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If They Don’t Drive My Car but Live in My Home, Why Do I Need to List Them on My Policy?

Posted on by cvargas

Question 1: Why Does My Insurance Company Require Me to List Non-Drivers?

Have you ever been told by your auto insurance provider that you need to list every household member on your policy—even if they don’t drive your car? It might seem unnecessary, especially if those individuals have no intention of using your vehicle. So, why is this a common insurance requirement?

Question 2: What Are the Risks of Not Listing Household Members?

If they’re not driving, does it really matter? You might think skipping their names saves you money, but in reality, it could create unexpected financial risks and coverage issues. Many policyholders only realize the importance of this rule after a claim is denied or their policy is canceled.

Promise: Here’s What You’ll Learn

In this article, we’ll break down:

  • Why insurers require all household members to be listed
  • The potential consequences of leaving someone off
  • How to handle non-drivers in your household without raising your premiums unnecessarily

Preview: Let’s Dive into the Details

By the end of this guide, you’ll understand why listing non-driving household members is a standard industry practice and how to navigate it without overpaying.

Why Do Insurance Companies Require Household Members to Be Listed?

Insurance companies assess risk based on who has access to your vehicle—not just who actively drives it. Even if a household member claims they won’t drive your car, insurers see them as a potential driver because they could use the vehicle in an emergency or at any given moment.

Key Reasons Insurers Require Listing Household Members:

✅ Access Equals Risk: If someone lives in your home, they can easily take your car, whether it’s for a quick trip to the store or an emergency situation. Insurance companies assume this possibility when assessing risk.

✅ Avoiding Undisclosed Drivers: If an unlisted household member gets into an accident while driving your car—even without permission—your insurance provider may refuse to cover the claim.

✅ Household Rating Factors: Insurance rates are based on all potential drivers under one roof. Even if someone doesn’t drive your car today, their presence could impact risk assessments in the future.

✅ Fraud Prevention: Some people intentionally leave higher-risk drivers (such as teenagers or individuals with bad driving records) off their policies to lower premiums. Insurance companies require full disclosure to prevent this type of misrepresentation.

What Happens If You Don’t List a Household Member?

Failing to list all household members—even if they don’t regularly drive—can have serious consequences.

Potential Risks of Omitting a Household Member:

🚨 Claim Denial: If an unlisted resident gets into an accident with your car, your insurance company may refuse to cover the damages.

🚨 Policy Cancellation or Non-Renewal: If your insurer discovers that a household member should have been listed but wasn’t, they could cancel or refuse to renew your policy.

🚨 Higher Premiums Later: If an insurance company finds out you omitted someone, they may reassess your risk profile and charge higher rates in the future.

🚨 Legal or Financial Liability: If an unlisted driver causes a serious accident, you could be personally responsible for damages, medical costs, or lawsuits.

What If a Household Member Truly Never Drives?

Not every household member needs to be a rated driver on your policy. If someone truly never drives and has their own insurance or no license, you may be able to exclude them to avoid unnecessary rate increases.

Options for Non-Driving Household Members:

✔️ Named Driver Exclusion: Some insurance companies allow you to exclude a household member from coverage. This means they won’t be insured under your policy—but if they ever drive your car, you’ll have no coverage if they crash.

✔️ Proof of Other Insurance: If the household member has their own auto insurance, you may be able to provide proof and exclude them from your policy.

✔️ Signed Non-Driver Statement: Some insurers accept a legally binding affidavit stating that a household member does not drive and will not use your vehicle.

💡 Pro Tip: If a non-driving household member gets a driver’s license later, notify your insurance company immediately to avoid complications.

How to Keep Your Premiums Low While Complying with Insurance Rules

If you’re worried that listing all household members will increase your premiums, here are some strategies to reduce your insurance costs while staying compliant:

💰 Shop Around for Competitive Rates – Not all insurance companies have the same rules about listing household members. Compare providers to find one that offers better options.

💰 Ask About Usage-Based Insurance – If most drivers in your household rarely use your car, consider telematics programs that adjust your rate based on actual driving behavior.

💰 Bundle Policies for Discounts – If multiple household members need coverage, bundling auto and home insurance can often lead to significant savings.

💰 Increase Your Deductible – A higher deductible can lower your monthly premium, making it more affordable even if you must list additional household members.

Final Thoughts: Be Transparent to Protect Yourself

While it might feel unnecessary to list non-drivers on your auto insurance policy, doing so protects you from denied claims, coverage gaps, and potential policy cancellations.

✔️ Always disclose household members, even if they don’t drive regularly.
✔️ Work with your insurer to exclude true non-drivers legally if needed.
✔️ Compare policies to find the best coverage at the most affordable rate.

Next Steps: Talk to Your Insurance Provider

If you’re unsure whether a specific household member needs to be listed on your policy, speak with your insurance provider for guidance. Transparency now can save you from costly issues later.

Want a professional review of your current policy? Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance today at 617-298-0655 for expert advice and a personalized assessment!

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Why Was My Auto Insurance Denied? Top Reasons & Solutions

Posted on by cvargas

Getting denied auto insurance can feel frustrating and confusing. You might wonder, “Why was my application rejected?” or “What can I do next?”

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we’ve helped many drivers understand the reasons behind insurance denials and find the right coverage options—even if they’ve been turned down before.

In this guide, we’ll explain the most common reasons for auto insurance denials, how insurers assess risk, and what you can do if your application is rejected.

  1. Can a Bad Driving Record Get Your Auto Insurance Denied?
    Can a Bad Driving Record Get Your Auto Insurance Denied?
    Yes, your driving history plays a major role in whether insurers approve or deny your application. Insurers check for:
    Traffic violations (e.g., speeding tickets, reckless driving)
    At-fault accidents in the last 3-5 years
    License suspension or revocation
    Why does this matter?
    If you have multiple violations, insurers see you as a higher risk, which may lead to higher rates or a full denial.
    This revision makes the section clearer and more engaging.

Having a string of traffic violations or accidents, especially recent ones or those you were found at fault for, could be enough for an insurance company to deny your coverage application. Also, if your license has been suspended or revoked, carriers will likely not approve your application.

If you are not outright denied coverage, your driving history could still cause your policy rates to increase. To know more about what goes into the cost of your policy, read our guide on how much car insurance costs in Massachusetts.

  1. Age
    In addition to their driving record, insurers will judge a driver’s age when deciding to approve or deny their application. This is because younger drivers, such as teen drivers, are more likely to be involved in accidents when compared to older or more experienced drivers.

While insurance carriers will assess risk based on age differently, most insurers will deem licensed drivers “experienced” after 5-6 years of driving experience. Drivers without this level of experience may find themselves charged higher premiums on their auto insurance policy, or be denied coverage altogether.

Younger applicants may not be the only ones finding it more difficult to be approved for affordable coverage, as elderly drivers may be charged higher premiums or have their coverage denied as they age. To some carriers, older drivers present more of a risk to insure, as older drivers may cause more accidents.

However, some states prohibit insurance providers from denying auto insurance for discriminatory reasons, such as the age of the applicant. Massachusetts in particular limits insurers from basing their decisions on personal factors like age, marital status, occupation, and more.

  1. Auto Insurance Denial Due to Business or Long-Distance Driving?
    Believe it or not, where you drive your car could actually limit your insurance prospects. In addition to how often you drive your car, some insurers are reluctant to insure applicants who will frequently drive long distances.

So, if your daily commute requires you to travel long distances, cross state lines, or operate your vehicle late at night, you may find it difficult to get approved coverage when compared to commuters who live closer to work.

Additionally, drivers who are operating their vehicle for business may open themselves up to greater hazards that won’t be covered by a standard auto insurance policy. In some instances you may be eligible to endorse your policy to include a “business use” rating class, otherwise you may need coverage from a separate business auto policy.

Business use of your personal vehicle can also include any rideshare services – like Uber, Lyft or GrubHub. For more information on insurance options for this type of business use, check out this article: What is Rideshare Insurance Coverage? (for Uber, Lyft, GrubHub).

  1. Insurance score
    Insurers use this three digit number to help predict the risk of a client and the likelihood they will file a claim. Individuals with lower insurance scores tend to cost insurance companies more, marking them as a higher risk to insure.

Insurance scores are heavily swayed by your actual credit score, as insurers have seen correlation between low credit scores and a higher likelihood of filing insurance claims. In addition to your credit score, insurers will use several factors to determine your insurance scores, including: claims history, payment history, any recent bankruptcies, and more.

However not all states use insurance scores the same way, as some will restrict insurance companies from basing their decision to approve policies based on the score. Massachusetts, for example, does not allow carriers to base their underwriting, premium rates, or decision to renew a policy based on credit based scores like insurance scores.

For a further breakdown on insurance scores, read this guide: What Are Insurance Scores? (And How They Influence Your Insurance Policies)

  1. Address
    Some carriers take your address or where your vehicle will be parked/garaged into consideration when reviewing your application. Applicants who live in areas with higher rates of car break-ins, theft, or vandalism may have a harder time getting approved for auto insurance coverage.

Insurers may be hesitant to cover you if you live near a busy intersection prone to auto accidents, as they would consider the risk of you being involved in a crash too high.

Also, living outside an insurance company’s coverage area is a quick way to be denied coverage, making it important to check what states and areas the company you’re applying to works with.

  1. Type of vehicle
    Since insurance carriers are risk-averse, they may decline coverage for applicants looking to insure certain models of cars. This includes high end sports cars or collector models that could be prone to theft or expensive repairs/replacements.

However, every type of car will have its associated risks to insurers, even a basic SUV or sedan. While it may not be the only deciding factor in whether your policy is approved or not, it can contribute to the overall calculation insurers will make when deciding the risk to insure you.

  1. Insurance history
    Finally, if you are not a new policyholder and have a history of other auto insurance policies, carriers will look through your history to see if you would be a good fit.

Insurance carriers may be quick to deny coverage to policyholders that have had their auto policy canceled for non-payment in the past, or if they owe their previous carrier money.

What can I do if my auto insurance application is denied?
If you are initially denied auto insurance coverage after applying, you’re likely wondering what options you have for coverage. Since nearly all states will require you to carry auto insurance to legally drive, you’ll still need to receive coverage through other carriers or options.

If you aren’t informed why your application was denied, working with your trusted insurance agent or broker can help to determine the reason for your coverage denial. Occasionally applicants can simply be denied due to lack of information or misunderstanding – meaning reapplication may be possible with the same carrier.

After addressing the areas we mentioned above, we recommend reapplying for quotes from other insurers. If your risk is too high for standard coverage means, you may need to look into insurers that specialize in high-risk drivers.

For official guidance on high-risk auto insurance, visit the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
Common reasons for denial include bad driving history, credit issues, or using your car for business purposes.
If your application was denied, talk to an insurance agent to explore alternative providers or high-risk insurance plans.

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we help drivers find coverage even after a denial. Call 617-298-0655 or visit www.vargasinsurance.com to explore your options.

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The Truth About Big Insurance Companies vs Local Insurance Companies: What Massachusetts Homeowners Need to Know

Posted on by cvargas

When it comes to protecting your Massachusetts home, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between national insurance giants like State Farm and Allstate or working with a local insurance broker. Let’s break down what really matters for homeowners in the Bay State.

Understanding Your Options

Think of national insurance companies as the big-box stores of the insurance world. They’re everywhere, and yes, they have some nice perks. These companies offer:

  • 24/7 claims service for those middle-of-the-night emergencies
  • User-friendly mobile apps that make filing claims easier
  • Bundle discounts when you combine home and auto insurance (usually 15-25% savings)

But here’s something many people don’t know: local insurance brokers often provide these same services, plus a whole lot more.

The Hidden Costs of National Insurance Companies

Here’s where things get interesting. Those attractive rates you see advertised by big insurance companies? They’re often “teaser rates” – special introductory prices that can increase significantly at renewal time. It’s like getting a great cable TV deal that doubles in price after the first year.

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the average homeowner’s insurance premium in Massachusetts is significantly affected by local factors that national companies might not fully consider. Learn more about average insurance costs in Massachusetts here.

The Wind Deductible Wake-Up Call

Let’s talk about a real situation that many Massachusetts homeowners don’t discover until it’s too late. Many national insurance companies have something called a “wind deductible.” Here’s what that means:

  • If your home is insured for $500,000
  • And your policy has a 2% wind deductible
  • You’ll need to pay $10,000 out of pocket before insurance kicks in for wind damage

Local Advantage: The Massachusetts Edge

Local insurance brokers bring some powerful advantages to the table:

  • Deep knowledge of Massachusetts building codes
  • Understanding of specific risks in different neighborhoods
  • Experience with what claims typically get approved or denied
  • Ability to find policies without high wind deductibles
  • Personal relationships with their clients

The Insurance Information Institute reports that working with an independent agent can often result in better coverage options tailored to local conditions. Check out their research here.

Making the Smart Choice

When choosing between national and local insurance providers, ask yourself:

  • Do you prefer talking to a different person every time you call about your policy?
  • Would you rather have a personal relationship with someone who knows your property?
  • How important is having local expertise about Massachusetts-specific issues?

Essential Questions to Ask Any Insurance Provider

Whether you go national or local, always ask these key questions:

  • What is your wind and hail deductible?
  • What’s your average response time for claims in our area?
  • How do you handle policy non-renewals?

The Price Factor

While national companies might seem cheaper at first glance, local brokers often find ways to save you money through:

  • Special discounts for updated wiring in older homes
  • Credits for proximity to fire stations
  • Discounts for homes near water sources
  • Competitive bundle rates for auto and home insurance

The Bottom Line

The right choice isn’t about big versus small – it’s about finding the best protection for your specific situation. While national companies offer convenience and well-known brands, local brokers provide personalized service and deep understanding of Massachusetts insurance needs.

For many homeowners, the value of having a local expert who knows the unique challenges of insuring Massachusetts homes – from triple-deckers in Dorchester to colonials in Wellesley – can outweigh the perceived benefits of going with a national carrier.

Remember: insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially in a state with as much variety in housing and weather conditions as Massachusetts. Your best bet is to research both options and choose the one that provides the right mix of coverage, price, and service for your specific needs.

If you’re ready to find the right insurance coverage for your Massachusetts home, there’s an easy way to get started. Vargas & Vargas Insurance has been serving local homeowners for over four decades with personalized service and deep understanding of Massachusetts insurance needs.

Take the first step toward better coverage today – call Vargas & Vargas Insurance at 617-298-0655 to speak with a local insurance expert who understands your unique needs. Don’t wait until after a claim to discover gaps in your coverage. Reach out now and get the peace of mind you deserve with coverage that truly protects your home and family.

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Understanding Massachusetts Home Insurance Companies options: A Simple Guide

Posted on by cvargas

Did you know that protecting your home in Massachusetts is different from other states? Our unique weather and historic homes mean we need special insurance coverage. Let’s break down your choices in simple terms. Whether you live in a modern house in Worcester or a historic Victorian in Dorchester, understanding your options is super important.

THE BIG NATIONAL COMPANIES
MAPFRE Insurance leads the pack as our state’s largest home insurance provider. They’re like the local expert who knows all about New England homes. They’re especially good at handling those annoying ice dam problems that plague our roofs in winter.

State Farm comes in second place. Think of them as the tech-savvy option. Their mobile app makes everything easy, and you can save up to 25% when you bundle your home and car insurance together.

Liberty Mutual, born right here in Boston, offers great coverage options too. Their online tools are some of the best around, and they really know Massachusetts weather.

Progressive might be famous for their car insurance, but they’re also solid when it comes to home insurance. They make it super easy to get a quote online, and they offer nice discounts when you bundle with auto insurance.

OUR LOCAL HEROES
Vermont Mutual has been protecting New England homes for over 150 years! They work through local agents who really understand our area. Their deep knowledge of regional risks makes them particularly good at handling claims related to our tough New England weather.

Arbella Insurance shines when it comes to historic homes in Massachusetts. Their local agents really understand what it takes to protect older properties. Plus, they often offer great deals when you combine your car and home insurance.

Safety Insurance has been here for over 100 years! They know our building codes like the back of their hand, and they’re excellent with older homes.

Plymouth Rock offers something special too – they won’t raise your rates after your first accident. They’re also really good with coastal properties, which is super important if you live near the ocean.

MORE GREAT CHOICES
Hanover Insurance, based right here in Worcester, MA, brings over 160 years of experience to the table. They offer some really nice perks like identity theft protection and equipment breakdown coverage in their home policies.

Safeco Insurance, part of the Liberty Mutual family, offers some of the most flexible coverage options around. They’re great if you want to customize your policy, and their RightTrack program can help you save money.

Travelers Insurance stands out with their really strong coverage for high-value homes. They offer great options like extra coverage for green homes and identity theft protection.

Norfolk & Dedham Group, another local Massachusetts company, really gets our unique insurance needs. They’ve been protecting Massachusetts homes since 1825!

The Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association (MPIUA), better known as the FAIR Plan, is super important to know about. This is Massachusetts’s insurance safety net – they provide coverage when you can’t get it from regular insurance companies.

TAKE ACTION NOW
Don’t wait until there’s a problem to think about insurance. Our team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance understands Massachusetts homes inside and out. We’ve been helping homeowners like you find the right coverage for years.

Want to make sure your home is properly protected? Call us today at 617-298-0655. Our friendly experts will help you understand your options and find the best coverage for your specific situation. We’re here to work for you, not the insurance companies!

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How Filing An Out Of State Car Accident Different Than One In Your State

Posted on by cvargas

Experiencing a car crash in an unfamiliar place can be frightening. Not only must you cope with the emotional and physical effects of the accident, but you’re in unfamiliar surroundings. You may have many queries at once, but the first one is likely to be “Do I still have insurance coverage when I’m not home?”. Let’s look into this matter further.

Where Does My Policy Cover?

You don’t have to be concerned if your auto insurance doesn’t seem to apply in other states; most policies cover all 50 states, and the U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, and even the Canadian provinces. To make sure you understand exactly what your policy covers before traveling with your vehicle to another state or country, you should speak with an insured attorney. Note that going into Mexico or other South American countries may not be included in your insurance coverage.

What is included in my insurance coverage?

If you are involved in an accident out of state, your car insurance will adjust to meet the requirements of the state where the accident occurred. For example, if you are from Massachusetts, your car insurance will have minimum liability limits of 20/40/20 for property damage and personal injury protection (PIP). If you are involved in an accident in Georgia, their state requires minimum liability limits of 25/50/25 for bodily injury and property damage liability.

If you are in an accident in Georgia, your insurance policy’s limit for liability will automatically increase to the state’s minimum.

If you’re driving in a state with a lower liability limit than your home state, your insurance policy will provide the maximum coverage on your policy, even if it’s more than what the state you’re visiting requires.

What if the state does not have a “no-fault” policy?

In states that have a no-fault system, drivers must carry at least $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. This means that if an accident happens in one of these states, the PIP coverage will be used to cover any injuries regardless of who was at fault. In contrast, tort states do not use a no-fault system and the negligent driver is held responsible for any injuries resulting from an accident.

If you suffer an injury caused by a careless driver while travelling in the state of Georgia, which is a “fault” state, the driver would be held accountable for your injury and related costs. The law of Georgia will decide how to settle the incident and the insurance policy held by the responsible driver will determine how medical expenses and lost wages are dealt with.

In a no-fault state, the minimum PIP coverage required by law is the same for both Georgia residents and Massachusetts drivers.
The governing law in a no-fault state will be based on the state in which the accident occurred.

What is the best way to deal with a car accident occurring in another state?

  1. Always follow the standard auto accident checklist when involved in a crash, which includes checking for injuries and the safety of passengers, calling the police and emergency services, assessing and documenting damage, and contacting your insurance company.
  2. Depending on your insurance policy, your insurance may also cover additional expenses such as towing or repair costs.
  3. When speaking with your insurance company, be sure to let them know that you are in a different state so they can determine what coverage is available to you..
  4. Auto accidents can be confusing, so make sure to discuss your accident with your local independent insurance agent

Local Independent Insurance Agency

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is a local independent insurance broker, we work for you, the customer, and not any one insurance company, and we always have time for you. We shop around with many local and national insurance companies to offer you a tailored fit insurance policy for your specific needs. We have been helping first-time home buyers for over 40  years and teaching them about the significance of their homeowner’s insurance, call us today.

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6 Things Car Insurance Doesn’t Cover in Most Cases

Posted on by cvargas

Not only is car insurance a safety net in the event of certain damages, but it’s also a legal obligation. And although your insurance may cover a lot of things, there are some that are just not part of most policies.

So, what kinds of things are not covered by your automobile insurance?

1. Custom Modifications or Upgrades

Most basic policies don’t cover modifications or aftermarket upgrades and parts. And those that do offer coverage often have a cap of $1000 or so.

This means you’ll have to pay out of pocket if your expensive rims are stolen or damaged. This doesn’t include any deductibles you might have in such an instance.

2. Damages Beyond Policy Limits

A collision policy will only cover a certain amount of damages should something happen. In some cases, you might be covered for up to $50,000 in damages.

But what if you smash your car into a brand-new Bugatti? Well, you’ll be paying out of pocket for that particular automobile for years to come.

My point is that damages beyond what your car insurance can cover will be your responsibility.

3. Car Insurance Doesn’t Cover Racing

A lot of people feel the pressure of demonstrating their wheels are superior. This often results in a quick race down some street or boulevard as an exhibition of speed.

Yet, should an accident happen while you’re speeding down the road, most policy claims will be denied.

4. Rideshare and Delivery Businesses

Uber and Lyft are two of the most popular rideshare businesses nowadays. Even delivery service jobs are available from your automobile. But what happens if you accidentally run a red light and T-bone another vehicle?

Most insurance policies will not cover damages caused while running rideshare and delivery businesses from your car.

5. Theft of Property Left in the Car

You probably know a lot of people who keep their wallets in the glove box or middle console. Perhaps you have a golden locket hanging from a rearview mirror.

In the event of these items being stolen, policies will often deny claims of theft. However, your homeowners’ or renters’ policy might. Be sure to check there, first.

6. Drug Testing Your Car?

As absurd as it may sound, drug testing a vehicle is a real thing. This is when a drug kit is used to ensure dangerous substances are not present when dealerships or specialists repair damages. And the process can add a week or two to repair times.

Though, this is usually done in the event of a theft and recovery of a vehicle.

This is driven by recent events involving fentanyl exposure.

However, most insurers have no problem covering costs such as testing or cleaning after a theft or an attempted theft. If there was no evidence to raise a drug-related concern, though, some insurers may not volunteer to pay for contamination testing or clean-up.

The fact of the matter is that this instance is exceptionally rare.

Car Insurance is Still a Necessity

While there may be a few things not covered in your policy, it’s still worthwhile to protect yourself. Accidents happen all the time, whether they’re through the fault of your own or not. The last thing you want is to be on the hook for repairs or get a ticket for not having coverage.

At Vargas & Vargas insurance, we’ll help you find the best policy for your car insurance. Contact us today to see how we can help deliver coverage for your automobile.

While it may be difficult to cover any of the above, you can still rest easy knowing that you’re protected in various other life situations.

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A Brief Guide to Classic Car Insurance

Posted on by agentinsure

If you have been thinking about buying a classic car in Dorchester, MA, you will want to ensure you are familiar with classic car insurance requirements and differences when compared to standard insurance. Vargas & Vargas Insurance shares some information you need to know.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements?

Most auto insurance companies will have a set of eligibility requirements for a classic car insurance policy. It is not generally required for your classic car to meet a minimum value, but it is usually required for your classic car to be of higher value now than when it first came out on the market. Further, your car should be at least 10 years old in order to qualify for classic car insurance.

The condition of your antique car will also be taken into consideration. It needs to be currently running (or close to it) and be in good condition overall. You will also be required to keep your vehicle stored in a secured indoor environment. Mileage will also need to stay low with a possible maximum number of miles being permitted.

How Is a Classic Car Insurance Policy Different Than the Standard Policy?

With both forms of auto coverage, you are protected while on the road with collision, comprehensive, and liability offerings. With classic car insurance, though, the policy is focused more on the particular needs of an antique vehicle. As the value amount of your classic car increases, you can make adjustments to your insurance policy. A classic insurance policy will also take into consideration the fact that it will cost more to repair or replace your vehicle if involved in an accident.  

If you are interested in classic car insurance in Dorchester, MA, contact the team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance for a quote.

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Insurance Check-Up

Posted on by cvargas

Insurance Check-Up

Life Changes and it’s Time for an Insurance Checkup

Having insurance policies is vital to gain great security and protection from unexpected problems. Ensuring everything in your life at an early stage is also a great idea.

While getting yourself and your house, vehicle, and assets insured is vital, you also need an insurance checkup to review your policies yearly. This allows you to ensure that the insurance coverage will be of help to you when your circumstances and lifestyle change. But if your insurance doesn’t cover you as it should, you need to make some changes to the policies or, even purchase new policies to cover your changing needs.

Here are some reasons why you need to opt for an insurance checkup.

Change in Family Status

Are you planning to get married or expect a baby? It would help protect your growing family by purchasing the right insurance plan. Insurance checkups will allow you to ensure whether the coverage is enough to support your entire family when you are not around. The loss of a family member through disability and death is also the right time for an insurance plan review.

Remodeling or Moving Your House

If you plan to remodel your house, your house value will surely increase. Similarly, if you move from the house, you might own a property with a higher value than the one you have before. Since your assets have increased, you need an insurance plan that covers these assets.

Retirement Time

When you decide to retire, you need something to rely on for your future expenses, especially final expenses, it’s vital to choose the right insurance plans to protect you properly. It would also be helpful if you had the proper insurance that will pay for your funeral, medical care, and debts.

Chance in Assets Value

Many people insure their jewelry and other assets to get the money if they get damaged or lost. But they forget the fact that these valuable assets increase over time. By keeping the coverage updated regularly for these valuable assets, you are protected in the event you lose them or they are stolen.

Discounts

Many insurance companies offer discounts on different insurance plans. This way, you can purchase the right insurance plans at much lower prices. So, if you have not received your discounts, it’s time to have an insurance checkup.

Bottom Line

Whether it’s life, house, vehicle, or assets insurance, insurance is not something that you purchase and forget. You need to always look for ways to lower your premiums and avail optimal benefits from your policy. For this purpose, you need to opt for an insurance checkup.

Missing Coverage

If you have any assets at all, an umbrella policy is a valuable protection. Home insurance and car insurance policies have liability limits that are often not high enough to protect you adequately. If you are found to be at fault beyond your liability limits, you may be required to pay the remainder of the money out of pocket. It could take all of your savings and assets and even your future assets to make that payment.

This will help you look for flaws in your insurance and allow you to get the features that you don’t have. Not only this but practicing this method can help you lower your premiums and get interesting discounts and offer. So, if you currently have any insurance, consider reviewing it.

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, our clients enjoy customized insurance coverage to match their unique needs at incredibly affordable prices. Contact us today for a free insurance review or quote.

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Winter Driving And Car Accidents

Posted on by cvargas

Winter is a good and delightful time of the year. It brings snow to make a cute snowman and enjoy a snowball fight with our friends and family. However, these attractive aspects can make winters dangerous for drivers. As the days get colder, the risk of road accidents increases. Therefore, taking precautionary measures and driving with complete focus is important to save your life. The NHTSA mentions many tips on their website, and here are some tips and tricks to drive your vehicle during cold weather safely.

Winter Driving Tips

Drive Slowly and Super Smoothly

The trick to safe winter driving in snow is being smooth with your accelerator, steering wheel, and brakes. Every push of the brakes, turn off the wheels, or throttle movement needs to be gentle, deliberate, and gradual. It would help if you tried to be as slow as you could while driving the car.

Avoid Involving in Distractions

Most accidents happen when the driver is distracted doing other things while driving. Therefore, avoid talking to the passengers when driving in extremely cold weather, never use your phone, eat food, or listen to music at high volume. You need to avoid every type of distraction if you want to avoid an accident.

Turn On Your Lights

Turning your lights on will help other drivers on the road to see you from far. Headlights can also make your vehicle visible on extreme fog days. This way, whenever other drivers notice you on the road, they will drive carefully around you.

Avoid Driving in Harsh Weather

This is another very important winter driving tip. Driving in winters can be extremely challenging. So, if you find yourself not having to drive in dangerous weather conditions, don’t push yourself to drive in these circumstances. Cancel your journey as soon as possible and head back to your house. If the weather is too harsh to get back to the house, go to the nearest place to relax until the condition becomes appropriate for driving.

Do You Need to Report Accidents?

Many people don’t report accidents if they are not serious. But this is a wrong approach. Not only do you reduce your chances of getting insurance coverage, but you can also save others. Wondering how? Well, report accidents to the authorities in your area to find ways to solve the problem. They first try to find the cause of your accident and then opt for different ways to resolve the issue. So, even if you had a bad experience, you can save others from going through the same trauma.

Wrapping Up

Besides the mentioned winter driving tips, you also need to install high-quality tires in your vehicle. It’s also vital to check the weather conditions before stepping out of your house. If you can, keep some important things on you while traveling long distances at night. This includes extra batteries, a torch, water bottles, and snacks. So, if you have to spend the night in your car on the roadside, you will have all the essentials to pass the night. Click here to read more.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance understands that sometimes you may not be able to stay off the roads and things happen. That’s why, as a premier local independent insurance agency, we strive to build the relationships necessary to customize your insurance coverage to your needs at the right price. Contact us today.

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4 Amazing Tips for Preparing Your Car for Winter

Posted on by cvargas
mother and child safely driving around in winter after she followed these tips for preparing your car for winter

Approximately 2,000 people die each year, and 135,000 are injured in the United States due to snow and ice on the roads. Driving under such conditions is dangerous, but unfortunately, drivers do not take the time to learn seasonal driving tips. This makes driving a vehicle a lot more difficult than usual. It is important to get the car ready with the best auto insurance and ideas to keep your expenses low. Here are great tips that will help you overcome cold weather challenges as you’re preparing your car for winter.

1. Check the tread and air pressure of the tires

During winter, the condition of your car’s tires is paramount to its performance. Proper air pressure helps the vehicle to roll and have adequate support at all times. The rubber must also have a healthy tread to keep enough traction on the ground. 

If you realize the footprints of your car tires have too much wear, replace them. It is also wise to buy all tires from one source to ensure the balance of your car and avoid accidents. Check the pressure of the tires frequently during winter; tires tend to lose pressure more easily if the temperature drops beyond zero.

2. Fill up the fuel tank

You cannot be too sure of accessing gas stations during winter. Some streets will probably be filled up with snow during winter, limiting the number of gas outlets you can access. Therefore, keep your fuel tank full at all times to avoid inconveniences. A full tank will also save you the time and effort of driving around looking for a gas station, further reducing the cost.

3. Use snow tires

Using regular tires during winter is not a good idea. The texture of snow, rock salt, and ice can take a toll on rubber, which will force you to spend more on tires due to wear and tear.

4. Make sure you have up-to-date insurance

To stay safe in winter driving conditions, have your car insured and protected from as many conditions as possible. Consult Vargas & Vargas Insurance for amazing deals that will keep you safe and at peace throughout the season.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is one of the premier local independent insurance agencies in the area; we work for our clients and not the insurance company. We will customize your insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price and are here to answer all your insurance questions. Contact us today to start preparing your car for winter and every other season.

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