How To Get the Most Out of Your Auto Insurance Policy

Anyone who has ever been in a car accident knows that it is a stressful and often traumatizing experience. In the aftermath of an accident, the last thing you want to deal with is dealing with your insurance company. However, the claims process can be much less stressful if you understand your auto insurance policy. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your auto insurance policy.

1. Know Your Coverage

The first step in getting the most out of your auto insurance policy is to understand what your policy covers. Some policies will cover damage to your vehicle, medical expenses, and liability. However, there may be some coverage that you are not aware of. For example, some policies also cover rental cars if your vehicle is damaged in an accident. It is important to understand all the coverage available to you so that you can make the best decision for your needs.

2. Shop Around

Shopping around is the next tip for getting the most out of your auto insurance policy. There are many different insurance companies out there, and they all offer different rates. Shopping around can help you find the best rate for your needs. It is important to remember that the cheapest policy is not always the best policy. Make sure you compare coverage and rates before you make a decision.

3. Ask Questions

Never decide on your auto insurance without first asking questions. Ask your agent or insurance company for clarification if you do not understand something. You must understand all of the terms and conditions of your policy before you agree to anything.

4. Review Your Policy Annually

Your needs will change, and so will your auto insurance policy. It is important to review your policy annually to ensure that it still meets your needs. If you have moved, gotten a new car, or had any other significant changes in your life, be sure to update your policy.

If you follow these tips, you will be well on your way to getting the most out of your auto insurance policy. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX can help you find the right policy for your needs and ensure you get the best coverage possible. Give us a call today to get started.

What Is The Minimum Amount of Car Insurance Required In Texas?

Buying a car is an exhilarating experience and a substantial financial commitment. However, before you can enjoy the thrill of owning a car, you are required by law in 48 states (except New Hampshire and Virginia) in the United States to have some minimum auto insurance to drive a vehicle on public roads. As a resident of Ft. Worth, TX, you might be wondering – what is the minimum amount of car insurance in this state? Here is what to know;

Minimum Car Insurance Amount in Texas

Texas legislation requires all drivers to have adequate insurance for their vehicles. According to the state’s law, adequate car insurance means coverage of at least $30,000 for every injured person and not less than $60,000 per accident. Moreover, drivers in Texas must have property damage coverage of not less than $25,000. In the insurance and legal circles, the Texas minimum auto insurance requirements are defined as 30/60/25 in shorthand.

Unlike several other states, Texas doesn’t require its drivers to be insured against uninsured and underinsured drivers. Keep in mind that you are required by Texas state law to produce proof of insurance at the request of a police officer. 

Is Minimum Insurance Sufficient?

At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., we advise against settling for the state’s minimum car insurance requirements because it doesn’t provide sufficient coverage. Firstly, if you only have minimum insurance and get into an accident and damage your vehicle, you will have to pay out of pocket to repair it. Additionally, if the accident results in property damage exceeding $25,000, you have to pay for the extra damages out of pocket. Moreover, minimum vehicle insurance in Texas doesn’t protect against theft. You will need additional coverage like liability coverage, collision coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to have excellent car insurance protection.

Call Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. for more info on car insurance in Ft. Worth, TX.

4 Auto Insurance Mistakes to Avoid

Even if you are an experienced motorist, buying car insurance is never fun. There is a lot to figure out about car insurance. While purchasing car insurance can be intimidating, there are pitfalls you can avoid to get the most out of your coverage. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. of Ft. Worth, TX, has listed important things you should know about car insurance.

Failing to understand your policy

It’s a big mistake failing to understand your policy. It’s best to understand the ins and outs of your policy to avoid surprises when filing a claim. Understand the risks covered by your policy. Likewise, get to know what isn’t covered by your policy.

Read your policy to understand what it covers, exclusions, and limitations. Equally, talk to your insurance agent to know more about your policy.

Lying about the personal information

When your records aren’t right, there is always the urge to falsify things here and there. The reality is that you will be found, at least when filing a claim. When the insurance underwriters do a background check and realize that speeding ticket or the fact that you are not a student, you will pay for your lies by paying high premiums.

Sticking to the state-minimums

You will pay less premiums by adhering to basic car insurance, but you will pay dearly when involved in a significant accident. Basic car insurance can only do so much when faced with significant liability claims or when your car is written off.

Being lazy in research

When looking for any insurance, including car insurance, you don’t fall for the first offer you receive. Carry out basic research and compare offers from different insurance companies. Don’t be tempted to sign up for the first service you find.

Need more guidance on auto insurance? Please contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX for all your car insurance needs.

7 Tips to take after an auto accident in Ft. Worth, TX

Getting in an accident can be stressful. Yet, having a plan helps.

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. knows the value of being prepared. Serving Ft. Worth, TX, the agency shares seven steps to follow immediately after an automobile accident.

Stay calm

It sounds simple, but an accident is already a highly-charged situation. No need to make it worse by worrying. Focus on the plan you’ve created.

Check for injuries

Personal safety should be a chief concern. Determine immediately if you, another driver, or any passengers are injured. If so, call 911. Avoid moving them and wait for emergency personnel to arrive.

Move vehicle safely

If possible, pull your vehicle to an area that doesn’t impede traffic. Turn on your hazard lights. Again, do not move or get out if it’s unsafe or there is an injury present.

Call the police

Even if not required, notifying the police helps protect your interests. Having a report may speed up the claims process. 

Exchange information

You’ll want to collect some basic facts. Talk to the other driver to get their name, driver’s license, and any insurance information. Also, write down the other car’s make, model, and license plate number.

Document the accident 

Record the accident’s time and location too. Photos and video are encouraged to accurately capture any damage. If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information as well.

Report the incident

Call your insurance agent right away. Doing this while still at the scene is preferred. If you can, they can walk you through the process and make sure you’ve gathered everything you need.

Call Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. today

These professionals offer more than just auto insurance to the Ft. Worth, TX area. If an accident does occur, their agents are only a phone call away.

Why safety features of a car matter

If you have never thought about it, the smaller things such as buckling your seatbelt save thousands of lives every day. Apart from safety belts, there exist many safety features in cars to help prevent road accidents or injuries.  Every day, cars are fitted with new technologies to improve safety, such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and backup cameras. If it’s your first time buying a car in Ft. Worth, TX or looking to buy a safety-enhanced car for your teenager, here are a few benefits of different safety features.

Save lives

The main reason manufacturers work so hard to improve safety features in cars is to save lives. It doesn’t matter if it’s yours, your passengers or other motorists. Every safety feature is designed to save a life somewhere. The last thing you want is to deal with a series of lawsuits for deaths you caused to other people. The entire process is not only financially overwhelming but also emotionally draining. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., however, recommends having enough auto insurance to cover such incidents.

Prevent severity of injuries

If you’re involved in an accident, the chances are that you will escape with bruises, fractured legs or arms, or severe head injuries, depending on the nature of the accident. Most cars in Ft. Worth, TX have basic features that help prevent or reduce injury severity, such as airbags that protect the head from hitting the windshield or the dashboard.

Prevent crashes or collisions

Safety features like a forward-collision warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) brake assist, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning are all great features that help prevent collisions. They help stop or slow the car down whenever you exceed the required speed or get too close to another car.

 At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., we care about your safety, and that’s why we recommend checking and learning how each safety feature in your car works to use it properly when the need arises. Please feel free to check out our website or call to book an appointment with us today.

Types of Auto Insurance Fraud And How They Affect You

Insurance fraud causes insurance companies a significant amount of money. However, the ripple effect is that insurance customers are affected as policy costs can be increased. At one point or another, Ft. Worth, TX residents have fallen victim to an insurance fraud crime. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. takes you through the different types of insurance fraud that happen.

Staged Accidents

Some drivers intentionally cause a collision with another vehicle to receive a fraudulent insurance payout. In such cases, you will find the other unsuspecting driver being faulted for an accident they had no hand in. If you ever suspect that you are being set up, document the accident and the extent of the damage. Also, be careful of people too eager to help and even offer towing services.

Vehicle Dumping

A driver will dispose of their vehicle in such a case, whether it is dumping it in a lake or burning it. On certain occasions, some drivers have sold their cars and claimed they were stolen. When this happens, an insurance company is expected to pay the driver through an insurance settlement to replace the vehicle stolen.

Exaggerated Costs of Repair After an Accident

Dishonest mechanics usually do this type of fraud. Some mechanics will use used parts to repair your car when you take it to the repair shop after an accident. However, they would send a bill to an insurance company suggesting they use new parts and the job took longer than it did. This type of fraud is committed for financial gain.

Faulty Airbag Replacement

This type of fraud occurs when a mechanic does not replace airbags after an accident. At times, repair shops will use salvaged airbags instead of replacing them with new ones. The mechanics will then bill the insurance company for new airbags to benefit them financially.

If you reside in Ft. Worth, TX, and want to learn more about auto insurance fraud, contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. We are ready to help you avoid becoming a victim of insurance fraud.

Questions To Ask Your Insurance Agent When You Are Shopping For Auto Insurance

When it comes to choosing the right auto insurance policy, many people get confused and do not know how to make the right choice. However, when you have the right information, it is easier than you think. The best and most valuable source of the information you need is an insurance agent. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. serving Ft. Worth, TX prepared a list of questions you should ask an insurance agent when you are shopping for auto insurance:

What Is Covered If I Get Involved in a Car Accident and My Vehicle Is Damaged?

One of the most common misconceptions is that car insurance automatically covers the repair and replacement of a car. However, you may not have these benefits without the right coverage. If you want the repair and replacement of your car to be covered, you need collision coverage or comprehensive coverage. Make sure you ask an insurance agent about it before buying a certain policy. 

Will My Policy Cover Other Drivers of My Car?

Usually, your auto insurance will cover you while you are driving your own car. However, there may be other situations. For example, your family member may drive a car too, or your friend will borrow your vehicle. Will they be covered if they are involved in an accident while driving your car? It is another question you should always ask an insurance representative. 

What Factors Are Having Impact on the Cost of Insurance?

If you feel your premiums are too high, you should ask an insurance agent to give you specific reasons and explain what is the reasons for the price you have to pay. 

There are many other questions to ask and you should not hesitate to ask them. The more questions you ask, the more information you get that will help you make the right choice and purchase the insurance policy you really need. If you have any questions or you want to learn more about the insurance options available, feel free to contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. serving Ft. Worth, TX – our insurance agents will be glad to answer all your questions. 

How much auto insurance do I need to carry in Texas

Fort Worth, TX is a wonderful place to call home. It has a great location and fantastic amenities. You have access to highways that can take you all over the state. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX has been providing superior service to residents of the greater Fort Worth area for 11 years. We make sure you have coverage today as well as in the future. 

In the state of Texas liability insurance is required. The requirement is 30/60/25. What this means is 

  • $30,000 in liability coverage for injuries per person 
  • $60,000 total liability per accident
  • $25,000 in damage to property

This insurance is to protect other drivers and their property from you in the event you cause or are responsible for an accident. It does nothing for your vehicle. Chances are in an accident that involves damage to another vehicle, your vehicle will also sustain some damage. If you have a car loan or if you are leasing your vehicle, your lessor or lender is going to want to make sure their vehicle is protected. They will require that you carry additional insurance for that purpose. 

Collision insurance cover damage to your vehicle. It has a deductible you will have to pay out of pocket but then the policy will pay to have your vehicle repaired or in the event, your vehicle is totaled, provide money allowing you to buy another car. Comprehensive is another type of coverage that protects your vehicle. Many things that damage your vehicle are things you can’t control. If your car is stolen or vandalized, crushed by a tree limb, or if you hit a deer these will be covered with comprehensive coverage. 

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX can provide the auto insurance information you are looking for. Give us a call or stop by for a free quote. 

Adding Teens to Your Auto Insurance: What You Need to Know

Being the parent of a teen has many challenges. You may think you are finally getting a grip on parenting your teen when you realize it is now time to add them to your insurance. This can be a stressful time for most parents. At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc serving Ft. Worth, TX, we want to try to relieve some of that stress by helping to educate you on this important insurance topic. 

When Should I Add My Teen to My Insurance?

Each state will have different laws in place regarding when a teen should be added to the insurance policy. If you have a teen in your home who is permitted by law to drive, you need to contact an insurance rep to discuss the best timing for adding your teen to your policy. 

How Will My Insurance Change When I Add My Teen?

Everyone’s insurance policy is unique according to their specific driving record and history, but you can expect your insurance rates to go up some when you add a teen driver. Teens are a bigger risk factor for accidents and traffic violations because they do not have that much experience. It is helpful to discuss with your teen what your expectations are and to inform them that their driving behavior can affect your insurance. Set in place clear consequences in the event that poor driving habits become a problem. 

How Can I Keep Costs Low?

Be sure that your teen understands what you expect of them concerning their driving behaviors and make sure they understand how their behavior will affect the insurance policy. Many insurance policies will offer a good grade discount for students as well. 

If you would like to learn more about adding your teen to your auto insurance, please contact us at Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc, serving Ft. Worth, TX. 

Does Auto Insurance Cover Bodily Injury in Ft. Worth?

Bodily injury after an accident can be an especially difficult matter to handle. All accidents are unnerving even under the best of circumstances, but a physical injury can be particularly devastating. If you’re wondering if auto insurance covers it in Ft. Worth, TX, Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. is here to help you understand more about how your policy works under these circumstances. 

Bodily Injury Is Covered (for Others)

As a driver in Texas, you’re required to have some degree of liability coverage for bodily injury. However, this only covers the medical injuries of other people as opposed to yourself. If you want to be covered, you’ll need additional personal injury protection. 

There Are Limits 

Bodily injury can be a tricky matter for some people. If you hit someone in a standard fender-bender and they experience whiplash, this may not be a major injury in and of itself. However, if the person had a preexisting condition, such as a neck injury or back problem, the impact could have much greater consequences. 

Learning More 

If you’re interested in learning more about the limits of your current policy (or setting up a new policy that will carry enough protection), it helps to talk with someone who understands how it all works. There are a number of solutions available to you should you want additional coverage, including changing your auto insurance policy or purchasing an additional safety net policy like umbrella insurance. 

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. is here to help the people of Ft. Worth, TX understand more about their options. Contact us today to learn more about how you can have the best possible policy to ensure that everyone can heal and recover should an accident occur.