Uncategorized | 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

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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

How to Jump a Car Battery

You hop in your car, ready to go, only to hear a strange clicking noise when you turn your keys in the ignition. It sounds like your battery is dead.

So now what? An experienced driver likely knows how to approach the situation. But what about those who’ve never dealt with the frustration of their car not turning on?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help:

1) Suppose a friend or any Good Samaritan offers to help. Have them drive the GOOD CAR up to YOUR CAR so the batteries are as close as possible.

2) Attach the red ‘positive’ cable to the GOOD CAR battery terminal, then attach the other red ‘positive’ cable TO YOUR car battery terminal.

3) 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 (such as a bolt), as far away from the battery as possible. Avoid any moving parts in the engine.

4) Start the GOOD CAR first, wait 2 minutes, then start YOUR CAR, wait for 2 minutes.

5) Remove the cables in the REVERSE order they were attached in (i.e Black/Your Car, Black/Good Car, Red/Your Car, Red/Good Car)

6) Let YOUR CAR run for 2 more minutes then hit the road.

Remember:

Red Goes to Red – RED = Positive +

Black Goes to Black – BLACK = Negative –

No Luck?

If this doesn’t work, it may mean that the terminals in your car battery are no corroded. You may want to move them back and forth to try and get a connection and get rid of some of the gunk on them. If you have an older car, it could also just mean that your battery is old. If that’s the case, it’s time to replace the battery.

Make sure to always have jumper cables in your trunk just in case an accident happens.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

Electric shock hazard: Failure to follow these step-by-step instructions could result in electrical shock or other serious injuries. If you’re unsure about anything in this article, please contact a mechanic or another car specialist.

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Vehicle Maintenance Means Better Safety

Many of us think that we, the drivers, are the only influencer on our vehicles. However, that’s not the case. Often, your vehicle is its own influencer. A misbehaving car might create the potential to harm others.

A vehicle can greatly influence itself. At times, it might do so in ways that inappropriately affect the driver, passengers and others. A well-functioning car becomes important for your own safety.

Understanding The Importance of Car Maintenance

You wouldn’t get on an airplane if you knew it had malfunctioning parts. So, why should you drive a car that hasn’t received proper care. You likely don’t think much about wear and tear when you’re going down the road. However, every mile you put on your car puts a little bit of strain on the car’s internal systems. They do, after all, have to work constantly to get you where you want to go. Over time, the wear and tear on your car will begin to mount. Eventually, parts on this well-oiled machine will need maintenance.

If you don’t properly maintain your car, you run the risk of breakdowns or catastrophic damage. That could lead to a lot of repair costs down the road. Neglect might even increase the chances of irreparable vehicle damage, car accidents and other malfunctions. Needless to say, you don’t want that to happen to you.

That’s why regular car maintenance is so important. If you can keep your car in good working order, it will keep you safer on the road. Don’t let maintenance neglect get in your way of safe driving.

Taking Care of Your Vehicle

Most vehicles require standard maintenance every few thousand miles. The right attention to your vehicle can help extend its operating lifetime. This often means you won’t have to buy a new car earlier because you didn’t take care of the old one. That’s speaks volumes—and money—to most people.

When you buy the car, it will likely come with manufacturer maintenance recommendations. The guide can help you determine when to receive maintenance and what services you’ll need. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when getting car service.

Many Americans take their vehicles to their dealerships for regular maintenance. Others take the cars to independent mechanics. When searching for a mechanic, do your research. You should always choose certified, trusted providers. They should have a reputation of fast, affordable and most importantly accurate service.
If your car has special designs, like hybrid or electrical functions, ensure your mechanic knows how to service it. Some mechanics are not specialists in these high-tech vehicles.
Ask if your vehicle has a service warranty from the dealer or manufacturer. These warranties might help drivers qualify for very low-cost maintenance and parts replacement.
One of the most important regular services you can receive is an oil change. Your oil system helps keep the engine and other internal systems lubricated. This ensures that they run smoothly. Regular oil changes can help remove contaminants from internal systems.
During oil changes, your mechanic will usually check your engine as well. Your engine might need cleaning, filter changes and other maintenance over time. Engine neglect might lead to fires, explosions, failures and damage to other systems. Drivers should never neglect engine maintenance.
You car’s battery helps the car start, run and idle. Usually, by running your engine you supply the battery with power. However, the battery will age, becoming less reliable over time. Therefore, you will likely need to replace the battery every five years or so. Never neglect replacing a battery. An old or damaged battery can put undue strain on other internal systems. Your mechanic can check your battery during your maintenance.
Have your mechanic rotate, refill or replace your tires as needed. Improperly inflated or tread-worn tires might lead to control issues, making driving unsafe. You don’t want to experience an accident because your tires don’t work as they should.

There are usually other comprehensive maintenance tasks you might need. These might include HVAC, electrical or carriage services. Ask your mechanic if they can completely inspect the interior and exterior systems of the vehicle during your maintenance. Most mechanics will likely do this anyway. Direct their attention to any sounds, smells or noises you have noticed while driving. This might help them diagnose ongoing problems.

Can Car Insurance Help With Maintenance?

Usually, your standard car insurance won’t pay for a normal maintenance checkup. Insurance means to help drivers who experience unintentional or unavoidable vehicle damage. Maintenance doesn’t fall under this category. However, if you have to receive maintenance as the result of a vehicle accident or other damage, you might be able to file a claim.

Therefore, it’s best for most drivers to take care of their cars under all circumstances. The better your car works, the lower your chances of experiencing costly, harmful damages. Therefore, consider your maintenance duty to be one of safety.

Call us for a Chicago auto insurance quote at 877-999-2644.

Avoiding DUIs and SR-22 Requirements

One particularly devastating form of driving violation is a DUI. DUI charges stem from drivers who operate a vehicle while drunk or otherwise intoxicated. This is a serious driving mistake because intoxicated drivers are not in full control of their faculties. This impairment therefore makes vehicle operations unsafe. It is dangerous not only to the affected driver but others on the road.

Should you receive a DUI, you will likely face various extremely serious penalties. These might include things like license suspensions, jail time and increased insurance prices. Not least, it may lead to the requirement to get an SR-22. You don’t want to get these penalties, particularly the SR-22. They could each lead to severe financial punishment.

Why is Intoxicated Driving Unsafe?

One way to think of intoxication is as using an overwhelming substance. It muddles a driver’s faculties and often reduces their ability to process information. Some of the effects of intoxication might include:

Dizziness, blurred vision and problems hearing
Reduced attention span and memory retention
Amnesia and blackouts
Reckless or impulsive reactions
Decreased hand-eye coordination
Headaches
Breathing difficulties

And more.

It’s easy to see why getting behind the wheel while intoxicated might lead to problems. If you do not have alert, coordinated control of your vehicle and actions you could make mistakes. This could lead to accidents, injuries or even death, not just for yourself but for others. In 2016, nearly one-third of all traffic deaths in the U.S. involved an intoxicated driver. This is a signal for concern for all drivers.

The Penalties of Drunk Driving

Given the risks associated with drunk driving, it’s easy to see why it carries such stiff penalties. Every state institutes different penalties for DUI charges. Some might include:

License suspensions or points on the license
Revocation of vehicle registration
Arrest, jail time, house arrest or probation
Vehicle monitoring. This might include instances where you must blow into a breathalyzer device to start your vehicle.
Financial penalties

And more.

DUI arrests might also impact your ability to get affordable car insurance. Many drivers don’t think about how an insurance policy

After a DUI, you might face an increased policy premium, or even a denial of your coverage. Many drivers don’t think about what a DUI might mean to their car insurance providers. Car insurers determine premiums based on the risks that drivers present to them. It’s easy to understand how DUIs can easily demonstrate to your insurer that you are a high-risk operator.

Avoid SR-22 Penalties

After a DUI, the authorities might require you to get an SR-22 form. If you’ve never heard of an SR-22, now is a good time to familiarize yourself. You don’t want it to happen to you.

An SR-22 is a form that attaches to your existing car insurance. The form serves as a verification for the state that you have car insurance. Your insurance agent will send the DMV the SR-22, and you will have to keep the form active for a period of years.

States that use the SR-22 penalty can, in effect, force drivers to carry auto insurance. Like your insurer, your state will view a DUI charge as a signal that you present high operating risks. Therefore, they’re likely going to want you to carry car insurance. Your coverage will help guarantee to the state that you don’t pose as high a risk to other drivers.

Keeping your SR-22 will need attention. First, you make have to make adjustments to your existing insurance to qualify for the form. Afterwards, you must not let the policy lapse. If you do, the SR-22 period will likely start over. Other penalties might also arise.

Avoid Drunk Driving and Become a Safer Driver

You can avoid an SR-22 by being a safe driver. In the case of intoxicated driving, you can solve the problem through only one action—not driving drunk. To avoid this, take common-sense actions:

When drinking socially, take public transportation, a car service or a taxi.
Ask a member of your party to serve as a designated driver. That person will not consume alcohol. They’ll be your chauffer to make sure everyone gets around safely.
If you drive your car to an event, but become intoxicated, don’t drive home. Give your keys to a trusted, sober friend and ask them to drive you home. Or, leave your car at the establishment overnight and claim it later.
Even if you have one drink, realize that it might impact your faculties. Never drink without eating food and drinking water to help absorb the alcohol. Even if you feel fine, you might still become intoxicated. Should you make the choice to drive, only do so at your own risk.

Avoiding drunk driving will not only keep you safe, it will also protect others on the road. Driving while intoxicated is one of the most dangerous scenarios on the road. However, if you don’t do so, you’ll do your part to create safer roads for us all. Call us for a Chicago auto insurance quote at 877-999-2644.

Understanding Illinois’ Car Insurance Requirements

Illinois is a large, diverse state. There’s a lot to see between Cairo in the south and Waukegan in the North. And there are plenty of driving hazards that you might encounter along the way. Illinois drivers are going to encounter various traffic, vehicle and insurance laws. These laws ensure that Illinois’ roads remain safe thoroughfares for all travelers.

All Illinois drivers have to follow many laws on vehicle ownership and car insurance. If you register your vehicle in the state, you will have to carry auto insurance. Failing to carry insurance could result in various penalties.

However, you still have options. Once you meet the state’s coverage requirements, you’re often able to adjust your policy to meet your needs. Consider the need for auto insurance a necessity, but the benefit of it to be a convenience.

Illinois Liability Auto Insurance Requirements

Most states require their registered drivers to carry minimum levels of auto insurance. In this manner, mandatory insurance works as a form of consumer protection. Illinois requires its drivers to carry, at minimum, three levels of liability insurance:

$25,000 bodily injury or death coverage per person
$50,000 cumulative bodily injury or death coverage per accident
$25,000 property damage liability protection

You must also carry uninsured/underinsured coverage valued at:

$25,000 per person.
$50,000 total per accident.

The Importance of Liability Protection

Liability protection does not protect the policyholder themselves. It extends protection to other drivers on the road. Let’s say you collide with another vehicle, and break the other driver’s leg. Think about the financial effects that injury might have on the other driver. They might need to pay medical bills, receive rehabilitation or take time off work to recover.

An investigation into the accident determines it to be your fault. The other driver then likely has a right to file a claim against your liability coverage. If you carry the Illinois-mandated coverage, the injured driver could receive up to $25,000 for their losses.

Liability coverage serves as a valuable protection for both a policyholder and other drivers. If the policyholder carries this service, they might not have to pay compensation to an injured party out-of-pocket. Still, liability insurance can provide the affected party with the funds they need.

Penalties of Driving Without Insurance

It’s easy to understand the benefits of liability insurance. That’s why going without it shouldn’t be a thought. Most states levy penalties for drivers who carry either too little or no auto insurance.

Illinois is no different. While there is no jail penalty, there are often financial penalties and driving restrictions.

Fines: You can face fines of $501 to $1,000 for your first offense. Even higher fines of up to $2,500 follow for subsequent offenses. The exact fine will likely depend on the nature of the charge and whether it involved a vehicle accident.
Driving Restrictions: First-time offenders will receive a license and registration suspension for up to three months. Subsequent offenses will result in suspensions of up to four months.
Reinstatement Fees: If you have a driver’s license suspension, you will likely have to pay the $100 reinstatement fees.
SR-22 Certificates: Certain drivers will have to have this form attached to their insurance policy for up to three years. It will verify for the state that you have active auto insurance. Your insurer will send the SR-22 form to the Illinois authorities. You must keep your policy active for the entire penalty period.

Driving without insurance will likely change your eligibility for coverage in the future. Many insurers view driving without coverage as an indicator that a driver is a high risk to insure. So, they might deny your application for coverage or charge you more for your policy. If you’ve driven without insurance, talk to your insurance agent about how to insure yourself now.

Getting Extra Insurance

Once you get the state’s auto insurance requirements, you’re going to be driving in compliance with the law. However, carrying required coverage might not mean you’re carrying the best coverage. All vehicles are different. You can likely augment your mandatory coverage with extra protection.

Consider increasing your liability coverage to higher levels. Extra protection can better protect your own finances in case of an at-fault accident.
Buy collision coverage to cover your own vehicle’s repairs if you have an accident.
Get comprehensive coverage to afford repairs to the vehicle that result from accidents like fires, theft or weather damage.

Always carry verification of your insurance coverage in your car when you drive. That way, following an accident, you can have verification that you carry coverage. Never forget to always keep your policy active, and renew it every period. Talk to your insurance agent about the best way to carry protection. Call us for a Chicago auto insurance quote at 877-999-2644.

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