March, 2018 | Amigo Insurance

Planning Your Cross Country Trip: Update Your Auto Insurance

When it comes to getting ready for a long road trip, there are many things vehicle owners need to think about. This is a good time to get the car tuned up, and the oil changed. It is also a good time to discuss the needs for new tires.

Aside from this, it also pays to invest some time into updating your auto insurance. The simple step of calling your car insurance agent and adjusting your policy may be able to provide you with exceptional benefits and lots of protection.

What You Need to Consider

Before a long trip, speak to your auto insurance agent about your current coverage. Here are a few things to talk about first.

Contact your auto insurer. Inquire about added protection your car may benefit from when you travel out of state. Discuss any concerns you may have.
Do you have enough insurance to cover your vehicle from collisions, storm damage, theft and vandalism? Now is a good time to invest in comprehensive and collision insurance. These types of coverage can help you
You may wish to up your liability insurance. Having the bare minimum insurance is not always enough for high risk driving like this.

Your agent may make suggestions to you as well. The key here is to be sure you have a considerable amount of protection against the most likely risks.

Think About the Extras, Too

There are various ways to customize your auto insurance to better meet your needs. For example, you may wish to choose insurance that also adds towing coverage. That way, you do not have to worry about an accident that leaves you stranded in an area that you are not familiar with.

Discuss the options for added protection for your belongings, too. For example, you may be carrying a great deal of belongings with you. This might include your electronics. It may also include any valuables you purchase on the road. The thing is, your car insurance might not cover these items. You might have to turn to your homeowner’s or renters insurance for protection. Ask your agent how to handle such claims should damage to belongings occur.

Every driver needs to make wise decisions before hitting the road. With auto insurance, it usually takes just a phone call to your agent. He or she will work with you to better understand your needs and goals. You will see just how easy it can be to modify your policy to better fit your goals and the current risks. Call us today for a Chicago auto insurance quote.

Why You Should Keep a Maintenance Log (FREE DOWNLOADABLE)

We’re all busy people with a lot of things on our minds. While we can convince ourselves that our memories won’t fail us, it’s easier said than done. Remembering is especially important when it comes to our vehicle’s maintenance.

Do you remember the last time your car got a tune-up or oil change?

Unlike filling our tank or washer fluid, certain services are done months apart making it harder to remember the last time you went to a mechanic. Plus, with all the other things going on in our lives, these items can go over our heads very easily.

Keeping tabs on the work being done on your car can be really helpful. It can help you prepare for the future and know when your next trip to the shop should be. Additionally, knowing when your next service is due can help you avoid any inconvenient experience and save you a lot of money in the long run too!

An easy solution? Keep a maintenance log in your car.

A maintenance log is a small notebook, pad or sheet where you can record the services being done to your car. Try to get a something small or foldable that can fit in your glove compartment. If you have a notebook, place a pen in the spirals so you always have something to write with. Even if you only have a sheet of paper, make sure you always keep something to write with nearby.

While there are many maintenance log notebooks available for purchase online, we’ve included a FREE downloadable log for you to print and use. Click here to download.

Here’s how to fill it out:

Date – Add the date in which you went to get work done.
Service – Write out any service performed that day.
Shop – Write out which mechanic or garage you went to.
Paid – Write how much you paid for a service. TIP: If you decide to try out different mechanics or shops, this column can help you compare prices down the line.
Comments – Write any important comments or reminders. Here is where you should write when your next visit should be.

Example:

Date	Service	Shop	Paid	Comments
3/21/18	Oil Change	Amigo Repairs	$30	Next change at 50,000 miles

Now that you’re ready to get organized, you no longer have to stare blankly at the mechanic when he asks when your last tune-up was.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

How To Change a Flat Tire

You’re driving to an important meeting or doctors appointment when you hear that awful flapping noise coming from your back tire. Looks like you’ve got a flat.

Getting a flat tire is something that’s bound to happen to almost every driver. In fact, according to statistics, every driver will experience an average of 5 flat tires in their lifetime. What’s worse is that it always seems to happen at the worst possible moment.

Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone. Changing a tire is a simple process that can be done in 15-30 minutes depending on experience. All you need is a couple of tools that you might already have in your car. If you don’t, they can be found at your local auto parts supplier at inexpensive prices.

So, before you pick up the phone and call a tow truck, see if you can change the tire yourself.

Tools You’ll Need

Spare Tire (TIP – check your spare regularly and ensure it’s properly inflated)
Jack
Lug Wrench
Flashlight
Tire Gauge
Gloves
Flares or Reflective Triangles
Wheel Wedges
Owner’s Manual

Step One: Find a safe spot to pull into. If a tire blows out whilst on the road, turn your hazard lights on and pull into a safe space. If you’re on a busy street or highway, try to pull away from traffic as far away as possible. Suitable areas include parking lots, the shoulder of an off-ramp or a straight, flat, side street. Try to avoid any areas at an incline.
Step Two: Once in a safe area, make sure your parking brake is engaged and get your tools and spare ready to use.
Step Three: If on hand, use flares or reflective triangles on the back of your vehicle. These are particularly handy if you get a flat tire in the late afternoon or night. They will let other drivers know that a vehicle has stopped.
Step Four: Use the wheel wedges and place them against the tires on the opposite side of the flat. This will help make sure that the vehicle is secure while you use the jack.
Step Five: Remove the hubcap. If the lug nuts are exposed, you don’t have to do this step. Using the flat end of the lug wrench, remove the wheel cover.
Step Six: Loosen the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Do Not Remove.
Step Seven: Move jack under your car.
Step Eight: Carefully expand the jack until the flat tire is about 5-6 inches off ground. Remember not to place any part of your body under the vehicle. A fault in the jack could result in serious injury if not careful.
Step Nine: Unscrew and remove lug nuts. Be careful not to lose them as you’ll need them once the spare is on.
Step Ten: Remove the flat tire from the hub by placing two hands firmly on the tire and pulling towards you.
Step Eleven: Align your spare tire with the exposed lug bolts and push them into place.
Step Twelve: Replace the lug nuts with your hands. Don’t use the wrench until after your vehicle has been lowered.
Step Thirteen: Lower the jack until the spare tire touches the ground safely. Once on the ground, remove the jack.
Step Fourteen: Using the lug wrench, tighten the lug nuts. Make sure they are tightly secured.
Step Fifteen: Replace the hubcap or wheel cover.
Step Sixteen: Remove wheel wedges from the tires you previously placed them on.
Step Seventeen: If you have a tire gauge, check the spare tire’s pressure. If it does not match your vehicle’s PSI, drive to your nearest gas station and fill accordingly.

Keep in mind that it’s not advised to go long periods of time on a spare tire. It’s recommended you take your flat tire to a repair shop and get it replaced or repaired.

While changing your own tire can certainly save you a couple of bucks, safety should always be your number one priority. Consider the weather, location or tool condition when deciding if you should do it yourself or call for help.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

Springtime Hazards for Homeowners and Drivers – Make sure you’re ready!

April showers might bring May flowers but spring weather, in general, can bring about a whole new set of problems too. Many of them hitting you where it hurts most: your wallet.

Sure, while the weather is a lot nicer, warm spring temperatures help melt away any excess snow and reveal the damage caused by long and icy winters. Not to mention the floods and hail that typically come with the season.

Fortunately, if you’re aware of the common seasonal risks, you can plan accordingly and check to see if you’re covered.

Potholes

Potholes are holes in the pavement caused by the presence of water in the underlying soil structure. Water under the soil structure can weaken the pavement and, as cars and trucks pass over these weak spots, cause the material to become cracked or break down from the weight thus creating a hole. With spring showers to come, the probability of potholes grows. And while dodging them left and right is possible, it’s certainly not the safest way to drive. In addition, hitting potholes can result in the misalignment of your wheels and can affect your steering.

Flooding

What’s Spring without a little rain? Mix a couple of thunderstorms with any leftover melting snow and you’ve got yourself a recipe for flooding. Flooding can affect the structure of your home, your belongings, and even your family if not taken care of properly.

Hail

Springtime hail storms can do a lot of damage to both homes and cars. This damage, of course, depending on the size of the hail. Unfortunately, it’s never easy to tell what size will fall so it’s important to know if you’re covered. Hail can easily damage roof shingles and sidings, windows and more.

Ice Dams

When snow or rain falls, melts and refreezes on a roof, ice shingles can form a sort of dam that causes snowmelt or rainwater to back up. These backups can result in water leaking into your home and ruining your walls and other surfaces. Makes sure to check your roof to ensure you don’t have any dams.

Cracked Concrete

When facing a snowy winter, the use of salt or sand to melt away any snow is common. However, when the snow has melted away, you may find unsightly cracks in your driveway. While this is more of a wear-and-tear issue, if you’re one to worry about your curb appeal, this is a problem that you’ll likely face once it’s warmer out.

Spring brings a lot of great things: longer days, warmer weather, and lots of colors. A great break from a dreary and gray winter. However, if not prepared, the new season can also be a whole new headache. Call an Amigo Insurance agent today and learn how we can help make this spring and easy one.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

What To Do if you’re Pulled Over

Getting pulled over by the police, even for the slightest infraction, can be an uncomfortable and emotional ordeal. Especially for those who have never been pulled over in the past, and are unsure of how to act. In any case, there are a few things that any driver should know should they be stopped.

As soon as you see police lights or hear the car’s siren, turn your emergency flashers on. This will help let other drivers know that you are the driver who is being pulled over. It will also let everyone know that you are slowing down.
Try your best to find a safe location to park. If you are on a highway, there is usually a good amount of space to accommodate two vehicles. Never pull on the left side of the road.
Once you’ve found a safe place to park, turn off your ignition. Don’t do anything that could be perceived as trying to get away.
If you’ve been pulled over by a marked police car, roll down your window immediately. If you’ve been pulled over by an unmarked police car, wait until the officer approaches your vehicle and shows his credentials.
Don’t worry if it takes a couple of minutes for the officer to step out of his car. They are likely getting information about your car or communicating with other officers. Do not get out of your vehicle.
When you begin communicating with the officer, remain calm, and be respectful. If you are not sure of the reason why you are being stopped, do not become defensive.
The police officer will ask for your license, registration and insurance policy. Let the officer know where it is before retrieving it. It’s a bad idea to start searching through your pocket or glove compartment until you are asked. The office may take this as you searching for a weapon.
Be sympathetic and apologetic. If you got pulled over for speeding, for example, let the officer know you’re sorry for going over the limit and that you understand the consequences that go along with that. The officer may be easier on you if you state that you understand.
Don’t argue or beg if you get a traffic ticket. Arguing or getting defensive could get you a lot worse. If you are only given a warning, be sure to thank the officer for understanding. If you are given a verbal warning, tell the officer you will correct your driving. Remember to be respectful, even if you get a ticket.
Once the officer has returned to his vehicle, carefully return to the road and go on your way.

Let’s face it, no one wants to be pulled over. But even when stuck in this situation, there are ways to make it less unpleasant. Always remember to listen and be respectful. If your traffic infraction or driving record isn’t too spotty, you may be able to get off with a warning.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

12 Must-Do’s Before Buying a House

Buying a house is an exciting feat that many people dream of accomplishing at some point in their life. At the same time, it’s probably the largest investment you’ll make.

So, before diving into the world of homeownership here’s a list of steps you should take:

1) Make Your Credit Score Nice and Strong

It’s simple. The lower your credit score is, the higher your monthly payments will be and vice versa. If your credit score is in the low600s or less, you’ll likely pay larger fees and a higher down payment. On the other side, having a 700 or above will result in the best rates on the market.

2) Get Pre-Approved

Pre-approval ensures that you’ll be able to get a loan so long as your financial situation stays the same (this includes your credit score!) This also helps sellers feel more comfortable selling. It’s better for them to see that you won’t get turned down for a loan further down the line.

3) Understand the Expenses

Above your mortgage, there are plenty of other fees that go along with buying a home. Anything from property taxes, association fees, insurance, and repairs. Be sure that you have the income and budget to cover these things.

4) Know what you want.

With all the excitement of finally getting your own place, it’s easy to forget the many options available. Do you want a house? Front porch and all? Or would you rather get a condo that doesn’t require much maintenance? It’s important to understand your options and what comes along with them. After all, this is a place that you’ll live in for a long time. Make sure that it comfortable meets your lifestyle.

5) Work with realtors familiar with the area, not just the house

Working with a realtor whose familiar with the neighborhood can be very insightful. You won’t only learn about the house itself, but the overall area. You’ll hear of any areas to avoid as well as any additional neighborhood characteristics that you probably want to know before buying. A neighborhood can make or break a deal.

6) Buy what you’re comfortable spending on

You may be approved for a loan far beyond what you expected. Try to be cautious and only use the amount of money you’re comfortable paying. Using the total amount of your approved loan could result in you spreading yourself thin and becoming a slave to your new home.

7) Envision yourself in the home

If the home is still riddled with the previous owner’s things, it can be a little difficult to envision your own life there. Still, try your best to visualize your life in this space. It’s better to think of this now than buy a home and realize it doesn’t fit your needs or lifestyle.

8) Get a Reputable Home Inspector

Be sure to find an inspector whose part of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) If for any reason this is not an option, try someone recommended by your real estate agent. Be sure this person knows what they’re doing and will not purposely miss any important issues to persuade a purchase.

9) Ensure that Any and All Renovations are Up to Code

Check and see if any and all renovations are done were done with a permit. If they weren’t, this could mean the work was not done right. It also means that they were not reviewed by an inspector and could be potentially harmful. It is advised that you ask your seller to get the permits taken care of prior to any purchase. This will save you a big headache should you want to sell yourself.

10) Look for Harmful Problems

If the home is in good shape, it shouldn’t have any of these problems. However, if any of these are found, contact the seller and get it professionally conditioned.

Water – Check for any water or precipitation that falls around the property in areas where it shouldn’t. Your roof and pipes should not be leaking.

Asbestos, Mold, and Radon – Asbestos is a mineral fiber that, if not properly conditioned, can result in lung cancer. If you smoke, the chances of getting lung cancer if inhaling asbestos fibers can increase greatly. Mold is another issue that can cause health problems. Even more so if you already suffer from respiratory problems. Any necessary mold remediation should be taken care of by the seller. Radon is an odorless gas that can be found in both the air and water. While getting rid of mold may be easy and inexpensive, removing radon from water can really put a dent in your pocket costing upwards of $4,000.

11) Make Sure the Electric System is up to Standard

If the home you’re looking at was built before the 1930s, you’ll likely have to schedule some work. Current safety codes require modern electric wiring. Many lenders and insurance companies may not work with a buyer if the home has any electrical safety hazards.

12) Don’t Make Any Changes to your Financial Situation

Remember that pre-approval back in step one? That pre-approval is based on your then financial and credit score status. It is the reason you got accepted in the first place. Naturally, any changes that greatly affect your finances can result in a denial of the request. This is especially hard when you already go through the house hunting process and find a house you really love.

Buying a home is an exciting and fulfilling milestone in a person’s life. But, as you can see, it also requires a lot of time and research. All, of course, worth it once the process is over and you’re ready to move into your new home.

Keeping your home and family safe after the move-in, however, is a whole other story. At Amigo Insurance, we offer great rates on homeowner’s insurance. Let help keep your new home, and family, safe.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

family-looking-at-house-for-sale-58017e4c3df78cbc28251a41

5 Car Maintenance Tasks You Can Do Yourself

We all try to play the saving game as best as we can. However, when even the smallest of things go wrong with our cars, it’s easier to schedule time at the shop than try to fix it ourselves, costing us quite a bit of money in the process. And while many things should be left to the professionals, there are a couple of tasks that you can easily check or fix at home.

Things You’ll Need

Rag or towel
Tire Pressure Gauge
Receptacle
Your Car’s Manual

Windshield Wipers

You don’t need to be a car genius to know how to change your windshield wipers. Blade set-up may differ from car to car so it’s important to check your vehicle’s manual, but it goes something like this:

Lift the blades, similar to when you wash them, and remove old blades.
Be sure to look at how the old blades connect to the metal arms. This so you know how your new ones will be attached.
Find the tab on the underside of the wiper and push to remove old blade.
Attach new blades carefully so as to not bend or scratch your windshield.
Line everything up and make sure they are both secure.
Generally, the packaging for new blades offers additional helpful tips and diagrams in case you’re unsure.

Tire Pressure

Having correct tire pressure is very important as it helps evenly distribute the weight of your car. When tire pressure is off, due to either under or over-inflating, the tire loses that stability and can negatively impact your car’s stride. When tire pressure is too low, you’ll see a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensor light up on your dashboard. This means it’s time to check your tires. Luckily, this doesn’t have to break the bank and can easily be done in less than 5 minutes with a basic tire pressure gauge.

First, be sure to check your vehicle’s recommended PSI. This can be found on the inside of the driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual.
Remove the caps from the tire air valves; place the gauge on the valve creating a solid seal between gauge and valve.
Apply pressure to get a reading. Do this for all four tires.
If the pressure is too low, use an air compressor to add air. These are available at many gas stations. Ensure that you add air to match your vehicle’s PSI.
If you overfill your tires, use the back end of pin to remove any extra air.

Fluid Levels

Don’t let the sight of your engine or fancy car terminologies intimidate you. Checking your vehicle’s fluid levels can be quite easy and time effective. As a general rule, a fluid level check is recommended every 1-2 months. To check any fluids under your hood, be sure to park your car in a flat, well-lit area and let the engine cool for about 20 to 25 minutes.

Check Your Oil

Identify the dipstick. This is a long, thin rod with a ring or handle at the top. Not to be confused with your transmission fluid dipstick. As always, refer to your owner’s manual to be sure.
Pull the dipstick all the way out, wipe it with a rag or towel and reinsert. This will ensure a better reading of the fluid level.
After a couple of minutes, pull the dipstick out once more and check if the oil level is near the FULL line.
If not, add more oil. Your manual will state what kind of oil is best for your vehicle.
Be sure to never overfill the oil reservoir.
To add oil, simply locate the reservoir, remove the cap and use a funnel to add. Wipe any excess or spilled oil with a rag or towel. Place the cap securely on the reservoir and recheck your levels.
If you notice that your oil is black or brown and not clear light brown and shiny, you might need to go get your oil changed professionally.
For a helpful graphic, click here.

Check Your Windshield Wiper Fluid

Find the windshield wiper fluid reservoir. This is usually a white plastic container or tube with the picture of a windshield. You can find the exact location of this reservoir in your manual.
If the level is lower than the FILL line, remove the cap and add the appropriate fluid with a funnel. Do not add water.
Be sure to close the lid securely once you’re finished.

Flush a Radiator

Keeping a radiator from overheating is essential. Unfortunately, over time, sludge can build up inside the generator making your coolant less effective. In turn, this can negatively affect your engine’s performance and mileage. A coolant service is generally recommended every 30,000 miles or five years. However, it’s always important to check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s recommended specifications. Here’s how that goes:

Make sure your engine is cool. This will prevent any injury should you make any contact with the engine. A good time to work is two hours after your vehicle’s been last used.
Locate your vehicle’s radiator drain plug. Place a coolant receptacle under the drain and unscrew the plug. Allow the coolant to drain into the receptacle.
Replace drain plug and remove the radiator cap. With a funnel, add radiator flush cleaning solution to the radiator and fill the rest with water.
Replace and tighten the cap. Start your car, turn your heater on to the hottest setting, then let cool for about 10 -15 minutes. After those minutes are up, turn your car off and wait for your car engine to cool.
After your engine has cooled back down, unscrew the drain plug and empty its contents into your receptacle.
Replace drain plug. With your funnel, fill the radiator with 50% coolant and 50% water. Tighten all caps and voila!

Jump Start Your Car

Knowing how to jump-start a car is an essential roadside know-how. In many cases, it can not only help you get back on the road but also help be a good Samaritan by knowing how to help other drivers in need.

Have a friend or family member offer to help. Have them drive the good car up to your car so batteries are as close as possible.
Attach the red positive cable to the good car battery terminal, then attach the other red positive cable to your car’s battery terminal.
Attach the black negative cable to the good car battery, then ground the car by attaching the other black negative to a solid, unpainted metal surface on your car (a bolt, for example) as far away from the battery as possible. Avoid any moving parts in the engine.
Start the good car first and wait 2 minutes. Then, start your car and wait for 2 minutes.
Remove the cables in the reverse order they were attached in.
Let your car run for 2 more minutes then hit the road!
For a helpful diagram, click here.

Simple as many of these steps may be, be sure to recognize when something is out of your capabilities or knowledge. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, take your care to a professional and avoid any further damage.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

Road Rage – How to Avoid “Hulking Out” When Driving

Road rage – It gets even the best of us. You’re calmly driving to your destination when another driver decides to cut you off, nearly hitting your car in the process. In this or any other similar scenario, it can be very easy to fall back on anger. However, driving while angry is not the best time to make objective or safe driving choices. One quick lapse of judgment, on either side, could potentially send someone to the hospital, or worse.

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s Aggressive Driving Study, over 78% of US drivers engage in at least one aggressive behavior per year. Some of those aggressive behaviors being:

Tailgating
Giving someone the finger
Purposefully driving slow
Cutting people off
Not allowing others to pass or Blocking
Aggressive honking

It seems that aggressive driving is a common occurrence that many US drivers will likely face at some point. But what can you do when you find yourself in a hostile driving environment?

If you’re being tailgated – Move over. It’s better to step aside and let the aggressive driver go on than risk having them follow you for miles. Make sure you’re not going to start tailgating them yourself out of anger.
Avoid eye contact. Sure, you may want to peek over and see who it is that’s being kind of a jerk, but making eye contact with an already angry driver can escalate the situation.
Apologize (wave hand gesture) if you made a wrong move. We all make mistakes. Unfortunately, sometimes being the bigger person can be difficult. But, in a situation that could easily get ugly, it’s better to just apologize than have angry drivers on your tail. Give the “wave” hand gesture and mouth “I’m Sorry” to them if you feel like you may have made a wrong maneuver or cut someone off yourself.
Allow plenty of room for others to pass you. If you notice that a car, or cars, are attempting to pass you, give them room. Blocking other drivers can make the situation a lot more frustrating for both of you.
Use your horn moderately. Honking excessively can make the situation worse. Try not to overdo it.

Of course, emotions are often difficult to control. So, if you still feel like taking matters into your own hands, you should try:

Getting out of traffic and pulling over to a safe location to unwind
Remain calm by taking deep breaths, listening to music, or calling a friend to help cool you down
Think of the consequences that could come with exacting any type of revenge on another driver

You must also remember the added repercussions of acting on road rage such as going to court, paying legal fees, jail time, physical injury to yourself and passengers, damages to your vehicle or even death.

So, before you decide that following the driver who cut you off is a good idea, remember to take deep breaths and realize that any vengeful action comes with heavy consequences.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

Give Your Car a Security Checkup this Spring

Soon, many of us will undertake that thorough yearly ritual known as spring cleaning. It’s a time to clean up, check out and repair the important things in your life. There’s no better time to do it than when the weather is nice.

One item you shouldn’t forget to pay attention to this spring is your vehicle. Your car probably sustained its fair share of wear and tear in the last year. Thorough maintenance and upkeep can help you get it ready for more intense use during the summer. However, there’s another part of your car’s well-being that you should check up on this spring—its security.

Vehicle theft and vandalism are both possibilities nowadays. They can strike anywhere and at any time. How you protect your vehicle might make a big difference in whether you become a victim. Security steps, as well as the right car insurance, can help you prevent and recover from theft.

Car Insurance Coverage for Theft and Vandalism

Vehicle theft occurred at a rate of 236.9 incidents per 100,000 people in 2016, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Illinois was among the ten states with the highest rates of theft. If you live in the Prairie State, consider your auto insurance a source of help in case theft occurs.

Car insurance policies usually offer theft protection. However, these policies will likely come with conditions.

Usually, to receive coverage for theft or vandalism, you need comprehensive protection. Comprehensive coverage insures damage from incidents not related to wrecks or other collisions. It can often help replace the car, or repair damage sustained during a theft.
Even if you have comprehensive coverage, it might not provide the full recovery costs. Your policy limits will likely determine how much support, if any, for which you qualify. Most policies will likely include a deductible. If your vehicle damages fall under the cost of the deductible, you will have to pay for all the damage yourself. Also, some policies will only compensate the insured for the actual cash value of the vehicle. This is the depreciated cost of the car at the time of the theft. This value might be less than the full value needed to buy a new vehicle to replace the old one.
Your comprehensive insurance likely will not cover any personal items inside the vehicle. If something, like a purse, gets stolen from (or along with) the car, you might be able to file a claim on your homeowner’s insurance. Your car insurance will often only cover damage or losses to pre-installed features.

Therefore, talk to your insurance agent about how much theft coverage you need to carry. Make sure it is enough to help you replace the vehicle after a total loss. Your agent likely can offer expert information on the specific coverage for you.

Protect Yourself Against Theft, Save On Auto Insurance

If you have a high chance of auto theft, this might drive up your car insurance rates. However, there are ways for all drivers to take steps to reduce their vehicle theft risks. In some cases, these precautions might even qualify the driver for policy discounts. This could lower the cost burden they face for their coverage.

Consider if connected or internet-of-things technology can help reduce theft risks. Then, ask your insurer if they award discounts for connected security mechanisms. If you qualify for a discount, adding this protection to your car might prove beneficial.
Think about where you store your car. Usually, parking it inside a garage or close to your residence is the best safety step to take. When parking in public, keep your vehicle in a well-lighted area.
Always lock your car, regardless of where you leave it. Also arm your car alarm whenever you leave the vehicle.
Never leave valuables on view in the vehicle. Cell phones, purses, money, prescriptions and more might trigger a thief to break in or steal the car. Take these vehicles with you or lock them in the trunk of the car.
Consider buying theft prevention devices for your car. These might include steering wheel locks or special alarms. You can usually easily activate your devices as soon as you get out of the car.

If you experience vehicle theft, immediately contact the authorities and your insurer. You will likely need to file a police report or start an investigation to recover the vehicle. Your insurer will likely need to start a claim immediately upon theft occurring. This will help them better track the results of the investigation.

The good news is, based on your policy, you might have access to rental car reimbursement. Your insurance might pay some or all of the cost of a rental so you can at least drive even without the other vehicle. Car theft can be a difficult incident to experience. However, your insurance can likely come in handy as long as you have appropriate protection. Call us for a Illinois car insurance quote.

Seatbelts aren’t for decoration – Why you should always wear yours

Putting on a seat belt should already be an immediate response after getting in any car – both as a driver or a passenger.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2014 alone there were over 9,000 fatalities in the US due to unbuckled passengers. And while in recent years the US has achieved a new, all-time record seat belt use rate of 90%, still, more than 27 million Americans don’t buckle up when in a car.

While many may complain that wearing a seat belt is uncomfortable to wear or simply unnecessary for short trips, the fact of the matter is: seat belts save lives. While wearing a seat belt, you can reduce the risk of fatal injury in nearly half. This is a giant return on investment for the two seconds it takes to buckle up.

Here are 10 reasons why you should be wearing a seat belt:

1) It’s The Law – Illinois is the third state in the US to enact a mandatory seat belt law for adults, putting the state at the forefront of traffic safety regulations. It mandates anyone riding in the front of a vehicle to have a seat belt fastened. It also makes it mandatory for any passenger under the age of 19 with an 18-year-old driver to be buckled up. Any passenger under the age of 16 with a driver older than 18 to be buckled up, and any child under the age of 8 to be secured in a child safety seat.

2) Your face is less likely to hit the windshield when wearing a seat belt. If your car is going at a high speed and suddenly stops, a seat belt would prevent the driver from hitting the windshield at the same speed.

3) Wearing your seat belt keeps you from being ejected from your vehicle.

4) Wearing a seat belt can prevent passengers from crashing into each other. It keeps everyone put and comfortable.

5) Not wearing a seat belt could diminish the effectiveness of airbags. If not buckled up, you can still be thrown out of your car and crash into things. In addition, without your seat belt, your body may not be in a position where your airbag could protect you properly.

6) Wearing a seat belt could help save your life. In 2016, nearly 15,000 lives were saved due to proper seat belt use. However, 2,500 more lives were lost because they weren’t buckled up.

7) Despite new safety measures and technologies, seat belts remain a top vehicle safety device.

8) Wearing a seat belt increases the chances of being unhurt if an accident that results in fire or submersion. Your chances of getting out increase.

9) Seat belts prevent the driver from shuffling in their seat and hitting the door or steering wheel while driving. Some roads are unpredictable and cause the driver to move around; a seat belt can help prevent that.

10) Wearing a seat belt can help keep you and your family safe. What else could you ask for?

So, before you say wearing a seat belt makes you uncomfortable, remember the many reasons why buckling up is a positive habit that everyone should have.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

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Here are 10 reasons why you should be wearing a seat belt:

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