Umbrella Policies Demystified: The 🔑 to Total Peace of Mind

Umbrella Policies Demystified: The 🔑 to Total Peace of Mind

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Umbrella Policies | Umbrella Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

In today’s world, it’s important to protect yourself and your assets from unexpected events. One way to do this is by having an umbrella policy. But what exactly is an umbrella policy and why would you need one? In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of having an umbrella policy and how it can provide you with peace of mind and financial security.

Umbrella Policies also known as Liability Insurance

An umbrella policy, also known as excess liability insurance, is a type of insurance that provides additional coverage beyond the limits of your existing insurance policies. It acts as a safety net, protecting your personal assets in the event of a lawsuit or major accident where you are found liable for damages.

One of the main reasons why you would need an umbrella policy is for asset protection. If you have significant personal assets, such as a home, car, or savings, you could be at risk of losing them in a lawsuit. An umbrella policy provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring that your assets are shielded from potential legal expenses and damages.

Umbrella Policies Provide Comprehensive Protection

Another reason to consider an umbrella policy is for comprehensive protection. While your existing insurance policies, such as auto or homeowners insurance, may provide coverage for bodily injury or property damage, they often have coverage limits. If the damages exceed these limits, you could be left responsible for the remaining costs. An umbrella policy provides additional coverage, filling in the gaps and giving you peace of mind knowing that you are fully protected.

Having an umbrella policy also offers extra protection in the event of a major accident or lawsuit. It can cover legal expenses, including attorney fees and court costs, which can quickly add up. Without an umbrella policy, you may find yourself facing significant financial burdens that could impact your future financial security.

One of the key benefits of an umbrella policy is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that you have an extra layer of liability protection can help alleviate the stress and worry that comes with potential lawsuits or accidents. It allows you to focus on enjoying life without constantly worrying about the financial consequences of unforeseen events.

Risk Management and Umbrella Policies

When it comes to risk management, an umbrella policy is an essential tool. It helps you mitigate the risks associated with personal liability and property damage. By having comprehensive coverage, you are better prepared to handle unexpected situations and protect your financial well-being.

Now that you understand the importance of an umbrella policy, it’s essential to find the right insurance coverage for your needs. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies, offering a wide range of options to choose from. Their experienced agents can help you navigate the complexities of insurance policies and find the best coverage for your specific situation.

To get started, contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today. Their knowledgeable agents will guide you through the quoting process and ensure that you have the right umbrella policy to protect your assets and provide you with the peace of mind you deserve. You can also start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon.

In conclusion, an umbrella policy is a crucial component of your overall insurance coverage. It provides asset protection, comprehensive coverage, and extra protection in the event of a major accident or lawsuit. With an umbrella policy, you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that your personal assets are safeguarded and your financial security is protected. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact Shield Insurance Agency today and get the coverage you need.


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Personal Umbrella Policy

Personal Umbrella Policy is The Ultimate Peace of Mind

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Personal Umbrella Policy | Home Insurance

When it comes to protecting your financial security and personal assets, comprehensive insurance coverage is essential. While most people have basic insurance policies in place, such as auto and homeowners insurance, there are additional coverage options that can provide extra liability protection and peace of mind. One such option is a personal umbrella policy.

What is a Personal Umbrella Policy?

A personal umbrella policy is a type of insurance that provides excess liability coverage beyond the limits of your primary insurance policies. It acts as an extra layer of protection, shielding your personal assets from potential lawsuits and financial loss. This blog post will explore the benefits of a personal umbrella policy and what it covers.

First and foremost, a personal umbrella policy provides additional liability protection. If you are found liable for causing injury or property damage to someone else, your primary insurance policies may have limits on the amount they will cover. This is where an umbrella policy comes in. It kicks in once your primary policies have reached their limits, providing coverage for the remaining costs.

Personal Umbrella Policy Benefits

One of the key benefits of a personal umbrella policy is that it offers coverage for a wide range of situations. Whether it’s a car accident, a slip and fall incident on your property, or a defamation lawsuit, an umbrella policy can help cover the costs of legal expenses and potential damages. This comprehensive coverage ensures you are protected in various scenarios, giving you peace of mind.

In addition to covering legal expenses and damages, a personal umbrella policy also provides personal injury coverage. This includes coverage for claims such as libel, slander, false arrest, and invasion of privacy. Personal injury claims can be costly, and having the extra coverage provided by an umbrella policy can help protect your financial security.

Property Damage Coverage

Property damage coverage is another crucial aspect of a personal umbrella policy. If you accidentally damage someone else’s property, such as their vehicle or home, your umbrella policy can help cover the costs of repairs or replacement. This coverage extends beyond the limits of your primary policies, ensuring that you are fully protected in case of a costly accident.

When it comes to insurance claims, having a personal umbrella policy can make the process smoother. In the event of a claim, your umbrella policy will work in conjunction with your primary policies to provide the necessary coverage. This means that you only need to deal with one insurance company, simplifying the claims process and saving you time and effort.

It’s important to note that a personal umbrella policy does not replace your primary insurance policies. Instead, it supplements them, providing additional coverage when needed. This means that you still need to maintain adequate coverage on your primary policies to ensure that you are fully protected.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency

Now that you understand the benefits of a personal umbrella policy and what it covers, you may be wondering how to get one. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right policy for your needs. 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. Don’t wait until it’s too late – protect your financial security and personal assets with a personal umbrella policy.


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Umbrella Insurance Demystified: Your Ultimate Guide

Umbrella Insurance Demystified: Your Ultimate Guide

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Umbrella Insurance | Commercial Insurance

When it comes to protecting your assets and ensuring financial security, having the right insurance coverage is crucial. While most people are familiar with auto, home, and health insurance, there is another type of policy that often goes overlooked – umbrella insurance. In this blog post, we will explore what an umbrella insurance policy is, how it works, and why it is an essential addition to your insurance portfolio.

What is umbrella insurance?

Umbrella insurance is a type of liability coverage that provides an extra layer of protection beyond the limits of your existing insurance policies. It is designed to safeguard your personal assets and provide financial security in the event of a lawsuit or significant claim. While your primary insurance policies, such as auto or homeowners insurance, have coverage limits, an umbrella policy offers additional coverage that kicks in once those limits are exhausted.

How does it work?

Let’s say you are involved in a car accident where you are at fault, and the other party suffers severe bodily injury. Your auto insurance policy has a liability coverage limit of $300,000, but the injured party’s medical expenses, legal fees, and other damages amount to $500,000. Without an umbrella policy, you would be responsible for paying the remaining $200,000 out of pocket. However, if you have an umbrella insurance policy with a coverage limit of $1 million, it would cover the remaining $200,000, saving you from a significant financial burden.

What does it cover?

Umbrella insurance provides coverage for a wide range of situations, including bodily injury, property damage, and personal liability incidents. It also offers protection against claims such as libel, slander, false arrest, and invasion of privacy. This comprehensive coverage ensures that you are protected from various risks and potential lawsuits.

Coverage limits and excess liability

Umbrella policies typically have coverage limits ranging from $1 million to $5 million or more. These limits represent the maximum amount the policy will pay out in the event of a claim. Once your primary insurance policy reaches its limit, the umbrella policy kicks in to cover the excess amount, hence the term “excess liability.” This additional coverage provides peace of mind and ensures that your personal assets are shielded from potential lawsuits.

Misconceptions about umbrella insurance

There are several misconceptions surrounding umbrella insurance that prevent people from considering it as part of their insurance portfolio. One common misconception is that umbrella insurance is only for the wealthy. In reality, anyone can benefit from an umbrella policy, regardless of their income or assets. It is an affordable way to protect yourself and your family from unforeseen circumstances.

Another misconception is that umbrella insurance is only necessary for those with high-risk lifestyles. While it is true that individuals with certain professions or hobbies may face higher risks, accidents can happen to anyone. It only takes one incident to result in a devastating lawsuit that could wipe out your savings and put your assets at risk. Umbrella insurance provides an extra layer of protection for everyone, regardless of their lifestyle.

Why do you need an umbrella policy?

Having an umbrella insurance policy offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Asset protection: Your personal assets, such as your home, savings, and investments, are shielded from potential lawsuits.

2. Peace of mind: Knowing that you have an extra layer of protection provides peace of mind and allows you to focus on enjoying life without worrying about financial risks.

3. Comprehensive coverage: Umbrella insurance covers a wide range of situations, ensuring that you are protected from various risks and potential lawsuits.

4. Risk management: By having an umbrella policy, you are effectively managing your risks and protecting yourself from unforeseen circumstances.

5. Legal protection: In the event of a lawsuit, an umbrella policy covers legal expenses, including attorney fees, court costs, and settlements.

How to get an umbrella insurance policy?

If you are interested in obtaining an umbrella insurance policy, it is essential to work with a reputable insurance agency that understands your needs and can provide you with the best coverage options. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right policy that fits your requirements and budget. 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.

In conclusion, an umbrella insurance policy is a valuable addition to your insurance portfolio. It provides an extra layer of protection, safeguards your personal assets, and ensures financial security in the event of a lawsuit or significant claim. Don’t wait until it’s too late – consider getting an umbrella policy today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are well protected.


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To help you better understand this complex industry, we have compiled a comprehensive list of insurance terms that you should be familiar with.

Know Your Insurance Terms for Peace of Mind

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Insurance Terms | Start a Quote Today!

Insurance is an essential aspect of our lives, providing us with the necessary protection and peace of mind. However, navigating the world of insurance can be overwhelming, especially with the numerous terms and jargon often used. To help you better understand this complex industry, we have compiled a comprehensive list of insurance terms that you should be familiar with. Whether you are a seasoned policyholder or a newcomer to the world of insurance, this list will serve as a valuable resource.

Insurance Terms

1. Premium: The amount of money you pay to the insurance company in exchange for coverage. Premiums can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the policy.

2. Deductible: The amount of money you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and file a claim for $1,000, you will pay the first $500, and the insurance company will cover the remaining $500.

3. Policy: A contract between you and the insurance company that outlines the terms and conditions of your coverage. It specifies what is covered, the limits of coverage, and any exclusions or conditions.

4. Coverage: The protection provided by an insurance policy. It can include various types, such as auto, home, health, life, and more.

5. Liability: The legal responsibility for any damages or injuries caused to others. Liability coverage is designed to protect you in case you are held responsible for an accident or injury.

6. Claim: A formal request made by the policyholder to the insurance company for compensation or reimbursement for a covered loss or damage.

7. Underwriting: The process of evaluating an applicant’s risk and determining the terms and conditions of their insurance policy. It involves assessing factors such as age, health, driving record, and more.

8. Exclusion: Specific situations or conditions that are not covered by an insurance policy. It is important to review your policy carefully to understand what is excluded from coverage.

9. Rider: An additional provision or amendment to an insurance policy that modifies or expands the coverage. Riders are often used to add specific coverage options or increase policy limits.

10. Agent: A licensed professional who represents an insurance company and helps individuals or businesses find the right insurance coverage. They can provide guidance, answer questions, and assist with the claims process.

11. Insured: The person or entity covered by an insurance policy. This can be an individual, a family, or a business.

12. Loss: The reduction in value or damage to property or assets covered by an insurance policy. It can be due to theft, accident, natural disaster, or other covered events.

13. No-claims bonus: A discount or reward given by insurance companies to policyholders who do not file any claims during a specific period. It encourages safe driving and responsible behavior.

14. Comprehensive coverage: An insurance policy that provides protection against a wide range of risks and perils, including theft, vandalism, fire, and natural disasters.

15. Grace period: The additional time given to policyholders to pay their premium after the due date without incurring a penalty or losing coverage.

16. Subrogation: The process by which an insurance company seeks reimbursement from a third party who is responsible for the loss or damage covered by the policy. It allows the insurance company to recover the amount paid to the policyholder.

17. Actuary: A professional who uses statistical data and mathematical models to assess risk and determine insurance premiums. They play a crucial role in pricing policies and ensuring the financial stability of insurance companies.

18. Umbrella policy: An additional liability insurance policy that provides coverage beyond the limits of your primary policies. It offers an extra layer of protection against high-cost claims or lawsuits.

19. Depreciation: The decrease in the value of an asset over time due to wear and tear or obsolescence. Insurance policies often take depreciation into account when determining the amount of compensation for a covered loss.

20. Endorsement: A written amendment or addition to an insurance policy that changes the terms or coverage. It can be used to add or remove coverage options, increase or decrease policy limits, or modify other policy provisions.

Understanding these insurance terms will empower you to make informed decisions when it comes to protecting yourself, your family, and your assets. Remember, insurance is not just a financial product; it is a shield that safeguards your future. If you have any questions or need assistance in finding the right insurance coverage, contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today. You can also start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon. Stay protected and enjoy peace of mind with comprehensive insurance coverage.


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Insurance 101 for Beginners

Insurance 101 for Beginners

Shield Insurance Blog | Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

What do I need to Know About Insurance?

Insurance is a crucial aspect of our lives that provides financial protection and peace of mind. Whether it’s car insurance, homeowners insurance, or any other type of insurance, understanding the basics is essential. In this blog post, we will explore the fundamental concepts of insurance, different types of insurance, and why it is important to have the right coverage.

Insurance is a contract between an individual or business and an insurance company. The individual or business pays a premium, and in return, the insurance company agrees to provide financial protection in the event of a covered loss. The purpose of insurance is to transfer the risk of potential financial loss from the insured to the insurance company.

Basic Terms and Definitions

To understand insurance better, it is essential to familiarize yourself with some basic terms and definitions. Here are a few key terms:

  • Premium: The amount of money paid to the insurance company for coverage.
  • Deductible: The amount the insured must pay out of pocket before the insurance company starts covering the loss.
  • Policy: The contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the insurance coverage.
  • Coverage: The specific protection provided by the insurance policy.
  • Claim: A request made by the insured to the insurance company for compensation for a covered loss.

Car Insurance for Beginners

Car insurance is one of the most common types of insurance that people need. It provides financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your vehicle. Here are a few things to consider when getting car insurance:

  • Liability Coverage: This coverage pays for damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident.
  • Collision Coverage: This coverage pays for damages to your vehicle in case of a collision.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: This coverage pays for damages to your vehicle caused by events other than collisions, such as theft or natural disasters.

Renters and Homeowners Coverage for Beginners

If you rent or own a home, it is crucial to have renters or homeowners insurance to protect your belongings and property. Here are a few key points to consider:

  • Renters Insurance: This type of insurance provides coverage for your personal belongings in case of theft, fire, or other covered events. It also provides liability coverage in case someone gets injured in your rented property.
  • Homeowners Insurance: This insurance covers your home and belongings against damage or loss caused by covered events. It also provides liability coverage and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable.

What other types of Insurance are there?

Apart from car insurance and homeowners/renters insurance, there are several other types of insurance that you may need depending on your circumstances. Some common types include:

  • Health Insurance: This insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and can help protect you from high healthcare costs.
  • Life Insurance: Life insurance provides financial protection to your loved ones in case of your death. It can help cover funeral expenses, pay off debts, and provide income replacement.
  • Disability Insurance: This insurance provides income replacement if you become disabled and are unable to work.
  • Umbrella Insurance: Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage beyond the limits of your other insurance policies. It can protect you from large lawsuits and claims.

Protection, Family, and Shield Agency

Insurance is all about protection, especially when it comes to your family and assets. Shield Insurance Agency understands the importance of having the right coverage and represents over 40 insurance companies to provide you with the best options. Whether you need car insurance, homeowners insurance, or any other type of insurance, Shield Insurance Agency can help.

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. Don’t wait until it’s too late – protect yourself and your loved ones with the right insurance coverage.


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Five Parts of an Insurance Policy

Five Parts of an Insurance Policy

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 19, 2023 | Insurance | Start a quote today!

Insurance policies can be complex and confusing, but understanding the different parts of a policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. In this blog post, we will discuss the five parts of an insurance policy: premium, deductible, policy limits, exclusions, and riders.

1. Premium: The premium is the amount you pay for your insurance coverage. It is typically paid on a monthly or annual basis and is based on several factors, including your age, location, and the type of coverage you need. The premium is the cost of your insurance policy, and it is important to choose a premium that fits your budget.

2. Deductible: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car is damaged in an accident that costs $1,000 to repair, you will pay $500, and your insurance company will pay the remaining $500. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you will pay more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

3. Policy Limits: Policy limits are the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for a covered loss. For example, if you have a $100,000 policy limit for liability coverage and you are sued for $150,000, you will be responsible for paying the remaining $50,000. It is important to choose policy limits that are high enough to protect your assets in the event of a lawsuit.

4. Exclusions: Exclusions are specific situations or events that are not covered by your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that excludes flood damage, you will not be covered if your home is damaged by a flood. It is important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and is not covered.

5. Riders – Additional coverage and options: Riders are additional coverage options that you can add to your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that does not cover earthquake damage, you can add an earthquake rider to your policy for an additional cost. Riders can provide additional protection for specific situations that are not covered by your standard policy.

Does Your Insurance Meet Your Needs?

Understanding the different parts of an insurance policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. It is important to review your policy regularly and make changes as needed to ensure that your coverage meets your current needs. If you have questions about your insurance policy or need help choosing the right coverage, contact your insurance agent for assistance.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we are committed to helping our clients find the right insurance coverage for their needs. Our experienced agents can help you understand the different parts of your insurance policy and make sure that you have the coverage you need to protect your assets and your family. Contact us today to learn more about our insurance products and services.


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Tips on filing claims

Tips for effectively filing claims

Foremost Insurance | Ryker Huizinga | Filing Claims | Homeowners Insurance | Get A Quote

Experiencing a loss can be stressful, frustrating, and disheartening, but having insurance coverage will help alleviate the financial burden a loss can cause. The first step in restoring your property and moving forward is to determine if your policy provides coverage for the loss. To do this you need to file a claim with the insurer.

While the claims process isn’t something many eagerly look forward to, there are definitely ways you can make it a less stressful experience. To help you successfully navigate the process, here are several tips for effectively and efficiently filing claims.

Keep an inventory of all your insured possessions.

Be proactive! If you keep a written document of your possessions, it can help make the claims process much easier if you experience a loss. Go from room to room and record each item and its value to prepare an inventory. An easy way to do this is to take photos or videos of each room and all of the contents in the rooms. Consider keeping receipts with the purchase date and original cost for your records too, in case of total loss. Your inventory list should be consistently updated, which can be done easily if you record new items shortly after purchasing them. Pro Tip: Your inventory should be easily accessible. It is a good idea to keep a couple of copies of your inventory at different locations, with one location being off-premises in case of a total loss, like a fire.

Before filing claims reach out to your agent.

In the event of a potential claim, it’s best to contact your agent directly instead of the broader insurance provider. Your agent will be able to explain your options and advise on whether filing a claim is in your best interest. In some cases, your agent may even file the claim for you.

Report your loss promptly.

Always file your claim as soon as you possibly can. Of course, theft losses should be reported to the police first, and in other situations of danger and urgency, safety takes priority. But once it’s safe and reasonable to do so, you should contact your insurance agent. This is important because your policy might require you to make the notification within a certain amount of time. Not filing a claim within the time required in your policy may lead to a denial of the claim or may result in the claims process taking longer.

Be prepared for filing claims with the right information.

When you file your claim or make follow-up calls regarding the process, be sure to have the right information so your conversation is easier and more effective. Have your inventory list and the details of your loss, and keep the following information handy for your claims representative:

  • The customer’s name and address
  • The policy number
  • The date the loss happened
  • A description of what happened
  • A preferred telephone number for future contact

Provide complete, correct information.

Explain the situation accurately without downplaying or exaggerating your loss. Incorrect or incomplete information may cause complications and delays in processing the claim. Additionally, materially misrepresenting the facts of your loss may result in a loss of coverage.

Record important details from all correspondence.

While going through the claims process, be sure to write down important information from your phone conversations and in-person meetings with claims representatives and other contacts. This should include the time and date, as well as the name and title of the person you spoke with. This will help you stay organized and create records that may come in handy later.

Make appropriate emergency repairs.

If you’re dealing with property damage it may be necessary to make immediate emergency repairs to prevent additional damages, such as calling a plumber to repair a broken pipe. Your policy might cover the costs of these emergency repairs, so be sure to inquire about them when filing the claim. It is also important to take photos or even videos before making the repairs and save the receipts from all of the work that is done.

Ask questions about filing claims

Don’t be afraid to ask your claims representative for more information or clarification. The process will go much more smoothly if you are both on the same page and fully understand each other. For example, if there is a disagreement about the coverage of the claim, ask for the specific language in the policy that is in question to find out if it is a matter of differing interpretations.

Overall, it’s important to have patience because every insurance claim is different! Some may be completed quickly, while others may take a few weeks or even months to be resolved. You never know when problems will arise, but these tips can help you to effectively address the situations and smoothly navigate the claims process.


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Umbrella Insurance

Three things to do when you’re interested in buying umbrella insurance

Umbrella Insurance | Shield Quoting Portal | Business Insurance

Umbrella insurance is great to have if you want total financial protection. Consumers on the market for umbrella insurance in Michigan can purchase the coverage they’re looking for from Shield Insurance Agency. 

It’s essential that you go through a few steps before you purchase an umbrella insurance policy.

The following are three things to do when you’re interested in buying umbrella insurance:

Research umbrella insurance so that you know what you’re getting

Misconceptions about umbrella insurance are common, so it’s important to do your research and make sure you completely understand umbrella insurance before purchasing a policy.

Remember that umbrella insurance protects you against liability expenses. This is not a type of insurance that insures your personal belongings like your vehicle. 

Determine what the total value of all your assets is

You’ll need to choose how much coverage to carry when you purchase umbrella insurance. It’s best if you have enough coverage to equal your net worth.

As part of preparing to buy umbrella insurance, it’s good to evaluate your assets and find out what your total net worth is. This will help you to choose the right amount of coverage. 

Shop around with different umbrella insurance providers

You’ll have options to pick from when you buy an umbrella insurance policy. You should explore your options so that you can get a policy that meets your specific needs. 

Research different umbrella insurance providers in your area and get quotes on policies from numerous companies so that you can compare. 

Give Us A Call

Once you’ve done all the things mentioned above, you can choose an umbrella insurance policy that’s right for you. Shield Insurance Agency can come to your assistance to get a quote on an umbrella insurance policy in Michigan. 


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International Snowmobile Safety and Awareness Week

International Snowmobile Safety and Awareness Week

NationalToday.com | January 21, 2023 | Snowmobile Safety | Snowmobile Insurance

International Snowmobile Safety and Awareness Week starts on the third Saturday of January every year. Did you know that it has been more than 70 years since the first snowmobile was made? Snowmobiles are vehicles designed and built to be used in the snow. They’re a fun way to go about in places where there is heavy snowfall and are enjoyed by millions all over the world as a winter sport. But it does not come without safety concerns. Snowmobiles can quickly become dangerous if not used with the necessary precautions. International Snowmobile Safety and Awareness Week was created to spread awareness among the people about the safety precautions one needs to ensure before using a snowmobile, to keep them and the people around them safe.

HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL SNOWMOBILE SAFETY AND AWARENESS WEEK

Sledding has been a popular recreational activity for many centuries. However, the motorized sled was invented in 1927 by a mechanic in Valcourt Quebec named Joseph-Armand Bombardier. Bombardier made the first-ever motorized sled by using a propeller. A few years later in 1927, the motor toboggan was made. Bombardier used the wheel and track system to further improve his invention, and thus in 1935, the first snowmobile was made.

In the coming years, Bombardier would make modifications to the snowmobile, which became immensely popular. He patented the first seven-member snowmobile in 1937 and the 12-member capacity one in 1941. Bombardier’s snowmobiles turned out to be extremely useful for people, especially people working in the law enforcement, fire service, hospital emergency services, etc. Some of these vehicles were modified for military use and used by American troops in World War II.

By the 1960s, new snowmobiles with powerful engines emerged. It was popular among people around the world who lived in frigid regions where there was heavy snowfall. People enjoyed snowmobiles as a recreational activity and as a winter sport. It was also useful for going from place to place during the times heavy snowfall would block the roads.

Many incidents of accidents and mishaps involving snowmobiles were reported. Many were also concerned about fuel usage and its impact on the environment. In 1993, International Snowmobile Safety and Awareness Week was created to encourage people to use necessary safety equipment like helmets and protective gear and to use snowmobiles made by authorized companies that produce snowmobiles that undergo strict pollution checks.

Read More on Snowmobile Safety…


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Specialty Insurance

Specialty Insurance Policies For Your Recreational Toys

What specialty insurance?

In simple terms, specialty insurance coverage is exactly what it sounds like: It’s insurance that can be purchased for items that are special or unique. Specialty insurance policies are important for items that are not typically covered under other insurance policies.

From motorcycle insurance to boat insurance, protect your unique items.

We hear it all the time: “Specialty insurance? What’s that and why do I have it or why do I need it?”

In simple terms, specialty insurance coverage is exactly what it sounds like: It’s insurance that can be purchased for items that are special or unique. Specialty insurance policies are important for items that are not typically covered under other insurance policies.

Type of Specialty Insurance Coverage Available

Consider the items you own that are not covered by other insurance policies. For example, what vehicles do you drive that aren’t included on your auto insurance policy? What additional coverage is required to protect your home in the event of a flood? Specialty insurance policies complement your existing auto, home and umbrella policies. Types of specialty insurance offered through CONNECT and its partners include:

Classic car insurance – Whether you’ve spent hours and hours on restoration or bought a one-of-a-kind collector’s item, protect your antique car with classic car insurance.

ATV insurance – Enjoy the ride with coverage for your all-terrain vehicle. This specialty insurance coverage will protect you whether you ride for fun or function.

Flood insurance – Find coverage for your home or car—and yes, there is a difference!

High-value homes and rental insurance – Take the worry out of being a landlord or covering your high-value home.

Motorcycle insurance – In case of storm, accident or other natural disaster, make sure your bike will be still be ready to ride with motorcycle insurance.

RV insurance – Recreational vehicles give you the freedom to adventure anywhere. Whether you travel cross-country or simply use your RV for weekend camping, stay on the road with RV insurance.

Boat insurance – From sailboat to pontoon or even jet ski, stay afloat with boat insurance coverage.

Added Protection from our Agency Partners

Losing a one-of-a-kind item or a unique vehicle to fire, theft or flood damage is painful enough. Finding out your insurance doesn’t cover the replacement of the item, vehicle or your home or auto would make a heart-breaking situation even worse.

That’s why we’ve developed partnerships with industry leaders in specialty insurance. Our goal is to help you find coverage for these unique items. Through our trusted partnerships, you can purchase insurance policies for a wide range of specialty items.

This is a great compilation video of some of the specialty insurance products Shield Insurance can offer our clients from one of our many carriers.

  • Is your RV ready for winter?
  • Do you need umbrella insurance?
  • Safe Boating Checklist
  • Looking for fully loaded Watercraft coverage? Check out Safeco’s Captain’s Package
  • Choose Safeco’s Captain’s Package and get fully loaded watercraft coverage
  • From motorcycles to ATVs: Do you have enough custom parts protection?
  • Safeco’s Classic Car Insurance
  • Safeco’s RV Insurance
  • Safeco Insurance & Liberty Mutual Small Commercial
  • Safeco Boat and Personal Watercraft Insurance


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