Resources and Information
Descriptions of individual insurance coverages
Biker's Choice of Motorcycle Reveals Taste in Body Art, Food and Employment Habits, Insurer Finds
What can one tell about a person by the kind of motorcycle they ride? Plenty, according to a recent countrywide online survey conducted by The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, the number one seller of motorcycle insurance in the U.S. The survey finds interesting differences - and ... Read article
Louisiana Motorcycle Helmet Requirement is Back
Governor Kathleen Blanco signed House Bill 109, which now requires anyone riding a motorcycle to wear an approved helmet. In 1999, a similar law had been repealed, but now Louisiana has reinstated the requirement that all riders wear a helmet. -7/28/2004 www.legis.state.la.us
ATV Recalls
Has there been a recall on your ATV? To find out, go to www.cpsc.gov and click on "Recalls and Product Safety." Then select "Product Type" and select "All Terrain Vehicles (ATV's)." The latest ATV recall was issued November 2003.
High Crash Rates
Houston, Texas far exceeds the national average in the number of serious traffic collisions, according to the Associated Press. Officials said the area is growing faster than roads can be improved or patrolled. The eight county Houston Metro area recorded an average of 242 serious crashes every day….and that was data from 2000. For every crash involving death, injury or property damage of $1000 or more, there are two to three times as many minor ones. Almost 600 people die a year and about 90,000 injured. Is this a War Zone?
Good Advice
If your vehicle must be towed from an accident scene, know the difference between a nonconsent tow that a police officer initiates and a tow that you select and authorize. A nonconsent tow is often subject to regulated fees, which may be much lower. Make it clear to the officer that you are aware of the difference between a consent and a nonconsent tow and that you choose to have a nonconsent tow to protect you from potentially high tow and storage fees. Do not sign a blank or incomplete tow form!
A word about Roadside Assistance
You may or may not know it you have Roadside Assistance. Many insurance companies offer or include Roadside Assistance in the event you breakdown or become stranded, if you purchase collision and comprehensive coverage. Check through your "insurance papers" and look to see if you have it. If in doubt, call your Agent (we hope that's us) and ask. Don't forget, some manufacturers include this with a new vehicle purchase, or your dealer may have "included" it in your purchase. You may be required to call an 800 number to obtain this covered service, or you may be able to get reimbursed.
How old is a Classic Car?
We get asked this question, as well as "What makes a car a classic?" Well, a general rule of thumb is when the car becomes 20 to 25 years old, depending on who is deciding. There are other considerations which insurance companies use, like how many miles a year is the car driven and does the owner have a "daily driver" for everyday use. Also, how unique or desirable is the car, it's condition and value, and it's purpose for the owner. Many states have special registration (lower fees and special plates) for classics and antiques. Does your car qualify? We insure classic and antique cars, motorcycles and boats. Call us with your questions and get a free quote. There are many differences between companies - their coverages, restrictions and rates, so let us help you compare.
