Upgrade Your Home Security and Lower Insurance Costs

Posted on January 31, 2017January 30, 2017 by agentinsure

Many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who take proactive measures to improve their home security. By upgrading your home security, you can discourage thieves and burglars from targeting your property in the first place, much less gain entry into your abode.

Before instituting security measures on your property, talk to a CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO, to determine what measures qualify you for discounted insurance prices. Here are just a few ideas to help you get started:

Security System

A home security system comprised of sensors on windows and doors, security cameras, and a high pitched alarm can be a great deterrent against thieves. Many homeowners utilize a system that connects sensors around windows and doors with an alarm that is triggered when someone tries unlawfully to enter the home. Surveillance cameras in the entryway as well as in the front and back of your property will make thieves think twice before targeting your home.

Motion Sensor Lights

A dark house at night gives the impression that no one is home, making it an easy target for thieves and vandals. By installing motion sensor lights around your property, you can be alerted when people are approaching at night so as not to be caught off guard. Once lights come on, would be thieves are more likely to leave than risk being caught on camera or detected by you or neighbors.

Security System Advertising

Placing a sign on a window or in your yard advertising that your home is protected by a security system is yet another deterrent that can discourage thieves from targeting your home.

To learn more about home security upgrades that can make you eligible for a discount on your home insurance, contact one of our agents at CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO.

How a Speeding Ticket Affects Your Auto Insurance

Posted on January 30, 2017January 30, 2017 by agentinsure

Maybe you were in a hurry to pick your kids up from school, maybe you were running late for an appointment or maybe you just did not realize how fast you were driving. Regardless of why you were speeding, when the red and blue lights flash behind you and the officer writes you a ticket, you may immediately wonder how this will affect your auto insurance. Here is some information you should know if you are facing this situation.

A First Ticket May Not Affect You That Much

In some states, you can participate in driving school every two to five years to have one traffic ticket erased from your record. While Colorado is not one of these states, many insurers may overlook your ticket or reduce the amount of a ticket increase if you participate in traffic school after you get a ticket. This may limit the effects that a rare speeding ticket has on you.

When You Will See an Increase in Your Policy Amount

If your insurer will not allow you to take traffic school to reduce your rates, or you have multiple traffic tickets, you can expect your rates to rise when your current policy period ends. The amount of the increase will vary from company to company and depends on your record. Someone with two tickets will not see as big an increase as someone with an accident and two tickets, for example.

If you have a speeding ticket and your insurance rates have increased, you may be looking to price out insurance policies without companies. Call CO Insurance Specialist serving Wheat Ridge, CO today for a free price quote today. We offer affordable rates, even if you have an accident or ticket on your driving record.

What You Need to Know When Filing a Homeowner’s Insurance Claim for a Home Burglary

Posted on December 22, 2016January 24, 2017 by agentinsure

If you walk into your home and realize your home has been burglarized, your heart will likely sink in your chest and you will feel upset and violated. However, once these feelings begin to subside, you will need to contact your homeowner’s insurance company. They can cover the value of the items that were stolen so you can move on with your life. Here is some information you should know as you prepare to file a homeowner’s insurance claim for a home burglary.

You Will Have to Cover Your Deductible

When you file a claim for burglary, you will likely have to cover the deductible before your policy kicks in. If the value of your items stolen was $2,000 and your deductible is $500, you will only receive $1,500 as your claim is adjusted to compensate for the deductible.

You Receive the Value of the Items, Not What You Paid for Them

Another important factor to keep in mind is that you will only receive the value of the items, not what you paid for them. For example, you may have paid $1000 for a laptop two years ago. But that is not what the laptop is worth today. It may only be worth half of that, or less. You will receive the amount it will cost to purchase a two year old used laptop, or the fair market value of the item, not the amount you paid for the item when it was new.

There Are Limits to What You Can Claim

Lastly, you need to keep in mind that there are limits to how much you can claim. Your policy typically will say that items over a certain amount, such as jewelry or art, need to be carried under a separate policy or be appraised before they can be insured. Your policy will also have a limit to the value of the items you can claim, such as $50,000 or $100,000. Always read over your policy carefully to find out about the limits and restrictions of your policy.

When you are getting a homeowner’s insurance policy, it is important that your coverage is set to a value that is high enough to cover your belongings in the event of a home burglary. If you are not sure if you have the right coverage, or are looking for a new policy and need to know how much coverage you need, contact CO Insurance Specialist, serving the greater Wheat Ridge, CO area. We would love to help you determine what your coverage needs are and then draw up a policy that best fulfills your needs.

Tips to Survive Being Stranded in Your Car During a Snow Storm

Posted on December 16, 2016January 15, 2017 by agentinsure

Every winter there are news stories about folks who were trapped in the car during a snow storm. Whether you live in Wheat Ridge CO or another part of the country, would you know how to survive being stranded in your car during a snow storm? Preparation is one of the main sources for survival, but you should also know what to do while you are in the vehicle. Here are a few tips to help you survive being stranded.

Be Prepared

There are several things you can do now that will be extremely helpful should you find yourself stranded during a snow storm. How to be prepared:

You should always have a minimum of ¾ of a tank of gas when driving during the winter. If there is an emergency, you will need gas for heat.
Pack an emergency bag for the car that includes a fleece blanket or sleeping bag, a first aid kit, non-perishable snacks and water. You should also have a container, such as a bucket that can be used to collect snow in case you run out of water.
Before Traveling don’t forget to check with CO Insurance Specialist to make sure your automobile policy is up to date.

How to Survive Being Stranded

Should you become stranded, the first thing to do is to remain calm, do not panic. You should also be prepared to not rely on technology, such as a GPS or cell phone because these devices often lose service in this type of situation. Do not leave your car. If people are looking for you, it will be for them to find your car than you. You also have a better chance of survival when you stay in your car as opposed to trying to walk to safety. However, if you are familiar with your surroundings, your can is in an unsafe spot and you can safely walk to a building, then it would be safer to exit the car. While in the car:

Wear your seat belt at all times. When the roads are snow covered, it is easy for another driver to slide into a stranded car.
Make sure to slightly crack the window to prevent carbon monoxide fumes from getting in the vehicle while it is running. Make sure to check the tailpipe occasionally to remove any snow that may have blown around it (this will help prevent carbon monoxide from entering the car).
Only run the motor for 10 minutes every hour. This will give you an opportunity to heat the car up and melt the snow as well as help to conserve your gas.

If you are certain you are stuck and can’t be freed, turn the car off right away. The car has most likely warmed up while you were driving, so turning the motor off first thing will allow you to conserve the battery and gas. Try your cell phone, if it doesn’t work, keep it on in case someone trying to call you is able to get through. Remember to stay calm, bundle up and know that help will be along soon.

Residents of Wheat Ridge, CO should contact CO Insurance Specialist to review their current automobile insurance policy or to upgrade their current policy.

Why It’s Important To Add-On To Home Insurance

Posted on October 25, 2016October 25, 2016 by agentinsure

Living in Wheat Ridge can be absolutely beautiful. However, you want to take the time to explore add-ons to your home insurance. This will allow you to have more coverage and greater peace of mind throughout the year.

Have More Coverage

Insurance company generally provide minimal coverage on a standard policy. This includes coverage for the dwelling, the belongings, liability, as well as loss of use. However, various add-ons can help to include additional coverage for various scenarios that could occur as well as to provide you with more financial coverage against your belongings and your home.

Avoid Claim Denials

One of the best reasons to spend more money and add onto your homeowner’s insurance policy is to avoid claim denials. The insurance company will only pay for a claim if you have the necessary coverage. Without the coverage, your claim would be denied, and you may have to spend thousands of dollars to make a repair or replacement.

It’s Not a Lot of Additional Money

Many people avoid adding on to their home insurance policy because they assume it’s going to be a lot of extra money. The reality is that it may only be a few extra dollars a month. This can make it a very sensible option to ensure that you are covered against anything that may take place in your home. After all, is going to be more affordable to spend a few dollars a month for additional coverage than to have to spend a significant amount of money out-of-pocket in the event that something does happen and the claim is denied.

Many people add onto a policy, though it’s important to know where you want to add.

To learn more about the various add-ons and to shop for home insurance policies, contact a CO Insurance Specialist today.

3 Reasons to Purchase Auto Insurance in Colorado

Posted on September 28, 2016December 26, 2016 by agentinsure

For motorists who reside within the state of Colorado, obtaining quality auto insurance coverage should be a top priority. Regardless of skill level or even the value of your vehicle, every motorist should always maintain auto insurance coverage. For those who are of the belief that auto insurance isn’t a vital component of operating a functional vehicle, keep reading.

Colorado State Law

First and foremost, obtaining sufficient auto insurance coverage is literally the law. In order to operate a vehicle within the state of Colorado, you must have coverage that complies with state regulations. No matter if you select the bare minimum or opt for full coverage, you must have some sort of coverage to legally operate your vehicle.

Protection against Natural Disasters

Moreover, a state routinely stricken by tornadoes, flooding, and more, acquiring quality auto insurance can help protect your car in the event that sustains sizable damages due to unforeseen/ uncontrollable weather events. Rather than leaving it to chance, by acquiring quality auto coverage, you will ensure that your car is protected against even the most horrific of circumstances.

Avoid Lawsuits

Lastly, without sufficient auto insurance, you could end up on the receiving end of a costly lawsuit. By acquiring quality coverage, you are protecting your vehicle against costs incurred due to accidents. Without sufficient coverage, individuals or businesses will be able to come after you and your assets directly.

Overall, for those seeking quality auto coverage in Wheat Ridge, CO Insurance Specialist is the way to go. Offering friendly service, quick quotes, and discounted prices, contact us today to find out how you can begin your auto policy today!

CO Insurance Specialist offers Commercial Insurance

Posted on September 9, 2016September 5, 2016 by agentinsure

Commercial insurance is important in protecting your business investment. Whether you operate a retail business or offer other services to your community, your business needs insurance coverage specific to your area. Contact CO Insurance Specialist for information and quotes. We understand your commercial business is your livelihood, and we can help you obtain the commercial insurance coverage to keep it going in case of disaster.

Disasters can strike from out of the blue. The damages are expensive to repair, business services can be interrupted for an indeterminate amount of time, and revenue can be severely impacted. You can reduce much of the stress associated with such events by considering your options now. It pays to plan ahead. Be prepared for the unthinkable so that you can have greater peace of mind. Contact our independent agents at CO Insurance Specialist and we will research multiple insurance providers to find the best rates for the most solid coverage that will work for your specific commercial insurance needs.

While the state of Colorado regulates insurance and sets minimum insurance coverage limits, this may not be enough to help you recover from an unfortunate incident. Perhaps minimum insurance coverage works for you: we can help you with that. Perhaps you’d prefer more extensive commercial insurance coverage: we can do that as well. We’ll provide current information so you can see what your options are. We’ll help you determine the specific needs of your commercial business, and then we’ll show you what rates are available at this time. No mater what quotes we find for you, they’ll be the best available and they may even be better than what you already have now. Contact CO Insurance Specialist for a discussion that may save you money.

How to Find the Best Used Family Vehicles

Posted on August 26, 2016December 26, 2016 by agentinsure

Perhaps you need to replace an aging family vehicle that frequently needs expensive repairs. On the other hand, maybe you’ve recently started a family and need a larger car. These tips can help you find a dependable yet affordable used auto in Colorado:

1. Make a list of important considerations and take notes about individual vehicles. Remember to test lights, inspect tires and check for signs of odometer fraud, such as misaligned digits.

2. Think about buying a certified pre-owned car from a dealership. These vehicles include long-term warranties and undergo extra inspections. They cost somewhat more than typical used autos, but your family will appreciate their reliability.

3. If you’re interested in a certain car, write down its VIN and check for any safety recalls that have yet to be addressed. You may do this by calling the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or visiting their website.

4. Kids benefit from child-specific safety features. Check used autos for anti-pinch windows, automatic door locks and air bags that you can switch off. Children up to 12 years old shouldn’t sit in the front passenger seat if it has an active air bag.

5. Pay a trusted mechanic to thoroughly examine a family vehicle before you buy it. Don’t purchase an automobile from a seller who refuses to let you do this.

6. Take the time to find out how much it costs to maintain and operate a specific vehicle. Look up the model’s average fuel, tire, repair and insurance expenses.

After you buy a family car, Colorado law requires you to obtain auto insurance. Drivers in the Centennial State can benefit from comparing their options with CO Insurance Specialist. To review your current policy or sign up for new coverage with an agent at our Wheat Ridge office.

What to Expect With Your Auto Insurance After a DUI

Posted on July 20, 2016July 25, 2016 by agentinsure

Everyone knows that you should not drive drunk. However, people are human and we all make mistakes. If you find yourself charged with a DUI, there are many costs and fines you may incur. But what you may not know is that you may experience changes in your car insurance. Here is what you should expect to happen to your auto insurance policy after getting a DUI.

Possible Cancelation

Many insurance companies will cancel your auto insurance policy outright if you are charged with and/or convicted of a driving under the influence charge. This is because they don’t want to be responsible for your possibly doing it again. If your policy is canceled, it is important to find a new policy quickly, so that you aren’t driving around uninsured or have a lapse in coverage.

Drastic Price Increase

If your insurance policy is not canceled, or you are shopping around for a new one, you will notice a drastic price increase in your insurance. This is because you are now a huge liability. And unfortunately, it can stay on your driving record for seven years in Colorado. This means that your premiums will be high for many years to come. Taking the time to compare prices will help you get the best possible rate out there, even with a DUI.

Were you charged with a DUI? Are you looking for a new auto insurance policy in the greater Wheatridge, CO area? If so, give CO Insurance Specialist a buzz today. We can help you get insurance or price out new insurance policies to ensure you are still paying a fair and reasonable price.

Get Your Wheat Ridge, CO Home Ready for Fall!

Posted on June 30, 2016December 26, 2016 by agentinsure

Getting your home ready for fall includes several tasks, many of which you can handle yourself. This time of preparation not only gets your home ready for the fall season but also prepares it for the coming winter weather. These steps not only protect your most valuable asset but also your family.

·Home Heating System: Have your home’s heating system checked annually by a professional to ensure that it is ready for the fall and winter seasons. They will be able to detect and perform any needed maintenance.

·Seal Any Gaps: Inspect your home for any gaps or leaks, particularly about doors, windows and incoming pipes. Seal them with caulk, weather stripping or insulation to keep your home warm and operating efficiently during the colder months of the year. Sealing gaps in your home can also reduce your energy costs.

·Wrap Exterior Pipes: Ensure that exterior pipes are protected from freezing during the fall and winter season. This step can prevent the pipes from freezing and flooding basement areas. Also ensure that you understand how to shut off your water valve.

·Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Monitors: Check the batteries to ensure that these systems are operating properly.

·Gutters: Take the time to inspect and clear your gutters and down spouts. These are designed to protect the home’s exterior and foundation by channeling water away from the house. Consider installing mesh guards to prevent debris from building up in the future.

Perhaps the most overlooked part of preparing the home for the fall season is an annual review of your home insurance policy. You can compare coverage options online at CO Insurance Specialist serving Wheat Ridge, CO. Then give the CO Insurance Specialist professionals a call or visit today!

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