Author: AgentInsure

Car Emergency Kit Must Haves

Posted on by AgentInsure

You should be prepared for anything whenever you are operating a vehicle. Your car could break down, or you could suddenly have a flat tire, and you are in an area without cell phone reception. JC Demo Insurance Group has independent agents in Matthews, NC wants to let you know everything you need to have in your emergency car kit.

Homemade or Prepacked Kits

Kits that have everything already packaged together is a great place to start, but you may want to tailor your kit to suit your family and travel needs.

  • Weather – in North Carolina, the temperatures could drop drastically, and you may need a small shovel or window scraper.
  • Family Needs – include extra diapers, baby wipes, hand sanitizer, feminine protection, and pet food.
  • Food and Clothing – add an extra supply of non-perishable food, water, zip lock bags, trash bags, and clothing.

Things You Will Need

Whether you are going to buy a prepacked emergency kit or create one of your own, you will need to have the following items included in your pack:

  • First-aid kit
  • Gloves
  • Screwdrivers
  • Pliers
  • Flashlight
  • Emergency triangle or cones
  • Jumper cables
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Scissors or box cutter
  • Alcohol wipes
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Paracord or a tow rope
  • Blanket
  • Rain poncho
  • Extra cell phone battery

Useful Tips in an Emergency

Keep an empty gas canister in your trunk. If you ever run out of gas, you won’t have to wait for a tow. You can walk to the nearest filling station and back.

Having an automatic battery charger could come in handy if your battery doesn’t start. It is a small device that you can use as a temporary measure instead of calling a tow truck.

Keeping up your vehicle’s maintenance is the best way to preserve your vehicle and keep you safe. The JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC has auto insurance options that will also help keep you safe on the road.

6 Parts of Home Insurance You Need to Know About

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Did you know that home insurance in North Carolina is a multi-peril policy? This special type of policy can cover you for different events at the same time, such as property damage, medical payments, and more. Our team at JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC will show you the six types of coverage your home insurance includes below.

A. Dwelling – This covers you for major damage to the house and any structural parts attached to it. The amount is often determined by the home’s market value.

B. Other Structures – Similar to dwelling, this part protects any structures on the property that are separate from the house, such as tool sheds and barns.

C. Personal Property – While A and B protect your home’s exterior, C protects the contents inside that you or your family who reside with you own. It may not cover everything inside though, so you’ll want to purchase additional riders for complete protection.

D. Loss of Use – If the home becomes uninhabitable after a natural disaster, this part of coverage will help you pay for additional meals and lodging expenses.

E. Personal Liability – This section will help pay for any accidental injuries at your home that you or a member of your household may be responsible for.

F. Medical Payments to Others – If any visitors get hurt at your home, this part takes care of paying for some of the medical expenses. 

While this summary gives you the big picture,  there are also many other details in a Matthews, NC home insurance policy. Wondering if your insurance covers a specific scenario? Give us a call! Our team at JC Demo Insurance Group is happy to answer any questions you may have.

Auto Insurance North Carolina

Posted on by AgentInsure

North Carolina is a hurricane state. When a hurricane is on the radar, drivers in the state are warned of peril in road travel ahead. Not surprisingly, auto insurance coverage is a must for drivers in North Carolina. Mandated auto liability coverage is often supplemented by comprehensive collision and damage insurance, as well as coverage for uninsured motorist risk in case of accident with a driver without adequate auto insurance. Protect your property from natural disaster.

Auto Insurance in North Carolina

North Carolina State’s Motor Vehicle Law mandates Automobile Liability coverage be continuously maintained by a driver. Minimum auto insurance coverage requirements for a single policy holder, are $30,000 for bodily Injury for one person, $60,000 bodily Injury for multiple persons injured in an accident, and a minimum of $25,000 for property damage to an insured’s vehicle.

When shopping for auto insurance, look for a policy that covers compensation for a range of damages and injuries that may be sustained as result of hospitalization, medical care, vehicle repair and replacement after an accident. Some policies provide coverage for lost wages for time spent off work injured, regardless of fault in a collision. The rules to auto insurance agreements in North Carolina, also cover terms and conditions to liability and damages for road accidents caused by natural disaster.

Hurricane Disaster, Salvage Vehicle

In North Carolina when there is a hurricane, insurance companies often declare an insured’s property a “salvage vehicle”. The classification of salvage vehicle is applied to autos with irreparable damage or natural disaster related accident wreckage from a hurricane. The definition of salvage vehicle is applied if repairs cost more than 75 percent of the fair market value of the vehicle. This makes auto liability and collision coverage supplements for vehicle damage especially attractive to North Carolina drivers. 

If an auto is declared “totaled” compensation for market value is covered under North Carolina rules to salvage vehicles. An insured can either retain the vehicle, or sign the title over to the insurance company. Insurance companies auction or junk salvage vehicle assignments for cash. Insurers or dealers selling salvaged vehicles have a duty to disclose the status of the property to the purchaser in writing. Sellers concealing damage to vehicle are commissioning a misdemeanor punishable by fines in North Carolina.

For auto insurance coverage in North Carolina, contact a licensed auto insurance broker with JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC.

NC Home Insurance and Theft

Posted on by AgentInsure

When people buy home insurance, they usually do so with the thought of protecting themselves from natural disasters. Here in Matthews, NC, we have seen our neighbors lose it all in hurricanes, floods, and fires. It is a reality that we all hope never to have to face. Burying our heads in the sand does no good. For this reason, wise consumers purchase comprehensive home insurance. When the worst happens to them, they have money to rebuild, repair and relocate, depending on the damage.

Do Not Forget In-Home Property Coverage

There is something that most homeowners forget to consider. What will they do if their home gets robbed? Perhaps they come home one day to find the place ransacked and important items missing. Does home insurance cover the stolen property? Well, that all depends on what was stolen and how much. It is always best to speak with an experienced NC home insurance agent about just what is covered in a particular policy.

In general, Matthews, NC, insurers can make special dispensations when needed for such valuables as computers, home entertainment centers, jcand pianos. These items are likely candidates for theft.

Just ask an agent about available policy rates.

Secure Your Property Today

There is no need to wait. Get started securing in-home property today. Crime rates are unfortunately rising everywhere. If hit by a thief, comprehensive home insurance can help to provide the necessary financial backing to replace stolen items.

The best way to save is to use the convenient online rating tool that provides current pricing on home insurance. Then contact an agent at JC Demo Insurance Group to make the purchase.

 

 

The Importance of Maintaining Homeowners Insurance

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Your home is most likely the biggest thing you own and the most expensive. You’ve put a lot of money into it. You made repairs to the roof, updated the fixtures, and installed new flooring. This has become a huge investment. Why not protect it? Homeowners insurance is the only way to make sure that your home is safeguarded from disasters.

Why You Need Homeowners Insurance

The #1 reason to have homeowners insurance is protection. Coverage usually applies to the buildings’ structure and its contents. Depending on your policy, you can get protection for everything inside of your home. Talk with your independent insurance agents in Matthews, NC at JC Demo Insurance Group, so they can help you tailor your coverage to include:

  • The House – repairing or rebuilding the homes’ structure.
  • Personal Belongings – could include furniture, electronics, appliances, clothing, and other valuables.
  • You, Your Family, and Guests – accidental injuries can be added to your policy to cover medical bills, hospital stays, and therapeutic costs.
  • Additional Costs – if you have to stay at a hotel for a few days while your home is being repaired because of fire or water damage.

What Happens If Your Homeowners Insurance Lapses

Homeowners policies were meant to pay for damages to your home if there is a disaster such as a fire, vandalism, lightning, earthquake, hurricane, or other catastrophes. If you allow your policy to lapse, you would not only have to pay for damages that arise, but your mortgage could go into default. At the time of closing, most lending companies agree to the loan if you acquire and maintain insurance coverage. When there is a lapse, the lending company may put your home in default.

Get in touch with JC Demo Insurance Group in Matthews, NC. Their independent agents can discuss with you the details of maintaining your homeowners insurance policy.

Why Teens Have Higher Insurance Rates

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If you’re a teen driver or a parent of a teen driver you may already be aware that the insurance rates for these youngest of drivers are quite high. If you live in the Matthews, NC area, you may be wondering why adding your teen to your insurance costs so much.

Why the rates are higher

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the accident rate for drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 is higher than in any other age group. Driving is a complicated skill that takes time to develop. The problem is that the only way to get experience driving is to do it, and driving itself can sometimes be dangerous. Insurance companies know that teen drivers are at a higher risk for a claim, not because they’re necessarily more reckless, but because they don’t have the experience and mature judgment that older drivers have developed over time. Insurance companies aren’t "out to get" teen drivers. However, all drivers in higher risk categories, such as those with several tickets or accidents and, yes, teen drivers too, will pay higher insurance premiums.

What teens can do to keep rates as low as possible

While teens can’t do anything about their ages, they can keep their insurance rates as low as possible by doing a few things. First, teens should drive safely to keep a clean driving record. Things like traffic tickets and accidents can make insurance rates go even higher. Second, teens can ask the insurance agents at JC Demo Insurance Group about discounts for things like good grades or taking drivers’ education classes at school. Third, teens should consider carefully which cars are driven. Different cars have different insurance costs, so it may pay to shop around.

If you have questions about teen automobile insurance or any other insurance questions, contact the folks at JC Demo Insurance Group, serving the Matthews, NC area.

Will Adding an Extra Living Room Add Value to Your Home?

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When it comes to adding value to your home, you may have heard before that adding on an extra living room is a great way to accomplish this goal. And the truth is, it really is a great way. Adding any type of living space to your home is an excellent way to add to its value, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and living room especially. It is of the utmost importance that you make sure the extra living room is added onto your home in the right spot, connecting it to a hallway or walkway area that easily accesses other parts of the home. 

Why is adding on a living room of so much value to a home?

People can use a living room for many purposes. From using it as an office or workspace to letting it be an area where the kids can keep their toys, there are multiple purposes that can be customized to meet a family’s specific needs and preferences. If you are looking to use a living room to provide storage space, you can always decorate with storage that is versatile. Take for example a living room ottoman that has the ability to store DVDs or kid’s toys. Or a couch that opens up and allows you to store items. Almost any type of furniture piece can be used for multiple purposes, you just have to research your options. 

As you can see, adding on an extra living room to your home is an excellent way to add value to your home, so contact JC Demo Insurance Group today to learn more about home value and home insurance in the Matthews, NC area. 

How Much Should I Spend for Auto Insurance?

Posted on by AgentInsure

This is a major question on practically everyone’s mind, and it’s definitely a good one. Your money is important, and whether you want to spend it on your kids or a new surfboard, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be trying to save it at every turn. Find out more about how much you should be spending in Matthews, NC. 

A Policy for Everyone 

The good news is that you really just have to meet the state limits in your state, and then after that, it’s up to you. The only problem with this is that it’s incredibly tempting for people to forego what they need for what they want. Let’s say you’re tempted by getting liability only on your car. Should you cause an accident you may not be able to make it to work, thus jeopardizing your income. JC Demo Insurance Group wants everyone to be able to keep their money, which is why we would advise you to think ahead to the potential consequences of what might happen should you skimp on your insurance now. 

Keeping Things In Perspective 

Living in Matthews, NC, you should understand that your car is extremely important, as are the lives of the people who are on the road. Even extremely small accidents can cost people a lot of money, and it makes it difficult to handle when you’re not prepared. If you truly feel that you have the savings and alternative plans to handle anything that might happen to you, then you will at least feel as though you have all of the facts in front of you. To find out more about those facts or to request a quote for price comparison, call JC Demo Insurance Group for more information today!

 

Tips for Home Maintenance in the Fall

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Fall has officially arrived.   The leaves are beginning to change colors and temperatures are dropping to a cool and comfortable level.  Is your home ready for fall?  At JC Demo Insurance Group of Matthews, NC, we believe that proactive preparation is the best defense against unexpected issues arising with your home.  Here are some tips to prepare your home for fall and the upcoming winter.

Make Sure to Clean Your Gutters and Roof

As leaves begin to fall, these can clog up the gutters.   Make sure to clean them out regularly, especially while the weather is still pleasant to be out in.  Check your roof for any loose or missing shingles and make sure to clear off any debris.

Prepare to Transition from Air Conditioning to Furnace Usage

While North Carolina winters are fairly mild compared to other parts of the country, it does still get cold.  Winterize your air conditioning unit and make sure to get your furnace inspected.  The furnace should be checked for leaks and carbon monoxide levels.

Perform Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance Before Using Them

It is enjoyable to have a cozy fire going in the fall and winter.  But before you use it in the upcoming months, it is a good idea to have it cleaned and inspected.  This helps prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide and ensures it is in good working order.

Regular seasonal home maintenance is an important way to protect one of your biggest investments, your home.  It is also important that your house is insured to protect you against unforeseen accidents and disasters.  Contact one of the agents at JC Demo Insurance Group of Matthews, NC to learn more information on the types of insurance coverage we recommend for your home.  

 

 

Why Your Auto Insurance Rates Are Different from Your Friend’s

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When you first get your car insurance policy set up in Matthews, NC, you may have a variety of feelings about it. You might wonder how to budget the expense into the rest of your necessities, or you may be annoyed that you have to take the time for the practical before you can get to the fun of driving. You may even hate the idea of considering all the bad things that can happen to your baby. But one of the worst feelings is later finding out your friend is paying a very different rate from you. JC Demo Insurance Group wants you to know why this happens. 

Insurance Is Specific 

States and cities differ depending on the amount of people, amount of accidents and crime rates. So if you’re more likely to have your car stolen then your rate will be higher than your friends. It also has everything to do with how safe you are on the road, so if your friend not only has no accidents or tickets but also tends to drive rarely and then only to their children’s school for drop-offs, then it’s easier to see why they’re paying less than you. Practically everything you do or don’t do is tied in with your rates, so if you want a lower rate, then you may want to pick a safer and more practical car, or stop trying to see how high over the speed limit you can go before you get pulled over. 

JC Demo Insurance Group 

We serve Matthews, NC and we’re here to talk you through how you can optimize your insurance rate. Call us if you’re looking for a new quote or want to know how different choices will affect your premium rate.