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When buying a home, acquiring insurance coverage may not be at the top of your to-do list in the midst of packing, moving, and decorating your new space. However, once you understand the many practical benefits that a homeowner’s insurance policy provides, you will see why it is so important to take care of it as soon as possible.

Here are five primary reasons getting a homeowner’s insurance policy should be a priority for you and your property.

5 Main Benefits of Homeowner’s Insurance

In simple terms, homeowner’s insurance provides compensation for damages to your property and belongings.  A standard policy often covers extra living expenses, injury to others, theft of property, and damage or destruction to the interior or exterior of your home.

A typical homeowner’s policy can help safeguard your assets, but it typically includes coverage for the interior and exterior of the building as well. The following elements, including your personal belongings, exteriors structures such as a shed, and even hospital costs in the event that a guest is injured on your property, may all be covered by a normal homeowners insurance policy.

#1 Protection of Your Main Dwelling

The most important component and main objective of home insurance policies is to safeguard your principal dwelling, or the part of your home where you actually reside.

#2 Protect Your Detached Structures

The second most important component of home insurance is coverage for your detached structures, which may include garages, storage sheds, fences, dog houses, and more.

#3 Coverage for Your Home’s Contents

Make a list of all the furniture, electronics, appliances, and other personal objects that your policy would cover before you buy house insurance.

You might be eligible for a partial or full reimbursement if a covered event (like a hurricane) damages or destroys some of this property, depending on the specifics of your policy.

#4 Liability Coverage

If someone is injured on your property, you could be held liable for the medical costs, which could be incredibly costly. Homeowners Insurance protects you in the event someone is hurt in your home or on your property.

Note that your insurance does not provide coverage for personal injuries or property damage to you or other household members. It is designed to specifically protect you against costly lawsuits that could arise from others being harmed.

#5 Loss of Use Insurance

You will incur hotel, food, and travel costs if a covered event forces you to vacate your home while it is being repaired or rebuilt. Your homeowner’s insurance policy’s loss of use provision will provide coverage for temporary dwelling and basic living expenses up to a specific amount.

These are all important advantages of having homeowner’s insurance. As you can see, a policy will take care of much more than just fixing broken shingles!

Contact us to Gain Peace of Mind

Although having homeowner’s insurance won’t keep damages from occurring, it can help by acting as a financial safety net in the event of an unforeseen disaster. Coverage can allow you to have peace of mind as a homeowner.

At GWK Insurance, we take pride in providing our clients with the best options for insurance cover in order to remove the concern if disaster should strike. Contact our office to find out more about how we can get the best homeowner’s coverage for you.

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.

In Florida, natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, sinkholes, and even wildfires are all a very real possibility. Wildfires are the most frequent natural disaster in the state, despite the fact that its location between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean renders it particularly vulnerable to powerful storms. This partially explains why home insurance rates in disaster-prone locations are generally higher than the national average.

A typical home insurance policy does not provide coverage for most natural disasters. Following a natural disaster, claims could be so high that insurance firms would go bankrupt if all claims were permissible. As a result, insurance providers are reluctant to offer coverage for certain dangers.

Homeowner’s Insurance and Natural Disasters FAQs

Let’s examine a few frequently asked questions surrounding natural disasters and homeowner’s insurance.

#1 Is My Home Protected from a Natural Disaster?

This is a broad question that depends on the specifics of your homeowner’s policy, and the location you live in impacts the coverage greatly. For example, the majority of plans include coverage for fire damage, but if you reside in a wildfire-prone location, your coverage may differ slightly. This is why it is crucial that you check your policy closely or go to an experienced insurance professional BEFORE disaster strikes.

The following damages are frequently covered by homeowner’s insurance. However, always check your insurance policy to ensure that these are indeed covered.

• Damage due to lightning and fire
• Wind or hail damage
• Damage caused by smoke
• Volcanic eruption or damage from ash
• Weight of snow, ice, or sleet causing collapse

#2 Why Is My Home Not Protected from a Natural Disaster?

It is certainly understandable to be concerned that your homeowner’s insurance may not protect you from a literal force of nature. However, due to the possibility of expensive natural disaster claims, the majority of natural disasters are not covered by homeowner’s insurance. Since many natural disasters result in total losses, private insurance firms simply cannot bear the risk.

Be aware that the following natural disasters are usually NOT covered by typical homeowner insurance policies:

• Floods
• Sinkholes
• Earthquakes
• Landslide or a mudslide

#3 Do I Need a Separate Policy to Have Flood Coverage?

Contrary to popular belief, homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. Flood insurance must be purchased separately. You will need a separate policy, such as from the National Flood Insurance Program, or NFIP, to be covered against flood damage.

Many mortgage lenders require flood insurance, especially in light of the fact that so many homes, especially in Florida, are situated in flood zones with varying degrees of risk. You can either obtain flood insurance from the government or from a private company.

#4 Is There a Special Policy for Hurricane Coverage?

There isn’t a special hurricane policy that you should seek out. In actuality, hurricane damage is produced by a variety of factors, including wind, floods from storm surge, and rain. As a result, the question of whether a residence is covered by insurance during a hurricane generally depends on whatever aspect of the storm, or its aftermath, caused the specific damage.

In many instances, homeowner’s insurance can protect your home, personal belongings and many other items located on your property if a hurricane causes damage or complete destruction. You will need to meet your hurricane deductible, and your insurance company will likely cover the remainder up to your policy’s maximum limit.

Need an Experienced Insurance Professional?

Your homeowner’s insurance will cover damage from some Florida natural disasters, but you will need to buy additional insurance to cover damage from floods, hurricane winds, windstorms, and some types of sinkholes.

At GWK Insurance, we take pride in helping our clients feel assured should disaster strike. To find out more about how we can get the best coverage for you and your family, contact us today.

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.

Renting is an appealing lifestyle for many Americans today. As opposed to owning a home, renting provides the comfort that home life has to offer without the weight of a mortgage payment or long-term commitment to the property.

Renting a property comes with the important task of acquiring renter’s insurance. Most renters are required to obtain insurance by their leasing office or landlord but are not educated about what the policy actually covers. The following is everything you need to know about renter’s insurance.

What is Renter’s Insurance?

Renter’s insurance is essentially the renter’s equivalent of homeowner’s insurance. Your policy protects your property from harm, caused by theft, fire, water damage, and more. It also protects you, the renter, from potential liability claims.

Liability claims may arise in the event that someone is injured on your property and chooses to take legal action against you. Your policy will cover the costs of necessary legal defense if you are sued by an injured person or the landlord, as well as medical bills if someone is hospitalized due to an injury on your property.

Renter’s insurance applies if someone is injured due to structural failure or otherwise. Additionally, if the property you are renting is damaged and you are required to move out while repairs are made, your policy will cover the costs of alternate housing.

What Events Does Renter’s Insurance Cover?

The renter’s policy will cover the cost of your belongings in the case of theft, or if they are damaged due to an “event.” Most policies cover damages caused by 15 specific events: lightning/fire, hail, smoke, vandalism, explosion, volcanic eruption, falling objects, ice/snow, riots, accidental water damage from within the home, sudden tearing of the home structure, freezing occurring within the home, sudden damage from electric currents, damage caused by aircrafts, and damage caused by vehicles.

Your property will be covered even if you are outside the home at the time of the event. Additionally, renter’s insurance covers a portion of your belongings even if it they are with you, and not inside the structure. For example, if you are out shopping and your smartphone is stolen, your renter’s insurance will cover a fraction of the cost of your phone replacement.

What Events Does Renter’s Insurance Not Cover?

Outside of the 15 main events (+ theft), your renter’s insurance policy will not cover much else. Depending on where you live, there may be some variation in your policy.

In general, however, the following are not covered by renter’s insurance: the structure itself, which is covered by your landlord, flooding, earthquakes, infestations of termites or mice, or a roommate’s personal property.

These events are often insured through separate individual policies. If you live in a region prone to flooding or earthquakes, it is best to reach out to your insurance agent to discuss potential coverage options. If you are unsure of what your policy does or does not cover, contact your insurance company for guidance.

How Much Coverage Should You Get?

Your renter’s insurance coverage is directly related to the combined worth of your belongings. When applying for renter’s insurance, it is wise to compile a list of your belongings and their estimated worth. This is especially important for any high-value items you may have on the property. Without doing this, it is easy to under-value the worth of your belongings, and they may not be fully covered in the event of a disaster.

Additionally, submitting a comprehensive list of your belongings will protect you if a claim needs to be filed in the future. By doing this, you will prove the value of your possessions and be much more likely to be reimbursed if they are stolen or destroyed.

Looking for Coverage?

Are you a current renter or looking to rent in the near future? We would love to discuss renter’s insurance with you. At GWK Insurance, our agents are prepared to walk you through the renter’s insurance process and/or help you file a claim, if necessary. Contact us today to discuss your policy options and get a free quote.

Opening a small business is no easy feat and includes many important details to explore and establish. Owners must investigate and acquire necessary licenses, permits, rent or lease information, important tax documents, and more. Additionally, owners should confirm that their business is insured in the necessary areas.

Insurance options for small business owners depend on the type of product that a business offers. Certain companies will need to have a particular type of coverage depending on products or services they offer.

Ultimately, small business insurance works to protect a company from any financial harm that may arise, as well as safeguarding the company in the event that accidents occur.

Types of Business Insurance for Small Businesses

In general, there are a few types of insurance that all small businesses need, typically included in a business owner’s policy.

General Liability Insurance

If you are a small business owner, general liability protects you and your small business from any liability claims that may arise. These claims can occur if a customer is injured while on company property. Injuries may happen due to direct interaction with your product, such as a tool or sharp knife, or simply by slipping and falling.

This type of insurance will also cover property damage claims, which can be filed if a customer’s belongings are lost or damaged while on the property.

Finally, general liability will protect you in the case of a personal liability claim. These claims are filed in the event of personal defamation. Without this insurance, you would be forced to pay all costs of these claims out of pocket.

Business Income Insurance

Business income insurance, or business interruption insurance, will replace your lost income in the event of a natural disaster, property damage, or theft. This type of coverage is beneficial if a store closure is necessary to repair the property.

If the store must close down for months at a time to complete repairs, large amounts of revenue may be lost. Business income will assist in replacing the revenue that you would have earned during this time.

Additionally, business income insurance will protect you in cases of theft. This can be in regard to stolen product, or funds stolen directly from the business. Your insurance policy will cover the lost revenue while you work to replenish the missing product or funds.

Commercial Property Insurance

Commercial property covers the property, building, technology, furniture, tools, records, and any fixtures of your small business, whether owned or rented. This coverage is vitally important, as it protects your business and its assets from damages caused by fire, wind, and lightning, as well as theft or vandalism.

Without this coverage, any damage to the building, its fixtures, and virtually anything inside the physical building will not be protected. Any costs to repair or replace these losses would be paid directly out of your pocket as owner.

Every small business owner with a physical location should have this type of insurance to ensure that all assets are protected.

Additional Coverage

Depending on the nature of your small business, other types of coverage should be considered. While not included in a business owner’s policy, other policies may be necessary to protect you and your product from potential harm.

A few other policies to consider include:

• Workers’ Compensation Insurance
• Commercial Auto Insurance
• Professional Liability Insurance
• Commercial Umbrella Insurance
• Cyber Liability Insurance

When determining additional coverage, it is important to consider the reach of your business, as well as potential growth.

Looking for Coverage?

Are you a small business owner seeking guidance or coverage for your business? At GWK Insurance, our agents are experienced with business insurance and are ready to help. If you need guidance throughout this process, we would love to offer our services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to receive a quote.

Maintaining a homeowner’s insurance policy is a vital step for anyone looking to purchase a home. Shopping out different policy options, along with reading the fine print, is a necessary part of the process. This ensures that you, the homeowner, understand the ins and outs of what incidents your policy will cover, and instances that will not be covered by insurance.

Types of Damages Not Typically Covered

While every homeowner’s policy is unique, there are certain key issues that most policies will not cover. Understanding these instances before purchasing your home will benefit you, so that you are prepared if disaster strikes.

The following are different types of damages that will not be covered by basic insurance policies.

Issues Caused by Lack of Maintenance

Taking care of your home through necessary maintenance is a vital part of being a homeowner. Failing to properly maintain your home can cause serious damages to the dwelling, which are not covered by your homeowner’s policy. The insurer will cite any issue caused by neglect, or failure to maintain routine maintenance procedures, as something within the homeowner’s control.

In these cases, the insurer will most likely not cover the resulting damages. These damages often include leaky pipes that were possibly neglected that have caused rotting wood and underlying water damage to the structure. Typical wear and tear of appliances, or neglect of furniture are also excluded.

If the insurer determines that these damages could be prevented by proper homeowner maintenance and care, they will most likely not cover the cost to repair the damages.

Floods and Earthquakes

The majority of homeowner’s insurance policies cover common natural disasters such as wind, hail, lightning, and wildfires. However, most policies do not cover damages caused by flooding or earthquakes.

Flood and earthquake coverage is typically found in a separate policy entirely, and homeowners living in regions prone to these disasters should seek out this coverage if necessary.

Basic homeowner’s insurance policies, however, do not offer coverage for these events since most homes are not prone to these types of disasters. If you feel that your home is at risk of being damaged by a flood or earthquake, contact your insurer regarding separate policies for these more extraordinary events.

Mold

In most cases, mold damage is caused by a long-term leak, or failure to properly maintain the home. If your insurance company determines that the mold damage occurred due to neglect, a leak that was not repaired, or a naturally occurring flood, they will not cover the cost of repairs.

However, if the investigation determines that the mold was caused by a leak that quickly built up or was deep in the walls and unable to be noticed, they may cover the cost of damages. In any situation, it is best to notify your insurance company immediately so they can begin an investigation as soon as possible.

Intentional Damage

Your homeowner’s insurance policy will not cover any damages caused by yourself or a family member. This includes a wide range of issues, such as structural damages, damages to appliances or other belongings, theft, or graffiti.

Your insurer will cover accidental damages or injuries, as laid out in the personal liability section of your policy. However, if any damage was intended, pre-determined, or used to cause harm, the insurer will not cover the cost of repairs.

Questions About Your Policy?

Are you a first-time homeowner or in need of a new homeowner’s insurance policy? We are here to help! At GWK Insurance, our team of experienced agents is prepared to guide you through the insurance selection process.

We understand the ins and outs of a policy can be daunting, especially for a new homeowner, and we are ready to assist you. Contact us today so that we can answer any questions you may have regarding your homeowner’s policy.

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.

There are multiple decisions for homeowners when selecting and purchasing home insurance. Homeowners must choose their policy’s deductible in addition to the coverages, limitations, and endorsements they want.

The majority of insurance companies give policyholders a variety of deductible options. It’s crucial to choose wisely because the decisions you make and the deductible you select will directly affect your premium. Understanding how deductibles work will help you make the most of your money.

What is a Home Insurance Deductible?

Your deductible is the sum that you and your insurance company agree that you will pay when you file a claim. Your home insurer pays the remaining claim amount up to the limit of your policy after your deductible has been reached.

Your home insurance company will take the deductible amount from the total claim settlement it offers you. The amount of your home insurance deductible might be either a fixed financial sum or a percentage of the cost of your policy. The deductible is fixed for the duration of your home insurance coverage once it is chosen.

Types of Home Insurance Deductibles

There are two types of home insurance deductibles, a dollar-amount deductible, and a percentage deductible.

A flat deductible is another name for a dollar-amount deductible. Every time you make a claim under your house insurance, you must pay a set fee. Average house insurance deductibles range between $500 and $1,500.

A percentage deductible is calculated using a portion of the insured value of your home. If you have a 1% deductible and a $500,000 house insurance policy, the reimbursement for any home claims will be $5,000 less. Compared to what you would have to pay with a dollar-amount deductible, this is more expensive.

How Do I Pick the Right Home Insurance Deductible?

Many homeowners consider the monthly premium amount added to their mortgage payment when deciding which insurance deductible to choose for a policy.

Homeowners may want to reduce their monthly premium payments, and choosing a higher deductible can help do this. Consider a large deductible as a one-time investment in your future finances.

Normally, it’s a good idea to choose a deductible that you will be able to afford should you need to submit a claim, but there can be benefits to picking the highest deductible you can manage. Higher deductible choices typically result in reduced monthly prices for house insurance policies. A greater deductible will lessen your likelihood of making a little claim, which could prevent you from receiving a discount or raise your premiums.

When selecting a deductible for your home insurance policy, there are a few questions to consider:

• If you had a claim, how much could you afford to pay out-of-pocket?
• How affordable do you want your homeowner’s insurance premium to be?
• If you don’t submit a claim, are you eligible for a discount?
• Will making a claim result in higher premiums?

Choose the Best Homeowner’s Insurance and Deductible for Your Needs

Having the right insurance policy with a deductible you can live with is important for homeowners when navigating the many curves life can throw at you at a moment’s notice.

At GWK Insurance, we understand that shopping for the best policy that meets your unique needs and budget can be challenging. We’ll help you find the best homeowner’s insurance policy that checks all the right boxes for you. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.

There’s nothing quite like taking your motorcycle out for a ride, whether it’s your weekend getaway or the way you commute to work every day. Of course, being properly insured is the best way to enjoy your ride no matter where you’re traveling.

Florida is unique in that the state’s motorcycle laws don’t require that you purchase motorcycle insurance to register and ride your bike. However, it is important that you understand that not having coverage leaves you in financial jeopardy in the event of an accident.

When looking for motorcycle insurance, there are a few things to keep in mind. The Insurance Information Institute (III) advises starting by obtaining several quotes from multiple providers. Look at motorcycle quotes with comparable coverages, limits, and deductibles for an accurate comparison.

How to Compare Motorcycle Insurance Quotes

Shopping for motorcycle insurance doesn’t need to be complicated, but there are important elements to note. Here are some key things to be aware of so that you can compare quotes effectively and find the best policy for your needs.

Liability Coverage

While additional motorcycle coverage is often optional, liability coverage is typically required by law in every state. However, you should check with your agent about the insurance requirements in your jurisdiction.

Liability insurance may assist in covering costs associated with another person’s injuries or their damaged property if you cause an accident. Make sure you choose the same coverages for each quote if you want to compare motorcycle insurance prices accurately.

Determine Your Desired Level of Coverage

Your first step is to determine the amount of liability coverage you need. This covers damages caused to the other motorist and their vehicle similar to liability car insurance. While a motorcycle isn’t likely to cause as much damage as a car or a truck in the case of an accident, it can still be very costly. If you are at fault and cause both property damage and bodily injuries in a worst-case scenario, you could be responsible for thousands of dollars.

Here are some typical motorcycle coverage choices that you might be able to obtain in addition to liability coverage:

• Collision Coverage
• Comprehensive coverage
• Bodily Injury Coverage for Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers
• Personal Injury Protection and Medical Payments Insurance (not available in all states)

Coverage Limits

The maximum sum that your policy will cover for a covered loss is known as a limit. Check the limits for each of the coverages you choose when you compare quotes. Higher coverage limits tend to mean higher premiums. There will be a cap on the amount the insurer will pay out for repairs, medical expenses following an accident, or to assist in reimbursing you for a stolen motorcycle under a motorcycle insurance policy.

Keep in mind that that increasing your liability limits will allow you to purchase more liability insurance. Think about your capacity for paying out of pocket if you caused a collision that caused someone harm. You might determine that raising your liability limits is wise if their medical bills exceeded your liability limits.

Collision Coverage and Comprehensive Coverage

These limits are typically up to the actual cash value of the motorcycle.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

In states where this coverage is optional, you choose your policy’s limits.

Medical Payments Coverage/Personal Injury Protection

Some states may require motorcyclists to carry these coverages and the state determines the mandatory limits.

Next, decide what level of property and bodily injury coverage you need for your own protection. Comprehensive, collision, gap insurance, personal injury protection (PIP), MedPay, and uninsured/underinsured driver coverage are all potential coverage options. To protect your income and assets in the event of an accident, you must make sure you have adequate coverage.

You can start comparing prices once you are clear on how much coverage you require.

Comparing Deductibles

A deductible is typically associated with most policies including collision and comprehensive coverages. The deductible is the dollar amount you select when purchasing coverage. It represents the out-of-pocket expenses for a covered claim.

For instance, if your deductible is $500 and you need $1,500 in covered repairs for your bike, your insurance company will probably pay $1,000 toward your claim.

According to the III, a larger deductible typically translates into reduced premium payments for you.

As you are comparing rates, make certain the deductible you select is the same for each estimate you receive.

Shop the Best Motorcycle Insurance for You

While motorcycle insurance is not required in Florida, having any amount of coverage can be beneficial. There are several policies and providers to choose from, so it is important to evaluate your needs and budget to help narrow down your options.

Shopping for an insurance policy can often be a hassle and extremely time-consuming. At GWK Insurance, we help you find the best insurance policies to meet your unique needs and budget. Contact us today to help you find the best quotes for your insurance needs.