insurance | Amigo Insurance

Most Important Types of Coverage for Your Vehicle

As the owner of a vehicle, you are probably aware that investing in auto insurance coverage is important. Not only does having the right coverage protect you and your vehicle in case of an accident or unexpected incident, but different coverages can provide many other types of assistance.

However, with so many types of insurance coverage available, it can be difficult to know which options are the most important to include in your plan. In order to make an informed decision, it helps to become familiar with the many forms of coverage that are available on the market. To get you started, here are five of the most important types of insurance coverage you may need for your vehicle.

1. Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is a type of insurance that covers the cost of damage or injury that you may cause to another party while driving your vehicle. This may include damage to their vehicle or property, as well as reimbursement for any medical expenses that might result from an accident.

Almost every state requires some form of liability insurance, so it is important to have this coverage to ensure that you are legally covered. When researching different plans, look for one that covers medical expenses in case of an accident, regardless of fault.

2. Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is another important type of insurance coverage for your vehicle. This type of coverage is designed to help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. While this coverage is not required by law, it is important to have if you want to protect your investment in your vehicle.

3. Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is similar to collision coverage in that it is designed to help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in an incident. However, comprehensive coverage also includes coverage for other incidents, such as:

Theft
Vandalism
And natural disasters

This type of coverage is not typically required by law, but it can still provide valuable protection for your vehicle.

4. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Unfortunately, not everyone on the road has insurance coverage, which can make it difficult to get compensation if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Uninsured and/or underinsured motorist coverage is designed to help cover the cost of damages and injuries in case you are in an accident with someone who has no or insufficient coverage.

5. Depending on Your Situation, Specialty Coverage Such as Commercial Insurance

Do you frequently drive for work? If so, you may need commercial auto insurance. Talk to an agent about your professional circumstances to find out what you need to be fully covered. There are various criteria that might necessitate a commercial policy, such as:

Driving often for work
Driving people or goods as part of your job
Transporting equipment for professional reasons

Find Out What Auto Insurance Coverage Your State Requires

Investing in these types of insurance coverage for your vehicle can provide you with valuable protection and peace of mind while on the road. Be sure to review your insurance policy and speak with your insurance agent to ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your needs.

Generally speaking, states require every driver to carry proper auto insurance coverage. Driving without it can cause the driver to face stiff penalties. Speak to an insurance agent in your state if you are in need of insurance or may need to update your coverage.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

A stressed woman sitting on the ground next to her parked car.

Why Set up an Annual Car Insurance Review

When was the last time you had a review with your auto insurance provider? Many people miss out on this opportunity to have a casual chat with an agent, both to get all their questions answered and to make sure they’re getting what they need in their insurance plan.

When scheduled annually, an auto insurance review is an opportunity to ensure you’re getting the services you need – and also that you’re not spending dollars on coverage that isn’t serving you or your family. There’s no one issue that has to come up. As the owner of insurance, you get to bring up what is important to you. As a rule, you’ll get more out of it by taking a thorough look at your insurance coverage with an expert (the auto insurance agent).

In many cases, people bundle home and auto policies. They can ask about policies that either are already, or should be protecting, their:

Vehicles (car, truck, motorcycle or other)
Family members
Home
Other valuables
Rate comparisons

How to Prepare for Your Annual Review

Your insurance package should be able to cover some or all of the expenses resulting from an accident or other event. But there are many types of packages for different types of driver, needs and circumstances. This call will be a chance to make sure that the policy you’re paying p[remiums for each month matches your situation as much as possible. Most people use this conversation as an opportunity to ask questions about their plan and to find out whether they’re getting the best rates possible. Talking to an agent will remind you of things that may have changed in the last year that warrant an adjustment. You might even end up saving a few dollars.

Before contacting an insurance agent, make a list of questions beforehand so you cover all your bases. As part of a comprehensive coverage package, ask about:

Collision coverage
Liability insurance
Personal injury coverage

There may be other types of coverage needed whether based on changes in your household or specific upcoming events. Uninsured and underinsured motorist protection, travel insurance, and other temporary coverage can be added or subtracted depending on your circumstances and needs.

What Else to Ask About in Your Review

Many things can change in the course of a year, from the number of driving age family members living in your household, to a job that changes your commute, to your home address. Here are some factors to keep an eye on and bring up during your review. SImply let the person you’re speaking with know what has changed, or may change in the coming months, and ask whether anything should be added or removed from your policy:

A change in address
A new teen driver
A new car purchase
A significant change in driving habits
An accident or event that may have impacted your rates
A birthday – even your own – that may lower them

Amigo Insurance Helps Drivers Compare Quotes for Best Policy

A review with an experienced agent at Amigo will get you the answers you need based on their expertise and knowledge. Ultimately, it creates a more informed consumer and can also control the costs you could incur if there is an accident or event that damages your vehicle.

Any time there is any significant change to a person’s driving habits, that can be a sign to get in touch with an insurance agent. If there’s anything else related to your insurance that you have lingering questions about, an insurance agent should be able to discuss your options. And even if they don’t know the answer, they will likely be able to direct you to the person who can. Meanwhile, keep in mind that failing to carry auto insurance – thinking it will save you dollars – can have the opposite effect, causing the driver to cough up money for repairs out of pocket and lead to potential legal penalties, as well.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

A woman talking on the phone while writing something down.

6 Ways to Lower Your Car Insurance Costs

These days, it seems like everything is getting more and more expensive; cars included. Due to rising vehicle costs, insurance rates often follow suit. And while it doesn’t seem like this trend will end soon, there are many different things you can do to help lower your rates and help you save.

Compare Costs Before Purchasing your Vehicle

Before you buy that shiny, new 2018 model, look into insurance costs. Premiums are partially based on your vehicle’s price, how much it costs to repair or replace it, and safety. For example, did you know that vehicles with high crash test scores ~usually~ get lower rates? Be sure to consider all these elements when it comes to deciding which vehicle to get. However, if you do go for that newer model, know that your insurance costs might land on the higher side.

Shop Around (We can help with that!)

Once you’ve found the perfect vehicle, it’s time to shop around and find the right company. This can be a little intimidating, especially if you’re not familiar with fancy insurance terminology. Luckily, there are companies that can do all the work for you. At Amigo Insurance, for example, our specialized agents can help you find the right policy for the right price. All you have to do is Call Us, Quote Online, or Visit an Office to get a personalized search.

Maintain a Good Credit Score

Maintaining a good credit score should be a no-brainer. Not only does a good credit score affect credit applications, but insurers often use this information when pricing your auto policy. To maintain a good score, be sure to pay your bills on time, keep your credit balances low, and don’t take out any more than you absolutely need.

Purchase your Homeowners and Car Insurance from the Same Company

In some instances, insurers may cut you some slack if you buy more than one policy with them. Similarly, if you insure two or more vehicles with the same company, you may also see a reduction. Be sure to ask your agent about this to confirm it can be applied to your case.

Opt for Higher Deductibles

Deductibles are the amount you have to pay before an insurance policy kicks in. When purchasing your insurance, you can always ask for a higher deductible in order to save down the line. As Investopedia puts it, “the lower the deductible, the higher your annual premium. Conversely, the higher the deductible, the lower the premium”. Ask your agent about this option and see if this is something you could benefit from doing.

Get those Discounts!

Oftentimes companies can offer discounts to policyholders who haven’t been in an accident or have had a violation in a certain number of years. In addition, by taking a defensive driving course, insurers can also offer a discount – but if your reason for taking a course is solely for that discount, make sure to ask your agent/company if this is something that’s available.

Top 5 Moving Mistakes

Moving is no walk in the park. After getting over the excitement of buying your dream house or getting that great apartment, the stress of moving is (somewhat) inevitable. Fortunately, recognizing common moving mistakes can help you prepare for the worst and make moving day a breeze. From giving yourself enough time to labeling your boxes properly, here are a few things to avoid when planning to move.

1) Procrastination

When you have a lot of things to do, it’s often easier to just set them aside and get to them later. However, when it comes to moving, procrastination is something you’ll just have to conquer. Leaving things until the last minute can result in forgetting important items, and adding to the overall stress of the move.

A good way to conquer this is by creating a checklist. This way, you’ll be able to plan ahead and finish those time-sensitive tasks without feeling overwhelmed or forgetting anything. By figuring out which tasks need to get done first, you won’t feel like you’re drowning in responsibilities. Plus, it’ll make your whole moving journey a whole lot smoother when you’re not rushing to get everything done.

2) Not getting rid of old things

It’s very likely that when you move, you don’t want to bring everything from your old place. Moving to a new house or apartment means starting fresh. So why would you want to bring all those old, broken down books or clothes that just don’t fit anymore? Packing up all your current things and taking them to a new home leads to clutter, and takes up space. Space that could be used for things you actually need.

Before packing all your things into boxes, it’s a good idea to go through all of the things you planned on taking and deciding what you’ll need and what can be donated. If you’re someone who finds it difficult to part from old items, remember that by donating, you’ll not only be creating new space but helping someone who actually needs it.

3) Not researching moving companies

Unless you have a good friend with a truck willing to spend the day helping out, you’ll probably have to use some sort of moving company. And while this is not uncommon, a mistake many make is going with the very first option they find on Google and calling it a day. Without the proper research, you could miss out on saving money and end up with a whole new headache. Without the proper research and comparison, you could risk going with a company that has bad service or reputation.

A good rule of thumb is to research at least three different moving companies. Compare rates, services, and reviews. This way you’ll have options to choose from and see what the best possible decision is.

4) Not labeling boxes

When you’re finally settled into your new place, the last thing you want to be worrying about is which box you left your favorite shippers or toothbrush in. When packing, it’s certainly easier to just toss everything in a box and go. However, in doing so, you end up adding to your stress later on.

A good way to keep order is to pack everything by category and label accordingly. It would also be helpful to label your boxes prior to packing anything in them. This way, you know where each item will go and make the process go a lot quicker.

BONUS: Packing a box of essential items for your first couple of nights can be a real lifesaver.

5) Not forward mail in time

Probably one of the more tedious acts that come with moving is the process of forwarding mail to your new address. It can be time-consuming and, let’s face it, a little bit boring. But, no matter how much we’d like to avoid this process, it’s something that must be done. Unfortunately, many wait too long to do so.

In order to avoid any inconvenience, it’s suggested to begin the process of forwarding your mail at least a couple of weeks prior to moving. Be sure to look over your change of address forms and consider how long it will take.

Moving can certainly be a fun process when you’ve planned accordingly and given yourself plenty of time. And while stress is not 100% avoidable, knowing what mistakes to avoid can help make moving into your new home a whole lot easier.

Why Renters Insurance is a Good Idea!

According to the Insurance Information Institute, 95% of homeowners have home insurance. After all, mortgage lenders require it. So, why is it that only 40% of renters buy renters insurance? Unlike homeowners insurance, renters insurance is not always required; but it can without a doubt save you a lot of money and headaches in the long run.

Here are a few reasons why buying renters insurance should be something on your to-do list.

It’s inexpensive.

There’s a common misconception that renters insurance is expensive, leading renters to opt out. However, a renters insurance policy is generally inexpensive. Not only that, but it’s pretty flexible too. Be sure to contact one of our agents or customer service reps to hear about our low rates and coverage.

A renters insurance policy can help pay medical expenses for your guests.

A renters insurance policy can protect you in a variety of cases. Some that you may not have considered before. If you have kids, for example, it is likely that their friends will come over. Should one be accidentally hurt in your apartment, your renters insurance could help pay the medical bills up to the policy’s limit.

It’s 2018, things are more expensive to replace.

Things are not cheap. That great lamp or coffee table you bought two years ago probably costs more than it did when you first got it. In the event of a fire, flood or theft, your renters insurance policy can help pay for replacement cost at their current price. It makes it possible to replace lost or damaged items.

Your policy could help cover hotel expenses after a disaster.

After a flood or fire, the last thing you want to be worrying about is where you’ll stay the night and how you’re going to pay for it. Your renters insurance policy includes “additional living expenses” coverage in the event that your apartment becomes uninhabitable and you need someplace to live temporarily.

Your legal costs can be covered too.

If an accident occurs in your apartment and you are being sued, the liability coverage on your renters policy can help pay your legal costs up to your policy’s limit. Be sure to speak to one of our agents or customer service reps to hear your amount options.

These are only a couple of reasons why renters insurance is a good – great – idea. Not only will you be saving money, but you’ll have some peace of mind knowing that in any case, you’ll be covered.

Call us today at 877-999-2644 for a FREE quote on renters insurance and to hear your options.

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.

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

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

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.

1. Liability Insurance

2. Collision Coverage

3. Comprehensive Coverage

4. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

5. Depending on Your Situation, Specialty Coverage Such as Commercial Insurance

Find Out What Auto Insurance Coverage Your State Requires

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

How to Prepare for Your Annual Review

What Else to Ask About in Your Review

Amigo Insurance Helps Drivers Compare Quotes for Best Policy

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

Compare Costs Before Purchasing your Vehicle

Shop Around (We can help with that!)

Maintain a Good Credit Score

Purchase your Homeowners and Car Insurance from the Same Company

Opt for Higher Deductibles

Get those Discounts!

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

1) Procrastination

2) Not getting rid of old things

3) Not researching moving companies

4) Not labeling boxes

5) Not forward mail in time

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

It’s inexpensive.

A renters insurance policy can help pay medical expenses for your guests.

It’s 2018, things are more expensive to replace.

Your policy could help cover hotel expenses after a disaster.

Your legal costs can be covered too.

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

What You Need to Consider

Think About the Extras, Too

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

1) Make Your Credit Score Nice and Strong

2) Get Pre-Approved

3) Understand the Expenses

4) Know what you want.

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

6) Buy what you’re comfortable spending on

7) Envision yourself in the home

8) Get a Reputable Home Inspector

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

10) Look for Harmful Problems

11) Make Sure the Electric System is up to Standard

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

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

Car Insurance Coverage for Theft and Vandalism

Protect Yourself Against Theft, Save On Auto Insurance

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

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

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

Understanding The Importance of Car Maintenance

Taking Care of Your Vehicle