What Types of Dwellings Does Home Insurance Cover?

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At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX, we offer home insurance policies covering various homes. From large ranch-style houses to cozy cottages, our policies protect a range of houses. If your home has a different kind of dwelling on the premises, you might wonder if a home insurance policy could cover it. 

While policies differ, we can offer general guidelines on structures home insurance typically covers. Naturally, this advice isn’t exhaustive. If you have a unique type of housing, you will want to consult an insurance agent to determine whether a traditional home insurance policy would cover your home. Even if home insurance doesn’t cover your home, there may be a better-suited form of insurance that ensures that your home is protected despite falling outside of home insurance regulations.

What Kinds of Dwellings Do Home Insurance Policies Cover?

Home insurance policies tend to cover a house as long as it meets the policy’s definitions and requirements. On top of the house, the home insurance policy typically provides coverage for garages, verandas, chimneys, decks, and related attachments to the house. If you have a second dwelling on your property, such as a small trailer or guest house, your home insurance policy probably won’t cover that structure. There might be other policies that provide coverage for it, though. This is why it’s a good idea to consult with the qualified professionals at our office while you’re in the process of selecting a new home insurance policy.

To protect your home and related structures, call our office at Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX today for more information.

 

Does my auto policy cover rental cars when vacationing?

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People sometimes have auto accidents while driving a rental vehicle. These events raise questions about our insurance coverage and whether to buy rental insurance from the rental car agency. Since the answer depends on your insurance coverage, contact the Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. team serving Ft. Worth, TX, before renting your next vehicle.

Rental Car Insurance

Most rental car agencies offer insurance, typically including four categories: liability, loss/collision damage waiver, personal injury and medical protection, and personal effects. As a responsible driver, you should have coverage for these potential losses. However, if you have liability, collision, comprehensive, and medical personal injury protection as part of your personal auto policy, that coverage likely extends to when you drive a rental vehicle. In addition, your homeowner, condo, or renter’s policy generally covers personal effects stolen from a rental car. 

The combination means that existing policies cover rental vehicle accidents for many people, so buying rental insurance is often unnecessary. Still, you should confirm your coverage and deductibles with your agent before renting a vehicle.

Even when your policies offer protection, you may want to consider rental insurance:

  • If your personal policy has high deductibles or low limits
  • When traveling for business (which is not covered by your personal policy)
  • When traveling outside the U.S. and Canada, where your personal policy typically does not apply
  • To avoid involving your personal policy or paying for damages out-of-pocket before receiving your personal policy reimbursement.

Working with Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc.

The Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. team is here to answer your questions about the auto insurance process. Call or visit us in Ft. Worth, TX, or use our online rating tool to receive an auto insurance quote.

Do I Need Commercial Insurance on Employee Vehicles?

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If you run a business in Ft. Worth, TX, and that business uses automobiles for work purposes, then you need to know about commercial insurance. This is insurance for vehicles explicitly used for work functions (commuting to and from work is not included in that). Here at Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., we get a lot of questions. So, let’s take a minute to talk about the different situations where you might want to consider commercial insurance.

Who Owns the Vehicle?

If the company owns the vehicle, then you definitely need a commercial insurance policy on it. The company could be liable for damages if the vehicle is involved in an accident or collision. Commercial insurance provides coverage in the case of such liability.

Additionally, the policy can cover the vehicle in case of a collision. This helps to protect company assets.

Who Drives the Vehicle?

If you don’t own the vehicle, you might still need a commercial policy, depending on how the vehicle is used for work. For instance, if you pay an employee to do deliveries with their own truck, then you still need a commercial policy.

You can look to customize the policy. The goals of this type of policy are to protect the employee in the case of work-related injuries and also to provide liability. A vehicle used for work purposes could still potentially make the company liable for damages — even if the company doesn’t own the vehicle. 

Remember that this specific type of coverage may be referred to as “hired” or “non-owned” auto policies.

Does the Vehicle Represent Your Company at All?

Here’s the final verdict. If the vehicle is working in an official capacity for your Ft. Worth, TX, business, then the business could be held liable for damages caused by that vehicle. Even if you pay someone to drive with an advertisement for your business on their van, you should speak with your Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. representative. You want to ensure that you are covered for any liability issues that could arise. 

Texas Homeowners: Understanding Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

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Understanding the intricacies of home insurance can seem overwhelming. One crucial aspect to comprehend is the difference between replacement cost and actual cash value coverage. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. is here to help you navigate these concepts and determine the best policy for your needs.

Understanding Replacement Cost Coverage

Replacement cost coverage refers to the amount it would take to replace or rebuild your home with similar materials and quality without accounting for depreciation. This coverage aims to restore your property to its original condition, allowing you to rebuild or repair it without worrying about the financial burden.

Why Actual Cash Value Matters

On the other hand, actual cash value coverage considers depreciation when determining the payout for a claim. In this scenario, the insurer would pay the current market value of your property minus depreciation. This could result in a lower payout than expected, leaving you to cover the difference in repair or replacement costs.

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value: Which is Right for You?

When choosing between replacement cost and actual cash value coverage, consider your financial capabilities and the value of your property. Replacement cost coverage may come with higher premiums but could provide greater peace of mind in the event of a loss. Actual cash value coverage may be more affordable but might not cover the entire cost of repairing or rebuilding your home.

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc.: Your Insurance Partner

Navigating the complexities of home insurance can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. We provide guidance and support as you explore your options in Ft. Worth, TX. Our knowledgeable team can help you find a policy that offers the right balance between coverage and affordability.

Ready to discuss your home insurance needs? Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced agents and discover the best coverage for your unique situation.

Preparing Well For Anything Unexpected On A Long Car Trip

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Expect The Unexpected On The Road In Texas

Experienced long-distance travelers are common in our expansive state, and they’ll all tell you that there’s something out there that’s waiting for you. It could be a great restaurant in a small town or a blown-out truck tire on the road ahead of you. The more you’re prepared for life’s unexpected long-distance drive situations, the easier it is to make them just memories. At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX, we help with insurance coverage designed to be prepared when you can’t be.

Carry Good Insurance Coverage For Experienced Support, Not Just Costs

Those who have had an accident on the road may have experienced the struggles of resolving claims in far-flung jurisdictions. The right selection of policy coverages ensures you won’t have to win battles from far away. Additional coverages such as roadside assistance help ensure you’ve got quick access to resources like flat tire help, fuel, lockouts, and towing, even if you don’t know the area.

Long Distance Driving Is A Bit Like Camping

When you hit the road in Texas, it’s good to be prepared with everything you need to survive, even if your car is stuck or damaged. Hot weather can make emergencies out of inconveniences, and no AC in your vehicle can be a critical issue. Cell phone communication is a must to access help, get information, and let friends and relatives know where you are. Did you know that when coverage is spotty along your route, you can rent a satellite phone or text message communicator too? At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX, we’re here for you when you reach out!

Benefits of Commercial Property Insurance

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Commercial property insurance is not a requirement under law for those doing business in Ft. Worth, TX. However, you may be compelled by your mortgage lender to obtain a policy. 

Indemnifying your building can protect you if your business leases out space to retailers and they fail to pay. You may be able to obtain help if you file a legal complaint to recover your monies. It may also pay for repairs if needed for your occupants. Consult with your tax attorney as your Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. insurance costs may be tax deductible as a business expense. 

Your warehouse or other structures serve a vital role in your company by housing the raw materials you use to produce goods. For example, these can be vulnerable to damage if your building burns down. You may be entitled to temporary assistance with income to offset your loss in revenue. 

In addition, your materials may be affected by theft, and you can make a claim when this happens. Vandalism can also wreak havoc on your products, rendering them unfit for sale. 

If your store is open to the public, customers may face injuries due to slips or falls on wet surfaces. Your insurance can keep medical expenses and lost wages from coming entirely out of pocket. In addition, you may also face unforeseen expenses if your building is hit by fallen tree branches or is affected by ice storms, hail, hurricanes, or tornadoes. 

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. Can Help

We serve those in the Ft. Worth, TX area, and we can be reached by phone or online to schedule an in-person visit. We welcome you to discuss your situation with us, and we look forward to offering the insurance package to suit your needs. 

What Does Auto Insurance Cover?

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The Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. agents, serving the Ft. Worth, TX area, stress the importance of auto insurance for all drivers. In Texas, it is the law that everyone must pay for any accident they are involved in. Most people do this through auto liability insurance policies since people without insurance can be fined up to $1000 and possibly have their vehicle impounded. Their driving privileges are suspended for up to two years.

In addition to a liability insurance policy, it is a good idea for vehicle owners to have other types of auto insurance coverage too.

Auto Insurance Coverage Options

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

While it is not required for drivers to have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, it is a great idea to have it. You never know when you will become involved in a crash with a driver without a policy or inadequate insurance.

Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage

Comprehensive auto insurance coverage is essential since it will help you repair or replace your vehicle if it is destroyed or damaged. You never know when something may happen, such as a natural disaster, an act of vandalism, or even a fire that can damage or destroy your beloved car, truck, or SUV. It will even help you recoup some of your losses if your vehicle is stolen.

Collison Insurance

Collision insurance is also vital to help you pay for any damage caused if you collide with a vehicle or a stationary object.

A lender typically requires both collision and comprehensive auto insurance. If you still owe money for the car you are driving, you should already have these types of auto insurance coverage options.

Contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc.

To create a great auto insurance policy for you and your lifestyle, call upon the experienced auto insurance agents at the Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., serving the Ft. Worth, TX area, today to get your policy started!

Auto Insurance – It’s Unlawful to Drive Without It

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Are you a licensed driver in Ft. Worth, TX? If so, make sure you have enough auto insurance. See Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. for the protection you need while driving.

Are you wondering why you need this insurance as a careful driver? An accident can happen to anyone at any time. Car insurance offers financial protection against costs associated with an accident if you are liable. This includes legal fees, the injured party’s medical costs, or their lost wages if their injuries leave them unable to work. The liability coverage will help pay for these expenses.

The most important coverage to consider is your state’s minimum liability and property damage coverage. It is vital that you maintain car insurance to keep yourself legally able to drive. Without it, you risk hefty fines or losing your driving privileges.

Car insurance is mandatory in 48 out of 50 states. Only New Hampshire and Virginia do not require it. However, this coverage is essential regardless of your location. If you are found liable in an accident, any associated costs you will be responsible for will need to be paid out-of-pocket. Unless you have a significant amount of savings at your disposal, you could face financial ruin.

By requiring auto insurance in most states, the laws protect drivers involved in traffic accidents they are not responsible for. The laws ensure that every driver who could be responsible for an accident has enough insurance to cover a minimum amount of expense for any injury sustained or any resulting damage. This way, state-mandated car insurance ensures that drivers are held accountable for any risks associated with driving a vehicle.

So, if you live in or near Ft. Worth, TX area, Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. can provide a quote or answer any questions regarding this vital coverage. Contact our office today.

What dog breeds are not covered by home insurance?

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Owning a dog can be a rewarding experience, but it is essential to remember that not all dog breeds are covered by home insurance policies in Ft. Worth, TX. To protect yourself and your pet correctly, it is crucial to understand why dog breeds are not covered by home insurance. In this post, Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc explains.

A few of the most common dog breeds not covered by home insurance include Pit Bulls, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, Chows Chows, German Shepherds, and Wolf Hybrids. It’s important to note that these breed restrictions vary from one insurance company to another. Additionally, some insurance companies may have breed-specific exclusions or limits on how much coverage they will provide for a specific breed. 

Certain insurers also require homeowners to sign liability waivers if they own certain types of dogs deemed "high-risk" or "dangerous." Additionally, many homeowners aren’t aware of the fact that their existing policy may already include exclusionary language related to specific breeds of dogs.

Pet owners need to check with their homeowner’s insurance provider to determine which breed exclusions exist and whether there are any additional restrictions regarding specific breeds of dogs. This way, you can be sure that you and your beloved pet are adequately protected should an incident occur involving your furry friend. 

Being a responsible pet owner includes knowing which dog breeds may not be covered under your home insurance policy in Ft. Worth, TX. Knowing this information can save you significant stress and hassle down the road should an incident involving your pet occurs. Contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc so we can check your policy and ensure you have the coverage you need.

What to Expect from the Auto Claims Process

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Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. wants to ensure our Ft. Worth, TX customers are prepared for what may come, so we’ve created a basic overview of what to expect from an auto claim. 

You’ll Need to Talk to the Insurer

  1. Call the insurance companies as soon as possible to file a claim. You may be able to file online or via the insurer’s app. 
  2. Answer the phone when the insurer calls. The faster you complete the interview, the quicker they can approve your claim.
  3. Be honest. Resist the urge to spin the truth, processors use multiple methods of investigation, and it will delay the decision if they have conflicting accounts. 

You’ll Need to Have an Inspection 

  1. Follow the insurer’s inspection process. 
  2. For simple accidents, they may provide an app that allows you to take necessary photographs for rapid claim approval. 
  3. Do not take your car to your mechanic unless you know the insurer works with them. Insurers must pay out fair market value and typically work with vetted inspectors. 
  4. If you are a claimant – you will pay nothing out of pocket and be able to pick up a rental while your car is being repaired.
  5. If you are the responsible party – your repairs will require a deductible owed when you go to pick up your car. 
  6. Prior damage and mechanical wear & tear will not be covered. ‘Betterment’ applies to damaged tires, meaning you’ll only get a percentage of the replacement cost unless the tires are brand new. 

There May Be Supplements

Once repairs start, the shop may find additional damages not visible on the surface. Don’t fret. They will send a supplemental invoice to the insurer, and as long as it’s reasonably related to the claim, the insurer will pay the shop directly. 

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. is here for our Ft. Worth, TX clients. Call us if you have any questions, and we’ll ensure you are prepared for what life brings.