Frequently Asked Questions

For example, many insurers will offer a Bundling Discount when you place both your automobile and homeowners insurance with them. Other times, insurers offer security discounts if there is a security system or security devices installed. Hurricane shutters can also be considered. Be sure to ask us about any discounts for which you may qualify.

There are a number of factors you should consider when purchasing any product or service, and insurance is no different.

Here is a checklist of things you should consider when you purchase homeowners insurance.

• Determine the amount and type of insurance that you need. The coverage limit of your house should equal 100% of its replacement cost. If your policy limit is less than 80% of the replacement cost of your home, any payment from your insurance company may be less than the full cost to replace your home — you’ll have to pay the rest out of your own pocket. Also, decide if the personal property and personal liability limits are adequate for your needs.
• Determine which, if any, additional endorsements you want to add to your policy. For example, do you want the personal property replacement cost endorsement, an earthquake endorsement or a jewelry endorsement?
• Once you have decided on the coverage you want in your homeowners insurance policy, consult us. We will be able to help you determine if there are any gaps in coverage you might not have been aware of, explain the details of the policy’s exclusions and limitations as well as recommend an insurance company that will live up to your expectations.

Most states have insurance laws that require drivers to have a minimum amount of auto liability insurance. These laws were enacted to ensure that victims of automobile accidents fairly compensated when their losses are caused by the actions of another driver who was found at fault and/or the other driver who doesn’t have insurance.

It is often the case that the cost of repairing the damages to an older car is greater than its value. In these cases, your insurer will usually “total” the car and give you a check for the car’s market value less the deductible. Many people with older cars decide not to purchase any physical damage coverage.

Comprehensive provides coverage for most other direct physical damage losses you could incur, including theft. For example, damage to your car from a hailstorm will be covered under your comprehensive coverage.

Another easy way to lower the cost of your auto insurance is to raise your deductible. Increasing your deductible from $500 to $1000 will lower your premium, sometimes by as much as five or ten percent.

Immediately following an auto accident, remember to stay calm, call the police, remain at the scene in a safe location, take photos, and exchange information with the other driver if possible. Car accidents can be traumatizing, but filing a claim shouldn’t be. Here’s what you should do if you file a car insurance claim:

Contact your insurance company with information about the accident right away.

Whether you file your car insurance claim over the phone, online, through a mobile app, or with an agent, your insurer will likely request the following details:

• Location, date, and time of accident
• Name, address, phone number, and insurance policy number for all involved in the accident
• Weather condition
• Photo(s) of the damaged vehicle(s) and other vehicles
• Copies of the police and/or accident reports, if applicable

Review your policy’s coverages and deductible selections:

Knowing how you’re covered is essential and can set proper expectations for your claim. For example, if you have rental car reimbursement coverage, you may be entitled to a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired. Your policy’s deductible amount indicates how much you pay out of pocket on a covered claim, while your coverage limits represent the maximum dollar limit your insurer could pay out in a certain category. Additionally, loan/lease payoff coverage (also known as “gap insurance”) can cover the difference, up to your policy’s limits, if you owe more on the vehicle than it’s worth.

Work with your insurance adjuster:

Your insurance company will appoint an adjuster, or multiple adjusters, to investigate your claim. Typically, the adjuster contacts you within one to three days of the claim filing. Your adjuster arranges an inspection, assesses the damage to your car, and/or addresses any personal injury claims. Additionally, an adjuster could analyze police reports and interview witnesses to the accident.

Depending on your insurer, you could be required to get an estimate for the cost of your vehicle’s repairs and the repair shop will share that figure with your insurance company. Your insurer then makes an evaluation based on information from your adjuster and the repair shop.

Repair or replace your car, if necessary:

You have the freedom to choose which shop handles your car’s repairs. Assuming your claim has been approved, your insurer issues a payment to you or the repair shop, minus your deductible. If your car is damaged beyond repair, your insurer cuts you and/or your lender a check for the value of the vehicle, minus your deductible.

Deadlines for filing a claim varies by insurer, state, and type of claim. Every state provides you more than a reasonable amount of time, but you shouldn’t delay in contacting your insurer. Local state law may dictate that you file an accident report within 14 calendar days.

You may also save money if you belong to a motorcycle association.

HorizonFirst recommends contacting us for help determining the right amount of coverage. As independent agents, we are unbiased advisers that will help you avoid buying too much, show you appropriate optional coverages for your need, and recommend a company that will best serve your interests.