Myths Surrounding Motorcycle Insurance

Richmond, VA, are you equipped with the proper knowledge about motorcycle insurance?

At Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., we like to debunk common myths about motorcycle insurance and help riders make informed decisions about protecting their passions on the road.

  1. Myth: Motorcycle Insurance is Expensive: While motorcycle insurance premiums can vary based on factors like the type of bike, rider’s age, and driving record, many riders assume that coverage is prohibitively expensive. However, with the right coverage options and discounts, motorcycle insurance can be affordable and provide invaluable protection in the event of accidents or theft.

  2. Myth: Auto Insurance Covers My Motorcycle: Some riders mistakenly believe that their auto insurance policy automatically extends coverage to their motorcycle. However, motorcycles require specialized insurance coverage tailored to their unique risks and usage patterns. Investing in dedicated motorcycle insurance ensures that you’re adequately protected on every ride.

  3. Myth: Basic Coverage is Sufficient: While meeting the minimum insurance requirements may seem sufficient, it may not provide comprehensive protection for your motorcycle. Basic coverage may not adequately cover damages to your bike or medical expenses in the event of an accident. Exploring additional coverage options like comprehensive and collision insurance can provide greater peace of mind on the road.

At Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., we understand the importance of tailored insurance solutions for Richmond, VA riders. Our experienced agents are dedicated to debunking myths and helping riders find the right coverage for their unique needs. Ready to explore your motorcycle insurance options and debunk the myths? Contact Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. today for personalized guidance and a comprehensive insurance solution designed to protect you and your bike on the open road. Don’t let misconceptions stand in the way of securing the coverage you deserve.

Auto Insurance Coverage for Frequent Travelers

If you plan on traveling a lot in the upcoming months, you may benefit from increasing your automotive insurance. Use the tips that follow to prepare your vehicle and obtain the coverage you need.

Vehicle Status

Before you insure your vehicle or take it on a long-distance trip, seek an inspection. A certified mechanic should be hired to inspect your vehicle’s body and mechanical parts.

Once the inspection is complete, seek any necessary repairs that will improve the safety of your vehicle. Ensuring that your vehicle is road-ready will increase your security during each road trip that you take.

Comparison Tool

Determine how often you will be driving your vehicle. If you are aware of the distance that you will be driving regularly, record information about the driving details. Use a comparison tool to match you with an insurance product that will be sufficient.

The comparison tool will give you a rough estimate of the cost you will incur for a specific policy. You will also receive some baseline information about what the insurance policy will cover.

Comprehensive Coverage

If you currently have a liability insurance policy, you may want to pursue buying a comprehensive one. A comprehensive automotive insurance policy will cover your vehicle if it is stolen, vandalized, or damaged another way.

The coverage will also pay for damage that occurs to another party’s vehicle during an accident. A comprehensive insurance policy will handle many costs that a basic liability insurance policy won’t cover. 

Additional Services

Contact one of our Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. representatives for assistance with other insurance services. An agent who serves Richmond, VA, will be ready to help you with automotive insurance questions or concerns.

Life’s Little Surprises: Why Umbrella Insurance is the Unexpected Hero

Life is inherently unpredictable, and Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. stands ready in Richmond, VA, to provide steadfast support when the unexpected occurs. In this discussion, let’s delve into umbrella insurance as an unsung hero, adept at transforming life’s uncertainties. From minor mishaps to peculiar surprises, let’s explore how Cary-Wheeler Insurance is committed to your well-being.

The Relevance of Umbrella Insurance

Life has a knack for presenting challenges, and that’s precisely where umbrella insurance proves invaluable. Cary-Wheeler Insurance understands that life’s surprises can range from minor inconveniences to more unconventional occurrences, and our umbrella policy is meticulously designed to offer comprehensive protection.

Transforming Surprises into Strategic Opportunities

At Cary-Wheeler Insurance, we specialize in converting unexpected events into opportunities for growth and resilience. Our umbrella coverage transcends mere financial considerations; it embodies a proactive approach to confronting the unpredictable with poise and sophistication. Whether facing a minor inconvenience or a more peculiar incident, our umbrella policy ensures you are well-prepared for the spectrum of life’s challenges.

Engage with the Cary-Wheeler Team

Curious about the nuances of umbrella insurance? Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. is poised to unravel its intricacies. Should you have inquiries or seek a detailed discussion, do not hesitate to reach out. Let Cary-Wheeler Insurance be your ally in Richmond, VA in transforming life’s unexpected surprises into memorable and resilient chapters.

Tips for Choosing the Right Condo Insurance

Condo living simplifies life in many ways but can complicate the insurance process. However, none of it is difficult if you follow a few tips outlined below. The insurance process is also made easier by working with an agent you trust, like our Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. team, serving the Richmond, VA area.

Condo Insurance Tips

Condo insurance generally covers the dwelling, personal/medical liability, personal property, and loss of use (if you need to live elsewhere during any repairs), but you still have choices. A key tip is to review your HOA’s master policy coverage, specifically whether it is "walls-in" or "all-in." Your insurance policy must cover whatever portion of your condo and contents the HOA doesn’t handle.

Other condo insurance tips include:

  • Value Your Belongings: Condo owners often underestimate the total value of their possessions. Be sure to inventory your belongings, including appraisals for jewelry and other valuables, so your insurance covers their total value.
  • High Deductibles: You can save money by choosing higher deductibles. However, make sure you have the cash available to cover the deductibles.
  • Exclusions: Richmond has felt the effects of past hurricanes. Review your policy’s severe weather and other exclusions and add coverage needed to protect yourself.
  • Umbrella Coverage: Your condo and auto policy have liability limits. Consider umbrella coverage to increase your protection, particularly if you are retired and past your peak earning years.
  • Landlord. You should obtain a landlord rider if you sometimes rent your condo to others.

Working with Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc.

Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. proudly serves the Richmond, VA area. We look forward to helping you structure an insurance plan, including your condo. Call us or visit the office today to ensure you are adequately protected.

Home Insurance Coverage You May Not Know You Have

Most people have their home insurance policies for many years, and they often don’t look into all the details of their coverage until a serious loss occurs. Your home insurance policy may cover some risks that you may not be aware of, and understanding this coverage can help save you money when an incident occurs. We at Cary-Wheeler & Associates can explain a few of the risks you may not know that your Richmond, VA insurance will cover.

Home Insurance Coverage You May Not Know You Have

Kitchen Fires

A sudden fire in the kitchen can happen to anyone. You may not be aware that the damage caused by these fires is covered by your home insurance policy. This coverage can help to get your kitchen back in full operation more quickly.

Dog Bites

Generally, a dog biting someone on your property is an uncommon event, but it does happen occasionally. Your homeowners’ insurance will cover a dog bite under the personal liability coverage and medical payments up to a certain limit. A dog bite doesn’t have to occur on your home’s property to qualify for this coverage.

Water Damage From Sudden Broken Pipe

If you have a sudden water line breakage that causes damage to your home, you will be covered for the incident. Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage that originates outside the home. However, if it occurs within your home’s structure, it will generally be covered under your policy.

Choose Us For Your Home Insurance Coverage

Our experienced agents can provide detailed answers to help you understand the finer points of your insurance coverage. Contact Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA today for a no-obligation quote on home insurance that can provide coverage for a variety of unexpected losses.

I run a small online consulting business. Would I benefit from commercial insurance?

Commercial insurance carries many benefits for business owners, regardless of the type of business. This insurance is designed to be adapted to the unique needs of any given business. Our team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. knows that understanding commercial insurance can be difficult. We’re here to help eliminate the confusion and help Richmond, VA business owners get the coverage they need. 

What is Commercial Insurance?

In short, commercial insurance is simply business insurance. Commercial insurance is designed to provide coverage and protection for many different things. If you have employees, commercial insurance can include worker compensation. If you drive vehicles for your business, commercial insurance can include commercial auto insurance. Commercial insurance is versatile enough to be structured to fit the unique needs of your business, regardless of the type of business you run. 

I run a small online consulting business. Would I benefit from commercial insurance?

Yes. Commercial insurance is designed to meet the unique needs of many different types of businesses, both online and offline. Your online business benefits from insurance protection just like an offline business. However, it’s clear that your needs will differ in some ways from the needs of an offline business. For example, as an online business owner, you need cybersecurity protection. Commercial insurance can provide protection from cyber-attacks.

You may also need commercial insurance to protect the offline areas of your business. If you sell products online, you may need protection for the safe delivery of your products. If someone gets hurt or sick from the use of your products, liability protection is helpful. General and product liability or common forms of commercial insurance for people with online businesses.

Schedule A Consultation Today

If you have questions about commercial insurance, call us at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA. We’d be happy to answer all of your questions. 

I Rent, Someone Got Hurt, Who Gets Sued?

It’s an annoying thing that renters have to deal with. The landlord wants their rent and Heaven help you if the property isn’t as pristine as it was when you moved in. When something happens to the property that’s not your fault, they’ll try to twist it into a "you" problem that they don’t have to handle.

Renter’s insurance alleviates this situation. So, what happens if someone gets hurt at a property you’ve rented? This could be a delivery person slipping on a sidewalk or stairs. Or a meter reader hit by a shingle or branch. Or your visiting brother-in-law said, "Hold my beer and watch this!"

What To Do

Firstly, get medical attention taken care of immediately. Not only will this get physical damage on the road to recovery, but the scope of the injury will be documented. Follow your doctor’s orders. Collect as much documentation as you can along the way. This includes bills, pay stubs, and receipts. Photos and videos will also be helpful for when you file your claim. Once you’ve handled that, time to lob the ball into your landlord’s court. They should contact their insurance provider promptly. Otherwise, you can bring forth a lawsuit. Most of these claims end in a settlement rather than a trial. 

Is Your Landlord at Fault?

Let’s look at the examples from earlier. Slippage from walks and stairs in bad repair can be the landlord’s fault. If falling objects are due to the landlord’s neglect, they’ll have to pay. The result of your brother-in-law’s antics may be his own fault, though. 

Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. Serving Richmond, VA 

If you are in the Richmond, VA area and need renter’s insurance, we at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. are here to help. We are dedicated to providing you with fair treatment and a good deal. 

Protect Your Bike With a Comprehensive Motorcycle Policy

Richmond, VA area residents turn to the team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. for all of their insurance needs. If you’re wondering if your current motorcycle policy meets your requirements, or if you’re thinking about getting a bike, rely on us for your all your motorcycle insurance needs. 

Benefits of a Comprehensive Bike Policy

There are many basic motorcycle policies available, but you might be wondering if they provide enough protection. When you’ve been riding for a while and know how often you plan on getting out on the road, you might consider upgrading to a comprehensive policy. There are a number of different benefits that come with comprehensive motorcycle policies.

The most important one is an increased coverage level of liability insurance. This increase helps to protect you from financial distress due to damages that are awarded to a passenger or other injured party following an accident. You’ll also enjoy having protection in the event of the theft or vandalism of your bike. 

Comprehensive policies are always a good idea for anyone who has financed their bike with a loan. This will help to reduce the risk of having to pay off a loan for a bike that’s been totaled. Now’s an ideal time to sit down with your local insurance agent to thoroughly review your needs. This will allow you to make an informed decision when it comes to selecting your bike policy.

Choosing a comprehensive bike policy is an effective way to protect your motorcycle and your future.

Call or stop by our office today!

Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. is here to serve the insurance needs of residents in Richmond, VA and the surrounding area. Contact us with all of your insurance questions and issues, we’re here to help!

Reasons to Take a Defensive Driving Course

There are many benefits to participating in a defensive driving course. Regardless of whether you are required to take one or decide to take one on your own, you can learn a lot through these courses. Read on to learn why we at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., an auto insurance provider in the greater Richmond, VA area, recommend everyone participate in one of these courses.

Why Take A Defensive Driving Course

Improved Driving Skills

Defensive driving courses provide valuable knowledge and skills to help individuals become safer and more responsible drivers. Participants learn defensive driving techniques, hazard awareness, and how to anticipate and respond to potential dangers on the road. These skills can enhance overall driving abilities and reduce the risk of accidents.

Potential Insurance Discounts

Many insurance providers offer discounts to drivers who have completed a defensive driving course. By completing the course, you can demonstrate that you’re committed to safe driving practices, potentially leading to lower insurance premiums.

Ticket Dismissal or Point Reduction

In some jurisdictions, taking a defensive driving course may enable drivers to have traffic tickets dismissed or reduce points on their driving records. This can help prevent license suspension, maintain a clean driving record, and avoid increased insurance rates.

Court-Mandated Requirement

In certain situations, individuals may be required by a court to complete a defensive driving course as part of a traffic violation or to fulfill legal obligations. Taking the course can fulfill these requirements and demonstrate a proactive effort to improve driving habits.

Keep Your Insurance Updated

Defensive driving courses can help minimize your chances of being involved in an accident. However, you cannot prevent all accidents, which is why it’s important to have great insurance. If you need auto insurance in the greater Richmond, VA area, reach out to the team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc.

Reasons to Take a Defensive Driving Course

There are many benefits to participating in a defensive driving course. Regardless of whether you are required to take one or decide to take one on your own, you can learn a lot through these courses. Read on to learn why we at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., an auto insurance provider in the greater Richmond, VA area, recommend everyone participate in one of these courses.

Why Take A Defensive Driving Course

Improved Driving Skills

Defensive driving courses provide valuable knowledge and skills to help individuals become safer and more responsible drivers. Participants learn defensive driving techniques, hazard awareness, and how to anticipate and respond to potential dangers on the road. These skills can enhance overall driving abilities and reduce the risk of accidents.

Potential Insurance Discounts

Many insurance providers offer discounts to drivers who have completed a defensive driving course. By completing the course, you can demonstrate that you’re committed to safe driving practices, potentially leading to lower insurance premiums.

Ticket Dismissal or Point Reduction

In some jurisdictions, taking a defensive driving course may enable drivers to have traffic tickets dismissed or reduce points on their driving records. This can help prevent license suspension, maintain a clean driving record, and avoid increased insurance rates.

Court-Mandated Requirement

In certain situations, individuals may be required by a court to complete a defensive driving course as part of a traffic violation or to fulfill legal obligations. Taking the course can fulfill these requirements and demonstrate a proactive effort to improve driving habits.

Keep Your Insurance Updated

Defensive driving courses can help minimize your chances of being involved in an accident. However, you cannot prevent all accidents, which is why it’s important to have great insurance. If you need auto insurance in the greater Richmond, VA area, reach out to the team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc.