Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Welcome to the Shield Insurance Agency Blog. 

Here you will find a ton of articles on each of these topics: Auto Insurance, Boat/Watercraft Insurance, Business Insurance, Flood Insurance, Health Insurance, Home Insurance, Insurance, Life Insurance, Michigan Auto Insurance Reform, Recreational Insurance, Renters Insurance, RV Insurance, Things To Do At Home, Umbrella Insurance, and even a list of the Shield Agency Weekly Gift Card Winners,

If you have any suggestions for content, please drop us an email.

Will my insurance cover a rental car if my car breaks down? Find out now!"

🚗🔧 Will my insurance cover a rental car if my car breaks down? Find out now!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Rental Car | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

When it comes to car insurance, there are many questions that can arise. One common question that many people have is whether their insurance will cover a rental car if their own car breaks down. In this blog post, we will explore this topic and provide you with the information you need to know.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the different types of coverage available with auto insurance. The most basic type of coverage is liability insurance, which covers damages to other people and their property if you are at fault in an accident. This type of coverage does not typically extend to rental cars.

However, there are other types of coverage that may provide coverage in the event of a breakdown. One such coverage is called comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage is designed to cover damages to your own vehicle that are not the result of a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Some comprehensive policies may also include coverage for rental cars if your own car is in the shop for repairs due to a breakdown.

Another type of coverage is called roadside assistance or breakdown coverage. This coverage is designed to provide assistance if your car breaks down, such as towing, jump-starting a dead battery, or changing a flat tire. Some roadside assistance policies may also include coverage for a rental auto while your car is being repaired.

It is important to note that not all insurance carriers offer rental auto coverage in the event of a breakdown. It is always a good idea to review your policy or contact your insurance carrier to determine if this coverage is included in your policy. If it is not, you may have the option to add it for an additional premium.

If your insurance policy does not include rental car coverage for breakdowns, there are other options available to you. One option is to purchase rental car insurance from the rental car company itself. This type of insurance typically provides coverage for damages to the rental car and may also include liability coverage. However, it is essential to note that rental car insurance can be expensive and may duplicate coverage that you already have through your own auto insurance policy.

Another option is to consider purchasing a separate breakdown insurance policy. This type of policy is specifically designed to cover the costs associated with a breakdown, including the cost of a rental autowhile your car is being repaired. Breakdown insurance policies can be purchased from various insurance companies and may provide coverage for a wide range of breakdown-related expenses.

In conclusion, whether your insurance will cover a rental car if your car breaks down depends on the specific coverage you have in your policy. Liability insurance typically does not provide rental car coverage, but comprehensive coverage and roadside assistance or breakdown coverage may include this type of coverage. If your policy does not include rental car coverage, you may have the option to add it for an additional premium or consider purchasing rental car insurance from the rental car company or a separate breakdown insurance policy.

If you have any questions about your car insurance coverage or would like to explore your options for rental car coverage, it is always a good idea to contact your insurance carrier or speak with an insurance agent. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can provide you with a free quote and personalized advice. 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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Renewables are on track to keep getting cheaper and cheaper

Renewables are on track to keep getting cheaper and cheaper

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

A new report says that ongoing improvements in renewables tech will keep driving steep cost declines that make them even more competitive against fossil fuels.

Canary Media | Sept 2023 | Alison F. Takemura | Renewables | Shield Insurance Blog

Canary Media’s chart of the week translates crucial data about the clean energy transition into a visual format.

Renewable energy already beats fossil fuels on cost globally — and according to analysts, the gap is only going to grow.

By 2030, technology improvements could slash today’s prices by a quarter for wind and by half for solar, according to the authors of a recent report from clean energy think tank RMI. (Canary Media is an independent affiliate of RMI.)

These remarkable and ongoing cost declines have made clean energy so attractive that it now outcompetes fossil fuels for new investment: 62 percent of global energy investment is expected to flow to clean energy technologies this year.

That cash is helping push renewables to new heights. According to estimates from the International Energy Agency, global clean energy capacity is expected to jump a jaw-dropping 107 gigawatts to more than 440 gigawatts this year — its largest increase ever.

What we’re living in ​“is an energy technology revolution,” said report co-author Kingsmill Bond, an energy strategist at RMI. It’s obvious from the data, yet the point is often lost in ​“a consistent drumbeat of counternarratives” about how difficult it is, and will be, to leave fossil fuels behind, he added.

“U.S. fossil-fuel demand peaked 15 years ago,” Bond said. ​“This is happening; people have just missed it.”

Renewable energy costs have fallen, and are projected to keep falling, because these technologies are riding ​“learning curves”: For every cumulative doubling of the deployed tech, its cost declines by a quantifiable percentage that varies by technology. Learning curves are a robust phenomenon that’s been observed for over 50 kinds of tech. Over the past 40 years, the average learning rate has been 20% for solar and 13% for wind.

That’s the underappreciated power of learning by doing; the more solar panels and turbines people make, the more they discover how to make them better, faster and cheaper. The RMI report’s range of forecasted cost declines is based on both these long-term average learning rates and the higher rates observed in more recent years (30% for solar and 25% for wind).

Fossil fuels, by contrast, have not gotten on empirical learning curves. For more than a century, fossil fuel prices have swung wildly without trending consistently downward. 

Visit Canary Media for the full story

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State minimum coverage: Find out if state minimum coverage is leaving you vulnerable

State minimum coverage: Find out if state minimum coverage is leaving you vulnerable

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | State minimum coverage | Start A Quote Today!

When it comes to auto insurance, many people wonder if they really need more than the state minimum coverage. After all, the state requires a certain level of coverage to legally drive on the roads, so why would you need anything more?

While it may be tempting to stick with the minimum coverage required by law, there are several reasons why it is often a good idea to consider getting additional coverage. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of having more than the state minimum coverage and why Shield Insurance Agency is the best choice for finding the right coverage for your needs.

Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies, which means we have access to a wide range of coverage options. Our experienced agents can help you navigate through the different policies and find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Whether you are a new driver or have been on the road for years, we can help you find the right coverage to protect yourself and your vehicle.

One of the main reasons why it is important to have more than the state minimum coverage is to protect yourself financially in the event of an accident. While the state minimum coverage may be enough to cover damages to the other party involved in the accident, it may not be enough to cover your own medical expenses or repair costs. Without adequate coverage, you could be left with a hefty bill that you have to pay out of pocket.

Having more than the state minimum coverage can also provide you with peace of mind. Knowing that you have comprehensive coverage that will protect you in a variety of situations can help alleviate the stress and worry that often comes with driving. Whether it is a minor fender bender or a major collision, having the right coverage can make all the difference in how you handle the situation.

Another reason to consider getting more than the state minimum coverage is to protect your assets. If you are found at fault in an accident and the damages exceed your coverage limits, you could be held personally responsible for the remaining costs. This could include not only the damages to the other party’s vehicle but also any medical expenses or legal fees that may arise. By having additional coverage, you can help safeguard your assets and protect yourself from potential financial ruin.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand that everyone’s insurance needs are different. That is why we offer a personalized approach to finding the right coverage for you. Our agents will take the time to understand your specific needs and budget and then work with our network of insurance companies to find the best policy for you. We believe in providing our clients with options and ensuring that they have the information they need to make an informed decision.

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. We are here to help you navigate the often confusing world of insurance and find the coverage that is right for you. Don’t leave your financial future to chance – let Shield Insurance Agency help you protect what matters most.

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Comprehensive Car Insurance Coverage Everything You Need to Know - Shield Insurance Blog

Comprehensive Car Insurance Coverage: Everything You Need to Know

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Comprehensive Car Insurance | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

What is covered by comprehensive car insurance?

Car insurance is a necessity for every driver on the road. It provides financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your vehicle. One of the coverage options available is comprehensive physical damage coverage. But what exactly does it cover? In this blog post, we will explore the details of comprehensive physical damage coverage and help you understand its benefits.

Comprehensive physical damage coverage, often referred to as comprehensive coverage, is an optional coverage that protects your vehicle against non-collision damages. It covers a wide range of perils that can cause damage to your car, such as theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, natural disasters, and more. Unlike collision coverage, which only covers damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, comprehensive coverage provides protection against a broader range of risks.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the specific perils covered by Comprehensive Car Insurance for physical damage:

1. Theft: If your car is stolen, comprehensive coverage will reimburse you for the value of your vehicle, up to its actual cash value. This can be a significant relief, especially if you have a high-value or expensive car.

2. Vandalism: If your car is intentionally damaged by someone, comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairs. This can include acts of vandalism like keying, graffiti, or broken windows.

3. Fire: If your car is damaged or destroyed by fire, comprehensive coverage will pay for the repairs or replacement of your vehicle. This can be particularly important if you live in an area prone to wildfires or if your car catches fire due to a mechanical failure.

4. Natural disasters: Comprehensive coverage also protects your vehicle against damages caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, or hailstorms. These events can cause significant damage to your car, and having comprehensive coverage ensures that you are financially protected.

5. Falling objects: If a tree branch, debris, or any other object falls on your car and causes damage, comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

6. Animal collisions: If you hit an animal while driving, comprehensive coverage will cover the damages to your vehicle. This can include collisions with deer, dogs, cats, or any other animal.

7. Glass damage: Comprehensive coverage often includes coverage for glass damage, such as cracked windshields or broken windows. Some insurance companies may offer separate glass coverage, so it’s important to check your policy details.

It’s important to note that comprehensive coverage does not cover damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object. For that, you would need collision coverage. However, comprehensive coverage can be combined with collision coverage to provide more comprehensive protection for your vehicle.

Comprehensive physical damage coverage is not mandatory in most states, but it is highly recommended, especially if you have a newer or more valuable vehicle. Without comprehensive coverage, you would be responsible for paying for repairs or replacement out of pocket in case of non-collision damages.

Comprehensive Car Insurance Deductible

When considering comprehensive coverage, it’s important to understand the deductible associated with the coverage. A deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car sustains $2,000 worth of damages, you would be responsible for paying the first $500, and your insurance would cover the remaining $1,500.

The cost of comprehensive coverage can vary depending on several factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, your location, your driving history, and the deductible you choose. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.

In conclusion, comprehensive physical damage coverage provides valuable protection for your vehicle against non-collision damages. It covers a wide range of perils, including theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, falling objects, animal collisions, and glass damage. While not mandatory, comprehensive coverage is highly recommended, especially for newer or more valuable vehicles. Understanding the deductible and shopping around for the best coverage and price are essential steps in securing comprehensive coverage for your car. With comprehensive coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are financially protected against unexpected damages to your vehicle.

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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Discover the Hidden Benefits of Medical Pay Coverage on Your Car Insurance - Shield Insurance Blog

Discover the Hidden Benefits of Medical Pay Coverage on Your Car Insurance

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Medical Pay Coverage | Contact Shield Today | Start A Quote

Car accidents can happen unexpectedly, leaving individuals with not only physical injuries but also financial burdens. In such situations, having the right insurance coverage can make a significant difference. One important aspect of car insurance that often goes unnoticed is Med Pay coverage. In this blog post, we will explore what Med Pay coverage is, its benefits, and why it is essential to consider when purchasing a car insurance policy. Additionally, we will introduce Shield Insurance Agency, a trusted provider representing over 40 insurance companies, and provide contact information for those interested in obtaining a free quote.

Understanding Medical Pay Coverage:

Med Pay coverage, short for Medical Payments coverage, is an optional add-on to a car insurance policy that helps cover medical expenses resulting from a car accident, regardless of who is at fault. This coverage is designed to provide immediate financial assistance for medical bills, regardless of whether the injured party has health insurance or not. Med Pay coverage typically covers expenses such as hospital visits, surgeries, X-rays, ambulance fees, and even funeral costs in the event of a fatality.

Benefits of Medical Pay Coverage:

  • Immediate Financial Assistance: Med Pay coverage ensures that medical expenses are covered promptly, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery rather than worrying about mounting bills.
  • No-Fault Coverage: Unlike liability coverage, Med Pay coverage is not dependent on determining fault in an accident. It provides coverage regardless of who caused the accident, making it a valuable asset in situations where fault is disputed or unclear.
  • Supplemental Coverage: Med Pay coverage can act as a supplement to health insurance, covering deductibles, co-pays, and other out-of-pocket expenses that may not be fully covered by health insurance policies.
  • Coverage for Passengers: Med Pay coverage extends to passengers in the insured vehicle, ensuring that their medical expenses are also covered in the event of an accident.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that medical expenses will be taken care of in the event of an accident can provide peace of mind to policyholders and their families, alleviating the stress associated with unexpected medical bills.

Why Choose Shield Insurance Agency:

Shield Insurance Agency is a reputable insurance provider representing over 40 insurance companies. With their extensive network of insurance carriers, they can offer a wide range of coverage options tailored to individual needs. Their experienced agents are well-versed in the intricacies of Med Pay coverage and can guide customers through the process of selecting the right policy.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency for a Free Quote:

For those interested in obtaining a free quote for car insurance or learning more about Med Pay coverage, Shield Insurance Agency is just a phone call away. By dialing (616) 896-4600, individuals can speak with a knowledgeable agent who will provide personalized assistance and answer any questions. Alternatively, the quoting process can be initiated by visiting the provided link, where an agent will be in touch soon to discuss specific insurance needs.

Med Pay coverage is an essential component of a car insurance policy that provides immediate financial assistance for medical expenses resulting from a car accident. Shield Insurance Agency, representing over 40 insurance companies, is a trusted provider that can help individuals find the right coverage to suit their needs. Whether it’s obtaining a free quote or learning more about Med Pay coverage, Shield Insurance Agency is committed to providing excellent customer service and ensuring that individuals have the necessary protection in place. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact Shield Insurance Agency today to secure the peace of mind you deserve.

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Home Business Boom: Ensuring Your Home Insurance Covers Your Side Hustle

Home Business Boom: Ensuring Your Home Insurance Covers Your Side Hustle

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Shield Insurance Blog | Home Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

The rise of home-based businesses is a defining trend of our times. Whether you’re crafting handmade jewelry, offering freelance services, or selling products online, your home is your business headquarters. But have you considered how this entrepreneurial endeavor might affect your home insurance? Shield Insurance Agency, providing home insurance in Michigan, wants to help you better understand how your side hustle may affect your home insurance. 

Assessing Your Current Home Insurance Coverage

Before diving into the intricacies of insuring your home-based business, review your existing home insurance policy. Typically, standard homeowners or renters insurance covers personal property but may not encompass business-related items or liabilities. Understanding your current coverage is the first step in addressing any gaps.

Business Endorsements or Riders

To safeguard your side hustle, consider adding business endorsements or riders to your existing policy. These specialized add-ons can extend coverage to include business equipment, inventory, and even liability related to your home-based business activities. Keep in mind that the extent of coverage varies, so discuss your specific needs with your insurer.

Home Insurance Liability Protection

Running a home business means interacting with clients or customers on your property. If someone gets injured during a business-related visit, your standard policy might not cover it. Liability protection is essential to address such scenarios. Discuss options with your insurer to ensure adequate coverage.

Consult With Us

The home business boom is here to stay, offering exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. However, it’s vital not to overlook the implications for your insurance. Assess your current coverage, explore business endorsements, and secure liability protection to ensure that your side hustle thrives while your home remains protected. The team at Shield Insurance Agency, serving the state of Michigan, can help you. Call or email us to learn more. 

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The Bizarre Story Behind The Real-Life Barbie And Ken

The Bizarre Story Behind The Real-Life Barbie And Ken

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All that’s interesting | January 13, 2022 | Barbie And Ken | Shield Insurance Blog | Start A Quote Today!

The Bizarre Story Behind The Real-Life Barbie And Ken — And Why They Became Dolls

By All That’s Interesting | Edited By Jaclyn Anglis

Valeria Lukyanova and Justin Jedlica have spent untold dollars to look like real-life Barbie And Ken dolls — and they’ve caused plenty of controversy along the way.

Like it or not, Barbie and Ken’s exaggerated proportions have shaped popular conceptions of physical beauty for decades. This has led some to go to extreme lengths to turn themselves into human dolls — or even the real-life Barbie and Ken. Two such people are Valeria Lukyanova and Justin Jedlica.

Though they’re famous for looking like the doll couple, they’re far from the picture-perfect pair In fact, with their opposing personalities, the real-life Ken and Barbie actually have an ongoing feud.

The Human Barbie: Valeria Lukyanova

The woman who the press has dubbed the “human Barbie” was born on August 23, 1985, in Tiraspol, Moldova — a mostly forgotten remnant of the Soviet Union. Valeria Lukyanova is currently a Ukrainian model and uses her appearance to promote her ideas about spirituality and mysticism.

Valeria may resemble a doll more than an actual human, but she claims she never set out to look like the iconic blonde Barbie. Instead, she simply wants to look beautiful, feminine, and refined. It just so happens that’s the image that dolls are made in, too. However, she admits to loving Barbie as a child.

You may think that plastic surgery and cosmetic enhancement are a large part of Valeria’s signature look, but she claims to have only had breast augmentation. She rails against people who spread rumors that she’s had her ribs removed in order to achieve her impossibly tiny waistline.

More on the story…

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Discover the Ultimate Restaurant Insurance Program for Your Business

Discover the Ultimate Restaurant Insurance Program for Your Business

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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

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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!

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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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