Does Auto Insurance Cover Hurricane Damage?

Those living in Palm Coast, FL understand the importance of being protected in the event of a hurricane. Waking up after a hurricane has rolled through the area can be very devastating, especially when seeing the damage the storm caused. Because Florida experiences hurricanes, everything from our homes to our vehicles need insurance coverage in the event of damage or loss. 

All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School experts know this and can help ensure your vehicle is covered under your existing insurance policy. 

Hurricane Damage

It is imperative to ensure your vehicle has coverage under your insurance policy before hurricanes and tropical storms make landfall. These storms can leave your car damaged by high winds, flying objects, floods, or being washed onto someone else’s property. Comprehensive coverage may also include corrosion from saltwater exposure and damage from fallen objects. 

Comprehensive Coverage

Those with comprehensive coverage included in their auto insurance policy are financially protected if their vehicle becomes damaged in a hurricane. Damage caused to the car must be hurricane-related, such as flash floods, falling objects, or high winds. Not all basic auto insurance policies include comprehensive coverage. Check with your insurance agent to discuss coverage and make necessary changes before a storm develops in the Atlantic Ocean of the Gulf of Mexico. 

Changing Policies

It is vital to make changes to your insurance policy as soon as possible. Unfortunately, most insurance agencies do not allow for changes to coverage when a hurricane is about to hit. Items to include in your policy include comprehensive and collision coverage, which will protect you in the event of a storm. 

Be prepared for hurricane seasons in Palm Coast, FL, and ensure you have enough auto insurance coverage to protect you against storm-related damage. The experts at All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School are ready to help you with your insurance coverage. 

Top myths about flood insurance

As most Palm Coast, FL residents know, it is critical to carry flood insurance to protect against financial loss. However, many myths surrounding flood insurance can leave people with no coverage or not enough coverage. All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School agents have put together the top myths about flood insurance. 

My homeowners’ insurance covers flooding. 

So many people make this mistake due to their homeowners’ policy providing coverage for water damage. However, the coverage for water damage only covers events like a burst pipe and not damage caused by a flood. Therefore, if you want flood insurance, you must purchase it separately. 

I do not need coverage because my lender does not require it. 

Banks typically only require that flood insurance be carried as a condition of the loan if the home is located in a certain flood zone. However, just because you are not in a flood zone does not mean you are immune from flooding. Flooding is becoming more and more common and can happen anywhere. 

I can wait for a big storm to come and purchase it right before 

Waiting to purchase a flood policy until you know of a storm that could cause flooding is another big mistake homeowners make. Most insurance carriers have a 30-day waiting period to avoid this type of scenario. If you think you may need flood insurance, you should purchase it now. 

The flood insurance I purchase through the federal government is enough coverage. 

The federal flood insurance program only offers coverage up to $250,000. If your home is worth more than that, it is important to consider additional limits to protect you fully in the event of a flood. 

If you would like to learn more about flood insurance, reach out to an agent at All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School today. We proudly serve the Palm Coast, FL area. 

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

Home insurance is necessary, but understanding your coverage can be confusing. Coverage varies from policy to policy, but the basics remain the same. All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School offers home insurance for Palm Coast, FL residents. 

Property Coverage

The most obvious coverage provided by home insurance is the home itself. Home insurance covers the interior and exterior of your home. Most policies also provide coverage for freestanding structures on your property, like a shed or workshop. The structure of your home is covered for damage from fire, theft, storms, and more. Floods, earthquakes, and damage due to negligence or poor maintenance are usually not covered under a basic homeowner’s policy. 

Personal Belongings Coverage

Your homeowner’s policy also covers your belongings. The coverage limit for belongings is typically 50-70% of the coverage limit for the home itself, but you’ll need to check your policy for specific coverage limits. If your valuables exceed the coverage limit, you can purchase a rider or separate policy for adequate coverage. 

Liability Coverage

Your homeowner’s policy also covers liability. If someone is injured on your property, your homeowner’s policy will cover the expenses. Intentional damage or injury is not covered. For example, if a neighbor is visiting and accidentally falls down the stairs, your policy would cover the claim. If they were pushed down the stairs, this would not be covered. Most policies also cover damage to other’s property. 

Additional Living Expenses Coverage

Many policies also provide additional living expenses coverage. If you have to move out of your home while it’s being repaired, your policy will pay your living expenses. This includes rent or hotel and food expenses. 

Homeowner’s Insurance at All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School

Your home is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make, so it’s important to know it’s properly protected. If you need homeowner’s insurance in Palm Coast, FL, contact us at All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School.

Auto Insurance FAQs

Congratulations! After weeks, and perhaps months of in-depth research comparing models, visiting dealerships, and making numerous test drives, you have finally bought your dream car. However, before taking your ride on the road, you need to consider one more thing — auto insurance. But because auto insurance can be a challenging topic, especially for new car owners, All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School of Palm Coast, FL has prepared a FAQs section to help you understand this insurance better. 

Is car insurance mandatory?

Like most states, car insurance is mandatory in Florida. Failure to show proof of car insurance may result in hefty fines and penalties, including license suspension. 

What are the state-required minimums?

While most drivers purchase more than the state-required minimums, it’s vital to understand what the law requires. The Florida state expects drivers to buy the below minimum car insurance coverages.

  • Property damage liability with a minimum of $10,000 per accident
  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP) with a minimum of $10,000

While bodily injury liability isn’t legally required, it’s wise to buy this insurance because it covers medical expenses for other people for accidents you are at fault. Although Florida is a no-fault state, the injured parties could still sue you for damages, leaving you to pay the damages from your pocket if you don’t have adequate liability coverage.

What are the other types of commercial insurance coverages to consider?

Some motorists might stick to the state minimums in a bid to save on premiums. But insurance experts will tell you that this catastrophic. 

State minimums are inadequate and won’t cover damages to your vehicle. To that end, consider the below optional car insurance coverages.

  • Collision coverage 
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage

Do you need more information on auto insurance? Please get in touch with All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School for more insights. Besides, you can visit our Palm Coast, FL offices to chat with one of our agents in person.

How Florida Residents Flood Insurance Policies Vary According To Their Flood Zone

All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School assists the Palm Coast, FL community. We offer our clients policies to help ensure that they have stability in their lives. We treat our clients like family, so we will be there when their needs change. We can help you find the coverage that you have been looking for.

How Flood Zones Impact Policies

As a Palm Coast, FL resident, you are aware that the state is prone to hurricanes, tropical storms, and other natural disasters that are capable of causing severe flooding. For this reason, flood insurance is essential. Flood insurance covers your personal items and residence if severe flooding moves through the area and causes damage. Flood insurance can alleviate some stress during an uncertain time. The type of flood coverage that you need may change based on the flood zone that you reside in.

If you reside in Zone B or C, the likelihood of serious flood damage in the area is minimal. If you reside in Zone A, you may not witness consistent flooding, but there is a very good chance that a tropical storm will move through the area once every few years. AR Zones are always at risk because there is a dam nearby. Zone V is considered the most high-risk area in the state. Flooding occurs in this area on a regular basis. You should look for full coverage on your property. Also, keep in mind that flood insurance policies contain a grace period. Don’t wait until a few days before a storm arrives to find coverage.

All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School Will Help You Stay Safe

Visit our website to learn more information about flood insurance.

Do You Need Home Insurance?

Getting a new home in Palm Coast, FL, is the dream of very many people. You will be living in the Sun Belt, which is one of the coveted geographic regions in the country due to the warm weather throughout the year. However, your new property needs to have home insurance coverage from All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School for the following reasons. 

Dwelling Coverage Benefits

If you have home insurance, you will accrue financial benefits that will help you to cover structural repair expenses when there is a need. Floods might damage your deck or garage during the rainy season, and you will not incur any financial liabilities in rebuilding your property after the storm.

Personal Property Coverage

If you have home insurance coverage, you don’t have to fear the possibility of losing the valuable items inside your dwellings. The home insurance cover is structured to pay for such expenses and replacement costs. Some of the items that can be covered by personal property coverage include electronics, clothing, furniture, and foodstuffs. 

Guest Medication Expenses

If a guest is accidentally injured on your property through negligent acts, your home insurance coverage will come in handy when paying for medication expenses. In such scenarios, your insurance company will be directly responsible for paying medical expenses, punitive damages, mental torture expenses, and income replacement if such guests have been incapacitated to continue with their income-generating activities. 

Therefore, when you are looking for a home insurance policy, it is necessary that you ascertain all the benefits you will be getting from the coverage. In some instances, some insurance companies may fail to disclose whether they will cover a specific incidence. That is why you should work with All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School in Palm Coast, FL because it is an agency that is willing to disclose the necessary coverage details.

Why should I get auto insurance in Palm Coast?

When you live in the Palm Coast, FL area you will find that owning a car is a good option. Those that are vehicle owners in this part of the state will have an easier way to get around town and can complete their daily tasks efficiently. Along with getting a car, you need proper insurance. There are a few reasons why you need to have this coverage here. 

Insurance Protects Car

A reason that you should get an auto insurance plan when you are in Palm Coast is that it can protect your car. If you do get an auto insurance plan when you are here, it can help to ensure that you get the coverage that will allow you to repair or replace your vehicle in a variety of situations. This can include mitigating the risk of your vehicle being stolen or damaged in an accident.

Insurance is Required

You also should get an auto insurance plan because it is likely a requirement for you. Those that want to drive a car on the road in Florida need to at least have a liability insurance plan to comply with state law. Further, those that have taken out a loan to buy the car need to comply with their lender’s requirements. 

When you are in the Palm Coast, FL area and are in need of auto insurance, you should speak with someone at All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School. There are a lot of factors that need to be considered as you are looking for an auto insurance plan. The team at All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School can help you assess all of your needs so you have an easier time picking a policy that works for you. 

Why would someone want flood insurance in Florida?

The Palm Coast, FL area continues to be a popular place for anyone to visit or live in during the year. If you are going to move to this area of Florida and buy a property, you will want to know that your important asset continues to be properly protected with insurance. A great way that you can protect your home is through a flood insurance policy. There are a few different reasons why someone would want to get flood insurance coverage here. 

Insurance Protects Property

A key reason that you will want flood insurance in this area of Florida is that it can protect your home. Flood damage is a risk that all people need to consider and protect against. For many in this area, the protection received through a home insurance plan is limited. When you get a full flood insurance policy, you will get the protection needed to properly cover your home. 

Insurance is Often Required

You should also want to get flood insurance because it is often a requirement. Those that are in Palm Coast could be obligated to carry flood insurance if they are in a flood zone. Most mortgage lenders will only provide financing in these situations if their client continues to carry a full flood insurance policy. 

In the Palm Coast, FL area, getting proper insurance for your home is important. For many, this includes getting flood insurance. If you are wondering about your flood insurance needs, you should speak with All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School. The insurance team with All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School understands how important the coverage is. They can then evaluate your situation and help you build a plan that will give the proper coverage for your situation. 

Importance of Having a Home Inventory

If you own a home, it’s to your advantage to create a home inventory of your belongings. A home inventory is a list of all the items you own along with a brief description of each, photos of high-end goods, and receipts verifying their value. In the event of theft or loss, you’ll have an accurate record of your goods to make it easier to file a claim. At All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School, we recommend that all our Palm Coast, FL customers have an up-to-date home inventory. Here’s what a home inventory can do for you:

Helps You Purchase Accurate Insurance Coverage

Having an updated list of all your possessions will enable you to purchase accurate property insurance to protect your valuables. It also ensures you don’t forget important items that may be stored out of sight. The right insurance coverage will make it easier for you to recuperate your losses in the event of a disaster. 

Facilitates Claims Process

A home inventory can facilitate the claims process. In the event of a disaster, you can refer to your inventory for an accurate account of what was lost. This can be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to do by memory alone. A home inventory can act as proof of ownership to your insurance agent to ensure you’re fully compensated for your loss. It also helps speed up the claims process.

Substantiates Financial Losses

A well-documented home inventory can be used to help substantiate your loss after a major disaster. It can be extremely useful if you need to apply for financial assistance after a catastrophe or if you want to get a break on your taxes.

To learn more about home inventories or to purchase quality home insurance for your Palm Coast, FL home, contact All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School.   

What does flood insurance cover

Floods are an all too common occurrence these days. You don’t have to live along the banks of the Mississippi River or in coastal areas to be in danger. If you are a homeowner who believes your home is protected from flood damage by your home insurance, you are in for a shock. Home insurance does not cover floods. At All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School in Palm Coast, FL, we understand the damage floods can cause to homes in Florida and we aim to provide the best service and insurance products available. 

The National Flood Insurance Program is offered by FEMA through a network of carriers. It is sold in two parts, building and contents. You can purchase one or both, it is up to you. The price is fixed by the government depending on your risk level so you can choose any carrier that offers flood insurance and the price will be the same. Your community must participate in the NFIP in order for you to be eligible. 

Building

The building coverage covers the physical structure of the home. This includes the walls, roof, foundation, detached garage, and staircases. Anything that is permanently attached to the home is covered by this part of the insurance, built-in bookcases, kitchen cabinets, and appliances like the stove, refrigerator, and built-in dishwasher. It also includes the major systems in the house, the electrical, the heating and cooling, and the plumbing. Coverage is capped at $250,000. 

Contents 

This includes all your personal items, clothes,  smaller appliances, washer and dryer, furniture portable air conditioners or heaters, freezer, and the food in it. The cap on personal property is $100,000. 

At All Counties Insurance Agency & Traffic School in Palm Coast, FL, we are happy to help you to get flood insurance to protect you home. You can call us at our office or stop by for a free quote.