Author: Claudia Trusty

Phones Down– It’s The Law

Date: From the Desk of: Claudia Trusty

Did you know that as of April 2023 it is illegal to use or hold a cell phone or electronic device while driving? If an officer of the law sees a violation, they can pull you over. Drivers 18 years old can make or receive calls via hands-free devices. However, drivers under the age of 18 are still restricted from using their devices and any way, including hands-free feature.

Enforcement of this law began on October 4, 2023 and penalties include:

  • 1st offense in two years: 2 points assessed to driver’s license, up to a $150 fine.*
  • 2nd offense in two years: 3 points assessed to license, up to a $250 fine.
  • 3rd or more offense in two years: 4 points assessed to license, up to a $500 fine, possible suspension of driver license.
  • Fines doubled if the violation occurs in a work zone.

*Completion of a distracted driving course can help avoid the fine and points.

Read more about this law here, and please share with friends and family.

Prepare an Emergency Plan

Date: From the Desk of: Claudia Trusty

We all think it couldn’t happen to us, but accidents do occur. We hope you never experience a problem, but we always suggest that you develop and implement an emergency preparedness plan for the various disasters and emergency situations that could arise. These plans should include evacuation routes and informed decisions on what to do and where to go should disaster strike.

Here are some considerations for you to include in your plan. No matter what the situation, safety for all involved must come first.

  • Call fire, emergency squad and/or police if necessary. Keep emergency numbers readily available. Stay away from downed power lines and electrical systems. Call your local power companies to inform them of downed lines in the area.
  • If you experience property damage, secure your property from further damage if possible. Do not take risks. Your safety is most important.
  • If you have water line damage, turn off water at the main source if it is safe to do so. Call a water damage team to mitigate water backup and water damage.
  • If needed, call a contractor to provide temporary roof tarp and window board-up services. For fallen trees, call a tree removal team.

Winter Weather Driving Tips

Date: From the Desk of: Claudia Trusty

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

A few safety and preparation tips for winter

  • Inspect brakes and tires.
  • Inspect battery.
  • Add lubricant to door locks to prevent freezing.
  • Replace windshield wipers and de0icing fluid as necessary.
  • Add antifreeze.
  • 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 care begins to skid, remove your foot from the gas pedal but do not hit the brakes. Steer gently in the direction the front of the car should go. As the car straightens out, traction and control will return.
  • Keep blanket, a first-aid kit, flares, jumper cables, tire chains, a flashlight, ice scraper and gloves in the car.
  • Keep the gasoline level as high as possible to prevent water condensation in the tank.

Most importantly, during any season wear a seat belt and make sure all your passengers have their seat belts fastened, too.

You can find more tips and information at the NHTSA website.

Insurance Myths

Date: From the Desk of: Claudia Trusty

Myth #1: My homeowner policy automatically covers flood damage.

No, it does not. It should be more commonly known that flood insurance must be purchased separately. Contact us for more information. We are here to help.

Myth #2: I’d have to be a millionare to be sued for a million dollars. That couldn’t happen to me.

Not true. Third party damages can be awarded based on court outcomes. You can be protected. An umbrella is an easy and inexpensive way to help protect you from catastrophic situations that may occur as the result of automobile accidents and other liability situations.

Myth #3: Earthquake insurance comes with my homeowner policy.

No, that is not true. Discuss with an agent as coverage can be purchased under your homeowner policy by endorsement.

Myth #4: Sewer and drain backup are covered automatically under my homeowner policy.

No again! Coverage is not automatically provided under the basic homeowner policy. However, this coverage can be specifically added to your homeowner insurance policy by endorsement. Talk to you Clark Insurance agent for further details and various limits of coverage available.

Myth #5: My collectibles, jewelry, precious metals, guns and cash are covered under my homeowner policy for full value.

No! The basic homeowner policy extends set limits under the policy contract. An agent can help you to understand if additional coverage will need to be purchased to fully cover these items in a loss situation.

Myth #6: anyone who operates my vehicle is automatically covered under every automobile policy, no problem.

Not necessarily. Coverage limitations may exist depending on the carrier and policy language. Please discuss with your local agent for further information and policy limitations and exclusions.

Myth #7: My vehicles – licensed and unlicensed – are always covered for full value under my personal homeowner policy.

Not always. Homeowner policies have various limitations and specific exclusions for vehicles, motorcycles, golf carts, dune buggies, etc. Please consult an agent to make certain that your vehicles are properly covered for liability and physical damage.

Here’s what is a fact, and not a myth. Everyone at Clark Insurance really cares about protecting you, your family and your home. Call us anytime with your questions…we are always here for you!

Do I Need A Personal Umbrella Policy?

Date: From the Desk of: Claudia Trusty
  • Do you own and/or operate a vehicle, watercraft, motorcycle, motor home, recreational vehicle?
  • Do you own or rent a home or condominium, rental properties, vacation homes, or vacant land?
  • Do you have any pets?
  • Do you have a swimming pool?
  • Do you operate any insured businesses out of my home?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, then you may want a personal umbrella policy.

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. 

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.