Do I Need a Personal Umbrella Policy?

• Do I own and/or operate a vehicle, watercraft, motorcycle, motor home, recreational vehicle?
• Do I own or rent a home or condominium, rental properties, vacation homes, or vacant land?
• Do I have any pets?
• Do I have a swimming pool?
• Do I operate any insured businesses out of my home?

A personal umbrella policy is additional liability insurance, above and beyond underlying policies you maintain, that protects your financial assets by complimenting and extending the coverage that is afforded under your personal auto, homeowners and other primary policies. 

Today, nearly everyone should consider personal umbrella coverage.  A personal umbrella policy can provide additional liability coverage when unforeseen circumstances arise due to accidents, negligence and lawsuits. Umbrella policy limits range from $1,000,000 and can go as high as $10,000,000, depending on the carrier. 

Today, ever increasing medical costs and unforeseen lawsuits are driving settlements into the thousands and sometimes millions of dollars. These amounts can easily exceed your primary liability limits afforded under your automobile, homeowner, rental, motorcycle, watercraft and other policies, and if found liable or negligent, the difference could come directly out of your pocket in a court settlement or law suit. 

Discuss with an insurance agent for further details and suggestions to properly cover you and your family in situations that could arise.  An umbrella policy is a cost effective method to protect your assets and future earnings while providing you with peace of mind.

Winter Weather Driving Tips

Winter road conditions present unique challenges to driver capabilities and vehicle performance. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 15 percent of weather-related crashes occur in snow or sleet, and another 13 percent on icy pavement.

Here are just a few safety and preparation tips to keep in mind during winter months.

• Inspect  Brakes and tires.
• Inspect battery.
• Add lubricant to door locks to prevent freezing.
• Replace windshield wipers and de-icing washer fluid if necessary
• Add antifreeze.
• Wear a seat belt and make sure all passengers have their seat belts fastened.
• Ice forms first on bridges, overpasses and shaded areas. Do not slam on the brakes when driving over ice. Decelerate slowly, holding the car steady.
• Adjust the speed to fit the weather conditions and remain a safe distance behind other cars.
• If the car begins to skid, remove the foot from the gas pedal, but don’t hit the brake. Steer gently in the direction the front of the car should go. As the car straightens out, traction and control will return.
• Keep blankets, a first-aid kit, flares, jumper cables, tire chains, a flashlight, ice scraper and golves in the car. Take a food supply of candy bars or dried fruit.
• Keep the gasoline level as high as possible to prevent water condensation in the tank.

Visit www.nhtsa.gov for more road safety information.