Auto Insurance | Boizelle Insurance Partnership - Page 4

What To Do If You’re Involved In a Hit-and-Run Accident

Whenever we get behind the wheel, we are taking a risk. Just as with anything in life, we have faith that the decisions we make will be good ones that will lead us to good health and happy, fulfilling lives. We can plan frivolously and without doubt in our minds. Even after doing all of this, we must face this one simple truth: we cannot control everything. And that includes being involved in a hit-and-run accident. If you are ever involved in a hit-and-run accident, this is what you should do.

Immediate Actions:

1. You are not doing yourself or anyone else in your car any favors by panicking after an accident. Yes, you may experience some sense of surprise or shock, but it’s important to do your best to remain as calm as possible.
2. Ensure Safety:

• Move to a safe location, out of the way of traffic if possible.
• Check yourself and any passengers for injuries.

3. Call 911 Immediately:

• Report the accident to the police, especially since it’s a hit and run.
• Request medical assistance if anyone is injured.

4. Do Not Chase the Other Driver:

• This can put you in more danger and may complicate legal matters.

 

Gather Information:

Even if the other driver fled, collect as much information as you can:

• Time and location of the accident.
• Description of the vehicle that hit you (make, model, color, license plate if you saw it).
• Direction the vehicle was headed.
• Photos of the damage to your car, the scene, debris, skid marks, etc.
• Witness info: Names and contact info of anyone who saw what happened.
• Surrounding area: Look for traffic or security cameras that may have captured the incident.

 

File a Police Report:

• Get a copy of the police report or at least the report number.
• This is critical for insurance and legal follow-up.

 

Notify Your Insurance Company:

• Report the hit and run to your insurer as soon as possible.
• Your uninsured motorist coverage (if you have it) may cover the damage and injuries.
• Provide the police report number and any other documentation.

 

Seek Medical Attention:

Even if you feel okay, get checked out—some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.

Document Everything:

• Keep all receipts, medical bills, repair estimates, and a journal of how the accident affects your daily life.
• These may help in a claim or lawsuit.

Legal Help (if needed):

• Consider consulting a personal injury attorney, especially if you’re injured or unsure how to proceed.
• Many offer free consultations and can help with hit and run cases.

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Is My Insurance Affected If I Get a Speeding Ticket?

Getting a speeding ticket can affect your auto insurance in several ways, depending on factors like your driving history, the severity of the offense, and your insurer’s policies. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Premium Increase

• First Offense: If it’s your first ticket and you’re otherwise a safe driver, your insurer might not raise your rates much, or at all—especially if it was a minor violation.
• Repeat Offenses or Major Speeding: Multiple tickets or going significantly over the speed limit (e.g. 20+ mph over) can lead to a noticeable premium increase—often 10% o 25% or more.
• State Laws & Insurer Policies: Some states regulate how insurers can use traffic violations, and different companies weigh them differently.

 

2. Loss of Discounts

You might lose “good driver” or “safe driver” discounts, which can lead to a rate hike even if the base premium doesn’t change.

 

3. Points on Your Driving Record

Most states use a point system. Accumulating points from tickets can lead to:

• Higher insurance rates.
• License suspension if enough points add up.
• License suspension if enough points add up.

 

4. Policy Non-Renewal or Cancellation

In rare cases, especially with multiple or serious violations, your insurer may choose not the renew your policy or could even cancel it mid-term.

 

 

5. Duration of Impact

Speeding tickets typically stay on your driving record for 3 to 5 years, depending on the state. Insurers usually consider violations during that window when setting rates.

 

 

What You Can Do

• Defensive driving course: Some insurers or states allow you to take a course to remove or reduce the impact of a ticket.
• Fight the ticket: If you believe you were wrongly ticketed, contesting it could keep it off your record.
• Shop around: If your rates go up, other insurers might offer a better deal, even with a recent ticket.

 

 

 

 

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Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Car In Pristine Condition

Basic Maintenance Tips

1. Check Engine Oil Regularly

• Check the level and condition monthly.
• Change the oil and filter per the manufacturer’s schedule (typically every 5,000-7,500 miles).

2. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

• Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips.
• Inflate to the recommended PSI (found in the owner’s manual or driver’s door jamb).

3. Rotate Tires

• Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even wear.

4. Inspect and Replace Air Filters

• Check every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
• Replace if dirty or clogged (more often in dusty environments).

5. Check Coolant Levels

• Inspect reservoir levels and condition every month.
• Flush coolant system according to the schedule (usually every 30,000-50,000 miles).

 

Electrical and Battery Maintenance

6. Test the Battery

• Check for corrosion and tight terminals
• Replace every 3-5 years or when performance drops.

7. Check Headlights, Taillights, and Signals

• Inspect monthly; replace burned-out bulbs immediately.

8. Inspect Windshield Wipers

• Replace every 6-12 months or when they start streaking.

 

Brake and Suspension

9. Inspect Brake Pads and Rotors

• Listen for squealing or grinding.
• Replace pads every 25,000-70,000 miles, depending on driving habits.

10. Check Suspension and Alignment

• Pay attention to uneven tire wear or pulling to one side.
• Have alignment checked annually or after hitting major potholes.

 

Fluids and Transmission

11. Inspect Transmission Fluid

• Check level and color (red/pink and clear is good).
• Change every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as recommended.

12. Check Power Steering Fluid

• Top off if low and check for leaks if fluid disappears quickly.

13. Inspect Belts and Hoses

• Check for cracks, wear, or leaks every oil change.

 

Exterior and Interior Care

14. Wash and Wax Regularly

• Wash every two weeks; wax every 3-6 months to protect paint.

15. Vacuum Interior and Use Protectants

• Clean carpets and condition leather or plastic surfaces to prevent cracking.

 

General Best Practices

16. Follow the Owner’s Manual

• Use it for all recommended service intervals and specifications.

17. Listen to Your Car

• Don’t ignore new sounds, smells, or dashboard warning lights.

18. Keep a Maintenance Log

• Track oil changes, tire rotations, and repairs to stay on top of needs.

 

 

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What Questions Should I Be Prepared to Answer When Getting An Auto Insurance Quote?

When getting an auto insurance quote, you should be prepared to answer several questions that help the insurer assess your needs, driving history, and the level of coverage required. Here’s a list of common questions you might encounter:

1. Personal Information

• Full Name: The name of the primary driver(s).
• Date of Birth: To assess your age and driving experience.
• Address: Insurance premiums can vary depending on location.
• Phone Number and Email: For communication purposes.

 

2. Vehicle Information

• Make, Model, and Year of the Vehicle: The type of car affects the premium.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): To confirm details of your car.
• Odometer Reading/Mileage: How many miles you car has been driven.
• Primary Use of the Vehicle: Whether the vehicle is for commuting, business, or leisure.

 

3. Driving History

• License Information: A valid driver’s license number is required.
• Driving Record: Information about any previous accidents or traffic violations (e.g. speeding tickets, DUIs).
• Years of Driving Experience: More experienced drivers may get lower premiums.
• Claims History: Any past insurance claims within the last few years.

 

4. Coverage Preferences

• Types of Coverage: Whether you want liability only, comprehensive, or full coverage.
• Coverage Limits: The amount of protection you want for liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.
• Deductible Amount: The amount you’re willing to pay out-of-pocket in case of a claim.
• Add-ons: Whether you want extras like roadside assistance, rental car coverage, or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

 

5. Other Details

• Number of Drivers: If multiple people will drive the car, their details might be needed.
• Marital Status: Some insurers offer discounts for married drivers.
• Education Level: Some insurers consider this in their pricing.
• Garage Location: Where the car is primarily stored (e.g. in a garage or on the street).
• Anti-Theft Devices: If your car has a security system, airbags, or anti-lock brakes, these may reduce premiums.

 

6. Discounts

• Previous Insurance: Whether you’ve been continuously insured or if you’re switching from another provider.
• Safety Features: Features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, or a backup camera could qualify you for discounts.
• Low mileage: If you drive fewer miles, you may be eligible for a discount.
• Bundling: If you have multiple policies (e.g. home and auto), you might be able to bundle them for a discount.

 

Preparing these details ahead of time can help streamline the process and ensure you get the most accurate and personalized insurance quote.

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