There are many reasons in life to change auto insurance plans. A change in your job, family, or driving history could signal it’s time to review your plan and possibly switch to a new one. Poor customer service can be enough for some people to decide to move on.

Auto insurance is designed to be flexible. You’re generally allowed to cancel or switch your policy at any time, although a cancellation fee might apply. Here are five tips to switching auto insurance plans the smart way:

1. Review your policy regularly.

Most auto policies are up for renewal every six to twelve months. It’s a good idea to review your plan at least several weeks before the end of your policy period. That gives you time to do a bit of homework and avoid any cancellation fees. Since insurers periodically raise rates, don’t forget to check in and make sure you’re still getting a reasonable deal.

2. Have a good reason for switching.

Cheaper isn’t always better. It can be tempting to go with the insurer that quotes you the lowest premium, but be sure you understand the coverage that plan will provide. If the lower premium is due to a higher deductible and you’re in an accident, that plan could still turn out to be more costly for you. Be sure you’re factoring in the overall cost and coverage before making any commitments.

3. Gather relevant information.

Before you contact other insurance companies for quotes, compile the necessary information so that you’re prepared to answer any questions. They will usually want to know:

• Driver information: You’ll need to provide the age, driver’s license number, and state of issue of everyone on the plan.
• Driving history: Be honest about whether you’ve ever received a ticket for a moving violation or had a suspended license.
• Vehicle information: They’ll want to know the make, model, year, vehicle identification number (VIN), and current mileage.
• Other details: You may also be asked about your driving habits, including where and when you usually drive and park your car.

4. Consider bundling policies.

You’ve likely heard of bundling home and auto policies. Bundling usually leads to less expensive rates than if you bought two different insurance policies separately. If you recently bought a home, get quotes from multiple insurers, including your current one, so that you get a deal on both home and auto.

There are many types of coverage that can be bundled with auto. Companies can generally bundle some combination of:

• Home
• Condo
• Health
• Life
• Renters
• Boat
• Motorcycle
• Umbrella

5. Match it with life changes.

Adding people to your coverage is one of the biggest reasons for revisiting your policy, whether you just got married or your teenager has a new driving permit. With more passengers, you’ll also need liability coverage to cover your legal responsibility to others in case of an accident. While you’re at it, ask about any marriage discounts or other incentives for adding coverage.

Here are some other life changes that warrant a new-or-improved plan:

Driving less: Maybe you switched jobs and went from a long commute to working at home. Look for an auto insurer that offers low-mileage car insurance or incentives for low-mileage drivers. But before you switch over, be sure you understand any other variables that might bring the cost up or down.

Less income: Some people simply stop paying for insurance to make ends meet, even though driving uninsured is against the law. Yet many insurance companies offer discounts to low-income drivers. If you’re no longer able to pay your premiums, low-cost car insurance from either your state government or a traditional insurance company might be the best option.

New car: Driving a new car? Find out whether there will be a difference in your existing premiums or coverage. Be sure to do a comparison shop, as well. The same goes if you’ve recently paid off your auto loan.

New address: A major relocation also warrants calling your insurer to see how the move will affect your rates. Even changing zip codes can drastically alter your rates. A different climate, new home, or new state laws could all be reasons to seek a more appropriate plan.

Raised insurance rates: If your rates went up after you filed a claim, it might be a good time to shop around for better rates.

Claim denial: An unexpected denial of a claim can cause you to question your choice of plan, especially if you have a decent driving record. This is another time to make some calls and find out how other policies handle accidents and pay for repairs or replacements.

If you’re thinking of switching auto insurance providers, Amigo Insurance can help you compare quotes and find the best deal for your needs.

You don’t have to feel drunk to break the law. According to federal law, it’s illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or higher, and it’s possible to become impaired after one or two drinks without even knowing it.

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense punishable by law that affects more than your driving record. Of course, the biggest cost to drinking and driving could be your life or that of someone else. In 2019, more than 10,000 people lost their lives in drunk driving accidents. But there are countless other consequences of driving while intoxicated that could impact more than just your auto insurance rates.

Suspended or Lost License

A DUI is usually punishable by the temporary loss of your driving privileges. Most first-time offenders will lose their driver’s license for six months to a year. But the length of time can depend on where you were stopped and other factors. If you’ve had multiple DUI convictions, your license can be taken away for good.

Car Trouble

Drinking raises the chance you’ll be in an accident, which can eat into your insurance deductible and lead to costly repairs. But even without an accident, the smaller fees can add up. In some states your car will be impounded for a month after the first offense. If this happens you’ll likely have to pay towing charges, a fee for the release of your car, and possible storage charges. Not to mention the hassle of not having a way to get to work or pick up your kids from school.

Criminal Record

Once you get a DUI, you might immediately have a criminal record, depending on where you live and whether you’re convicted. A DUI offense for the third time is usually considered a felony. But first or second offenses could be felonies if:

• Someone is injured in an accident;
• There are minors as passengers; or
• Other circumstances, depending on state laws.

Felonies are considered the most serious crimes and can result in prison sentences and fines. Since it will remain on your criminal record, a felony can come up during a background check and impact your ability to get a job in the future.

Possible Jailtime

Some states require mandatory jail time — even for a first offense. If you receive a DUI in Arizona you’ll face at least 10 days in jail. That number goes up to 90 for the second offense, and that can lead to other unexpected costs. If you have to go to court you might have to hire legal representation, as well.

Driving Record

A DUI will generally stay on a person’s driving record for three to five years, or even longer in states like California. While not as serious as having a criminal record, the consequences of having it on your driving record can still lead to higher insurance premiums or limiting your job options.

Higher Insurance Rates

A DUI makes you riskier to insure. After even one DUI offense, people’s insurance rates tend to go up significantly, affecting their premiums for years. You may be required to carry high-risk auto insurance for several years or more. Worse, your application could be denied. Without insurance, you’re not legally allowed to drive at all.

Once the DUI is on your driving record, most states will require an SR-22 document, which verifies you have purchased auto liability insurance. How much you pay depends on where your live and what your plan covers, but an SR-22 can cost several hundred dollars a month.

Additional Costs

There are many serious and widely-known consequences for drunk driving. But the smaller possible penalties and inconveniences of having one also come with a price tag:

• Loss of work time
• Requirement to complete an alcohol/drug evaluation
• Mandated alcohol/drug education course
• Mandated substance abuse treatment program
• Having to attend hearings in order to obtain a restricted driving permit
• Having to install an ignition interlock device in your car that tests your breath for alcohol as a condition of driving

Any of these potential costs should deter you from having a drink before getting behind the wheel of a car. It’s just not worth it.

If you have questions about getting a quote on SR-22 coverage or are simply looking for the best and most affordable plan for your auto insurance, ask us at Amigo Insurance. Get a free quote here or contact us at 773-847-9000, where our agents are ready to help.

If your personal belongings are burglarized or damaged in an event such as a fire, you will need to file a homeowners insurance claim in order to be reimbursed for the loss of those items. Most people don’t tend to keep receipts on hand these days and in stressful situations, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to list everything you own off the top of your head. This is when a home inventory comes in handy.

A home inventory is a helpful way to stay on top of everything you own and is beneficial in multiple ways, which includes confirming losses on your tax returns and expediting the insurance claims process. Essentially, a home inventory is a detailed list of everything you own and how much it is worth in case of damage or theft. You can provide a home inventory with an insurance claim from events that are covered by your homeowners insurance, such as a fire. Unfortunately, only about 52% of homeowners think to keep a home inventory.

How to Create a Home Inventory

If you are moving into a new house soon, the best time to create an inventory is while you’re unpacking by simply adding items one by one as they are put away. If you’re already settled into your home, the best way to go about it is room by room.

Before going through your possessions, you should first decide on which type of inventory would be the easiest for you to create and store. Will you include photographs? Will you be able to keep track of and protect a physical list? Are you digitally savvy? Here are different list types to think about:

• Visual Proof: A visual inventory includes photos and/or videos of your possessions to prove ownership. This type of inventory can be a series of photographs or a video walk-through of your entire home. We recommend providing video or photo evidence along with a more detailed written or digital inventory.
• Digital Inventory: A digital inventory can be a spreadsheet or word document that is made on your computer. There are also apps you can download on iPhone or Android phones that allow you to keep visual records as well as a description, price and purchase date for each item.
• Written Inventory: A written inventory is a more tedious physical list. You can find home inventory checklist templates online so that you have an initial outline ready to be filled in.

Tips for Creating a Homeowner’s Insurance Inventory

1. Go by room

To avoid running around your house and randomly listing items, start by going from one contained area to the next. You can start in your basement and work your way up to the attic or vice versa.

2. Be as detailed as possible

Make sure to include a description of each item, including the price and purchase date. Even if you’re only able to provide a few sentences about a specific item, it can be helpful later on. You can take photos or videos of these items for further proof. Here are some other important details to include:

• Serial or ID numbers
• Make and model
• Where you purchased the item
• Estimated purchase price

3. List items by category

To expedite the process, you can group small-ticket items in a more general fashion by stating the product type and quantity instead of listing each similar item individually. I.e., “4 t-shirts” or “6 teacups.”

4. Be extra careful with big-ticket items

For expensive items such as jewelry and electronics, you will definitely want to keep visual proof and receipts. You may need enhanced coverage for items that exceed $1000, so talk to an agent about which items might exceed your coverage.

5. Start keeping receipts

If you don’t already, you should get in the habit of keeping records of your receipts. You may also keep a visual inventory of your receipts along with your home inventory for extra security.

6. Keep a copy of your home inventory off-site

Save your digital inventory to the cloud in case your laptop or phone is stolen. If you have a written inventory, keep it in a safety deposit box or your work office in case of a house fire.

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you can make – make sure it’s protected. At Amigo Insurance, we’re dedicated to finding you the best home insurance coverage at competitive rates. Call our experienced agents at 773-847-9000 to receive a free homeowners insurance quote today!

As we head into deep winter, we should all be prepared for severe and scary driving conditions. Safe driving in winter means knowing what to prepare for and how. In this article, you’ll find all the tips you need to become the safest driver on the road this winter.

Tips for Safe Driving in Winter

Prepare Your Car for Winter

One of the most important steps before stepping on the gas is to make sure your car is prepared for the harsh winter conditions. You’ll want to make sure your car’s brakes, fluids, and fuel are all up to date. Schedule a maintenance check-up to ensure your car is ready to go before the snow hits.

Here’s a list of items to check off your list before it starts snowing:

• Check your tire pressure. As the temperature drops, so does your tire pressure.
• Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition and replace them if needed.
• Make sure your wiper fluid is rated for -30 degrees.
• Test your car’s battery. Battery power drops as the temperature drops.
• Consider getting winter tires for a deeper, more flexible tread.

If you’re strapped for cash, consider DIY car care to save on costs. Replacing wiper blades and wiper fluids are some examples of easy DIY car care you can get done in no time and will save you money.

Go Through a Checklist Before Taking Off

Here’s a list of items to check off before leaving the driveway:

• Keep the gas tank at least half full all winter long to avoid gas line freeze.
• Clean and adjust side view and rear-view mirrors as needed. If your car has an external camera lens, you’ll want to make sure that’s clean, too.
• Let your car warm up before taking off. Never leave the car running in the garage.
• Check the weather so you know what to expect. If the conditions are bad or are expected to get worse while you’re on the road, consider waiting it out.
• Share your location and travel plans with a family member or friend in case you get stranded.

Take It Slow

Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Smashing down on the brakes or the gas while driving in the snow can cause your car to lose traction and spin out. Driving slowly will also give you time to react if the car in front of you skids or crashes.

The 3-4 and 6-8 Second Rules

As a general rule when driving in cold weather, you should keep a 3-4 second distance behind the car driving in front of you. If it’s actively snowing or the roads haven’t been cleared yet, you should stay 6-8 seconds away from the car in front. Following these rules will ensure that you have enough time to hit the brakes without crashing into the person driving ahead of you.

Get Rid of Distractions

Getting rid of distractions and staying alert while driving is safe driving no matter the season, but it’s especially important during the winter. Put your phone on “do not disturb” and keep the radio volume relatively low so that your eyes stay on the road.

Prepare a Winter Emergency Kit

Always keep these in your car:

• Ice scraper to clear your windshield. Keep a backup just in case as plastic is especially breakable in cold conditions.
• Blanket in case you find yourself waiting for a tow-truck or an emergency vehicle.
• Flashlight to work on your car if needed or figuring out your surroundings. It’s also smart to keep an extra pack of batteries around.
• Jumper cables are self-explanatory.
• First aid kit should you find yourself injured with small wounds.

How to Avoid a Collision When Driving in the Winter

Keep these driving tips in mind to avoid crashing:

• Don’t use cruise control in winter weather conditions.
• If you skid or spin out, steer in the direction that the car is moving.
• Don’t accelerate or decelerate uphill as you can lose traction and spin out. Get enough inertia going before you reach the bottom of the hill to carry you to the top. Then, reduce your speed as you go downhill slowly.

Get Good Auto Insurance

Accidents are bound to happen. Make sure you and your car are protected with auto insurance when they do. At Amigo Insurance, we are committed to finding you the best coverage at competitive rates. Get a free quote here or contact us at 773-847-9000, where our agents are ready to help.

Buying car insurance is something every person has to do at some point, but that doesn’t make it a simple or intuitive process. When it comes to getting the right insurance for the right price, a little research can go a long way. Here’s how to make sure your insurance search goes smoothly.

Whether you’re buying a new car or simply changing insurance policies from your parent’s insurance to your own, buying car insurance for the first time can feel like a daunting task. What’s the best policy? What’s a fair price? What car insurance company should you work with? One thing is for certain when buying car insurance for the first time—questions abound.

Yet, with just a little information, you’ll feel confident in making a good decision about what car insurance you should buy. Amigo Insurance knows that an informed decision is an easy decision. Here’s what you need to know:

What Kind of Coverage Do You Need?

When it comes to buying car insurance for the first time, you might be surprised that this process has quite a few more options and conditions than you’d expect. Factors such as where you live, whether your car is purchased or leased, and your state’s insurance laws will all influence what kind of insurance coverage you’ll need to purchase.

While purchasing car insurance is mandatory in every state, the kind of insurance you’ll need varies by state. For instance, every state except for Florida requires bodily injury liability insurance. When it comes to property damage liability, every state as well as Washington, D.C. mandates this kind of coverage.

Another kind of insurance your state may require is uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance. In fewer instances, some states will mandate that drivers purchase personal injury protection insurance.

Questions to Ask When Purchasing Your First Car Insurance Policy

If you’re finding it hard to keep up with the different kinds of coverage available, don’t worry, that’s where insurance specialists come in. At Amigo Insurance, we can answer your insurance questions and help you find the right coverage for you. When shopping for your first policy, consider asking the following questions:

• What kind of coverage am I required to carry?
  Your insurance specialist can help you find out which insurance you must purchase to meet legal requirements and which policy may offer more benefits and coverage as a bonus.
• What are the details of my policy?
  Once you’ve found a policy that fits your needs, you can request that your insurance specialist explain all the details. You’ll want to make sure that you’re clear on certain terms, such as how much you’re expected to pay for your policy each month (this is called a premium), what insurance does and does not cover, as well as the amount you’re expected to pay out before your insurance covers any damage (this is called a deductible).
• Do you offer any discounts?
  Ask and ye shall receive—never forget to ask about discounts! Many insurance companies offer a range of discounts. At Amigo Insurance, we’re always willing to work with our customers to see what discount they’re eligible for. Some discounts that are commonly offered by insurance companies are for a clean driving record with no moving infractions or at-fault accidents within a three year period, being a student with good grades, taking driver education courses, and being a minimal driver who uses their car infrequently, such as being a student away at school without their car.

What Documents Do You Need to Get Car Insurance?

Purchasing car insurance requires quite a bit of paper. Whether it’s your contract or your initial application, expect to get up close and personal with paper. The most important paperwork is what you’ll need to obtain insurance. To finalize your insurance policy, be mindful that you’ll likely need all or some of the following:

• Bank account information
• A driver’s license
• Vehicle details, such as the type of car and year, as well as the VIN number
• Loan information

How to Get Started with Getting Your New Car Insurance

Getting car insurance is one of those tasks that is better done sooner rather than later. The more time you give yourself, the more you have a chance to find a great policy for a great price.

Be sure to use this guide when buying car insurance for the first time to make sure you get what you need and what you want, too. If you’re ready to start your insurance search, head over to Amigo Insurance, where we’ll help you every step of the way. Buying car insurance for the first time might feel challenging, but with Amigo Insurance, you’ll feel like it’s as easy as 1-2-3. Contact us today or chat with us online!

There’s nothing like the open road and an exciting destination. Many Americans and Canadians look forward to the thrill of traveling on their own terms with a road trip. With so many interesting and enjoyable sights and histories, the vast country of Mexico is an easy choice for road tripping. Yet, there’s one important difference you need to know before driving to Mexico.

The wind in your hair, the freedom to plan your schedule and route, the ever-changing sights on the way—a road trip is a dream and rite of passage. If you’ve already begun planning your road trip to the exciting country of Mexico, you’ve likely covered your packing needs, important documents, and trip plans, but there’s one crucial detail you can’t forget—valid Mexico car insurance.

You might’ve thought that your car’s current insurance will carry over across the Mexican border, but unfortunately that isn’t the case. Without proper car insurance in Mexico, you’ll be completely uncovered and liable for damages and injuries in any accidents.

Luckily, we’ve got everything you need to know.

Why Your Current Car Insurance Won’t Cover You in Mexico

If your car insurance is provided by an American or Canadian company, your car won’t be recognized as covered by insurance once you arrive in Mexico. The laws for insurance are different in Mexico; you’re required to have your car insurance provided by a Mexican insurance company. This law means that your regular car insurance simply isn’t valid in Mexico.

For the same reasons we don’t risk driving in the United States or Canada without insurance, you won’t want to take your chances driving without coverage in Mexico. In the event that you’re involved in a car accident, the possible outcome is much different from what you might be used to in your home country. In Mexico, driving without the proper car insurance is a big risk. If you find yourself in a car accident, you’ll be on the hook for any damages or injuries caused. If you don’t have Mexico car insurance, you’ll even risk being arrested and having your car impounded until you prove your ability to pay and go through the process of paying.

What Does Mexico Car Insurance Offer?

When purchasing auto coverage for driving in Mexico, there are a variety of options you can choose from. You’ll be able to customize the policy to fit your needs depending on the length of your trip. Depending on what kind of coverage you prefer, you can seek out comprehensive car insurance or simply cover the basics.

How to Obtain Mexico Car Insurance

Before you start dusting off your high school Spanish textbook, don’t worry—you can obtain your Mexico car insurance much closer to home. With Amigo Insurance, you can get a fast quote and secure the proper insurance you’ll need to drive into Mexico care-free. To get started with making sure your trip to Mexico will be stress-free, you just need the following items to get your Mexico car insurance quote:

• Driver’s license
• Travel dates
• Vehicle registration
• Proof of American insurance

With these documents, you’ll be ready to secure the proper insurance and cover every base to make your road trip to Mexico a trip to remember (for all the right reasons).

Don’t Forget to Ask

Planning a road trip to another country is a fun and memorable experience, but only if you cover your bases and respect the rules of your destination. Many people don’t realize they need Mexico car insurance when driving towards their Mexican holiday trip, putting them at great risk for at best, a bad experience, and at worst, a risky and costly one.

If you’re planning a road trip to Mexico, make sure you’re prepared with Mexico car insurance. By reaching out to a company like Amigo who can provide the policy you’ll need to be safe and legal when driving in Mexico, you’ll get a good price and the peace of mind that you’re covered in the case of an accident. When it comes to safety and peace of mind, there are some things that are priceless.

For most small businesses, owners or employees will use their personal cars to perform work related duties such as transporting equipment, delivering goods, or even driving clients to and from destinations. Most owners and employees have personal coverage for their cars, however, when is it appropriate for them to have commercial auto insurance coverage?  In this piece, we will focus on the needs or situations that will make you opt for either personal or commercial auto insurance.

Understanding Your Needs for Auto Insurance

As much as the two types of insurance protect you against a loss, there are key things that you should consider when researching the type of coverage, you need. We’ll go over these items in more details, but these things include:

• The named insured: for instance, the owner of the vehicle that the insurance is covering. It can be you or your business.
• The scope of how you use your vehicle will also determine whether you need commercial or personal auto insurance.
• The level of liability attached to your vehicle; either high or low.

Who Is the Vehicle Registered to?

Out of the 3 points listed above, this question is the most obvious in determining whether or not you need commercial auto insurance. If your vehicle is partnership or corporation owned, registered to a business, leased to others, or other employees/nonregistered drivers are using it, then you need commercial auto insurance. With commercial auto insurance, you are protecting  you and your employees while driving the company vehicle.

It is good to note that commercial auto insurance does not only protect you and your car, but it also protects:

• The property and trailer
• The equipment that you have attached to your vehicle or those that you use with it
• The additional insured requirements
• Against the loading and offloading exposure

Which brings us to our next point…

What or Who Are You Transporting?

In case you are using your car to carry equipment to work, visit job sites, and deliver goods or conduct taxi services, transport inflammable materials, offer truck/freight transportation and hire it to tow other vehicles, you need commercial auto insurance. This comes about because there is an increased liability and risk of damage that need some extra compensation when there is an accident.

But if you are grabbing some food for your co-workers, taking your friends to a concert, or going for rides or road trips, a personal auto insurance policy is all that you’ll need.

However, if you are using your personal vehicle for rideshare gigs then you’ll need a special type of coverage that is different from personal or commercial auto insurance. Visit our web page to learn more about the special Rideshare Coverage.

Consider What You Are Liable For

Unlike personal auto insurance, commercial auto insurance becomes so helpful when you regularly drive to meet and transport clients. The massive movement in this scene increases risks and liabilities which need a cover in case there is an accident.

So when you sit down and determine that your vehicle treads on high liability, you’ll find that commercial auto insurance coverage is what you’re needing.

Also, in terms of liability, commercial auto insurance has high liability limits which makes it good to use your vehicle for:

• Driving your clients or employees
• Transporting goods and equipment
• Getting a payment after performing a certain service
• Towing a trailer for business
• Hauling heavy, work-related loads

Approach Your Insurer to Take the Right Insurance

At most times, you need expert analysis and guidance on your existing insurance policy before modifying it to suit your current endeavors. When you realize that your vehicle is so much into business, and you have personal auto insurance, quickly visit your insurer for guidance on how you can modify it to be a commercial one.

For more on auto insurance and to get auto insurance that fits your budget, contact us and speak with one of our representatives.

Although nobody wants to think of the “worst case scenario,” it is often better to prepare for it. National Preparedness Month was developed in 2004 as a way to encourage Americans to take precautions in preparation for an emergency or disaster.

National Preparedness Month has been recognized each September for the past 16 years, but in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, a time of frequent natural disasters, and nationwide disputes – preparation is more prominent this year than ever.

“Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today” is the theme for this year’s National Preparedness Month.

It is important to spend time prepping your home for unexpected risks, so you can react to a disaster more quickly and efficiently if one happens to strike.

Today, we will be covering a few tips on how you can participate in National Preparedness Month by prepping your home and property for any trouble that may come to your neck of the woods – just in case.

Prepare a Survival Kit

Having a survival kit packed and ready in case of an emergency is never a bad idea. Most survival kits include some sort of canned food, water bottles, a first aid kit, and flashlights. However, you can get as crafty as you want with clothing items, blankets, wireless phone chargers, etc. Make your survival kit more fun by throwing in a deck of cards and a board game.

Keep Insurance Documents Handy

It is important to have your home insurance documents in a safe location that is easily accessible in case of an emergency. Many homeowners keep their insurance documents in a fireproof box. These documents need to be present for proof of claims.

Designate a Safe Room

Designate a safe room in your home where you and your family will head to in the event of a disaster. The main purpose of a safe room is to protect you during an ugly storm or tornado, and is most effective when it is located in the middle of the house with very few or no windows. Safe rooms are also a great storage spot for emergency kits and supplies.

Build Your Home With Storm-Tough Components

Did you know that you can build or remodel your home with strong, storm-tough components? These are stronger, more durable components that will protect you and your home during storms and other natural disasters. This is not only smart for safety, but is very budget friendly. An effective example of this would be upgrading your roof to metal or wind-resistant asphalt shingles.

Keep Vehicles in Secured Location

Not only should your family members be hidden in a safe, secure location during wicked storms or natural disasters, but it is wise to keep your vehicles in one too. Not only do cars that stay in garages overnight experience less break-ins, they are also subject to less damage from bad weather or storms. If you don’t have a garage to park your car in, avoid parking under basketball hoops, trees, and other standing objects when severe storms are a possibility.

Install a Security System

Disasters do not always have to be weather related, and you can truly never be too prepared for unexpected emergencies or events. Installing a security system protects your home, property, valuables, and provides safety to you and your family.

Invest in a Generator

A generator provides backup portable power during a power outage. Cooling, heating, cooking, and other daily activities would still be possible while running off a generator. It will also save you a headache or two during a power outage so you aren’t trying to salvage food in the refrigerator, running your car in the driveway to charge your phone, etc.

Stock the Pantry

Make sure your pantry always has a supply of nonperishable foods in case of an emergency. Depending on the situation, you may not be able to run out to the store for groceries or get takeout from your local restaurants for dinner.

These days, there is just no such thing as ‘too safe.” National Preparedness Month is a great way to spread awareness across America on preparing in advance for life’s hiccups.

For more ways to keep your home and possessions safe, visit our website to see what we can help you insure.

Have you tried DIY car care? The cost of maintaining your car can really eat a hole in your budget. Big repairs, and even small ones, can quickly break your bank if you aren’t expecting them. DIY car care is a great way to save on these costs so that you can put your money where it’s really needed.

Maintaining your car regularly is the best way to get the most life out of it. It will run better and last longer if it is kept in top condition. Paying for car care, however, especially on the regular, is an expense that most people don’t budget for. So, when it comes to maintenance, many people neglect their car care to save on costs.

Instead of ignoring your car’s maintenance, consider all of the DIY car care that you can do to keep it in good condition and also save on money.

Why DIY Car Care?

Car maintenance might sound scary, and usually people think that you need a professional mechanic to do any type of repair to a car. But the truth is, most of the things your car needs for basic maintenance are really simple fixes that anyone can do.

Getting a mechanic to do simple car care will cost you mostly in labor. Parts are generally around the same price, whether you purchase them yourself or a shop gets them for you. But labor costs vary from shop to shop and can average anywhere from $47-$215 per hour!

With DIY car care, you only pay for the parts you need and if necessary, any tools you don’t have. But basic car care typically requires few tools and usually what you do need, most people already have on hand.

How to Prepare for DIY Car Care

If you’re going to start DIY car care, there are a few things you should do to prepare. Firstly, you should read your car’s owner’s manual. This has info in it specific to your car, including how it works and how to perform basic maintenance tasks. You’ll also learn where everything is – within the interior and under the hood.

Start paying close attention to your car. By doing so, you’ll begin to notice when something seems off. Routinely check tires, lights, paint, fluids, hoses, and belts, and always note how things operate while driving. This proactive step will help you determine when maintenance is required so that you aren’t left needing major repair work for neglected care.

We would never recommend just guessing on DIY car care, so before you do any kind of maintenance, do some homework. There are countless videos on YouTube and elsewhere online for step-by-step instructions. You can also buy books on basic car maintenance. If you know anyone who has already been performing DIY car care, consider asking them for a few tutorials. You might even want to have a friend or family member help you with some of the work. And of course, never take on any DIY car care task that you are uncomfortable with. You should take every precaution to perform the work safely. This means wearing appropriate gear (goggles, gloves, work boots, etc.), having the right equipment if needed, and knowing what you’re getting into before you start.

DIY Car Care to Try

Now that you know more about why and how to try DIY car care, it’s time for some tasks to get you started! If you see some that you know your car needs, try starting with a search through your owner’s manual and online to find tutorials on how to perform the work.

The following items are things that may need replacing when they are damaged, no longer work properly, or are past their scheduled maintenance timeframe:

• Windshield wiper blades
• Engine air filter
• Cabin air filter
• Fuel filter
• Light bulbs (headlights, taillights, license plate lights, fog lights)
• Battery
• Spark plugs
• Fuses
• Brake pads and/or disks
• Serpentine belt
• Radiator hoses
• Thermostat

Below, are things that may need to be repaired:

• Small dents and dings
• Chipped or scratched paint
• Tears in leather or vinyl
• Patchable tire damage

Other car care tasks need to be done to maintain your car’s optimal performance, such as the following:

• Change oil and oil filter
• Top off and/or replace fluid levels (power steering fluid, windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, etc.)
• Lubricate window tracks
• Flush radiator
• Check tire pressure and tread
• Deep cleaning interior
• Wash exterior

With some regular maintenance and DIY car care, you should be able to keep your car from frequently needing trips to the repair shop. Just remember to be safe and smart while handling any of the work yourself, and don’t be afraid to resort to the pros when you need them. With a little research, determination, and some elbow grease, you should be well on your way to saving on car costs with these DIY car care tips!

Keep your car safe on the road as well. Car insurance is a necessity for every driver and at Amigo Insurance, we work hard to find you the best coverage at competitive rates! Get a free quote here or contact us at 773-847-9000, where our agents are ready to help.

With so many people at home these days due to the coronavirus pandemic, everyone’s attention has turned to home projects. But if you’re working with limited funds, can you join the home reno club without breaking the bank? We’re going to show you how you can with some home renovations on a tight budget.

Being at home mostly all day, every day can really bring to light the changes or repairs you’ve been meaning to make around your house.

And keeping your house up to date can really help add to its value as well as keep homeowners insurance costs down from repairs.

But if you’re on a tight budget, how do you pull off home renovations without spending foolishly?

How to Pull off Home Renovations on a Budget

Home renovations don’t have to mean a complete gut job or remodel. Making small changes can actually have a huge impact in the look, feel, and function of your home!

Start by evaluating what doesn’t work. Function should be priority #1 in any home. If you have an old light fixture that doesn’t work anymore or a broken sink in your guest bathroom that can’t be used, those are the things you should give attention to first. Plus, if you plan on selling your house in the near future, those types of repairs could cost your home some value.

Next consider what you don’t like. Are you nauseous at the sight of your pea-green bedroom walls? Or maybe you’ve held onto an old piece of furniture for decades that brings your space back to the 70’s. You don’t want to look for things to hate in your house, but you should be looking for things you no longer love. If you can make small changes or replacements to incorporate more of what you love, you will be happier in your home.

Go through each room and the outside of your house and make a list of everything you’d like to change. Maybe this list will be long, or it might just be a few things. But knowing what you have to work with is important to starting.

Determine Your Budget

Once you see what you want to do in your home, it’s time to see if you can afford it.

Without taking away from needed expenses, how much extra money can you sacrifice for your home renovations? If you find it’s only $200, don’t feel discouraged because there is a lot that can be done with that! Be realistic about your budget, but more importantly, be safe. Only use what you can afford and don’t put yourself in the hole just because you can’t wait to spruce things up.

When you have your budget set aside, cross-reference your list to see what will fit into it. You might find you have enough to pull off several projects and it will be up to you to decide which ones are most important to you.

Enlist Free Help for Home Renovating

One of the biggest costs when doing a repair or renovating project is hiring someone to do it. While some of the bigger, more technical jobs require a professional, there’s a lot that can be done yourself with some good old-fashioned elbow grease. And you’d be surprised what you can learn to do on your own with some online articles and videos.

For many jobs, you can either do it yourself or get some friends or family to come help you for the day. More hands will make quicker work. Just give them a homemade lunch, and they’ll probably be more than willing to help out.

Use What You Already Have

When you own something you don’t like, it might be hard to envision it differently, but a lot of things can be redone for a completely new look. Don’t underestimate the power of a good paint job, some new hardware, a slipcover, or even some furniture rearranging.

Shop Smart

If you’re renovating on a budget, obviously, this isn’t the time for splurging on high-ticket items. You need to use your dollars as wisely as possible. Consider resale, second-hand shops, garage sales, and even salvage yards which can have a huge variety of furniture, hardware, appliances, and more. Also look for sales, floor models, or as-is items from your local stores. Give things a good once-over for damage but remember that a lot can be done with some at-home touch ups and a little TLC.

Ideas for Home Renovations

Maybe you aren’t sure about what exactly you want changed in your home, but you just know you need some updating. We’ve got a list of things you can think about to get you started renovating on a budget. Most can be done for under $100 and with little time or effort.

Inside Your Home

• Repaint walls
• Replace or install window curtains
• Update cabinet and drawer pulls in kitchen, bathroom, or on furniture, like dressers
• Replace kitchen and/or bathroom faucets
• Resurface cabinets (think painting or staining techniques)
• Refinish some furniture (sand that ugly old varnish off and put on a new coat in your favorite stain or paint color)
• Install or update the kitchen backsplash
• Re-grout stained, moldy grout in your tub or shower
• Cover outdated flooring with new do-it-yourself vinyl flooring
• Cover old couches or chairs with slipcovers

Outside Your Home

• Power-wash your home’s exterior, including the porch
• Mow your lawn and edge your sidewalks (be sure to clean up the grass clippings for a clean finish)
• Plant new shrubbery and flowers
• Stain a worn or weathered deck or patio
• Install window shutters
• Update outdoor lighting
• Repair broken gutters

Having a tight budget doesn’t mean you can’t do anything. It just means you have to be smart about how you do it. However, you decide to renovate your home, keep in mind these ideas and tips for staying on budget.

If you need to protect your home and all of those upgrades you’re about to make, get a free quote from Amigo Insurance for homeowners insurance, something you don’t ever want to do without. We help you find a rate that fits your budget and your needs!