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

Comprehensive Car Insurance Coverage: Everything You Need to Know

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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

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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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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

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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

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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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