Personal Insurance

 If you do not buy enough coverage you may be wasting your premium dollars.  Determine how much it would cost to rebuild your home in the event of a total loss due to fire or other disasters. It is important to remember flood and earthquake-related losses are excluded and must be insured separately.

The policy usually offers property coverage up to 50% of the amount of insurance you have on the dwelling.  It is important to conduct an inventory of your home's contents.

• This portion of coverage pays for the cost of defending you in court and any court awards.  Limits typically range from $100,000 to $300,000.  If you have significant assets you should consider higher limits or ask your agent about an umbrella policy.

 Car insurance typically covers only the value of your vehicle.  Gap Coverage is specifically designed to cover the difference between the amount of your car loan and the value of the vehicle.  As your vehicle depreciates creating a gap between what you owe and its insured value, without gap coverage you will be stuck paying for a loan even if your car is totaled.

Personal Injury Protection is an inexpensive rider that will pay (up to a specified limit) for your medical expenses if you are hit by another driver.  Another great add-on is coverage for the cost of repairs if you are hit by a driver who is uninsured or underinsured.  This coverage is also known as "UM".

Typical policies will NOT cover certain excluded activities, such as your vehicle being used in connection with sales work or delivery functions.  Be sure to explore these circumstances with your agent before you buy the policy.