Blog - Banas Insurance - Easthampton, MA

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Personal Umbrella Insurance: What It Can Do for You

In today’s litigious society, having robust insurance coverage is more important than ever. While standard policies like home and auto insurance provide essential protection, they may not cover all your needs in extreme situations. This is where personal umbrella insurance can step in. Offering an extra layer of liability coverage, personal umbrella insurance can be a lifesaver when faced with substantial claims or lawsuits. But what exactly it covers?

Understanding Personal Umbrella Insurance

Personal umbrella insurance is designed to provide additional liability coverage beyond the limits of your existing home, auto, or other personal insurance policies. It kicks in when the liability limits of your standard policies are exhausted, offering broader protection against large claims and lawsuits.

Key Features:

Extra Liability Coverage: Provides coverage above and beyond the limits of your existing insurance policies.
Broader Protection: Covers various liability scenarios, including those not typically covered by standard policies, such as defamation, false arrest, and certain types of property damage.
Affordable Premiums: Despite the extensive coverage, personal umbrella insurance is relatively inexpensive, especially considering the protection it offers.

The Benefits of Personal Umbrella Insurance

Enhanced Financial Protection

The primary benefit of personal umbrella insurance is the enhanced financial protection it offers. In the event of a large claim or lawsuit, your standard insurance policies might not be sufficient to cover all the expenses. Personal umbrella insurance steps in to fill the gap, protecting your assets and future earnings from being depleted by legal costs and settlements.

Example:

If you’re involved in a car accident resulting in serious injuries to another party, and the medical expenses and legal fees exceed your auto insurance liability limits, your umbrella policy can cover the excess amount, ensuring you don’t have to pay out of pocket.

Broader Liability Coverage

Personal umbrella insurance offers broader liability coverage than standard home and auto policies. It can cover a wide range of scenarios, including some that might not be included in your primary policies.

Coverage Examples:

Defamation and Libel: If you’re sued for defamation or libel, personal umbrella insurance can cover the legal costs and potential settlements.
False Arrest and Malicious Prosecution: Provides protection if you’re wrongfully accused and sued for false arrest or malicious prosecution.
Property Damage: Extends coverage to certain types of property damage not covered by standard policies, such as damage caused by your actions while traveling abroad.

Protection for the Entire Family

Personal umbrella insurance extends its coverage to all members of your household, providing comprehensive protection for your family. This means that if your spouse or children are involved in an incident that results in a liability claim, your umbrella policy will provide the necessary coverage.

Example:

If your child accidentally injures someone while playing sports or causes property damage at a friend’s house, your umbrella policy can cover the resulting legal and medical expenses.

Coverage for Legal Defense Costs

Legal defense costs can be substantial, even if you are not found liable. Personal umbrella insurance can cover these costs, ensuring you have access to quality legal representation without depleting your savings.

Example:

If you’re sued for an incident covered by your umbrella policy, the insurance company will typically handle your legal defense, covering attorney fees, court costs, and other related expenses.

Peace of Mind

Knowing you have an extra layer of protection brings peace of mind. Personal umbrella insurance ensures that you and your family are safeguarded against significant financial loss due to unexpected incidents. This security allows you to focus on living your life without constantly worrying about potential liabilities.

Scenarios Where Personal Umbrella Insurance is Essential

To illustrate the importance of personal umbrella insurance, let’s consider a few scenarios where it can make a significant difference:

Severe Car Accident

Imagine you’re involved in a severe car accident that results in multiple injuries. The total medical expenses and legal claims amount to $1.5 million, but your auto insurance liability limit is only $500,000. Without an umbrella policy, you would be responsible for the remaining $1 million. With personal umbrella insurance, the additional $1 million is covered, protecting your assets.

Home Accident

Suppose a guest is injured at your home due to a fall, and the medical and legal expenses total $800,000. Your homeowner’s insurance has a liability limit of $300,000. An umbrella policy would cover the remaining $500,000, preventing you from facing severe financial hardship.

Libel and Slander Lawsuit

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to unintentionally make a comment that leads to a libel or slander lawsuit. If someone sues you for $200,000 over a social media post, your personal umbrella insurance can cover the legal costs and settlement, as standard home and auto policies typically don’t cover such incidents.

Dog Bite Incident

If your dog bites a neighbor, resulting in medical bills and a lawsuit totaling $150,000, but your homeowner’s insurance only covers $50,000 for such incidents, your umbrella policy can cover the additional $100,000. This coverage ensures you are not left personally responsible for the remaining amount.

Consider the following factors when deciding whether to invest in personal umbrella insurance:

Your Assets and Net Worth

If you have significant assets, such as property, savings, investments, or a high income, personal umbrella insurance is crucial to protect your wealth. It ensures that in the event of a large claim, your assets are not at risk.

Potential Liability Risks

Evaluate your lifestyle and activities that might increase your liability risk. For example, owning a swimming pool, hosting frequent gatherings, owning pets, or having teenage drivers in your household can all elevate your liability exposure.

Existing Insurance Coverage

Review your current home and auto insurance policies to understand their liability limits. If these limits are relatively low, personal umbrella insurance can provide the additional coverage needed to safeguard against larger claims.

Peace of Mind

Consider your comfort level with risk. If you prefer the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have comprehensive protection, personal umbrella insurance is a valuable investment.

How to Purchase Personal Umbrella Insurance

If you decide that personal umbrella insurance is right for you, here are the steps to take:

Assess Your Needs

Determine how much additional liability coverage you need by evaluating your assets, potential risks, and existing insurance policies. A common recommendation is to have umbrella coverage equal to or greater than your net worth.

Shop Around

Compare quotes from different insurance providers. Many home insurance companies and auto insurance companies offer umbrella policies as part of their product lineup. Look for a provider that offers competitive rates and comprehensive coverage.

Understand the Policy

Read the policy details carefully to understand what is covered and any exclusions that may apply. Ensure that the policy aligns with your needs and provides the desired level of protection.

Bundle Policies

Consider bundling your personal umbrella insurance with your existing home and auto insurance policies. Many insurers offer discounts for bundling, which can help lower your overall premium costs.

Review Annually

Regularly review your personal umbrella insurance policy to ensure it continues to meet your needs. Life changes such as acquiring new assets, changes in income, or modifications to your home can impact your liability exposure and insurance requirements.

Personal umbrella insurance is a powerful tool that provides an additional layer of protection, safeguarding your assets and future earnings from substantial claims and lawsuits. With enhanced financial protection, broader liability coverage, and peace of mind, personal umbrella insurance is an invaluable addition to your financial protection plan. Read more on why you should consider personal umbrella insurance.

By understanding what personal umbrella insurance can do for you and evaluating your unique needs, you can make an informed decision about whether this coverage is right for you.

Having proper insurance and competitive premiums is important. Let us cover your assets in the event of an accident or emergency. No matter what type of insurance you are looking for, look to Banas & Fickert Insurance Agency for the best in insurance coverage. Call us today at 413-527-2700 for quotes or questions. Trust in us to help keep you safe and protected.

July 26, 2024/by bana-admin

brick fronted house with major fire damage indicating the need to put in a homeowners insurance claim

Uncategorized

10 Surprising Things Your Home Insurance Might Cover

Home insurance – it’s there to protect your precious house in case of fire, theft, or a rogue windstorm. But not many people really dig deep into what their policy covers. Did you know your policy might hold some hidden gems waiting to be discovered? Beyond the expected coverage lies a treasure trove of benefits that could save you a pretty penny (or a delicious steak dinner) in unexpected situations. As always in the small print, sometime you can find pleasant and unpleasant surprises. Let’s delve into 10 surprising things your home insurance might cover:

1. Detached Structures: More Than Just Your House

Think your policy only covers the bricks and mortar (or studs and sheetrock here in New England) of your main residence? Think again! Many homeowners insurance policies extend coverage to detached structures like garages, sheds, gazebos, or even a fancy backyard cabana. So, if a rogue baseball or a mischievous raccoon damages your gardening haven, your insurance might have you covered.

2. Food Spoilage: Power Outage Blues Be Gone

Imagine this: a summer storm rolls through, knocking out your power for days. Your fridge thaws, and your freezer’s bounty turns into a science experiment. Some policies offer coverage for spoiled food due to a power outage. Be sure to check your policy limits and the specific duration covered. This is also a very good option to have when you have a business related to food, such a restaurant or food distribution company.

3. Loss of Use: When Home Sweet Home Becomes Uninhabitable

A fire, a flood, or a major structural issue can render your home unlivable. But the bills don’t stop! “Loss of Use” coverage helps with additional living expenses incurred while your home is being repaired. This could include hotel stays, restaurant meals, and even laundry services – all to maintain a semblance of normalcy during a stressful time.

4. Legal Battles: Accidents Happen.

Accidents happen, even at home. If your dog takes an unfortunate liking to the mail carrier’s leg, or a guest trips and injures themselves, your liability coverage can kick in. This helps cover legal fees and medical expenses if someone sues you due to an accident on your property (coverage limits apply, of course).

5. Identity Theft: Not Just for the Rich and Famous

Identity theft can wreak havoc on your finances and credit score. Some home insurance policies offer coverage for expenses related to identity theft, such as legal fees, credit monitoring, and even lost wages due to time spent resolving the issue. There is also such insurance policy that cover cyber liability, again, if you have a business related to collecting some information.

6. Acts of God (and Aliens?): Out-of-This-World Coverage

While a meteor shower might seem like a scene from a sci-fi movie, it’s actually covered under most home insurance policies! This extends to other “acts of God” like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. So, if a falling star decides to take a vacation on your roof, your insurance should have you covered (minus any potential alien invasion legal battles).

7. Stolen Belongings: Beyond the Walls of Your Home

Let’s say your laptop gets snatched from a coffee shop, or your bike disappears from a bike rack. Believe it or not, some home insurance policies offer coverage for personal belongings stolen outside your home, up to a certain limit.

8. Vandalism and Riots: When Things Get Unruly

If your neighborhood experiences a protest that turns destructive, or your teenager’s window gets decorated with creative graffiti, your vandalism and riot coverage can help pay for repairs.

9. Lawsuits: From Libel to Slander

While rare, some home insurance policies offer coverage for lawsuits arising from libel or slander. This can be a lifesaver if someone sues you for something you said (either accidentally or intentionally) that damages their reputation.

10. New Lock, Who Dis?

Had a roommate move out on bad terms, or simply lost your keys? Some policies cover the cost of replacing locks after a break-in or if you lose your keys. This helps ensure the security of your home.

Remember, It All Depends on Your Policy

It’s important to note that coverage details and limitations will vary depending on your specific policy and insurance company. Be sure to carefully review your policy documents or contact your insurance provider to understand the specifics of what your home insurance covers. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and ensure you have the right level of coverage for your needs.

By understanding the hidden gems within your home insurance policy, you can approach unexpected situations with a little more peace of mind. After all, your home insurance is there to protect not just your physical property, but also your financial well-being during life’s little curveballs.

Do you need to add a new policy, update an existing one, or change companies? Our agents will spend the time to discuss with you exactly what you need. We will put together an insurance package that will cover your family or business. We want to make sure that you are comfortable with your insurance, so we will also take the time to answer your questions, explain your options, and make sure you understand your policy.

Having proper insurance and competitive premiums is important. Let us cover your assets in the event of an accident or emergency. No matter what type of insurance you are looking for, look to Banas & Fickert Insurance Agency for the best in insurance coverage. Call us today at 413-527-2700 for quotes or questions. Trust in us to help keep you safe and protected.

May 25, 2024/by bana-admin

Homeowners Insurance

Why Your Home Insurance Premiums Are Rising

Our friends from Plymouth Rock Assurance recently posted an article on why home insurance prices are going up. We found it very helpful and decided to post similar article here.

Homeownership is a dream for many, offering a place of stability and comfort. But with that dream comes responsibility, and one important aspect is having proper home insurance. Unfortunately, many homeowners are facing a harsh reality, especially in the last years – rising home insurance premiums. This can feel like a financial burden, leaving you wondering why exactly costs are climbing.

The Storm Within the System: Climate Change and Its Impact

Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s a reality impacting our daily lives, and home insurance is no exception. Massachusetts is being affected among the rest.More severe weather events, like hurricanes, extreme temperature, long period of drought or floods are becoming increasingly frequent and intense. This translates to a surge in home insurance claims, as these events cause significant damage to properties. Insurance companies, facing a rise in payouts, are forced to adjust their premiums to maintain solvency and ensure they can continue to support policyholders in the face of these growing risks.

Supply Chain Blues: Delays and Disruptions

The global pandemic has caused significant disruptions in supply chains, impacting the availability and cost of building materials. Lumber, roofing, piping, copper wire, and drywall are just a few examples of materials experiencing backlogs. Remember those Texas cold spell that resulted in many consequences, such as glue shortage? These delays not only extend repair times but also drive up the cost of repairs. When repairs become more expensive, it naturally affects how much insurance companies need to pay out in claims. To account for this, they may adjust premiums to reflect the increased cost of rebuilding or repairing a home in the event of a covered loss.

A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats: Inflation and Material Costs

Inflation is another culprit behind rising home insurance premiums. The cost of virtually everything, including building materials, is on the rise. From asphalt shingles to wood, the materials needed to rebuild or repair a home have become more expensive. This means that even if a severe weather event doesn’t strike, the cost of repairing a standard claim has simply increased. Insurance companies need to factor in these rising costs when calculating premiums to ensure they have enough capital to cover potential claims.

Water Woes: Increased Risk of Water Damage

Modern home design trends may contribute to a rise in water damage claims. The desire for increased living space can lead to features like washing machines on upper floors. just think about Seaport in Boston, build on the sea level and already experiencing floods. Decision to build on the water maybe nice, but these placements introduce a higher risk of water damage if a leak occurs. Insurance companies see this trend and may adjust premiums to reflect the increased risk associated with specific home features or layouts.

Fire Gone Faster: The Burning Issue of Modern Materials

Unfortunately, even new homes are not immune to the threat of fire damage. Modern construction often utilizes materials like pressed wood and epoxies instead of solid hardwood. While lighter and potentially more affordable, these materials tend to burn faster and hotter in a fire. This can lead to more extensive damage, requiring a higher payout from the insurance company. As a result, premiums may be adjusted to reflect the increased risk associated with the use of these materials in newer homes.

Labor Shortage: The Cost of Skilled Workers

The skilled labor shortage in the construction industry is another factor impacting home insurance premiums. With fewer qualified workers available to handle repairs, contractors are forced to pay a premium to attract and retain talent. This rise in labor costs translates into higher overall repair costs, which insurance companies must account for when setting premiums.

Taking Shelter from the Storm: Strategies for Managing Rising Premiums

While the factors driving up home insurance premiums may seem daunting, there are steps you can take to manage the situation:

Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Get quotes from multiple insurance companies to compare rates and coverage options. We can help you to get quote from different insurance underwriters, ensuring you will be happy with your policy and can shop around in one place.
Raise Your Deductible: Increasing your deductible, the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in, can lower your premium. However, ensure you can comfortably afford the higher deductible in case of a claim.
Bundle Your Policies: Bundling your home insurance with other insurance policies, like car insurance, can often lead to discounts.
Improve Your Home’s Resilience: Consider mitigation strategies to reduce your home’s risk of certain types of damage. This could include installing storm shutters, a new roof, or upgrading your electrical wiring.
Maintain Your Home: Regular maintenance, like cleaning gutters and inspecting your roof, can help prevent damage and potential claims.

Weathering the Storm Together

Understanding the reasons behind rising home insurance premiums can empower you to make informed decisions. While the situation may seem challenging, remember that home insurance remains essential for protecting your investment. By implementing some of the strategies mentioned above, you can minimize the financial impact of rising premiums while ensuring your home remains properly protected.

Having proper insurance and competitive premiums is important. Let us cover your assets in the event of an accident or emergency. No matter what type of insurance you are looking for, look to Banas & Fickert Insurance Agency for the best in insurance coverage. Call us today at 413-527-2700 for quotes or questions. Trust in us to help keep you safe and protected.

April 25, 2024/by bana-admin

Homeowners Insurance

Why You Want to Have Flood Insurance to an Addition to a Homeowners Insurance in Massachusetts

Massachusetts, especially the charming South Shore, boasts stunning coastal landscapes, vibrant harbors, and a rich sense of community. However, seaside beauty also comes with a downside: the ever-present threat of floods. While homeowners insurance protects against fire, theft, and other perils, it leaves your home vulnerable to the devastating consequences of floodwaters. This is where flood insurance, a critical yet often misunderstood policy, steps in as your guardian angel against rising tides and overflowing rivers, snow melts and downpours.

Understanding the Flood Risk on the Massachusetts South Shore:

The South Shore’s idyllic coastal location makes it particularly susceptible to flooding. Storm surges, coastal erosion, and heavy rains can quickly turn tranquil waterways into raging torrents, wreaking havoc on homes and businesses. FEMA flood maps designate significant portions of the South Shore as high-risk zones, meaning a 1% annual chance of flooding. But even low-to-moderate risk areas are not immune, with statistics revealing a five times higher likelihood of experiencing a flood compared to a fire during a 30-year mortgage.

Why Flood Insurance is More Than Just a Checkbox:

While homeowners insurance provides a safety net for common perils, it explicitly excludes flood damage. This means that after a flood, you could be left facing astronomical repair costs, lost belongings, and a potentially uninhabitable home, all without financial support from your regular insurance policy. Flood insurance, on the other hand, bridges this crucial gap, offering coverage for:

Structural damage: This includes repairs to your home’s foundation, walls, roof, and interior due to floodwaters.
Personal belongings: Protect your furniture, appliances, electronics, and other valuables from flood damage.
Loss of use: If your home becomes uninhabitable due to flooding, flood insurance can help cover temporary living expenses.

Beyond the Basics: Flood Insurance Benefits for South Shore Residents:

Flood insurance is not just about financial protection; it offers several additional benefits for Massachusetts residents:

Peace of mind: Knowing your home is shielded from floodwaters allows you to relax and enjoy the beauty of the region without the constant worry of a potential disaster.
Increased property value: Homes with flood insurance are generally more attractive to buyers,potentially fetching a higher price in the future.
Mortgage requirement: If you live in a high-risk flood zone, lenders will likely require you to have flood insurance before approving your mortgage.

Taking Action: Securing Your Future with Flood Insurance:

Now that we’ve established the importance of flood insurance, the next step is acquiring the right policy for your needs. Here’s what you can do:

Determine your flood risk: Check FEMA’s flood maps to understand your specific flood zone and risk level.
Understand your policy: Carefully review your policy’s terms and conditions to ensure you understand what is covered and what is not.
Consult an insurance agent: A qualified agent can help you navigate the complexities of flood insurance and choose a policy that fits your needs and budget. Here at Banas & Fickert Insurance Agency we can help you to find right insurance and bundle it with other coverages that you may need.

Remember, flood insurance is not an expense, but an investment in your future and peace of mind. Don’t let the allure of the South Shore’s charm blind you to the potential risks. By taking proactive steps and securing flood insurance, you can ensure that your Massachusetts dream home remains a haven, even when the tide rises.

Additional Resources for Massachusetts Residents:

Massachusetts Flood Insurance Program: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/flood-assistance-and-insurance-information
FEMA Flood Map Service Center: https://www.fema.gov/flood-maps
National Flood Insurance Program: https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance

Let’s work together to build a flood-resilient community. Share this blog post with your friends, family, and neighbors, and encourage everyone to take steps to protect their homes and loved ones from the devastating effects of floods. Together, we can weather any storm.

Get a Quote

If you are considering flood insurance for your home or business, contact Banas & Fickert Insurance Agency. We can help you determine how at-risk your property is, then work with you to amend your current Homeowners or Commercial polices for more complete coverage.

January 23, 2024/by bana-admin

Whether you need personal insurance or business coverage, Banas & Fickert Insurance Agency is here to help. Contact us today to learn more! 413-527-2700

News

Becoming an Insurance Professional: Things You Need to Know

Whether you need personal insurance or business coverage, Banas & Fickert Insurance Agency is here to help. Contact us today to learn more! 413-527-2700

We all know how hard it is to find a job. Especially if you are looking for something that has higher pay and no qualifications are required. Being an insurance agent is one of those jobs that meet the criteria and you can do it at home as well. If you’ve recently been laid off or furloughed and you’re not sure what your next step should be, consider becoming a licensed insurance agent.

And when you think about a profession that is constantly changing and evolving, one of the first things to come to mind is that of an insurance agent. If you are looking for a career that offers endless opportunities, there are few that are better than what the insurance industry has to offer. Read on for some ideas from Banas & Fickert Insurance Agency.

Becoming an Insurance Professional

To become an agent, you will need a license through your state or province in order to sell policies. This can start with getting your license as an insurance producer by taking the licensing examination and meeting other requirements, like training hours and work experience requirements.

Another early step is to create a professional-looking resume. You should tailor your resume by including keywords in the skills section so that it’s the best fit for the type of insurance you plan to sell. Don’t forget to emphasize your credentials in the professional history and educational experiences sections. To learn more about the intricacies of drafting a winning resume, look for the best solution online for tips and advice.

An Insurance Agent vs. Broker

Kaplan Financial Education explains that an agent acts as an intermediary, providing buyers with information from the insurance company or companies that they represent. They have contracts with insurers that specify what policies they are allowed to sell and how much money they can expect to make from selling these policies.

A broker works closest with the client and helps them find the right insurance to purchase either directly from an insurance company or from wholesale brokers. While brokers can save their clients time and money, they usually have to pay a broker fee for those services.

Finding Leads

One of the most difficult aspects of an insurance agent’s job is finding new leads. Agents can generate leads by reaching out to prospects, networking through online sources, and contacting people in their social networks. Insurance Splash has some great ideas like raffles, fishbowls for business cards, and looking to your local chamber of commerce for networking events.

A more efficient way for agents to find and generate leads is by using a lead generation company. Lead generation companies offer agents access to a database of pre-qualified prospects and offer marketing resources to help agents reach these targets. These companies may also provide direct access to potential clients or customers, thus giving their clients access to a much larger pool of potential buyers than they could reach on their own.

Your Own Business

If your goal is to have an agency of your own, establishing an LLC is wise. As an LLC, your personal assets will be protected, plus there are other benefits, like pass-through taxation and flexibility for future growth. States have different regulations around forming an LLC, so check the rules in your state before moving ahead. You can use online business formation support to help walk you through the process easily and effectively.

Since person-to-person and word of mouth are the most personal and sincere forms of marketing, be sure you have plenty of business cards on hand. To avoid the time and expense of hiring professionals, use a business card maker to design and print your own. You can use your own logo, colors, fonts, and designs to customize them to suit your brand and your style.

The life of an insurance agent can be hectic and unpredictable. One day you might be at the closing for a home sale, and the next, you could be in court to represent a client in a lawsuit. If you’re looking for an interesting career in a growing field, and perhaps run it as an LLC, the insurance industry may be your perfect fit.

September 20, 2023/by bana-admin

Life Insurance

Your questions on Life Insurance ANSWERED

Plan ahead, your loved ones will thank you.

We always think there’s time, until it’s too late and we leave the ones left behind scrambling trying to figure it all out.

Are you thinking about life insurance? Maybe you are coming up on a potential life milestone prompting you to take action. People get life insurance at all junctures in their lives. When starting a career, getting married, having a family…

Often we wait until there is a significant wakeup call prompting us to make major life changes. That’s ok – we are here to tell you, it’s never too late to make those changes. We are also here to tell you as you get older life insurance will cost you more. It’s good to sign-up sooner! The younger, the healthier – the lower the cost. Read more

May 10, 2022/by bana-admin

Auto Insurance

How The Electric Car Could Change The Auto Insurance Industry

Back in 2008 when Tesla released the roadster, the first legally drivable electric car we would see the auto industry change forever. With high capacity batteries, sophisticated sensors and higher cost to repair, what will happen to your insurance premium if you make the purchase? Read more

April 11, 2022/by bana-admin

Risk Management, Homeowners Insurance

8 Common Holiday Insurance Claims

The holiday season, particularly Christmas, comes with excitement, high expectations, and joyful moments. However, excitement can result in unexpected risks and hazards. Damages, personal injuries, and accidents are the most common claims insurance companies face during the festive season. Here’s a look at the most common holiday insurance claims.

1. Falling Through the Attic

Missing the ceiling joists when bringing down Christmas decorations is common. That puts much pressure on the actual ceiling, which cannot support a person’s weight, resulting in a missed footing and even falling through the ceiling. It’s best to be watchful about where you place your feet.