Passing on the Right

How many times have you seen a vehicle passing another on the right and wondered if that was legal? Well, there are special circumstances when this is actually legal but many people don’t follow the guidelines. It can only be done when the road is clear and is wide enough for two or more lines of motor vehicles AND:

-The vehicle you are passing is making, or is about to make, a left turn.
-You are driving on a one-way street.
-You are driving on a road where traffic moves in one direction (such as a multiple lane
Highway).

Needless to say, passing on the right is very limited and not allowed on all streets and in all situations. Before you pass another vehicle on the right; think of these guidelines to make sure it is ok to do so and safe. Patience is not only a virtue; it could save your life.

Kids Going Away to College

Well it’s that time of year again to prepare for our kids to go back to school and if you are sending them away to college, you have so many things to think about. If you child is not going to be commuting and will be living on campus you need to consider a few things.

Does my homeowner’s or tenant’s policy cover my child while they’re away at college? Well that depends…does your child live in a dorm or do they have their own apartment? If they’re in the dorm room then they would have 10% of your Personal Property coverage limit from your policy BUT if they have their own apartment; then they will need a tenant’s policy for coverage.

Most students have computers that they will be taking with them, do you have that computer scheduled? The basic homeowner’s policies don’t cover the computers if they are dropped, lost, or are damaged by that glass of soda that may get spilled on it. Scheduling that computer will give you peace of mind which is something that is in short supply in these times of change.

Think Twice Before You Switch!

We hear it all the time on the radio and television, “Big savings on your auto and home insurance.” In these difficult economic times, we’re all looking for ways to save money and insurance is a place to start. But there are some things that we need to consider… Just because we can get a lower rate with another carrier doesn’t mean that changing companies is a good idea. Do you have the same coverages or did the new company give us lower limits of insurance? We also need to consider company loyalty because the longer you are with a particular company, the more likely you are to receive a credit for being with them a long time. And if you’ve been with one company for years, they are more likely to stay on your policy if you’ve had a loss or two (remember those tornadoes, snow storms, and ice storms that we had back-to–back in our area a few years ago?). If you are considering changing insurance companies, please discuss your concerns with your Insurance Agent before you make any changes that could affect your future.

Safe Stopping Distance

Did you know that it takes 292 ft to stop your car if you’re driving 60 MPH on the perfect road surface? Throw in some messy weather and all bets are off. In order to be able to stop safely, you need to keep some things in mind: It takes about three-quarters of a second to react to a situation and step on the brake pedal. You should always make sure that your brakes are in good working order and that the thread on your tires are good. Other braking tips are:

• Warn pedestrians, bicyclists, or other drivers of possible trouble. Brake early and gently when preparing to stop or turn.

• Do not let your foot rest on the brake pedal while driving. (This is called riding your brakes.)

• If your vehicle has antilock brakes, never pump the brakes. (In 2010, 89% of new cars and 99% of new light trucks have antilock brakes.)

• Always slow down near a curve or an area where you cannot see clearly ahead.

Health Conditions That Are Dangerous for Driving

Before you get behind the wheel of your vehicle, you should always be aware of your physical and/or health condition. Driving has become so complicated because as drivers; we need to be aware of other dangers that may cause us to make a quick decision and react even quicker. You need to be at your best before you get behind the wheel to drive. You shouldn’t drive if:
• You have vision or hearing issues. Make sure that your eyes and ears have been checked. Also remember to wear sunglasses on sunny days.
• If you’ve been drinking alcohol. Your judgment and reaction time could be affected with the smallest amount of liquor that is consumed.
• If you’re taking medications, whether prescribed by your doctor or over-the-counter, that makes your drowsy.
• If you’re under the influence of any illegal drug.
• When you’re tired.
• When you are upset because anger and depression can cause you to drive carelessly.

Avoid Running Out of Money During Retirement

Many people have no idea how much money they will need to retire and/or think that they have plenty of time to plan for it. Before you know it, you’re about to retire and feel completely unprepared. Do you know how much you need to have available at your retirement? You need to consider your life expectancy and how much money you’ll need to maintain your lifestyle (which includes inflation). See your personal Financial Planner today to discuss what you’ll need to be able to have a retirement that is as stress-free as possible.

Should I Change My Homeowners Insurance Policy if I No Longer Live in It?

A homeowner’s policy is a homeowner’s policy, right? Wrong! If you are planning on moving out of your home and having someone else live in it; you need to contact your Insurance Agent Professional before you do so. The homeowner’s policy covers “owner occupied” homes so once someone else is living in it, the policy is no longer valid. Your property now needs a rental property policy in order for you to have the proper coverage.