Insurance can be confusing. We can help!
Please note that these questions and answers are only guides and all questions should be directed to your agent. We are always willing to answer any questions you might have.
Q - Why are my auto rates so high?
A - The age old question. Insurance premiums are statistically based - meaning a base rate is set from information/statistics that are gathered such as the age of a driver and the type of vehicle. For example, young male drivers are a potential higher risk then a young female driver, so the rates might be slightly higher and if they happen to drive a sporty car, then the risk continues to increase. But there are many other factors that drive an insurance premium - not only do things like the age of the driver, make, model, year and safety ratings of a vehicle, driving record, prior accidents or violations, but even your credit history plays a part in the rate that is calculated. Where you live, your exposure to other vehicles or animals, etc also all play a part.
Q - Why does my neighbor/friend pay less than me?
A - Because of the factors noted in the above Q&A, you cannot compare rates with a friend, relative or neighbor. Not only are their exposures different, but so are their vehicle safety ratings, their credit or driving history, age, etc.
Q - My basement has water in it from all the rain we had/snow melting - is this covered?
A - This is considered "water seepage" and is a specifically excluded peril on any standard homeowners policy. There are a few of our companies that do provide limited coverage as an endorsement for this. Be sure to check with your agent if this is an option for you.
Q- I want full coverage - what does that cover?
A - Coverage on your vehicle is made up of multiple parts. The main 3 parts are what people consider "full coverage" which are: Liability (what you need to be legal in the state of MN), Comprehensive Coverage (covers damage to your vehicle such as glass breakage, deer hit, turkey hit, theft, fire, hail) and Collision (covers damage to your vehicle from things such as sliding into a guard rail, hitting another vehicle, hitting a mail box). There are additional optional coverages that can be added such as Rental Coverage or Roadside Assistance that are not included automatically in full coverage. Always be sure to discuss with your agent what you are looking for in regards to full coverage and what is actually covered.
Q - When does my deductible apply?
A - Your deductible applies when you have a comprehensive or collision claim on your vehicle.
Q - Where can I take my car for body work?
A - You can take your vehicle anywhere you want for repairs. We always suggest you discuss with your adjuster before getting work started or agreeing to anything to make sure there is no discrepancies in pricing.
Q - If I put a claim in will it increase my rates?
A - Every time you put a claim in it has the potential to increase your premiums. But there are a lot of factors that go into that such as prior claim history, pay out amount, if it's a comprehensive, collision, liability or property claim. This is never a simple answer because of these other factors.
Q - What does it mean that you are an independent agent?
A - Being an independent agent or insurance broker, as we are sometimes referred to, means that we write for more than one company. By being an independent agent, we can offer more specialized coverage and find a better match between company and client. It also allows us to tailor fit a policy to meet our clients needs insuring we are offering the best rates with the correct coverage needed.