Why did my rates go up?
This is a question we are hearing more often than usual right now. If you haven’t had any tickets or accidents, rate increases can seem unfair.
There are many reasons for price increases such as supply chain disruptions, staffing shortages, inflation, more claims being turned in and courts awarding higher payouts on liability claims.
Why am I being canceled?
In addition to raising rates, insurance companies are canceling more customers than usual. A single ticket or claim can trigger a cancellation—especially if you have only one or two years tenure with them or your policy has canceled in the past.
Here are some things you can do for your own risk management.
Keep your home maintained to prevent water leaks and other losses.
Consider installing a burglar and fire alarm.
Drive defensively and follow the laws. Ask us about telematics that reward you for good driving.
Encourage young drivers in your household to take driver’s education and maintain a 3.0 or higher GPA.
Ask about higher auto liability. Companies may give a better rate if you have higher limits.
Checking your credit yearly may help you identify any discrepancies in your report.
Do not let your insurance cancel. Companies are increasingly declining to reinstate. If they do agree to reinstate, they may require payment in full.
How can we help?
In response to these challenges, we are making diligent efforts to check for credits you qualify for and making sure you understand the coverages you have selected. Just like the tides ebb and flow, this too shall pass. In the meantime, please reach out anytime with any questions or concerns.
Month: September 2023
Do I Need Boat Insurance?
Boat insurance is not required by law in Washington. However, boat insurance is often a good idea, even if it’s not required by law. At Hart Insurance in Federal Way, WA, we offer boat insurance.
When Boat Insurance is Required
Boat insurance is only required by law in two states, Utah and Arkansas, so it’s not legally required in Washington. However, if you have a lien on your boat, your lender will likely require you to have boat insurance. Lenders often require full coverage insurance, which protects their investment.
Marinas will sometimes require boat insurance as well, particularly liability insurance. This protects the marina and other boaters.
Considering Risk Tolerance
Assuming that you aren’t required to have boat insurance by a lender or marina, do you still need it? Is it worth the cost?
To decide the answer, you’ll need to think about your risk tolerance. Can you afford to replace your boat if it’s damaged in an accident? Can you afford salvage or tow costs if your boat is damaged? Can you afford to repair someone else’s boat if it’s damaged in an accident with your boat?
If you answered no to these questions, you need boat insurance because you have a low-risk tolerance.
What Type of Boat Insurance Do I Need?
Liability coverage will protect your finances if your boat damages another boat or property, like a marina or dock. The general recommendation is $1,000,000 in liability coverage. However, you may need more coverage if you have a fast, powerful boat.
Lenders often require collision and comprehensive coverage. Collison coverage will cover the costs of repairing or replacing your boat if it’s damaged in an accident. Comprehensive coverage covers damage that occurs when you aren’t on the water.
Boat Insurance from Hart Insurance
If you want boat insurance in Federal Way, WA, contact us at Hart Insurance. We offer various insurance options, including boat insurance, to meet your insurance needs.
