance Exclusions

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Your car insurance protects you and your vehicle when accidents happen. It compensates you for the damage to ensure you don’t suffer financial losses. While auto insurance can save you on a rainy day, sometimes, it can fall short. Your car insurance has limitations and exclusions, and you need to know about them to ensure an event-free claim process.

Your car insurance exclusions are detailed in your policy document, but you can also consult your insurance agent for more information. Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. highlights common areas your standard car insurance won’t cover.

Commercial use

Are you using your car to run business errands? You had better invest in commercial auto insurance because standard car insurance won’t cover business-related accidents. Since business operations are considered high-risk, your insurer expects you to buy commercial auto insurance designed to cover such risks.

Equipment failure

Is your transmission acting up? Has your car engine knocked? Your standard car insurance doesn’t pay for mechanical failures. For such expenses, you will have to finance from your pocket.

Accidents outside American borders

Your standard car insurance protects you when within the borders of America. So, if something happens to your car outside the geographical area of operation, your insurer won’t cover the loss. However, you can inform your insurer of special coverage if traveling abroad with your vehicle.

Engine damage due to oil leakage

Your car insurance should cover the damage if your car engine is damaged during a collision or by a covered loss. However, your typical auto insurance won’t compensate you if your engine is damaged by an oil leak or waterlogging. However, you can purchase a "rider" or "add-on" to protect your engine.

Intentional damage

This is rather obvious, but we will say it since we have seen it happen. Your insurer won’t cover damage from intentional or criminal acts. For instance, your insurer won’t cover your car if you use it as a weapon.

Car insurance in Pismo Beach, CA

Want to learn more about auto insurance? Want to purchase car insurance in Pismo Beach, CA? Please contact Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. for all your car insurance solutions.

Preparing your home for an emergency

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So many emergencies can happen in and around your home. Being prepared to respond at a moment’s notice may be called for, and your survival may depend on your plans and arrangements. At Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. in Pismo Beach, CA, we have years of experience providing quality insurance products and personalized service. As independent insurance agents, we can give our customers more choices and the best value. 

Supplies

Basic emergency supplies are something that every home should have, including several days’ supply of water. This includes water for drinking and washing up, and flushing the toilet if there is any problem with your water supply due to an emergency. Having a generator is always a great addition to a home emergency kit. If not, at least have some kind of charging device and ensure you don’t lose touch with the world. LED lights that are solar-powered can help to make sure you are not sitting in a dark home. 

Your important papers

Your important papers should all be together in one place so that if you need to evacuate, you can grab them and place them in the car to take away with you. They should be in a fire and water-resistant container to protect them. Don’t forget your home insurance policy. 

Have an escape route planned

If you need to evacuate, you don’t want to make a plan when you are rushed, and the adrenalin is pumping. Have a main evacuation route planned and at least one alternative if the preferred choice isn’t available. Make sure the entire family knows the plan and where to meet. 

Contact Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc in Pismo Beach, CA to get the quality home insurance products you need. 

What are Basic Liabilities for Motorcycle Insurance?

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The basic insurance liabilities for motorcycle owners are the same as for automobiles. It breaks down to 15/30/5. In other words, riders must have a minimum or above of

  • $15,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $30,000 for bodily injury per accident
  • $5,000 in damage liability for each accident

Optional Coverages

According to Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. representatives, motorcycle owners don’t need to purchase uninsured/underinsured programs for their insurance policy. Additionally, they don’t need a personal injury protection (PIP) rider. Bodily injury and damage liability are the only coverages needed to qualify for a motorcycle insurance policy. 

Is Motorcycle Insurance Required?

In California, motorcycle insurance is required to drive the vehicle in Pismo Beach, CA, and across the state. It has to be specific to the vehicle. To put it another way, you cannot apply an auto insurance policy to the motorcycle. 

Are There Penalties if You Don’t Have Motorcycle Insurance?

In California, driving a motorcycle without the proper insurance is illegal. If you can’t provide proof of a policy when pulled over by law enforcement authorities, it might lead to fines, license suspension, or impounding your motorcycle. Penalty payments increase for each offense.

On top of this, even if you have motorcycle insurance, you may be penalized if you can’t provide physical proof. Fortunately, there are ways to appeal the fees related to this issue. The fees may be revoked if you produce the evidence within the ticket’s deadline. 

How to Obtain Motorcycle Insurance

You can purchase a motorcycle insurance policy through national or local outlets like Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. Be prepared to ask several questions to get the right policy for your needs.

What Should I Look for in a Good Renters Insurance Policy?

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When renting an apartment or house, one of the most important things to consider is getting renters insurance. This type of insurance protects your belongings in case of theft, damage, or other problems. But with so many different policies available, it can be hard to know what to look for in a good renters insurance policy. Here are a few key things to remember when shopping around for coverage.

1. Coverage Limits

Most renters insurance policies have coverage limits, which is the maximum amount the policy will pay out in case of a claim. Make sure to choose a policy with coverage limits that are high enough to cover the value of your belongings. Otherwise, you might have to pay out of pocket to replace damaged or stolen items.

2. Exclusions

All renters insurance policies have exclusions, which are events or circumstances not covered by the policy. For example, most renters’ insurance policies exclude damage caused by earthquakes or floods. Be sure to read the fine print of your policy, so you know what is and isn’t covered. The fewer exclusions there are, the better.

3. Deductibles

Many people don’t realize that most policies have a sum you must pay before the insurance company covers any damages. This is called a deductible, and choosing a policy with a deductible that you can afford to pay is essential. Otherwise, you might be in a difficult financial situation if you need to make a claim.

4. Easy Claims Process

If you need to make a claim, you’ll want to be sure that the process is as easy and smooth as possible. Some insurance companies make it difficult to file a claim, which can cause a lot of frustration. Do some research on different insurance companies and read reviews to see which ones have a reputation for being easy to work with regarding claims.

Get Renters Insurance in Pismo Beach, CA

Keep these things in mind if you’re looking for a good renters insurance policy. Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc can help you find the right policy for your needs. Contact us today to get started.

What Impacts the Flood Insurance Premium on a Policy

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Many living in the Pismo Beach, CA area need flood insurance. If you are someone looking to shop for flood insurance, you need to get a sense of what factors will have an impact on the premium. The premium is the price you will pay for the flood insurance policy. The Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. team is in a position to help educate and get you set up for success in your search for flood insurance.

Factors Impacting Flood Insurance in California

There are a variety of factors that have an impact on the flood insurance premium you will pay. The flood insurance premium will be impacted by the type of coverage you purchase and the deductible on the policy.  

Other factors that will impact flood insurance include the flood risk of your property, e.g., whether you are in a flood zone and the location of your structure. The design and age of your structure could also impact flood insurance overall.  

Conclusion

The cost of flood insurance will vary quite a bit when you take into account the coverage you purchase, the property’s location, flood risk, design, as well as the age of the structure. When you factor in all these things, you can understand why one property will be more expensive for flood insurance than others. The Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc team is in a position to help you be as educated as possible as you shop for flood insurance.