Why The Right Auto Insurance Carrier matters

Some Rochester, MN motorists may not be aware of certain facts when it comes to their auto insurance policy. Many are of the belief that it does not matter which carrier they choose. At Safechoice Insurance Agency, we know that the opposite is true. Let’s take a closer look at the reasons why the right auto insurance carrier is so important.

Customer Service Is Key

Insurance policies are not going to change dramatically over the course of time and that is why customer service is such an important aspect of choosing the right auto insurance carrier. A customer in the Rochester, MN needs to be able to reach their carrier at any time of day. An auto insurance crisis can arise at any moment and choosing the right auto insurance carrier is all about choosing the company that is willing to remain by your side.

Experience

Choosing an auto insurance carrier that is just getting started out may seem noble in the moment but this is a choice that can have grave consequences over the long haul. Is the company going to demonstrate a long term commitment to remaining on the cutting edge? Will they stay up to date when it comes to Minnesota rules and regulations? These are areas that Safechoice Insurance Agency is proud to assist potential clients with.

Transparency 

The right auto insurance carrier is going to have the proper amount of transparency. The law requires auto insurance carriers to operate under a certain level of transparency but that does not mean that every company plays by the rules. Choosing the right carrier is pivotal, as you will need clear and concise answers to all of your questions throughout each and every step of the process. 

Safechoice Insurance Agency is here to assist Rochester, MN residents looking to find the right auto insurance carrier. Be sure to give us a call today to learn more about the policies that we have to offer. 

What’s Included In Your Motorcycle Insurance In Rochester

When you shop for motorcycle insurance in Rochester, MN, it’s important to know that there are a few things included in every policy. Knowing what’s included in your policy will make it that much easier to know you’re protected. At Safechoice Insurance Agency, we have agents to ensure you get the needed coverage levels and explore the optional coverage areas.

Property Damage

You need to know that you’re covered if you damage any property with your motorcycle. This includes damaging someone’s vehicle or home after you have gotten into an accident.

Bodily Injury

If you hit a pedestrian, another motorcycle, or get involved in any other accident, you will be covered with bodily injury liability. You will have the opportunity to cover yourself to the Minnesota state minimums or add more coverage so that you minimize the likelihood of paying out of pocket.

Add-Ons

You can also explore some optional coverage levels. This includes collision (which will also cover damage to your own motorcycle) and comprehensive coverage (which covers damage caused by things other than collision). You can also choose to get uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage so that you’re protected if you get into an accident with someone who doesn’t have coverage on their vehicle.

Since you live in Minnesota, it’s also a good idea to explore a lay-up policy. This would allow you to suspend at least a portion of your coverage during the winter months since you likely wouldn’t be on your motorcycle when the weather starts to get too cold.

You should have peace of mind all year long when you’re on the roads in Rochester, MN. If something happens on your motorcycle, you want to know that you can file a claim. Contact us at Safechoice Insurance Agency today to learn more about getting motorcycle insurance that will include protecting all aspects of your bike. We will build your policy and help you to get competitive quotes.

 

Why You Should Get RV Insurance

If you are looking for a great way to see the country, buying and RV and seeing it from land is a great option. Not only is a mode of transportation, but it will also provide you with a place to stay during your trip. For those that are in the Rochester, MN area with an RV, there are several reasons why getting RV insurance in place is very important.

Will Protect Valuable Asset

One of the main reasons why you should get RV insurance is that your valuable asset will be properly protected. Buying and maintaining an RV is a big investment. The last thing that you would want would be for your asset to be lost due to an accident, theft, or another issue. When you have RV insurance in place, you will receive the financial protection and support that you need.

Liability Compliance

If you are planning on taking your RV out on the open road, you will be required by law to carry liability insurance at all times. In Minnesota, you will need to comply with the minimum liability coverage requirements, which are $10,000 in personal property liability coverage and bodily injury coverage of $30,000 per injured person and $60,000 per accident. Any less than this and you will be in violation of the law.

Lender Requirements

Many people end up taking out a loan to finance the purchase of the RV. If you need to take out a loan to buy your RV, you will need to carry collision and comprehensive coverage at all times. Not carrying this will be a violation of your loan agreement.

When you are looking to get RV insurance for your Rochester, MN area RV, you should discuss your options with the team at Safechoice Insurance Agency. The professionals at Safechoice Insurance Agency will help you to better determine the options that you have and will help you get into the right policy for your situation.

3 ATV Safety Tips

Unfortunately accidents in Rochester, MN happen. They happen in cars, airplanes on motorcycles, even an ATV, which is considered to be one of the safest vehicles to ride. An ATV has four wheels, isn’t typically ridden on a busy road, so yes they are safe, but only when the appropriate safety measures are used. Most ATV accidents happen as a result of rider negligence, substance use and indiscipline. To ensure you are a safe rider, here are 3 ATV safety tips to keep in mind before riding.

No Paved Roads

ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) are made for off-road riding and paved roads are not made for ATVs. Even experienced riders can have difficulty controlling an ATV on a paved road. There are automobiles, buses, motorcycles and pedestrian crossings on paved roads, which mean there is a higher possibility of a collision occurring. Many of the fatalities that insurance agencies, such as Safechoice Insurance Agency encounter is from those that occur from ATV riding happen while on paved roads, so never ride on a paved road.

Do Not Drink and Drive

One of the most important rules of the road is to never drive while intoxicated and the same rule applies to ATV riding. Whether you are riding in an open field or through the woods, riding an ATV while intoxicated can be fatal. Alcohol and/or drugs impair your perception and judgment, both of which can result in fatal injuries when trying to maneuver a vehicle, especially an ATV.

Wear the Right Gear

Proper ATV gear is critical, especially when you are riding on rough terrain or through the woods. To ensure you protect your body while riding, you should wear a helmet, goggles, gloves, knee and elbow pads, long pants and a long-sleeve shirt or jacket.

If you are new to riding ATVs, it is extremely beneficial to take a training course. A training course can teach you how to ride correctly as well as how to avoid unnecessary accidents. ATVs are typically designed for one rider, so stay safe by never carrying passengers.

Residents of Rochester, MN who want to learn more information about ATV safety and reviewing their current insurance coverage should contact Safechoice Insurance Agency.

 

What qualifies as a toy?

When you hear the term toy insurance, your first thought might be of toy trains, classic Barbies or a collection of Beanie Babies. Toy insurance does not cover that kind of toys. In this case, toys refer to motorsports equipment, off-road and recreational vehicles and various watercraft that Safechoice Insurance Agency of Rochester, MN can help you insure.

Most people think of jet skis or snowmobiles as items they’d insure with toy insurance. It applies to many other types of vehicles, too.

Land Vehicles

With respect to land vehicles, toys include all sizes of campers, motorhomes, and trailers. Insurance for antique, classic and collector vehicles, also falls under this category. All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), dune buggies, golf carts qualify, as well as the aforementioned snowmobiles.

Watercraft Vehicles

Under the designation of watercraft, jet skis and sailboats qualify, too. More specifically, you can insure water toys meeting the following criteria:

  • any personal watercraft,
  • watercraft up to 26 feet in length,
  • sailboats up to 40 feet in length and 200 horsepower.

What It Covers

You can obtain both liability and/or physical damage coverage for most vehicles. The exceptions are campers and trailers. For these two categories, you can only obtain physical damage coverage only.

Even adults want toys, but grown-up toys like ATVs, jet skis and boats require to insure since they carry a measure of danger with their use. Contact Safechoice Insurance Agency of Rochester, MN to learn more about how toy insurance can provide you with both the property damage and liability coverage you need. We can help you ensure you can repair any damage to your grownup toys.

Special Forms of Commercial Insurance that Most Businesses Should Have

Every business owner knows that in order to protect their business they need to have commercial insurance. Commercial insurance is a broad category that includes many types of coverage. Some types of commercial insurance, such as worker’s compensation to protect employees for on-the-job injuries, may be required by law. Other types of insurance are needed to protect commercial property and vehicles. All businesses need general liability. Some need product or professional liability coverage.

By working with your agent at Safechoice Insurance Agency, serving Rochester MN and nearby communities, business owners learn about other forms of coverage that most businesses need.

Here are a few insurance types to consider:

  • Coverage for Defamation Lawsuits: Defamation is the legal term for damage caused to a person’s or organization’s reputation. This damage may be caused by slander, which is by public speech or by libel, which is by print or media publication. America is very litigious. Lawsuits are filed against businesses for all kinds of things. A lawsuit for damages caused by defamation may seem to come out of nowhere. In America, anybody can sue anybody for anything. Even when a business has done nothing wrong, the legal expenses to defend against lawsuits can be very substantial.
  • Coverage for Terrorism and Mass Shootings: This has become a serious risk for many businesses in America that interface with the general public. Think about the mass shooting that happened in Las Vegas. The hotel used by the shooter for the attack is potentially liable for the deaths and injuries of so many people. That incident is still under litigation and the lawsuit will continue for years.
  • Coverage for Cyber Attacks: Cyber attacks are on the rise. Almost all businesses need to use the Internet and therefore they benefit from insurance coverage for damages caused by cyber attacks, which can be in the many millions for each business.

Make an appointment to discuss any special insurance needs for your business with your agent at Safechoice Insurance Agency in Rochester, MN, to get a commercial insurance evaluation and recommendations for adequate coverage.

Is it Time to Add Life Insurance to Your Financial Portfolio?

Life insurance offers an effective way to minimize the effects of an untimely death on your family. In addition to this significant benefit, are the many ways that it can work as an investment instrument to help you save for retirement or prepare for college expenses. If you are now changing your focus from the immediate needs of your family to your future financial requirements, the team at Safechoice Insurance Agency, serving the greater Rochester, MN area, can help you navigate the sometimes choppy waters that can occur as you build your financial portfolio. 

Now Is a Great Time To Learn About the Many Financial Benefits of Life Insurance

As you grow older your life insurance and financial needs can change. While you are in your peak earning years, especially if you have a young family, your main financial goal is likely providing for your family in the event of an early death or other tragedy. As your children grow older and you plan for their college years while also looking ahead to your own retirement, you may wonder just how much life insurance you now need. While the purpose that your life insurance may serve may change, its importance to your overall financial health will remain strong. With a whole life policy, you have a number of different options for financial growth within the life insurance policy itself and the payout. Variable rate policies are another great way to further enhance your portfolio while keeping pace with inflation and the growing cost of living rates.

Is it time to take a more active role in building your financial portfolio? Call the team at Safechoice Insurance Agency today to learn more about your financial options in the greater Rochester, MN area.

Can I add a teen driver to my auto insurance?

It is possible to add your teen to your auto insurance. However, many parents in Rochester, MN are not sure how their auto insurance rates can be affected and the right time to add their teenagers to their policies. Here are some of the commonly asked questions regarding the issue of adding your teen to your auto insurance.

When do I add my teen to my auto insurance?

Most insurance companies in Rochester, MN may want to know the names of all licensed drivers in your home. A teenager who is a licensed driver can either carry his or her own insurance or can be added to your auto insurance policy. When your teen graduates to a full-fledged driver’s license, he or she qualifies to carry a car insurance policy.

Will my insurance rates go up after adding my teenager?

Your insurance rates are likely to go up when you add your teenager to your auto insurance. This is mainly because teens are more likely to cause car accidents than experienced drivers. The type of coverage levels you choose for your teenager and vehicle will also have an impact on your auto insurance premiums. However, your son or daughter may qualify for certain discounts for taking a driver’s education course. Safechoice Insurance Agency considers all these factors in ensuring that you get the best discount in the market.

Is it cheaper to get my teen his auto insurance policy?

It is advisable to look for stand-alone plans just for your teen, apart from the available options of adding your teen to your current auto insurance policy. However, your teen may not qualify for other discounts that you qualify for, such as multi-plan, driving experience, or multi-car insurance coverages.

How can my teen get better rates?

Typically, teenagers have higher rates because of their inexperience and their age. However, your teen can save on insurance by completing an approved driver’s education course or by having a higher grade average. In general, insurance rates will start dropping at the age of 25 until the age of 70 years.

Some types of vehicles such as sports cars, trucks, and SUVs may attract higher insurance rates for teens. If you have been thinking of adding your teen to your auto insurance, contact Safechoice Insurance Agency for the best rates. Our auto insurance agents will help you find the cheapest way to add your teen to your auto insurance policy.

Are All Your Valuables Covered by Your Home Insurance?

With basic home insurance, you can protect your home and personal belongings against such threats as fire, hail, windstorm, theft, vandalism and water damage due to a leaky roof or plumbing problems. The amount of protection you receive will depend on the limits of your policy. As part of your personal goods, valuables also receive a measure of protection under a standard home insurance policy. This protection, however, may not cover the entire worth of your valuables due to limits on your policy, leaving you with no choice but to pay the rest out of pocket. At Safechoice Insurance Agency, we can help you determine insurance coverage that will fully protect all the valuables in your Rochester, MN home.

What Valuables May Not be Fully Covered by a Standard Home Insurance Policy?

Depending on their worth, such items as pricey jewelry, furs, works of art, antiques, heirlooms and rare coin collections may not be fully covered by basic home insurance. You can, however, obtain additional coverage to protect these items. This coverage known as a "floater," comes with higher limits to cover the repair or replacement cost of expensive valuables. By having your valuables professionally appraised, you can determine their current value. This gives you a better idea of how much coverage you need to protect them against damage or loss.  

Importance of Protecting Valuables

You can’t predict when a disaster will strike but you can be prepared for the outcome with insurance coverage. Protecting valuables with a floater enables you to recoup your losses if these goods were to be stolen or damaged in an unforeseen disaster.  When it comes to treasured goods, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

To learn more about insurance protection for your home, personal goods and valuables, contact us at Safechoice Insurance Agency in Rochester, MN.  

What Does Toy Insurance Cover?

Toy insurance is insurance for an asset that you have that isn’t a typical car or home. This may be for a jet ski or some other similar asset. If you were to lose your item then you could be set back financially. An agent at Safechoice Insurance Agency can help set you up with the right toy insurance policy for your specific needs.

It can be difficult to determine exactly what toy insurance will cover in Rochester, MN, because it will depend on the item. If your toy is something that can be driven, such as a motorhome, golf cart, dune buggy, various boats or personal watercraft, its insurance policy will generally include liability insurance for both bodily injury and property damage, as well as collision and comprehensive coverage. Liability insurance will protect you if your watercraft or other vehicle gets into an accident with someone else who is also operating a vehicle similar to yours. Liability will help pay for any injuries or damages caused by the accident, but it will not pay for damage to your own toy. This is where collision coverage and comprehensive coverage come in. If you are in an accident and have damage to your own toy, then collision coverage will help pay for the damage. If your toy is damaged by an event unrelated to an accident, then comprehensive coverage will pay for these costs.

If your toys are on the collectible side and don’t need liability, comprehensive or collision coverage, you can get additional insurance that helps pays for damages above what your homeowner’s insurance would already pay for. This can cover damages beyond wear and tear and any property theft, even if your toys are outside your home.

Contact an agent at Safechoice Insurance Agency, serving Rochester, MN, to get a quote for toy insurance.