Insurance

Discover the Ultimate Restaurant Insurance Program for Your Business

Discover the Ultimate Restaurant Insurance Program for Your Business

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Restaurant Insurance | Contact Shield Agency to get started

Restaurant insurance is important for several reasons. It provides financial protection, ensuring that the restaurant is not financially devastated by unexpected accidents, injuries, or lawsuits. It also helps restaurants comply with laws and regulations that require certain types of insurance coverage. Having the right insurance coverage gives restaurant owners peace of mind, allowing them to focus on running their business without worrying about unforeseen risks. Additionally, restaurant insurance helps protect the restaurant’s reputation by covering the costs of repairs, lost income, and other expenses in the event of a covered event.

What Does Restaurant Insurance Cover?

Restaurant insurance is designed to protect your business from a variety of risks and liabilities. Here are some of the key coverages typically included in a restaurant insurance policy:

  • Property Insurance: This coverage protects your building, equipment, inventory, and other physical assets from damage or loss caused by fire, theft, vandalism, or other covered perils.
  • General Liability Insurance: General liability insurance provides coverage for bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury claims that arise from your restaurant’s operations. This coverage can help pay for medical expenses, legal fees, and settlements or judgments if you are found liable for an accident or injury.
  • Liquor Liability Insurance: If your restaurant serves alcohol, liquor liability insurance is essential. This coverage protects you from claims and lawsuits related to alcohol-related accidents or injuries caused by intoxicated patrons.
  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If you have employees, workers’ compensation insurance is typically required by law. This coverage provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill on the job, including medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
  • Business Interruption Insurance: Business interruption insurance helps replace lost income and cover ongoing expenses if your restaurant is forced to temporarily close due to a covered event, such as a fire or natural disaster.
  • Food Contamination Coverage: This coverage protects your business in the event of a foodborne illness outbreak or contamination that leads to a loss of income or damage to your reputation.
  • Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Equipment breakdown insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing essential equipment, such as refrigeration units or cooking appliances, if they break down due to mechanical or electrical failure.
  • Cyber Liability Insurance: In today’s digital age, cyber liability insurance is becoming increasingly important for restaurants. This coverage helps protect against data breaches, cyberattacks, and other cyber-related risks that could compromise your customers’ personal information.
  • Employment Practices Liability Insurance: This coverage protects your restaurant from claims related to employment practices, such as wrongful termination, discrimination, or harassment.
  • Commercial Auto Insurance: If your restaurant owns vehicles for deliveries or other business purposes, commercial auto insurance is necessary to protect against accidents, property damage, and liability claims.

How Much Does Restaurant Insurance Cost?

The cost of restaurant insurance can vary depending on several factors, including the size of your restaurant, the type of cuisine you serve, your location, your claims history, and the coverages and limits you choose. On average, restaurant insurance can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 per year.

To get an accurate quote for your restaurant insurance, it’s best to contact an insurance agent who specializes in restaurant insurance. They can assess your specific needs and provide you with a customized quote based on your unique circumstances.

Why Is Restaurant Insurance Important?

Restaurant insurance is essential for protecting your business from the many risks and liabilities that come with operating a restaurant. Here are a few reasons why restaurant insurance is important:

  • Financial Protection: Restaurant insurance provides financial protection in the event of a covered loss or liability claim. Without insurance, you could be responsible for paying out of pocket for property damage, injuries, or legal fees, which could be financially devastating for your business.
  • Compliance with Laws and Regulations: Many states and local jurisdictions require restaurants to carry certain types of insurance, such as workers’ compensation or liquor liability insurance. By having the necessary insurance coverage, you can ensure that you are in compliance with these laws and regulations.
  • Peace of Mind: Running a restaurant is already a challenging endeavor, and the last thing you want to worry about is unexpected accidents, injuries, or lawsuits. With the right insurance coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are protected against these risks and can focus on running your business.
  • Reputation Protection: In the event of a foodborne illness outbreak, property damage, or other covered event, restaurant insurance can help cover the costs of repairs, lost income, and other expenses. This can help protect your restaurant’s reputation and ensure that you can quickly recover and get back to serving your customers.

In conclusion, restaurant insurance is a crucial investment for any restaurant owner. It provides financial protection, ensures compliance with laws and regulations, and offers peace of mind knowing that your business is protected against a wide range of risks and liabilities. To find the best restaurant insurance program for your business, it’s important to work with an experienced insurance agent who can assess your needs and provide you with a customized insurance solution. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

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Wind-powered shipping - Shield Insurance Blog

Wind-powered shipping is back as a quiet revolution sweeps the seas

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Positive News | by Robin Eveleigh | August 25, 2023 | Wind-powered shipping | Contact Shield Insurance

A sail-powered freighter is the latest attempt to clean up the shipping sector. Electric ferries are also taking to the waves, but the route to a cleaner future is long

Cutting-edge yacht racing technology has been brought to modern-day cargo shipping in a bid to cut the sector’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.

Shipping, largely powered by heavy sulfur fuel oil, spews out around three percent of global emissions. Although wind – not fossil fuels – once powered global trade, sails are impractical on modern vessels thanks to their weight and size.

Until now. 

Wind-powered shipping

Mitsubishi-owned bulker, Pyxis Ocean, weighed anchor on Monday and retrofitted with two ‘WindWings’, designed by British marine engineers BAR Technologies. They’re expected to save the vessel around three tonnes of fuel a day on its crossing from Singapore to Brazil. 

“If you’d asked me two and a half years ago whether wind power would ever again play a significant role in shipping, I would have been skeptical,” said Aleksander Askeland, CSO of Norway-based Yara Marine, which oversaw WindWings’ build and installation. “You need wind to overcome a threshold where it becomes meaningful, and that’s not at all obvious when you have such large vessels to move around. It’s a completely different game to the age of sail.”

BAR Technologies drew on their experience operating in the highest echelons of elite yacht racing to design WindWings, with development funding from the EU and global conglomerate Cargill. 

More on Wind-powered shipping…

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Timing is everything: How to file an auto insurance claim like a pro!

Timing is everything: How to file an auto insurance claim like a pro!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Insurance Claim | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Accidents happen. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision, dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. One of the most important steps in the process is filing an auto insurance claim. But when exactly should you file a claim? In this blog post, we will discuss the factors to consider and the steps to take when filing an auto insurance claim.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand what an auto insurance claim is. An auto insurance claim is a request made to your insurance company to cover the damages and expenses resulting from a car accident. This can include repairs to your vehicle, medical bills, and even compensation for pain and suffering.

So, when should you file an auto insurance claim? The answer depends on several factors. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

  • The severity of the accident: If the accident resulted in significant damage to your vehicle or caused injuries, it’s advisable to file a claim as soon as possible. This will ensure that you receive the necessary financial assistance to cover the expenses.
  • Insurance policy terms: Review your insurance policy to understand the specific requirements and timelines for filing a claim. Some policies may have a specific time limit within which you must report the accident and file a claim. Failure to do so may result in a denial of coverage.
  • Cost of repairs: If the cost of repairs exceeds your deductible, it’s generally a good idea to file a claim. Your deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. If the repairs are minimal and fall below your deductible, it may be more cost-effective to pay for them out of pocket.
  • Liability: If you were not at fault for the accident and the other party’s insurance company is covering the damages, you may not need to file a claim with your own insurance company. However, it’s still important to report the accident to your insurance company, as they may need to be aware of the situation.

Now that we’ve discussed when to file an auto insurance claim, let’s dive into the process itself.

1. Gather information: Collect all the necessary information related to the accident, including the other party’s contact and insurance details, witness statements, and any photographs or videos of the scene. This information will be crucial when filing your claim.

2. Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and provide you with the necessary forms and instructions.

3. Provide documentation: Fill out the claim forms accurately and provide any supporting documentation requested by your insurance company. This may include police reports, medical records, and repair estimates.

4. Follow the timeline: Be aware of the timeline set by your insurance company for submitting the required documents and information. Failure to meet these deadlines may result in delays or denial of your claim.

5. Cooperate with the investigation: Your insurance company may conduct an investigation to determine the cause and extent of the damages. Cooperate fully with their requests and provide any additional information they may need.

6. Keep records: Maintain a record of all communication with your insurance company, including emails, phone calls, and letters. This will help you keep track of the progress of your claim and serve as evidence if any disputes arise.

Now that you know the steps to file an auto insurance claim, here are a few tips to make the process smoother:

1. Be honest and accurate: Provide truthful and accurate information when filing your claim. Any discrepancies or false information can lead to complications and potential denial of coverage.

2. Document everything: Keep a detailed record of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair receipts, and any other relevant documents. This will help ensure that you are adequately compensated for your losses.

3. Understand your coverage: Familiarize yourself with the terms and coverage limits of your insurance policy. Knowing what is covered and what is not will help you set realistic expectations during the claims process.

4. Seek professional advice: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the claims process or feel that your insurance company is not handling your claim fairly, consider consulting with an attorney or a public adjuster who can advocate for your rights.

In conclusion, filing an auto insurance claim is a crucial step in recovering from a car accident. By understanding when to file a claim, following the necessary steps, and being proactive throughout the process, you can ensure a smoother and more successful claims experience.

Remember, Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can provide you with the guidance and support you need when filing an auto insurance claim. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon. Stay safe on the roads!

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Huge marble artworks dropped into the Mediterranean in a radical plan to eliminate illegal trawling fishing are finally allowing damaged ecosystems to regrow.

The underwater sculptures tackling illegal trawling

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Positive News | by Veronique Mistiaen | August 8, 2022 | Illegal Trawling | Shield Insurance Blog

Huge marble artworks dropped into the Mediterranean in a radical plan to eliminate illegal trawling finally allowing damaged ecosystems to regrow.

What is illegal trawling?

Trawling is an industrial method of fishing that involves pulling a fishing net, that is heavily weighted to keep it on the seafloor, through the water behind one or more boats. The net used for trawling is called a trawl. Wikipedia

Deep into the sea off the coast of Talamone in Tuscany, lie a mermaid and a reclining figure carved in smooth Carrara marble. With other statues, they form a strange, dreamy underwater museum. They are silent guardians, protecting the sea against gangs trawling illegally at night.

With their nets ballasted with heavy chains dragging on the seafloor, the trawlers uproot the Posidonia meadows, a seagrass endemic to the Mediterranean and vital to the marine ecosystem, which soaks up 15 times more carbon dioxide annually than an equivalent area of the Amazon rainforest. 

The practice is illegal within three nautical miles of the coast of Italy, but because it is very profitable and impossible to police the 8,000km of Italian coastline, bottom trawlers carry on at night regardless.

For years, Paolo Fanciulli, a local fisherman alarmed at the devastation caused by the trawlers, has tried various ways to stop them, including placing concrete bollards on the bottom of the sea with the help of Talamone municipality. But it wasn’t enough. 

He thought the blocks might have more impact if they were carved by well-known artists, explained Ippolito Turco, a friend of Fanciulli and president of the non-profit Casa dei Pesci, which they created together to protect the sea. A Carrara quarry offered 100 huge blocks of marble, artists donated their time and locals fundraised for the project.

“I thought it was a brilliant idea: it would attract more attention to the problem,” said British stone sculptor Emily Young, who contributed three colossal heads.

There are now 39 underwater sculptures and marble blocks at Talamone, lowered in 2015 and 2020, and another 12 are ready to join them as soon as necessary funds can be raised.

They create a defense against the trawlers and a unique underwater museum, to anyone. The statues also provide a structure on which organisms can grow, encouraging more plant life and sea creatures to return.

“The first head, the 18-tonne Weeping Guardian, which was lowered down five years ago, shows a good growth of plant life, including anemones. Fish are making good use of the newly available food and hiding places,” said Young.

Click here for the rest of the story on illegal trawling..

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3 Factors Driving A Hardening Market In The Construction Sector - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Social Inflation: 3 factors driving a hardening market in the construction sector

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Shield Insurance Blog | Social Inflation | Start A Quote Today

1. Social inflation leads to increasing liability claim costs

Though workplace injury has always been a major cost driver for the construction industry, social and medical inflation are leading to larger liability claims payouts, whether as a result of a third-party injuries due to vehicle accidents or other worksite incidents. According to Ironshore’s Britt Sellers: “…juries are taking sympathy with the plaintiffs across all liability lines, alleging that ‘the general contractor should have done this or could have done that to prevent an injury.’”

Because of social inflation and the rising cost of medical treatment, the trend toward “nuclear” jury verdicts – where payouts surpass $10 million – has been on the rise since 2015. And this is forcing change in the insurance market. Beauvais reports, “Back in 2016, $25 million was the nominal limit deployment that we saw on a lead umbrella, but by 2019, we saw that get pulled back to somewhere between $10 million and $15 million. Now we’re seeing the limit pulled as low as $5 million in the lead umbrella space.” For companies seeking more coverage, the market is limited – and prices are much higher.

2. Cost-saving measures lead to construction defects

Another factor influencing the hard P&C market are “value engineering claims.” Though value engineering is beneficial in the right hands, at times, some cost-saving measures can lead to failure points – and those failures come at a high cost.

In response to questions about the frequency of value engineering claims, Sellers notes, “Our claims group has identified two factors that are resulting in greater frequency and severity of design-related claims. The first is when architectural plans or project specifications lack sufficient detail in some respect. The second factor involves inadequate communication between design professionals and general contractors and subcontractors.”

Lack of communication and inadequate project specifications can lead contractors to opt for alternative methods that cut costs. But when those methods fail, the contractor is liable – and potentially expensive claims may follow.

3. Design/build contracts shift liability

Click here for the rest of the story…

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Cracked Windshield? Here's How Full Glass Coverage Can Save the Day

Full Glass Insurance Coverage Can Save the Day

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Glass Insurance | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

When it comes to glass insurance, there are many different types of coverage options available. One type of coverage that you may have heard of is full glass insurance coverage. But what exactly does this coverage entail and how does it work? In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of full glass insurance coverage and help you understand if it is something you should consider for your own auto insurance policy.

Full glass insurance coverage, also known as comprehensive glass coverage, is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy. It is designed to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle’s glass, including the windshield, windows, and mirrors, in the event of damage. This coverage is typically available for both personal and commercial vehicles.

So, how does full glass insurance coverage work? Let’s break it down.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that full glass insurance coverage is not included in standard auto insurance policies. It is an additional coverage option that you can choose to add to your policy for an extra premium. The cost of this coverage will vary depending on factors such as your location, the type of vehicle you drive, and your driving history.

Once you have added full glass insurance coverage to your policy, you will be protected against damage to your vehicle’s glass caused by a variety of perils. These perils can include things like accidents, vandalism, theft, falling objects, and even natural disasters. It’s important to review your policy to understand exactly what is covered and what is not.

In the event that your vehicle’s glass is damaged, you will need to file a claim with your insurance company. This typically involves contacting your insurance agent or the company’s claims department and providing them with the necessary information, such as your policy number, a description of the damage, and any supporting documentation, such as photos or a police report.

Once your claim is filed, an adjuster from the insurance company will assess the damage and determine the appropriate course of action. In some cases, the adjuster may recommend repairing the glass rather than replacing it, depending on the extent of the damage. If the glass needs to be replaced, the insurance company will typically cover the cost of the replacement, minus any applicable deductibles.

It’s important to note that full glass insurance coverage usually comes with a deductible. A deductible is the amount of money that you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if your deductible is $500 and the cost of replacing your windshield is $1,000, you would be responsible for paying the first $500, and your insurance company would cover the remaining $500.

In addition to the deductible, there may also be limitations on the number of glass claims you can make within a certain time period. This is to prevent abuse of the coverage and to keep premiums affordable for all policyholders. It’s important to review your policy to understand any limitations or restrictions that may apply.

It’s also worth noting that full glass insurance coverage is separate from collision coverage, which covers damage to your vehicle in the event of an accident. While collision coverage may cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle’s glass if it is damaged in an accident, full glass insurance coverage provides additional protection against other perils, such as vandalism or falling objects.

So, is full glass insurance coverage worth it? That ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you live in an area with a high risk of glass damage, such as a city with a lot of construction or a region prone to severe weather, full glass insurance coverage may provide valuable peace of mind. On the other hand, if you rarely drive or live in an area with minimal risk of glass damage, it may not be necessary.

In conclusion, full glass insurance coverage is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy that covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle’s glass in the event of damage. It is not included in standard auto insurance policies and must be added for an additional premium. If you choose to add this coverage to your policy, you will be protected against a variety of perils that can damage your vehicle’s glass. However, it’s important to review your policy to understand any limitations, deductibles, or restrictions that may apply. Ultimately, whether or not full glass insurance coverage is worth it will depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.

 Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

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How to Become a 100 Percenter

Unlock Your Full Potential: Master the Art of Becoming a 100 Percenter!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Daily Good | BY DANNY ALMAGOR | Aug 21, 2023 | 100 Percenter | Shield Insurance Blog

At Small Giants, the parent company of Dumbo Feather, we’re all about investing our passion and money into projects we believe can make the world better. We’re 100 percenters—or at least that’s our aim!

The term “100 percenter” is inspired by Charly and Lisa Kleissner, tech entrepreneurs who wanted to invest their money in a meaningful way—and inspire others to do the same. That’s why they started the 100 percent impact network, which brings together like-minded people who invest all of their assets into social and environmental causes.

“being 100 percent isn’t just about money”

Now, these are some serious investors, but being 100 percent isn’t just about money; it’s about making a 100 percent commitment to ensuring your life reflects your values. As Kleissner says, “social transformation begins with personal transformation.”

Just think of all the decisions you make every day, from the big to the mundane—where you invest your super, what you eat for dinner, where you buy your coffee, what you do for work, the relationships you have. Imagine if you could align these choices with your core beliefs. We’re on the road to doing that, and while we’re still working a lot of it out ourselves, this two-step guide will help you get the wheels in motion.

1. Work out what your values are

When I’m asked what key things I want to see changed in the world, I say: protecting the environment, encouraging hope and good leadership, building businesses that do social good, and working for peace. Your values might be different. You might be more of an animal person. Or someone who thinks we can’t go further as a society without learning how to be more vulnerable. The point is: if you can’t articulate the things that are most important to you, how can you ensure you’re focussing your energies in the best way?

A good way to discover what you care about is by doing volunteer work. If you know which area you want to volunteer in—children, homelessness, environment, education, health, etc.—then you’re sorted. If you don’t, try a few new projects until you’re hooked on something. From this, a list of values should emerge.

2. Align your values with your actions

If protecting children is a high priority, consider whether what you do at work, or what you buy, affects kids in some way. Maybe through child labor abuses? Or on a positive note: employing single mothers.

The best way to uphold these values is to surround yourself with like-minded people. It can be difficult to change the people you hang out with, but think about it: if all your work colleagues are mad cyclists, you’ll probably end up riding too, or if all your friends smoke, it’ll be hard to be the only non-smoker. On top of a great social group, find a mentor or coach whose values you respect.

Now, although I’ve made this sound fairly easy, the reality is, change is hard. And even when we do work at it, dilemmas arise. If you’re an environmentalist, for example, how do you justify international travel? If you care about health, should you still eat that sugary dessert? I care about animals but I eat meat, one of my many inconsistencies. The key is to be conscious about your choices and do the best you can. As my kids remind me, “If you reach for the stars, you might just touch the moon.”

What if you were able to align your values with how you live? We have 3 steps to help you become a 100 percenter. A Dumbo Feather production by Dennis YC Liu. 

For more inspiration, join an Awakin Call this weekend with Danny Almagor and Berry Liberman! More details and RSVP info here, 

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The Ultimate Guide to Comp and Collision Coverage: What You Need to Know

The Ultimate Guide to Comp and Collision Coverage: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Comp and Collision Coverage | Start an Auto Quote Today!

When it comes to protecting your vehicle, having the right insurance coverage is crucial. Two common types of coverage that often confuse car owners are comprehensive and collision insurance. While both provide financial protection in the event of damage or loss, they differ in terms of the incidents they cover. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of comprehensive and collision insurance, highlighting their differences, benefits, and scenarios where each type is applicable.

1. Comprehensive Insurance Coverage:

Comprehensive insurance, often referred to as “comp” insurance, is designed to cover damages to your vehicle that are not caused by a collision with another vehicle. It provides protection against a wide range of incidents, including theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, falling objects, and animal collisions. Essentially, comprehensive coverage safeguards your vehicle from non-collision-related risks.

2. Collision Coverage:

Collision insurance, as the name suggests, covers damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object. This type of coverage is specifically designed to protect your vehicle in scenarios where you are at fault or involved in a single-vehicle accident, such as hitting a tree, fence, or wall. Collision coverage ensures that your vehicle is repaired or replaced, regardless of who is responsible for the accident.

Differences between Comprehensive and Collision Insurance Coverage:

While both comprehensive and collision insurance provide protection for your vehicle, they differ in terms of the incidents they cover and the circumstances under which they apply. Here are the key differences:

a. Covered Incidents:

Comprehensive insurance covers a wide range of incidents, including theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, falling objects, and animal collisions. On the other hand, collision insurance specifically covers damages resulting from collisions with other vehicles or objects.

b. Fault Consideration:

Comprehensive insurance is not dependent on fault. It covers damages regardless of who is responsible for the incident. In contrast, collision insurance only applies when you are at fault or involved in a single-vehicle accident.

c. Deductibles:

Both comprehensive and collision insurance policies typically have deductibles. A deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Deductibles for comprehensive coverage are generally lower than those for collision coverage.

d. Premiums:

Premiums for comprehensive and collision insurance can vary based on several factors, including the value of your vehicle, your driving history, and your location. Collision insurance tends to have higher premiums compared to comprehensive insurance due to the higher likelihood of accidents involving collisions.

e. Vehicle Age and Value:

The age and value of your vehicle can also influence the need for comprehensive and collision coverage. Comprehensive insurance is often recommended for newer vehicles or those with higher values, as it provides broader protection against various risks. Collision insurance is more commonly recommended for vehicles with a higher risk of collision-related incidents.

Scenarios Where Each Comp and Collision Coverage is Applicable:

Understanding the scenarios where comprehensive and collision coverage are applicable can help you make an informed decision when choosing the right insurance for your vehicle. Here are some examples:

a. Comprehensive Coverage:

  • – Your vehicle is stolen or vandalized.
  • – Your car is damaged by a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or hailstorm.
  • – A tree falls on your vehicle during a storm.
  • – Your car is damaged by fire or explosions.
  • – You collide with an animal on the road.

b. Collision Coverage:

  • – You collide with another vehicle, regardless of who is at fault.
  • – You hit a stationary object, such as a wall, fence, or pole.
  • – Your vehicle rolls over due to a single-vehicle accident.
  • – You collide with a tree or other objects on the road.

Comprehensive and collision insurance coverage is essential for protecting your vehicle from various risks. While comprehensive coverage safeguards against non-collision-related incidents, collision coverage specifically addresses damages resulting from collisions with other vehicles or objects. Understanding the differences between these two types of coverage, along with the scenarios where they are applicable, can help you make an informed decision when selecting the right insurance for your vehicle. Remember, it’s crucial to consult with an insurance professional to determine the best coverage options based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

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Uninsured Motorist Coverage The Ultimate Guide to Peace of Mind on the Road.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage: The Ultimate Guide to Peace of Mind on the Road

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Shield Insurance Blog | Uninsured Motorist Coverage | Start A Quote Today!

Driving on the road can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. One of the biggest concerns for any driver is the possibility of getting into an accident with an uninsured motorist. In such situations, having uninsured motorist coverage can provide you with the peace of mind you need. In this ultimate guide, we will explore what uninsured motorist coverage is, why it is important, and how it can protect you in case of an accident.

What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage is an insurance policy that protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or has insufficient coverage. It is an optional coverage that you can add to your existing auto insurance policy. In the event of an accident, uninsured motorist coverage will help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by the uninsured driver.

Why is it Important?

1. Protection against Uninsured Drivers: According to the Insurance Research Council, approximately one in eight drivers in the United States is uninsured. If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you may be left to cover the expenses out of your own pocket. Uninsured motorist coverage ensures that you are protected in such situations.

2. Medical Expenses Coverage: In the unfortunate event of an accident, medical expenses can quickly add up. Uninsured motorist coverage can help cover the cost of medical treatment, including hospital bills, surgeries, and rehabilitation. This coverage can be a lifesaver, especially if you do not have health insurance or have high deductibles.

3. Lost Wages Coverage: If you are injured in an accident and unable to work, uninsured motorist coverage can provide compensation for your lost wages. This can help alleviate the financial burden caused by the accident and allow you to focus on your recovery without worrying about your income.

4. Property Damage Coverage: Uninsured motorist coverage not only protects you against bodily injuries but also covers damages to your vehicle. If the uninsured driver is at fault for the accident, this coverage can help pay for the repairs or replacement of your vehicle.

How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Work?

Uninsured motorist coverage can vary depending on your insurance provider and the state you live in. However, there are a few key components that are common across most policies:

1. Bodily Injury Coverage: This component of uninsured motorist coverage helps cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by the accident. It typically has a per-person and per-accident limit, which determines the maximum amount the insurance company will pay.

2. Property Damage Coverage: This component covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident with an uninsured driver. Like bodily injury coverage, it also has a limit that determines the maximum amount the insurance company will pay.

3. Hit-and-Run Coverage: Some uninsured motorist policies also include coverage for hit-and-run accidents. If you are involved in a hit-and-run and the responsible driver cannot be identified, this coverage can help cover your medical expenses and property damage.

4. Underinsured Motorist Coverage: In addition to uninsured motorist coverage, some policies also include underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage comes into play when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their coverage is insufficient to fully compensate you for your damages. Underinsured motorist coverage helps bridge the gap between the at-fault driver’s coverage and your actual damages.

How to Obtain this Coverage

To obtain uninsured motorist coverage, you need to contact your insurance provider and add it to your existing auto insurance policy. The cost of uninsured motorist coverage can vary depending on factors such as your driving record, the state you live in, and the coverage limits you choose. It is important to review your policy and understand the coverage limits and exclusions before making a decision.

Uninsured motorist coverage is a crucial component of any auto insurance policy. It provides you with the peace of mind you need on the road, knowing that you are protected in case of an accident with an uninsured driver. From covering medical expenses to compensating for lost wages and property damage, uninsured motorist coverage offers comprehensive protection. Don’t wait until it’s too late – add uninsured motorist coverage to your policy today and drive with confidence knowing that you are prepared for any situation that may arise on the road.

Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

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One of the most common questions people have is why it takes longer to get a business insurance quote than an auto insurance quote.

Cracking the Code: Why Auto Insurance Quotes Beat Business Insurance Quotes in Speed

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Business Insurance | Insurance Quotes | Start A Quote Today!

Business Insurance Quotes vs Auto Insurance Quotes

When it comes to insurance, there are many factors that can affect the time it takes to get a quote. One of the most common questions people have is why it takes longer to get a business insurance quote than an auto insurance quote. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind this and provide some insights into the process.

Firstly, it is important to understand that business insurance is a much more complex and specialized type of coverage compared to auto insurance. Business insurance covers a wide range of risks and liabilities that are unique to each individual business. This means that the insurance company needs to gather more information and assess a greater number of factors in order to provide an accurate quote.

One of the main reasons why it takes longer to get a business insurance quote is the level of customization required. Unlike auto insurance, which has standardized coverage options, business insurance needs to be tailored to the specific needs of each business. This means that the insurance company needs to gather detailed information about the business, such as its size, industry, location, and the specific risks it faces. This information is used to determine the appropriate coverage and limits for the business, which can take time to assess.

Insurance Quotes

Another factor that can contribute to the longer quote process for business insurance is the number of insurance companies involved. Unlike auto insurance, where there are a limited number of providers, business insurance has a much larger market. This means that there are more insurance companies to choose from, each with its own underwriting guidelines and pricing models. In order to provide the best quote for a business, the insurance company needs to shop around and compare quotes from multiple providers. This can take time, especially if the business has unique or specialized needs.

Additionally, business insurance often requires more documentation and verification compared to auto insurance. This is because businesses typically have more assets and liabilities that need to be assessed. For example, a business may need to provide financial statements, inventory lists, or proof of compliance with certain regulations. This additional paperwork can add to the time it takes to get a quote, as the insurance company needs to review and verify the information provided.

Furthermore, the complexity of business insurance policies can also contribute to the longer quote process. Business insurance policies often have more coverage options and endorsements compared to auto insurance. This means that the insurance company needs to carefully review and assess each option to ensure that the policy meets the specific needs of the business. This level of detail and customization can take time to evaluate and determine the appropriate coverage and pricing.

In conclusion, there are several reasons why it takes longer to get a business insurance quote compared to an auto insurance quote. The level of customization required, the number of insurance companies involved, the additional documentation and verification, and the complexity of the policies all contribute to the longer quote process. However, it is important to remember that the extra time and effort put into obtaining a business insurance quote is necessary to ensure that the business is adequately protected. So, if you are in need of business insurance, be patient and provide the necessary information to get the best coverage for your unique needs.

If you are looking for the best RV insurance quote, camper van insurance, or the best insurance for Motorhome Insurance near you, Shield Insurance Agency can help. With over 40 insurance companies represented, they have the expertise and resources to find the right coverage at an affordable price. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon. Protect your family and your business with the right insurance coverage from Shield Insurance Agency.

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