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Can a Teen Driver With a Learner’s Permit Be Added to a Parent’s Insurance Policy?

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For parents with a teen driver in Richmond, VA, it’s important to have insurance. It’s also important for their teen to understand the rules of driving associated with a learner’s permit. Our experienced agents at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. can help you make sure that you and your teen driver are protected.

Insuring a Teen Driver

Once a teen obtains their learner’s permit, you want that information added to your policy, so it is updated to include the new driver’s name and the number assigned to their permit. You will also want to know if there will be any increase in your premium. 

Rules of the Road for Teens with a Learner’s Permit

There is a list of rules teen drivers must follow to comply with Virginia law:

  • No solo driving is allowed.
  • A licensed driver must accompany the teen driver with a learner’s permit. The supervising driver must sit in the passenger seat in the front and be at least 21 years old. A family member who is 18 or older may be approved as the supervising driver.
  • Only one other passenger under the age of 21, besides the supervising driver, is allowed in the car.
  • The driver must wear a seat belt, cannot use their cell phone while driving, and cannot consume alcohol.
  • The teen driver may not drive between midnight and 4 a.m. d

Changing From a Learner’s Permit to a Regular License

Once a teen driver obtains their regular license, you must immediately update your policy with their driver’s license number and issue date before your teen is allowed to drive alone. There are differences in coverage for permitted versus licensed drivers.

Contact Us

For more information about adding a teen driver to your auto policy, contact our team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. We’re currently serving Richmond, VA.

Can a Teen Driver With a Learner’s Permit Be Added to a Parent’s Insurance Policy?

Posted on by admin

For parents with a teen driver in Richmond, VA, it’s important to have insurance. It’s also important for their teen to understand the rules of driving associated with a learner’s permit. Our experienced agents at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. can help you make sure that you and your teen driver are protected.

Insuring a Teen Driver

Once a teen obtains their learner’s permit, you want that information added to your policy, so it is updated to include the new driver’s name and the number assigned to their permit. You will also want to know if there will be any increase in your premium. 

Rules of the Road for Teens with a Learner’s Permit

There is a list of rules teen drivers must follow to comply with Virginia law:

  • No solo driving is allowed.
  • A licensed driver must accompany the teen driver with a learner’s permit. The supervising driver must sit in the passenger seat in the front and be at least 21 years old. A family member who is 18 or older may be approved as the supervising driver.
  • Only one other passenger under the age of 21, besides the supervising driver, is allowed in the car.
  • The driver must wear a seat belt, cannot use their cell phone while driving, and cannot consume alcohol.
  • The teen driver may not drive between midnight and 4 a.m. d

Changing From a Learner’s Permit to a Regular License

Once a teen driver obtains their regular license, you must immediately update your policy with their driver’s license number and issue date before your teen is allowed to drive alone. There are differences in coverage for permitted versus licensed drivers.

Contact Us

For more information about adding a teen driver to your auto policy, contact our team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. We’re currently serving Richmond, VA.

How Umbrella Insurance Extends Beyond Auto and Home Policies

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Most people think of insurance as something that protects their car or house, but real protection goes further than that. Umbrella insurance steps in when the unexpected happens, when regular policies hit their limits and something bigger comes along. It’s the kind of coverage you don’t realize you need until life hands you a situation that’s more than a standard policy can handle.

Where Umbrella Coverage Takes Over

Umbrella insurance through Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., serving Richmond, VA, kicks in after your home, auto, or boat policy reaches its payout cap. Think of it as an extra safety layer. If you’re found liable for a serious car accident, for example, and the costs of medical care or legal fees exceed your policy limit, umbrella coverage picks up the rest. It’s not tied to one type of asset, it follows you wherever you’re legally responsible.

Why It Covers More Than You Might Expect

What makes umbrella insurance powerful is how broad it can be. It often covers situations that standard policies don’t touch, like slander or libel claims, accidents involving rental properties, or even certain incidents that happen while traveling. For families with teen drivers, rental homes, or small side businesses, this kind of coverage can mean the difference between a manageable setback and financial disaster.

How It Protects Long-Term Security

Umbrella policies are relatively affordable compared to the coverage they offer. One claim that goes beyond a regular policy’s limits could threaten savings, investments, or even retirement plans. This extra protection keeps all that safe.

Umbrella insurance isn’t just for the wealthy; it’s for anyone with something to protect. When life gets unpredictable, it quietly fills the gaps your other policies leave behind, giving you a sense of security that’s hard to put a price on. Contact Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., serving Richmond, VA, to learn more.

What “Walls-In” Coverage Means For Condo Owners

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Condo ownership comes with many perks, such as less yard work, shared amenities, and a strong sense of community. However, insuring a condo isn’t as straightforward as insuring a stand-alone home. One term that often confuses condo owners is “walls-in” coverage. While it may sound simple, understanding what it includes can make the difference between a covered claim and an unexpected expense. At Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., serving Richmond, VA, we strive to educate all our clients. Here’s what you need to know.

Where Condo Insurance Splits

Typically, the condo association insures the building itself and common areas, such as hallways and the roof. The association’s master policy usually stops at the bare walls of your unit. From that point, the responsibility shifts to you. The challenge is that not all associations define the boundary in the same way, which can lead to misunderstandings about what is covered.

What “Walls-In” Really Means

Walls-in coverage begins where the association’s policy ends. It protects the interior finishes of your unit, including drywall, cabinets, countertops, flooring, and built-in fixtures. For example, if a kitchen fire damages your cabinets or a leaking pipe ruins your bathroom floor, walls-in coverage steps in to cover the repairs. Without this coverage, you would be responsible for paying out of pocket for repairs to parts of your condo you assumed were insured.

Why Virginia Condo Owners Should Pay Attention

Condo associations across Virginia vary significantly in what they cover. Some policies stop at the studs, while others go slightly further, but very few cover everything inside your unit. If you’re unsure where your association’s policy ends, you may be carrying more risk than you realize.

Walls-in condo coverage from Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., serving Richmond, VA, bridges that gap. It ensures your condo’s interior is protected, so one accident doesn’t lead to an overwhelming repair bill. Don’t take unnecessary risks. Contact us today to make sure you’re fully covered.

Why Reviewing Your Home Policy After Renovations Is Important

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So, you finally finished that kitchen remodel or added the sunroom you’ve been dreaming about for years. It looks amazing, and it probably added value to your home, too. But here’s something many homeowners forget to do once the dust settles: review their home insurance policy. At Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA, we remind our clients that updating your policy after renovations isn’t just a good idea, it’s essential.

How Renovations Impact Your Coverage Needs

When you make improvements to your home, you’re often increasing its overall replacement cost. That means if something were to happen, like a fire or major storm damage, your current home insurance policy might not fully cover the cost to rebuild or repair those upgraded features. Whether it’s high-end countertops, new flooring, or even a finished basement, these changes can significantly impact your home’s insured value.

Avoid Gaps in Coverage

If your policy isn’t updated after a renovation, there could be a gap between what your home is worth now and what your insurance would actually pay out. That could leave you footing a bigger portion of the repair or rebuild bill than you expected. Taking a little time to review your policy could save you a lot of stress and money later on.

Keep Your Policy Aligned with Your Home

Every renovation is an investment. Protect that investment by making sure your insurance policy reflects the true value of your updated home.

If you’ve recently renovated or are planning a project soon, now is the perfect time to review your home insurance. Contact Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA, to ensure your coverage keeps pace with your home’s improvements.

Do Churches in Richmond Need Commercial Insurance?

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Commercial insurance isn’t just for businesses. Churches of all sizes and denominations in Richmond, VA can benefit from commercial coverage. The specific types of insurance your church needs will depend on factors such as its size, location, and the nature of its activities. However, there are some forms of insurance that nearly every church should consider.

Property Insurance

Your church property is more than just an asset—it’s a gathering place for your community. Property insurance provides compensation for damage to the church’s structure, allowing you to make repairs without unnecessary delays.

Liability Insurance

In a crowded venue, accidents can happen. Liability insurance covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs if a visitor is injured on your property.

Vehicle Insurance

If your church owns vehicles or if the pastor allows church employees to use their personal vehicles for church-related purposes, commercial auto insurance is essential. Additionally, you may want to consider comprehensive coverage, which provides protection against theft or damage caused by natural disasters.

Religious Counseling Services Liability Insurance

Professionals who offer advice can be held liable if the recipient decides to file a lawsuit against them. Religious counseling services liability insurance helps cover legal expenses, settlements, and judgments related to counseling services provided by your church.

Call Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. for More Information

Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. offers a range of commercial insurance options specifically tailored to the needs of churches in Richmond, VA. Contact us today to learn more about available coverage, explore policy options, or request policy quotes. We look forward to helping you find the best policy or policy bundle for your church.

How Renter’s Insurance Protects Your Belongings

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When you rent a home, there are specific responsibilities you must fulfill, and one of these is obtaining renters’ insurance. Many landlords today require tenants to have renters’ insurance to ensure protection against various risks, including those that could damage or destroy your belongings. While you don’t need home insurance—since the homeowner will have that coverage—you do need a solid renter’s policy to safeguard your possessions. To ensure you have the protection you need, contact us at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA.

Protection for Your Belongings

Renter’s insurance includes different types of coverage, such as liability protection and coverage for your belongings. The items inside your rented home are valuable and represent a significant financial investment. When you consider the cost of the items in just one room, it becomes clear how expensive your belongings are. Having this protection in place is crucial in the event of accidents or natural disasters.

Coverage for Replacement Costs

If your belongings are damaged or destroyed, your renters’ insurance policy can cover the cost of replacing them. Without this coverage, replacing even a few expensive items could be financially overwhelming for most people. Replacing everything would be an even greater challenge. To ensure your items can be replaced, it’s essential to maintain renters’ insurance.

Get Renter’s Insurance Today

When you rent a home, make renters’ insurance a priority. To learn more about this type of insurance, contact us at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Theft?

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Motorcycles are always a joy to ride, but their compact nature makes them more susceptible to theft than other vehicles. Many people purchase insurance because they’re legally required to, but does motorcycle insurance cover theft?

Legal Requirements

The minimum requirements in Richmond, VA, state that all registered vehicles, including motorcycles, must carry minimum liability insurance. This must include:

  • $20,000 property damage liability insurance
  • $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
  • $50,000 total bodily injury liability per accident

Motorcycle owners who obtain minimum liability insurance to meet legal requirements will not have insurance that covers theft. However, other insurance options are available to provide additional coverage.

Additional Coverage

Insurance companies like Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. offer several levels of coverage to protect motorcycles. Motorcycle owners may have the same options as car owners do:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage provides coverage for events other than an accident with another vehicle, such as hitting a telephone pole or animal, vandalism, theft, and weather damage.
  • Collision Coverage: This provides coverage for your motorcycle if you’re in an accident with another vehicle or object. However, some companies offer collision coverage for accidents with another vehicle and only provide coverage for accidents with an object or animal under comprehensive coverage.
  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This type of coverage can help you if you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance or whose insurance isn’t enough to cover the cost of damages.

Motorcycle owners can also enjoy roadside assistance, coverage for add-ons, and more. However, this varies depending on the company you work with.

We understand motorcycle owners are more likely to deal with theft. That’s why experienced agents at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. will help you find the right coverage to ensure you’re protected. Contact us today to find the right policy for your motorcycle. We’re currently serving the Richmond, VA area.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Theft?

Posted on by admin

Motorcycles are always a joy to ride, but their compact nature makes them more susceptible to theft than other vehicles. Many people purchase insurance because they’re legally required to, but does motorcycle insurance cover theft?

Legal Requirements

The minimum requirements in Richmond, VA, state that all registered vehicles, including motorcycles, must carry minimum liability insurance. This must include:

  • $20,000 property damage liability insurance
  • $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
  • $50,000 total bodily injury liability per accident

Motorcycle owners who obtain minimum liability insurance to meet legal requirements will not have insurance that covers theft. However, other insurance options are available to provide additional coverage.

Additional Coverage

Insurance companies like Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. offer several levels of coverage to protect motorcycles. Motorcycle owners may have the same options as car owners do:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage provides coverage for events other than an accident with another vehicle, such as hitting a telephone pole or animal, vandalism, theft, and weather damage.
  • Collision Coverage: This provides coverage for your motorcycle if you’re in an accident with another vehicle or object. However, some companies offer collision coverage for accidents with another vehicle and only provide coverage for accidents with an object or animal under comprehensive coverage.
  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This type of coverage can help you if you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance or whose insurance isn’t enough to cover the cost of damages.

Motorcycle owners can also enjoy roadside assistance, coverage for add-ons, and more. However, this varies depending on the company you work with.

We understand motorcycle owners are more likely to deal with theft. That’s why experienced agents at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. will help you find the right coverage to ensure you’re protected. Contact us today to find the right policy for your motorcycle. We’re currently serving the Richmond, VA area.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Theft?

Posted on by admin

Motorcycles are always a joy to ride, but their compact nature makes them more susceptible to theft than other vehicles. Many people purchase insurance because they’re legally required to, but does motorcycle insurance cover theft?

Legal Requirements

The minimum requirements in Richmond, VA, state that all registered vehicles, including motorcycles, must carry minimum liability insurance. This must include:

  • $20,000 property damage liability insurance
  • $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
  • $50,000 total bodily injury liability per accident

Motorcycle owners who obtain minimum liability insurance to meet legal requirements will not have insurance that covers theft. However, other insurance options are available to provide additional coverage.

Additional Coverage

Insurance companies like Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. offer several levels of coverage to protect motorcycles. Motorcycle owners may have the same options as car owners do:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage provides coverage for events other than an accident with another vehicle, such as hitting a telephone pole or animal, vandalism, theft, and weather damage.
  • Collision Coverage: This provides coverage for your motorcycle if you’re in an accident with another vehicle or object. However, some companies offer collision coverage for accidents with another vehicle and only provide coverage for accidents with an object or animal under comprehensive coverage.
  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This type of coverage can help you if you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance or whose insurance isn’t enough to cover the cost of damages.

Motorcycle owners can also enjoy roadside assistance, coverage for add-ons, and more. However, this varies depending on the company you work with.

We understand motorcycle owners are more likely to deal with theft. That’s why experienced agents at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. will help you find the right coverage to ensure you’re protected. Contact us today to find the right policy for your motorcycle. We’re currently serving the Richmond, VA area.