Flood insurance in Florida is essential. In the coming decades, there is a 26% risk that severe flooding may occur on one-fourth of all Florida properties. As a property owner, if you do not have flood insurance, your possessions are at risk, and you face the danger of having to pay for potentially expensive repairs out of pocket.

In an effort to provide you with dependable information concerning flood insurance, we are sharing four common misconceptions.

#1 Homeowners Insurance Covers Flood Damage

Homeowner’s insurance covers a variety of losses and occurrences including fire, powerful winds, and even theft, but many of these plans exclude losses brought on by water.

In fact, if you are a homeowner, it is important to note that most homeowner’s insurance policies do not provide coverage for flood-related damage. As a result, if there is a flash flood, hurricane, or other water-related catastrophe, you may be at risk.

#2 People in Low-Risk Areas Do Not Need Flood Insurance

It’s a reasonable assumption to think that because you live in a low-risk location, you don’t need to invest in flood insurance for your home. Unfortunately, there is an error in this thinking since areas that are regarded as low-risk flood zones account for around a quarter of all flood claims in Florida.

It’s important to understand that a lower risk does not equate to zero danger. Therefore, take the time to carefully examine your homeowner’s policy and your flood insurance coverage details, or consult a professional insurance representative to determine your coverage status.

#3 Only Homeowners Can Purchase Flood Insurance

In Florida, there are more than 1.5 million condos, many of which are located close to flood plains. Condos on lower floors are just as susceptible to flooding as nearby single and two-story homes.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established enabling homeowners, landlords, and renters to purchase flood insurance to safeguard their property, residence, and possessions.

If you are a renter, you can and should consider purchasing flood insurance to ensure that your residence and belongings are insured in the case of flooding.

#4 Flood Insurance Covers All Damages

People with flood insurance frequently run into financial difficulties because they’ve made the error of thinking that this type of insurance covers all damages associated with a flooding event.

There is a list of exclusions that apply to flood insurance much like most types of policies. This fact makes it very important that you familiarize yourself with your current policy or ask specific coverage questions when shopping for flood insurance.

It’s also important to note that a typical flood insurance policy does not cover living costs, such as rent, while homes are being repaired. Depending on the catastrophe, you could need alternate housing for months or even years.

Protect Your Home from Flooding

At GWK Insurance, we assist people in finding the insurance coverage that will best suit their individual needs and is within their budget. To find out more about how we can get the best coverage for you so that you and your possessions are protected in the case of flooding, contact us for a consultation.

Did you know that one of the most frequent and expensive natural disasters that happens in the United States is flooding? Flooding can occur for a number of reasons, such as river overflow, excessive rainfall, storm surge from tropical storms, and of course, hurricanes.

Despite the common nature of flooding, only a small percentage of property owners get flood insurance. The good news is flood insurance is a valuable investment that can be purchased at a variety of price points. With the proper coverage, you can have peace of mind that both your property and its contents are protected.

Flood Insurance Coverage

Understanding the value of flood insurance coverage may make it even easier to seek it out and secure it for your specific needs. There are a few important things to consider when deciding whether you should invest in flood insurance.

Flooding is a Real Risk in Florida

No state has a more vulnerable stretch of shoreline as Florida. The Sunshine State is the ideal location for sun, sand, and unfortunately, floods primarily because of its more than 1,300 miles of coastline.

If you don’t live near the coast, you shouldn’t’ get too comfortable in thinking that your property is not at risk. With a population of around 21 million and the average residence sitting at an elevation of only six feet above sea level, the majority of Floridians should consider their property vulnerable.

Your Homeowner’s Insurance Does Not Protect You Against Flooding

Many types of water damage are covered by typical home insurance plans, but flood damage is not. Flood insurance can be a wise investment, given that just one inch of water can cause as much as $25,000 in damage.

Keep in mind that the goal of flood insurance, like the goal of other insurance plans, is to prevent you from having to pay costly repair and replacement costs in the event of a flood or disaster. Flood insurance has significant return on investment for those who experience flooding, as they have their home and belongings covered.

What Does Flood Insurance Cost and Cover?

Depending on your needs and budget, the cost and coverage of your flood insurance will vary. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which was created to lessen the socioeconomic impact of floods, offers solutions.

The NFIP imposes a cap of $250,000 for any structural damage to the property brought on by flooding and a cap of $100,000 for actual cash value coverage for any loss of personal possessions. It’s important to note that water damage from other sources (such as leakage or seepage claims), or damage brought on by wind-driven rain, are not covered by flood insurance.

Looking for Coverage?

For some people, the need and choice for purchasing a separate flood insurance policy can seem obvious. However, that may not always be the case for those not in specially designated flood zones. The fact is that without protection in place, you and your family maybe at risk financially. Flood coverage is your best protection.

At GWK Insurance, we assist people in finding the insurance coverage that will best suit their individual needs within their budget. To find out more about how we can get the best coverage for you and your family, contact us today.

Getting into a car accident is every driver’s nightmare. The majority of individuals utilize cars as their main form of transportation to and from work, school, the grocery store, long road trips, and other daily activities. However, the more time spent on the road, the more likely you are to eventually find yourself in a car accident.

Whether serious or minor, car accidents are incredibly stressful and often difficult to navigate in the moment. Your adrenaline may be running, you may need to make a few phone calls to family members, and you will need to determine whether or not your car is drivable. It may be difficult to determine the proper steps to take with your insurance company, so we have provided a few items to accomplish if you are in a car accident.

What to Do If You Get into a Car Accident

These steps should be completed after checking yourself and your passenger(s) for injuries, moving your car to a safe space on the side of the road if possible, and calling 911 for assistance.

#1 Exchange Information

If other drivers are involved in the accident, it is important to exchange contact information with the other individual(s). Be sure to gather the full name and contact information, insurance company and policy number, driver’s license number, license plate number, the make/model of their vehicle, and the location where the accident occurred.

During this exchange, ensure that you do not admit fault for the incident. Fault will be determined by the insurance provider, based on the information provided by the drivers, damage caused to the vehicles and the surrounding area, and any documentation provided by the police officers on the scene.

#2 Document the Accident

While at the scene of the accident, it is important for you to gather documentation. It may be tempting to just provide the details requested by police, but you will need a record of details to report to your insurance provider as well.

First, gather the names and badge numbers of all police officers on the scene. Next, ask the officers how you can obtain a copy of the accident report to give to your insurance provider. Third, take photos of both vehicles from all sides and the scene and surroundings of the accident, ensuring that you capture all resulting damage. Fourth, write down the names and addresses of all parties involved, including passengers in the other vehicle and witnesses who saw the accident occur.

#3 Begin the Claims Process

While at the scene of the accident, you may begin submitting a claim with your insurance provider, either through their mobile app or by calling the provider directly. This is more efficient than calling the provider after leaving the accident, since the provider will likely ask for detailed information that you may not remember after the fact.

They will also provide you with general expectations for the claims process. If your vehicle cannot be driven after the accident, your insurance company will assist you in having the vehicle towed to an auto-mechanic shop.

#4 Keep Records

Finally, it is important to keep all accident-related documents in a single location. This will be helpful in case you need to refer back to the documents in the future. This file should include:

• Claim number
• Adjuster who is handling the claim
• Contact information for all involved parties
• Rental car receipts and all other related expense receipts

Do You Need Auto Insurance Assistance?

Have you been in a vehicle incident recently, or are you looking for auto coverage? At GWK Insurance, our licensed agents are prepared to help you. We understand the stressful nature of car accidents and are ready to guide you through the claims process. Contact us for more information, whether online, in person, or over the phone.

Purchasing your first car is a big milestone and one that comes with important responsibilities. Choosing auto insurance includes deciding what coverage and deductibles you need.

It is important to first realize that a number of variables such as age, marital status, and home ownership can affect coverage and cost when it comes to auto insurance.  The type of coverage and size of deductible you want in the event of an accident may also influence the policy and restrictions you select.

Here are four of the most important elements to understand when considering your first your first auto insurance policy.

#1 Coverage Pays for Damages You May Cause

Liability insurance comes in two different varieties. In most states, both are types are mandated by law.

Bodily Injury Liability

This coverage could assist in covering your legal costs as well as the injured party’s medical expenses and lost wages in the event that they sustain injuries as a result of an auto accident you caused. This insurance frequently has two distinct limits: one for each injured person and another for each accident.

Property Damage Liability

This insurance can shield you if your car damages someone else’s property. You may not have to compensate the other party’s damages out of your own pocket if property damage coverage helps reimburse them for their losses.

#2 Coverage That Helps Protect You if You’re Injured

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

If you are hurt in a car accident, this coverage might assist in covering your health insurance deductible (if you have one) as well as any additional medical expenses that go beyond the limitations of your health insurance. While you are recovering, this insurance may also cover your lost income. In the worst circumstance, PIP may assist in paying for your funeral costs. Keep in mind that not all states offer PIP.

Medical Payments

Similar to personal injury protection, this coverage may assist in covering your medical expenses related to an auto accident. However, this coverage extends to your passengers and any family members who were in the car at the time of the collision. This coverage can also assist in covering medical costs if you or a member of your family is hurt in a pedestrian accident or while riding in another vehicle.

#3 Coverage That Helps Protect You from Drivers Without Insurance

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist

If you are hit by a driver who does not have auto insurance or whose policy limits are insufficient to fully cover the costs of the accident, this coverage may be able to help safeguard you. Depending on the insurance requirements in your area, it can also help cover the cost of any vehicle damage in addition to your medical expenses.

#4 Coverage That Helps Protect Your Vehicle

Collision

This coverage accommodates repairs or even the replacement costs of your car as a result of a collision with another car or item.

Comprehensive

This insurance might help with non-auto accident-related damage to your vehicle. Examples include theft, fire, and fallen objects.

Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP)

You will normally receive fair market value for your car from your insurance carrier if it is stolen or totaled in an accident. However, if you still owe a lender more than the automobile is worth, GAP insurance may be able to help you get paid the price difference.

Finding the Best Auto Insurance Policy

Reliable insurance coverage is an important component of auto ownership. The first step is choosing an insurance agency you can trust.

At GWK Insurance, we help individuals and families get the proper coverage for their specific needs. Contact us today to help you find the right auto insurance policy coverage for your needs.

Many individuals don’t fully understand  their auto insurance policy, which can leave them exposed to significant financial problems in the event of an accident. Searching for the ideal insurance company and policy for you and your unique financial situation can be an overwhelming task.

However, it is a very important undertaking, as auto insurance is mandatory in nearly all states. It can also be the difference between financial hardship and a minor inconvenience if you are ever in an accident.

The following four rules of thumb can help you simplify the process and gain a better understanding of auto insurance.

#1 Know the Standard Types of Auto Insurance Coverage

While many take it for granted, auto insurance is a contract between you and your insurance company. In exchange for paying a premium, your insurance company is committing to pay for losses as defined in the policy you select.

Understanding your options for insurance coverage is important when you are purchasing a new car or shopping around for insurance. Auto insurance covers a variety of issues that can occur on or off the road, and coverages vary by state. However, these are the standard coverages on most policies:

Liability

Auto liability coverage is required in 49 states. Liability coverage can pay for damage to other vehicles, damage to objects, injuries to other drivers and their passengers, and lawsuits, if you’re sued due to an accident.

Comprehensive

Comprehensive coverage is important for vehicle damage due to fire, vandalism, theft, and other events that are out of your control. If you have an auto loan or lease, your lender may require this coverage, though it is optional in all states.

Collision

Collision coverage is optional in every state and covers your vehicle if it overturns or collides with another vehicle or stationary object.

Medical Payments/Personal Injury Protection

Personal injury protection is a broader coverage that is available only in certain states that require it, while medical payment coverage is available in most states. These coverages help pay for medical bills if you or your passengers are injured in a car accident in which you are at fault.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist

As the name implies, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage pays for your loss if a driver with little or no insurance coverage hits you.

#2 Know What Auto Insurance Does Not Cover

A basic auto insurance policy won’t cover typical wear and tear, mechanical failures, or routine maintenance. For example, oil changes or replacement of sensors on your vehicle are not covered by auto insurance. You may choose to add a warranty to the purchase of your vehicle, which may cover such maintenance needs.

Auto insurance will likewise not cover any items or belongings stolen from your vehicle. Standard policies only cover injury to you, your passengers, or the vehicle itself.

#3 Know How Much Auto Insurance Costs

The price of auto insurance will vary between insurers depending on the types and amounts of coverage and deductibles you choose, along with several other factors. One such factor impacting rates is decided by where you happen to live. For example, it typically costs more to insure a vehicle in areas with higher rates of theft or accidents. The cost of auto insurance is also impacted by gender, driving record, and the value of your vehicle, among other factors that vary by state.

#4 Know Where to Get the Best Auto Insurance for Your Needs

There are a few different avenues for selecting the best auto insurance policy. The option that is best for you depends on your personal preferences, but there are helpful ways to approach your search.

Sure, you could begin by contacting individual insurance companies and comparing rates. Rates and policies can vary significantly by insurance company, so you’d want to get multiple quotes, which can be extremely daunting and time consuming.

Why spend all that time and energy yourself when the trusted and experienced agents at GWK Insurance can do the work for you and get you the best possible quotes?

Shop the Best Auto Insurance for You

Having reliable and proper insurance coverage is an important component of auto ownership. Finding the best auto insurance policy can save you money, frustration, time, and regret. The first step is choosing an agency you can trust.

At GWK Insurance, we know shopping for auto insurance can feel overwhelming, and we are here to help you select and purchase the best auto insurance policy for your protection. Contact us today to help you find the best auto insurance for your needs.

Not many people would elect to pay more for car insurance. Oftentimes, individuals may think that because they are paying more, they are getting more coverage. However, that is not necessarily the case.

You can likely find the same quality coverage with a more budget-friendly price tag. That is why it is often beneficial to compare a few car insurance quotes. To get a true comparison, you should set a few of the same parameters, such as coverage types, limits, and deductibles to easily compare them side by side.

It is important to also note that there is a difference between car insurance quotes and rates.

Quote V. Rate

A car insurance quote is an estimate that details how much you can anticipate paying for an insurance policy. On the other hand, a car insurance rate is an amount you pay for the policy over a specific amount of time. Your car insurance rate may be different from the quote, as it is affected by a variety of factors, like your driving record.

3 Helpful Tips to Compare Your Car Insurance Quotes

The following are three helpful tips for comparing car insurance quotes.

#1: Choose the appropriate liability limits

Under Florida law, you must have a minimum of $10,000 of property damage liability insurance and $10,000 of personal injury protection (PIP). However, many individuals elect to have more than the state’s minimum requirements. These types of liability coverage can help pay for the other individual’s car repairs or medical bills if you were at fault for the accident.

When requesting auto insurance quotes, you should determine how much liability coverage you want and compare each provider’s rates for equivalent coverage.

#2: Set equivalent deductibles for the quotes you are comparing

Depending on your financial situation, you may prefer to pay a higher monthly premium to have a lower deductible or vice versa. Try to set equivalent deductibles for the quotes you are comparing so you can see which makes the most financial sense for your unique needs, and then you can make an accurate comparison.

#3: Compare quotes with the same coverage

There are many more coverage options (other than liability) available, such as collision and comprehensive, that you will want to account for when comparing quotes.

Before you begin asking for quotes, you may want to familiarize yourself with your coverage options and decide which ones you will want to include in your policy. Just be sure that the coverage is equivalent for each quote you are requesting to accurately compare them.

Need Help Comparing Car Insurance Quotes?

While some car insurance coverage is required by the state, there are many additional coverage options available at varying price points.

At GWK Insurance, we help you shop and compare the best car insurance quotes that meet your coverage and budget needs. Contact us today to get started.

Buying a car is one of the largest investments an individual will make in their lifetime, and ensuring that it is properly insured is important. However, choosing the best auto insurance policy can be complex, as there are many things to consider all while staying within your budget.

While there may not be a one size fits all answer to choosing the best auto insurance policy, there are a few big mistakes that everyone should avoid.

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Your Auto Insurance Policy

#1: Not Knowing the Insurance Coverage You Need

Each state has different insurance coverage requirements. That being said, many drivers may only have the coverage required by law but need additional insurance coverage to be fully protected. The key is to find the balance between cost and coverage so you have adequate protection that fits your budget.

Consulting with an insurance agent can help you best determine what kind of coverage you should have based on a variety of factors.

#2: Choosing the Wrong Deductible Amount

Another common mistake that you should avoid when choosing your auto insurance policy is having the wrong deductible amount. It is no secret that a higher deductible generally results in a lower premium, and vice versa. But that may not be ideal for your financial situation.

Unless you have a substantial rainy-day fund that will cover the cost of your deductible, it may be better for you to have a lower deductible in your auto insurance policy.

#3: Not Comparing Policies

Just because one insurance provider’s policy is one amount doesn’t mean another provider offering the same policy will cost the same amount. Many drivers will choose the first policy they are quoted without shopping around for a better deal with the same coverage.

This mistake often results from the hassle it can be to shop around. However, by contacting an insurance agent, you get assistance with shopping quotes and easily choose the best auto insurance policy for your needs and budget.

Get Multiple Auto Insurance Policy Quotes

While car insurance often gets undervalued until a driver needs it, having the right policy can substantially protect you and your finances. It is important to shop for the right coverage that is also at the right price point for you.

At GWK Insurance, we help individuals find the best insurance policies that meet their unique needs and budget. Contact us today to get help shopping for the best auto insurance policy for you.

With sizes that can span more than 300 miles, hurricanes have become one of the most dreaded natural phenomena on the East Coast. In the past ten years, a great deal of investment from national, state, and non-governmental platforms has gone towards preparation efforts.

To simplify the process, we’ve compiled some of our most prudent advice.

What’s the difference between Hurricane Watch and Hurricane Warning?

Hurricane Watch

Weather centers will issue a hurricane watch when it becomes possible for hurricane conditions to manifest in as little as 2 days. This may often be the first sign of atmospheric changes following tropical storm watches.

Hurricane Warning
This designation is issue to a specific area when it becomes expected that hurricane conditions will most likely manifest within 36 hours.

How do you prepare?

1. Check that you’re covered by your insurance. Account for both water damage, flood damage, structural damage, personal property

2. Account for all valuable items in your home

3. Protect your property by effectively securing loose exterior fixtures and installing protective equipment, such as shutters

4. Ensure that all emergency supply kits in your home have been properly stocked and that you have ice packed in your fridge

5. Plan your evacuation completely; including routes, supplies, mode of transportation, and finances

Recommendations for Supply Kits

1. Enough water for you and your family for at least 3 days. A standard metric for preparation is one gallon per person per day.

2. A proportional supply of non-perishable food for 3 days

3. Battery powered or hand crank radio

4. First aid kit with bandages, thermal blankets, glow sticks, sterile gloves, anti-septics, etc.

5. Flashlights and extra batteries

6. Duct tape

7. A whistle in case help needs to be indicated

8. Plastic sheeting

9. Tools, such as wrenches, pliers and hammers

10. Plastic bags and plastic ties

11. Moist towelettes

12. Non-electric can opener

13. Local maps

14. Cell phones with chargers, battery packs and solar chargers

15. Candles

16. Electric cooking wear

When do you evacuate?

Evacuate ahead of time with plenty of space between you and the storm

Leave when authorities issue a mandatory evacuation

Evacuate if you have no means of fortifying your home with protective fixtures

Things to do before you evacuate

1. Be prepared to drive at least 50 miles and away from the coast

2. Pack emergency supplies

3. Prepare maps

4. Inform a friend or family of your destination or route

5. Turn off the gas, electricity and water in your home

6. Empty the refrigerator or freezer

7. Prepare home for possible water damage by securing valuables on higher ground

If you can’t evacuate

1. Stay close to home

2. Stay aware of weather updates

3. Stay inside when the storm is closer or present

4. Stay away from windows and glass with all curtains and blinds closed

5. Close all interior doors to stifle potential air flow

6. Take refuge on the lowest level of the home unless the home floods

7. Do not exit in the eye of the hurricane

8. Turn off main circuit of home if electricity goes out

9. Avoid the use of candle supply behind closed doors- reserve those for lighting outdoors after the storm

What do you do after a hurricane?

1. Turn on the radio for weather updates

2. Return home from your evacuation destination only when authorities indicate that it is safe

3. If your home or area experienced flooding, be cautious of standing water- which may hide snakes and poisonous insects.

4. Check for gas leaks if you hear a hissing or blowing noise

5. Do not enter buildings if structural damage is evident. Stay away from con-caving ceilings.

6. Ventilate home by opening windows

7. Do not use open flames- verify the absence of a gas leak

8. Do not drink tap water until instructed otherwise

9. Reactivate the gas in your home if it was shut off

10. Stay away from electrical infrastructure and downed power-lines

Making a claim after the storm

1. Contact your coverage provider and speak to your agent

2. Document all damage with photos

3. Document all efforts to make temporary repairs- keep all receipts

4. Schedule an inspection

Resources:

www.flash.org

www.redcross.org

www.nhc.noaa.gov

Flooding in Florida, particularly southeast Florida, has become consistent and predictable. Whether it be from heavy rains, flash floods, or floods instigated by large storms, Florida residents can expect 10 – 20 foot walls of water in severe conditions. Recent weather events have only indicated that flooding should become a more pressing concern in the future, and has hence prompted $3.5 million in precautionary investments from the Floridian government in the past year.

However, the responsibility to protect homes and personal possessions is ultimately left to homeowners. This includes basic safety measures during and before storms, but also includes the implementation of insurance plans in preparation for unforeseen events. After all, it only takes 2 feet of water to lift a car off the ground, and 11 inches to cause $50,000 worth of loss.

The point is: floods happen. They are designated as the number-one natural disaster in the United States, and happen to be a formally declared risk in all 50 states. However, most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage.

So what options are you left with?

One choice is known as Preferred Risk Flood Insurance. This provides coverage for direct physical loss due to flooding, including:

• Overflow of inland or tidal water

• Unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface water from any source

• Mudflow

The alternative choice is Standard Flood Insurance– which is coverage for the same criteria, but typically required by your mortgage broker. This condition will likely be prompted by the location of your home being in a higher risk flood zone. For that reason, the rates for Preferred Risk Flood Insurance tend to be more affordable.

Regardless of your flood policy, your agent has the capacity to integrate your coverage for flood insurance with your home insurance protections. In tandem with other safety measures implemented during weather events, you can rest assured that you are protected by your plan and the support of a good insurance professional.

The bottom line up front is simple: adding a teenage driver to your plan will increase your insurance rates. The good news is that you can control how much those rates hike.

First, there is a necessity to understand just why drivers between the ages of 15 and 21 are more expensive to insure. For one, the likelihood of a teenage driver being involved in an accident or traffic violation is several times higher than that of more experienced drivers. Another consideration is the amount of financial responsibility this age group has.

When coupling these tropes together, it becomes evident as to why insurers identify a liability.

So how do you mitigate how much your rates go up? We’ve compiled the 3 most important tips for saving money when adding your teens to your policy.

1. Be selective of your car. Cheaper, non-sport vehicles tend to be more cost-effective to insure.

2. Pay attention to insurance discounts. Your teen getting good grades could save you money on car insurance.

3. Safe driving matters. Some insurance providers install safe driving devices that monitor the speed, distance, and time that teen conductors drive at.

The implementation of these 3 rate reducing methods for each of your teen drivers could mean the difference between a rate increase that breaks the bank and an insurance experience that leaves you both satisfied and at peace.