Motorcycle Permit in Lacey, Washington

How to Obtain A License To Operate A Motorcycle

Motorcycle Permit in Lacey, WashingtonWith spring on the horizon, some of you may be finding yourselves thinking about getting a motorcycle license. After all, motorcycles offer great fuel economy, easy parking, and a unique driving experience.

For most people, your motorcycle journey will begin with some rider safety and operation courses. Knowing how to safely operate a motorcycle and the unique laws that may apply to you are important.

Operating a motorcycle in most states will require you to have a driver’s license and some will require a motorcycle permit. This permit will involve you passing an exam for motorcycle operation and a rider’s skill test. For those under the age of 18, you’ll also likely need your parent’s consent.

To find a class, you can search for your local DMV on the web and look there for motorcycle safety courses. Most states have adopted the Motorcycle Safety Foundations curriculum. The classes will take around 15 hours to complete and at the end, you will possibly find an insurance carrier who will give you a discount for completing the course.

Other common questions regarding the operation of a motorcycle include:

Am I required to have insurance? Not all states require motorcycle operators have insurance. It is highly recommended that you do carry insurance to not only protect yourself financially but also to provide insurance protection to those you may injure while operating a motorcycle.

Do I have to wear a helmet? Many states do not require helmets for all riders, however, some are also age-dependent. To find out which states have motorcycle helmet laws, visit the iihs.org website.

My motorcycle doesn’t go very fast, do I still need a permit?  If a motorcycle’s speedometer is listed as less than 60 MPH then it is possible that you do not need a motorcycle permit to operate this. Check with your local Department of Licensing to find out more.

Having motorcycle insurance is recommended. Typically the cost of a motorcycle insurance policy isn’t as expensive as an automobile policy. There are many factors that determine the cost of motorcycle insurance: where you live, your driving record, your age, and marital status, what type of motorcycle you own, whether you own a home, even your credit score can all have an impact on how much you’ll pay for insurance. The best way to find out what your premium will be is to ask a licensed agent in our office to provide you with some quotes from several of the top insurance companies.

Get Your Motorcycle Insurance Quote Today

Our licensed staff is ready to help you get multiple quotes for your Motorcycle Insurance. Because we’re an independent insurance agent we can shop from multiple insurance companies to help you find the right coverage at the right price.

Bundle Home & Auto Lacey, WA

What Discounts Are Available For Bundling Your Insurance?

Bundle Home & Auto Lacey, WAA surprising number of people simply choose to use the same insurance company as their parents which means that oftentimes there’s a lack of insurance shopping. Moreover, it seems that the only time some customers look further afield is when they’re shopping about for lower rates. These shoppers can end up with their car insured with one company, their home policy with another, and so forth.

From this comes a tangle of insurance companies, policies, bills, and an endless onslaught of mail. In short, it can lead to quite a headache for policyholders and insurance companies alike.

Insurance companies offer discounts as an incentive for their customers to bundle multiple insurance products together.  These bundle discounts help to lock-in customers with the insurance company which oftentimes extends the amount of time those policyholders stay with that company.  And fortunately, these bundle discounts are additive. This means that you’ll often save more money with each additional type of insurance policy you purchase from the same company.

Bundling Home and Auto Insurance

One of the easiest and most common ways to save money on insurance is by bundling your home and auto insurance with one company. On average, this bundling option can save you anywhere from 10 – 20% on your overall premium.  When adding a life or umbrella policy to that auto and home bundle, it isn’t uncommon for that bundle discount to get as high as 35%.

How can insurance companies afford this?

These deep discounts can result in a significant reduction in premiums for insurers.  So how can they afford to discount these policies so much?  In short, economies of scale kick in since, overall, they’re making more money from each bundled customer. The alternative would be to write more customers with only one type of insurance policy which would require additional time, effort, and staffing. The benefit to insurers of offering significant bundle discounts more than outweighs the expenses associated with trying to write more single policy customers.

The best way to take advantage of these bundle discounts is to contact a licensed agent in our office.  We can assist you with assessing your insurance needs and provide you with some quotes from several of the top insurance companies.

Get A Quote For All Of Your Insurance Policies Today

Our licensed staff is ready to help you get multiple quotes for your auto, home, life and other insurance products.  Because we’re an independent insurance agent we can shop from multiple insurance companies to help you find the right coverage at the right price.

Auto Insurance Discount in Lacey, Washington

Maximize Your Auto Insurance Savings With These Discounts

Auto Insurance Discount in Lacey, WashingtonWhen it comes to auto insurance it seems like all we hear about is discounts. But what discounts are there and who is eligible for them? Let’s take a closer look.

  • Bundle Discounts: Bundling multiple policies like auto and home or auto and renters with the same insurance carrier can save you some money. The logic is that the more policies you have, the longer you will stay insured with the carrier.
  • Multi-vehicle Discount: If you insure more than one car on the same policy, you’re eligible for a discount. Any car is eligible for the discount if it is on the same policy.
  • Teen Driver Discount: Teen drivers are expensive to insure, there is no way around it. Fortunately, some carriers are more forgiving and give you a discount if they’re on your policy.
  • Good Student: The logic is that a smart student makes a smart driver. If your student driver maintains a 3.0 or better GPA, you may be eligible for a discount. This is great for parents needing to motivate their children.
  • Safe driver (accident-free): Many major insurance carriers will award safe driving discounts to drivers who have been accident-free for several years. The criteria vary between insurance carriers.
  • Military: Active and veteran military members are often eligible for discounted auto insurance. Ask your insurance agent to see if you qualify.
  • Early quote/signing: If you are looking to change insurance carriers or upgrade your auto insurance, getting a quote (and signing up) before your current policy has expired may get you a discount. You may need to get a quote within a certain number of days before your policy expiration, so check with your agent.
  • Paid-in-full: You’ll see the discount reflected in the price when you are presented with your options for paying your auto insurance policy. Paying off the policy in full will cost you a little less than paying every month.
  • Paperless: Don’t want to get a paper statement? Great, you get a discount. Most major insurance carriers offer discounts for customers who choose to do automatic billing and receive emails rather than paper statements.
  • Auto-Pay: When you opt for automatic payments for your insurance whether by credit card, checking draft, or debit, you can earn a discount.
  • Loyalty: Staying with the same insurance carrier year over year could earn you a discount for every loyalty milestone you hit. Typically, these rewards not only include a discount on the cost of your policy, but they can also include accident forgiveness.
  • Tracking Devices: Many companies now offer tracking devices for your vehicle. If you’re okay with your insurance company monitoring your driving behavior, you can earn a discount.

More important than insurance savings is having the right protection. That’s why it is important to reach out to a licensed agent in our office to review your coverage. Getting the cheapest policy isn’t always the best decision if you have assets to protect. Insurance quotes take just a few minutes but the right advice and consultation about the right coverage can save you a lifetime of hardship.

Snowmobile Insurance Coverage & Common Questions in Lacey, Washington

Snowmobile Insurance Coverage & Common Questions

Snowmobile Insurance Coverage & Common Questions in Lacey, WashingtonRiding a snowmobile, or snow machine is an exhilarating experience. Riding a snowmobile across an ungroomed open field with powder snow flying away can be memorable but comes with its share of risks.

Regardless of whether you enjoy sledding fast, slowly in a group, in steep terrain or in poor conditions, it is important to protect you, your passengers, your sled and yourself from injury or damage.

Some of the common snowmobile insurance coverage options can include:

  • Comprehensive & Collision Coverage: Comprehensive coverage will protect your snowmobile from theft, vandalism, fire, or a collision with an animal. Collision coverage will provide coverage for the sled from incidents where it is damaged from colliding with another object (such as a tree or fence) or another vehicle.
  • Bodily Injury Coverage: Provides medical coverage to pay for 3rd parties where you are found to be at-fault for an accident.
  • Property Damage: Provides coverage to pay for property damage you cause if you are found to be at-fault for a covered loss.
  • Medical Payments: Different from Bodily Injury coverage, this one is for you or your passenger’s medical bills.
  • Custom Parts & Equipment: Covers parts that did not come factory installed on your sled. This can include things like custom paint and cargo racks.

Most asked questions about snowmobile insurance

  1. How much does snowmobile insurance cost? Snowmobile insurance premiums are calculated by algorithms that use factors such as your age, the type of vehicle being insured, your previous loss history and your gender.
  2. Is snowmobile insurance required? Depends. If you are using the vehicle on privately owned land such as a farm and you do not have a loan on the vehicle, you likely do not need to insure it. If you are using the vehicle on public lands or roads, then you will need to have liability insurance. If you have a loan on the vehicle, you will be required by the lienholder to carry full coverage.
  3. How do I get a snowmobile insurance quote? We can provide you with a snowmobile insurance quote in just a few minutes. Furthermore, you can purchase coverage right over the phone so you can get out and enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about being properly covered.

Call an agent in our office today to discuss your insurance needs. As an independent insurance agency, we represent the top names in insurance and can quote multiple insurance companies so you get the best discounts and coverage.

Call An Independent Insurance Agent in Lacey, Washington

Looking For A Better Auto or Home Insurance Premium? Call An Independent Insurance Agent

Call An Independent Insurance Agent in Lacey, WashingtonWhen shopping for home or auto insurance, you have an abundance of choices. You can call the number on TV or shop with a local big-named brand, but then you only get one choice. Independent insurance agents offer insurance from many insurance companies, not one like most others you see on television. The benefits of shopping with a local agent are numerous. Not only will you get to compare pricing, but additional benefits include:

What’s Your Time Worth?

When you call an independent insurance agency, you’re presented with multiple insurance quotes at once from multiple companies. Independent agents will often make a recommendation for protection levels and companies that best fit your needs, but ultimately, the choice is yours.

Professional, unbiased consultations

As an independent agent, we offer clients unbiased advice. After all, we work for you, not a specific insurance company. So, when you get a quote or policy from us, we take care to ensure you’re matched with the carrier with the best options for your specific needs.

Who doesn’t love a discount?

Our agents are discount detectives. We can look at your situation and coverage request and match you with a company that offers you the most discounts along the way. Some of these include safe driver, claims free, home & auto bundles, teen drivers, paid in full, and more! There are so many discounts available.

Local Relationship

As a local agent, we appreciate our connection to the community and being able to speak to our local client base over the phone or in the office. Our agents work and live in your community, so we care about your care and coverage.

Adaptability

This might be the biggest benefit of all. Everyone throughout their lives will need to change their insurance coverage for a reason or another. Perhaps you got married, purchased a home, had a child, invested in a rental property or you want an umbrella policy to increase your coverage. When you work with an independent insurance agency, you don’t have to change agents. We can find you a new company with the coverage and pricing you want for your new lifestyle.

If you need an insurance policy for your auto, home, boat, RV, or even business, call us. We can help you find affordable coverage for your situation. Get a free insurance quote today.

Home Technology & Insurance Discounts in Lacey, Washington

IoT Devices & Sensors for Homeowners Insurance

Home Technology & Insurance Discounts in Lacey, WashingtonIf you’re a homeowner, then you’re aware that it can be complicated to make sure your home is protected. If you’ve ever worried about your home being secure and free from damage, then you should consider purchasing technology that could provide you with peace of mind. Not only do the right devices and sensors provide you with a level of security, but they also can have positive impacts on your homeowners insurance.

Taking advantage of technology

The IoT (Internet of Things) market is one that has seen exponential growth within the past couple of years. Within the network of connected devices comes multiple benefits, both for homeowners and insurers. Making sure that your home is protected should be a mutual goal and it’s one that is made easier when your house is equipped with the right technology.

Did you know that there are multiple different types of sensors available to protect your home and help monitor to avert damage? Finding the right sensors could prevent damage to your home, as you can fix the problem before it becomes an even bigger issue. Being able to prevent damage is one of the most valuable benefits that IoT devices and sensors provide, as both homeowners and insurers have a vested interest.

What sensors should you consider?

Which sensors are right for you depends on the level of protection that you want to implement in your home. Many people have devices to protect and alert if a burglary takes place, but there are many other options that you can add as well including smart devices and garage doors.

Water sensors can alert you if there is a leak in your water supply, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in water damage as well as identify a smaller leak before it becomes a big one.

Humidity sensors are similar and can alert you if your house’s integrity is at risk. Implementing smart devices is one of the best ways to take advantage of innovative technology, harnessing its power to protect your home and lower your insurance premiums.

Why purchase additional devices?

One of the biggest reasons why many choose to implement more devices into their home is because of the insurance benefits that they can have. Not only can more technology provide you with peace of mind and assurance, but it could potentially lower your premiums. Because problems can be identified and solved before they multiply, insurance companies also have something to gain when you install the right devices.

Technology also allows for insurance claims to be completed easily. Because technology can be relied on to gain an accurate picture of a home’s state, claims can be settled quicker than normal. Not needing to rely on human assessments streamlines the process and leads to less disputed claims.

Taking the next steps

If you’re ready to learn more about smart insurance and what it could mean for your home, let us know. We’re experts in the field and work with our customers to help them find the right insurance solutions for their individual situations. Make an appointment with us today to learn more about the many benefits of installing devices and sensors in your home.

Preparing Your Home For Winter in Lacey, Washington

Preparing Your Home For Winter

Preparing Your Home For Winter in Lacey, WashingtonIf you’re a homeowner who lives in a colder climate, then you understand the importance of preparing for the winter. There are so many factors that can occur when the colder weather sets in and it’s important that you’re ready for various scenarios. Let’s go over some of the things that you can do to protect your home.

Have Homeowners Insurance

Purchasing insurance is one of the best ways to protect your house. Making sure that you have the right policy is important so that it takes into account any seasonal concerns you may have.

Clear Your Gutters

Especially if your winters tend to be filled with lots of rain, it’s important that your gutters are clear. Water buildup can lead to roof leakage or pipes breaking, so it’s essential that any rain has a clear path away from your house.

Clean Your Chimney

Who doesn’t love a cozy fire after a long day of playing in the snow? If you’re planning on using your fireplace this season, it’s important that regular maintenance has been kept up on it. Not cleaning out your chimney could be dangerous, so it’s important that you make sure this is checked off your to-do list.

Maintain Wood Exteriors

If you have a wood exterior on your home, then it’s important to make sure that it’s sealed from the elements. This will help you make sure that your heating bill is as low as possible, as well as maintain the integrity of your house.

Are Your Windows Insulated?

If your heating bill is higher than you think it should be, consider the insulation around your windows. Many people don’t consider that windows are an excellent way for heat to escape and cold air to enter your home. Make sure that you’re protected from the harsh wind by insulating your windows.

Weatherstrips are a great way to make sure that your windows and doors are prepared for harsh winters. They’re relatively inexpensive and could end up saving you money in the future.

Take a Look at Your Yard

There are lots of things inside that need your attention, but don’t forget to consider possible dangers in your yard. Trimming any tree branches around your house is a great way to prepare for winter storms and make sure that your house is as safe as possible.

Check Your Heater

If winter means cold weather where you live, then make an appointment to have a professional come take a look at your heating system. While they’re there, have them peek at your cooling system as well and make sure that everything’s in check. It’s best to have your systems checked sooner rather than later so that you know you can use them as soon as you need to.

Have Any Questions?

We’re experts when it comes to protecting houses, so we know what it takes to prepare for the winter. Feel free to give us a call or send us a message and we can provide you with more specifics.

Holiday Safety Tips All Insurance Inc. in Lacey, Washington

Safety Tips for This Holiday Season

Holiday Safety Tips All Insurance Inc. in Lacey, WashingtonWith the holidays just around the corner, it is a great time to review holiday safety items around the household. Especially if you plan on a lighting display.

When it comes to holiday décor, some families go all out. Regardless of your level of displays, it is important to keep some things in mind for safety.

If you’re like many families displaying lights on the outside of your house during the holidays brings a lot of joy and festiveness to your home.

Holiday Light Safety

  1. Keep your extension cords tucked away and off walkways.
  2. Extension cords create a trip hazard when running across walkways and other areas where deliveries or guests need to walk. When possible, keep them away from sidewalks and tucked away.
  3. Use exterior extension cords & lights.
  4. Extension cords, as well as lights, come in interior and exterior grades. Be sure if you’re running lights outside to use an extension cord rated for outdoor use.
  5. Check for frayed wires.

Over time the wires on your lights may become frayed. Before you hang them up, carefully inspect your wires for frayed ends. If you find any, don’t risk it. Repair them or replace them before you hang them up.

Ladder Safety

Each year thousands of people are injured hanging lights on their homes from ladders. OSHA publishes safety precautions that are not only good for businesses to follow but for individuals to follow as well. Some of these safety tips include:

  1. Select the right ladder for the weight of the job.
  2. Every ladder has a weight limit. Look at the side of your ladder to determine if it can support enough weight for the job.
  3. Never utilize the top 3 feet of the ladder. This can cause instability if you go above that point.
  4. Inspect the ladder before use for damage.
  5. Never go down a ladder backwards.
  6. Ensure your ladder is on flat ground and stable before climbing.
  7. Never lean to the side on a ladder, this can cause instability.
  8. Use common sense when using ladders to ensure safety. If something feels unsafe to you when you’re on the ladder, it probably is.

We hope that you and your families have a safe and happy holiday season this year.

If you have questions about your home insurance policy, contact our agency today.

Auto Insurance Claim Expectations All Insurance Inc. in Lacey, Washington

What To Expect When You File An Auto Insurance Claim

Auto Insurance Claim Expectations All Insurance Inc. in Lacey, WashingtonA Call for Facts of Loss

When you’re involved in a car accident the first thing that happens after you report your claim is you receive a call from the insurance adjuster. An insurance adjuster looks at your coverages, listens to your statement about what happened (Facts of Loss), and then determines fault. This adjuster will also guide you through the remaining process to get your vehicle back to pre-loss condition. If it is found that another party is at-fault, you may elect to go through them for your repairs. If you use your insurance, you may have to pay your deductible up-front which your insurance company will attempt to A close up of a damaged car headlight & to subrogate back for you.

Choices for Repairing Your Vehicle

When you need to get your vehicle repaired, the choice is up to you on who fixes your vehicle. Typically, the insurance carrier will work with a network of body shops in your area and can recommend one or two. Regardless of who you choose, the insurance adjuster or estimator will work with the body shop on your behalf to ensure your car is repaired.

Vehicle Parts

Oftentimes, insureds are surprised to hear that the insurance company authorized the usage of aftermarket (commonly referred to as Like-Kind-Quality or LKQ) parts on their vehicle. If your vehicle is new, it is unlikely this will occur, but if your car is more than a couple of years old, there will likely be many parts like bumper covers and fenders that are available for your vehicle that may be used when your vehicle is repaired. Most of the time, you will not have an option to choose, but if you see it on your estimate, you could likely opt to pay the difference yourself. Most insurance contracts say in the policy language they may use aftermarket parts.

Rental Coverage

When your vehicle is in the shop, you’ll likely be without it for at least a few days. If you need a rental car during this time, you’ll have to check your policy to see if you have one available. If you’re going through the at-fault party’s insurance company, they will provide you with a rental vehicle for basic transportation. If you have unique circumstances like an ADA vehicle or a truck or van that you have to use for work, be sure to let them know you have circumstances that require a similar temporary replacement.

Deductibles

If you are at fault for your accident, you’ll have to pay a collision deductible. The amount is unique to your insurance policy and typically is between $100 and $2500. If you’re not at fault and going through the at-fault party’s insurance company, there will be no deductible applied to your claim.

We hope you never have to experience an auto insurance claim but in the event you do, we’re here to help. If you’d like to discuss your auto insurance coverages prior to being in an accident, please schedule a time or call our office to review your existing coverage.

Buying Car Insurance for Your Teen in Lacey, Washington

Buying Car Insurance for Your Teen

Buying Car Insurance for Your Teen in Lacey, WashingtonIf your teen just got their driver’s license, then you understand the importance of making sure they have the right insurance. Keeping them as safe as possible includes making sure that they’re insured in the event of an accident, so let’s talk about what you need to know.

New drivers

Being a new driver is scary and being their parent can be even scarier. If you’re looking for tips and tools you can use to find the right car insurance for your teen, then you’ve come to the right place.

Those 20 and younger are the biggest group of distracted drivers and making sure that they’re insured should be a top priority. Not only is car insurance important for being on the road, but it could end up saving you thousands of dollars. Don’t wait to explore your insurance options.

Finding the right car insurance

When it comes to teen drivers, it can be difficult to find insurance. Many companies look at lack of experience and young age as reasons why teens aren’t the best people to insure. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to find the right car insurance policy. If you do the right research, you can end up with the right policy at the right price.

When it comes to saving money, it’s usually best for parents to add their children to the family policy. While creating a separate policy is an option, it’s usually a more expensive route. Car insurance can cost thousands of dollars each year, so it’s important that you keep realistic pricing standards in mind while you’re shopping around.

Purchasing car insurance

When it comes to car insurance for your teen, doing research is important. Learning about different policy options and what they include will give you a bigger picture of what’s on the market, as well as what will fit your budget.

If you’re curious about the options, make an appointment with our office. As a local independent insurance agency, we’ll be able to provide you with accurate quotes and provide unique advice for your situation. How much insurance costs can be heavily dependent on location, so we will walk you through all of your options. Speaking with one of our insurance agents is one of the best ways to find out more about policy options, so don’t be afraid to call us.

Teen specifics

While it can be difficult to find car insurance for teens, there are a few things that can make the process easier.

Some companies reward good grades and will offer a discount when a transcript is presented. If you think that your child may qualify, ask your insurance agency if they offer this incentive. Age is another thing that can impact price. Insuring those that are older is typically cheaper, so remember that while you’re looking at policy prices.

The right policy for your teen

From buying them a car to finding the right insurance, having a teen driver is expensive. If you’re looking for ways to reduce costs and get the best deal possible, give us a call. We can make an appointment to discuss your options and find the right policy for your new driver.