Auto Insurance

What To Do After An Accident

Posted on by Martinson Agency

What To Do After An Accident

November 9th, 2018 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Being involved in an auto accident can be a trying experience – physically, emotionally and financially. Knowing the proper steps to take in the immediate aftermath of a crash can help ease the stress that is sure to follow. Here are five steps to take if you find yourself involved in an accident.

1. Assess The Situation

Auto accidents can range greatly in severity from a simple fender bender to those involving serious injuries and/or property damage. An important first step is to take a moment, calm yourself and assess the situation. Take note of the following:

  • Are you hurt?
  • Does anyone else appear to be hurt?
  • Are you currently in a dangerous situation?
  • Are there any witnesses?

These are all questions that you need to ask yourself before you do anything else.

2. Contact The Authorities

For the sake of safety and to help ensure that your insurance claim is processed smoothly, you want to contact the authorities and get them in route as soon as possible. Some drivers don’t react very well to being involved in an accident and in this age of road rage, it is not a good idea to confront the other drivers involved. Wait for police!

3. Exchange Insurance Information

Once it is safe to do so, exchange insurance information with the other drivers involved. The police will also be asking for this information to fill out their report so this is a good time collect it yourself. Your insurance company will need this information when you call to file your claim. (HINT: We always suggest taking photos of the other drivers ID as well as their insurance cards. This is always easier than trying to quickly write down all of this information!)

4. Document What Happened

To help speed up your insurance claim as well as to protect yourself legally you want to document the accident as much as you can. If possible, gather contact information from as many witnesses as you can and ensure they speak with the police when they arrive. Many cases turn into a he-said/she-said scenario and having corroborating accounts can be vital during the claims process. Take as many pictures as you can. Start with wide shots trying to capture as much of the scene as possible. Be sure to include skid marks, road signs and damage to all of the vehicles involved.

5. Call Your Insurance Agent

It doesn’t matter if you feel that you were at fault or not, you should contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurance company is going to require an accident report and other documentation in order to process your claim. We always suggest that you get in touch with your agent first so we can help walk you through the claims process. We can help answer any questions that you may have prior to filing a claim.

The odds of having a car accident at some point in your lifetime are rather high. Knowing what to do at the scene of an accident will help you protect your rights and help the claim process go as smoothly as possible. If you have any questions or are interested in an auto quote please contact Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN today!

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

Website: www.martinsonagency.com

The Reality of Drowsy Driving

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The Reality of Drowsy Driving

November 1st, 2018 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

It was 8:00 PM on a Friday night in Chaska, Minnesota. Chad had just finished working a 70 hour week. He was exhausted and couldn’t wait to get home and get some sleep. He was about three blocks from home when he pulled up to a red light. Next thing he knew a police officer was tapping on his window telling him he sat through a green light. Chad had fallen asleep at the wheel.

Sleeping while driving is becoming more of an issue and is garnering more national attention. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated that 100,000 police-reported crashes per year are caused simply by driver fatigue. This results in roughly 1,550 deaths, 71,000 injuries and more than $12.5 BILLION in monetary losses. Crashes related to drowsiness are most common in young men and adults with children.

Certain states have started to pay more attention to sleepless driving. New Jersey has even stiffened their laws with regards to dozing and driving. A driver that has gone without sleep in 24 hours is considered to be driving recklessly. It is a little known fact that depending on your insurance carrier, this could be thought of as worse than drunk driving.

Preventing a sleep-related crash is actually pretty simple. Don’t drive if you’re sleep deprived. If you’ve been up all night or feel exhausted, it isn’t the smartest idea to get behind the wheel. Next, try to avoid driving late at night. This is when a large portion of sleep-related crashes take place. Finally, if you’re going to be on a long drive, consume some caffeine. A coffee, soda or even an energy drink can help keep you alert.

Sleep-related crashes are becoming more and more common. Make sure you are getting a good night’s sleep before getting behind the wheel. Not only will driving safely save you money on auto insurance, it could save your life!

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

Website: www.martinsonagency.com

Helpful Fender Bender Tips

Posted on by Martinson Agency

Helpful Fender Bender Tips

August 4th, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

If you’ve experienced a minor car accident, you’re not alone. Of the 5.6 million police-reported automobile accidents in 2012, 70 percent resulted in property damage, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Despite the common nature of fender benders, it may be hard to remember what to do when one happens to you. After all, traffic incidents can be chaotic, stressful, and scary, even if no one is injured.

Adding to the potential for confusion, fender benders can take place anywhere. That means you may experience a minor car accident in a parking lot, in a driveway, on a quiet side street, or on the freeway in rush hour traffic.

Here are some things to keep in mind if you are involved in a fender bender:

  1. Stop.

First and foremost, stop the car. If you’ve just had a minor accident, it’s not necessary to leave the cars where they are, says Cars.com. Instead, pull off the road and focus on getting to safety. Once you’re out of the line of traffic, turn on your hazard lights. If you can’t move your car without damaging it further, you might have to leave it where it is, but be sure to turn on your hazard lights.

Remember: Though laws differ from state to state, in most places it’s against the law to drive away without stopping after an accident, even if it wasn’t your fault… and hit-and-run penalties may be severe.

  1. Call the police.

Once you’ve pulled over to the side of the road, call 911 and report the accident. Even if no one has been injured, a police officer acts as a neutral third party and may produce a report that could help you with your insurance claim.

  1. Take pictures.

While you’re waiting for the police to arrive, take pictures of the scene. Document any damage to your car, as well as the other driver’s vehicle. You may also want to take a few shots of the location where the accident took place, as well as any witnesses or other people involved.

  1. Exchange information.

This may be one of the most important things you do after an accident: exchange information with the other driver. Grab your insurance card, your driver’s license, and your vehicle registration and exchange the following details with the other driver:

  • Name
  • Address
  • Phone number
  • Email address
  • Date of birth
  • Driver’s license number and expiration date
  • Insurance company policy numbers and contact information
  • License plate number of the other car
  • Make, model, and year of the other car
  • Contact information of any eyewitnesses

When the police officer arrives, note their name, badge number, phone number, and accident report number. You should also request a copy of the accident report; this may take a couple of days to obtain, but it will be helpful when it comes time to file a claim.

  1. Don’t say too much.

Other than exchanging information, don’t talk to the other driver. Wait until the police arrive and be truthful, while sticking to the facts.

  1. Call your insurance provider.

Contact your insurance provider to report the accident. You’ll be able to speak with a representative about your options and make the best decisions for your situation.

By following these simple steps, you may protect yourself in the case of a minor accident. If you have any questions regarding your accident don’t hesitate to give our office call. Our family can help assist in even the simplest of situations!

Martinson Agency LLC – Chaska, MN – 952-314-4400

Can You Still Pass Driver’s Education?

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Can You Still Pass Driver’s Education?

July 21st, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

We all think we know the rules of the road. But you might be surprised to learn that even common driving habits can be unsafe. So take this simple quiz to ensure you’re utilizing the safe driving essentials:

  1. What is a good way to avoid cell phone distractions while driving?
    1. Call your friends to tell them you are driving
    2. Turn your phone off until you are parked
    3. Only answer important calls and texts
  2. A car is in front of you. What is the minimum safe following distance?
    1. 3 seconds
    2. 3 car lengths
    3. 10 feet behind
  3. You are driving on a two lane road with a double solid line. You may pass when:
    1. A vehicle has hazard lights on
    2. You may not pass or change lanes at any time
    3. A vehicle is going 10 MPH under the speed limit
  4. When a driver tailgates you, you should:
    1. Lightly apply brakes
    2. Slow down and move to the right
    3. Speed up
  5. Two cars reach an intersection with stop signs at the same time. Who goes first?
    1. Driver on the right
    2. Driver on the left
    3. Driver turning left
  6. When confronted by an aggressive driver you should:
    1. Gesture for them to slow down
    2. Avoid eye contact
    3. Pull over and stop
  7. You are driving on a multi-lane road and see a stopped emergency vehicle ahead. You should:
    1. Come to a complete stop
    2. Shift lanes and slow down
    3. Slow to half the posted speed limit

Following these driving tips will make the roads a safer place and can also keep your insurance rates in check. If you think you are paying too much and are interested in a free policy review, please give Martinson Agency a call today!

 

ANSWERS:

  1. B
  2. A
  3. B
  4. B
  5. A
  6. B
  7. B

The Typical College Student’s Insurance Needs

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The Typical College Student’s Insurance Needs

June 30th, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

It’s an exciting and emotional time when a child – err, young adult – heads off to college. And, for many parents, a confusing time in regards to car insurance and personal property coverage. Should college students remain on the family’s auto policy? Do they have coverage for their belongings in the dorms? Let’s take a look at these and other issues to help clear up some of the confusion.

Wheels or No Wheels?

If you’re supporting your college student financially, you can still consider him or her a household member for insurance purposes. Yes, even if your child doesn’t live at home or moves out of state. This means that:

  • If your child takes a car to school, he or she can stay on your auto insurance policy. Be sure to make it known that lending the car to friends is out of the question!
  • If your child leaves the car at home, there’s likely no need for him or her to be listed as a daily driver on your policy. This could reduce your car insurance rates, especially if the school is more than 100 miles away from home.
  • If your child returns home for a weekend or holiday, he or she can still drive under your coverage. However, if your child will be using the car for an extended period, such as during summer break, you should let your independent agent know.

Oftentimes a carrier will offer Good Student Discounts for students who maintain a high GPA, such as 3.0 or above. If you college student is remaining on your auto policy, be sure to talk with your agent about whether this is an option for you. Also be aware that if your student owns a vehicle or you transfer ownership of a vehicle into your student’s name, that vehicle will need to registered and insured in his or her own name. This is a great way to start building your child’s insurance history!

What’s It All Worth?

Car or no car, your student is no doubt taking several thousand dollars’ worth of personal belongings with him or her to college: laptop, tablet, TV, smartphone, gaming equipment, books, wardrobe, luggage, etc. Some lines of study may even require costly gear, such as musical instruments or cameras. Your existing homeowner’s policy should extend some personal property coverage to your student. For example, 10 or 20 percent of your personal property coverage may extend to your student’s dorm stay. So, if you have $100,000 of personal property coverage on your policy, your student has $10,000 or $20,000 worth of coverage. This may even follow your student to a foreign country if he or she is studying abroad for a semester or longer, but be sure to check with your local independent agent. To make it easy to take advantage of this coverage in the event of a covered incident, be sure to:

  • Create an inventory of what your student is taking before he or she heads off to college and what it’s all worth. Include receipts, photos, serial numbers, and as much other information about the items as you can.
  • Itemize any items worth more than $1,000 since, in most cases, there is a cap on how much coverage particular items or types of items receive under your policy. Itemizing the valuables offers broader coverage and also broadens the coverage territory to anywhere in the world.

For students renting a house or apartment off-campus, or even a dorm on-campus, a renter’s insurance policy in their own name is another option. Renter’s policies are oftentimes highly affordable ($10 to $20 a month in some cases) and provide liability and medical payment coverages in addition to personal property.

What About Umbrella Insurance?

An umbrella policy covers all household members. If you have one, it gives your student even more liability protection in auto accidents and other mishaps, according to your policy. It’s normal to be nervous when your kids head off to college. But, there’s no reason to be nervous about whether you’ve handled their insurance needs properly.

Use this primer as a guide but remember that your own insurance coverage may differ depending on your policy, your carrier, and your state. To further put your mind at ease, check in with your local independent agent for regular guidance. Trust me, there is no such thing as too many questions when it comes to keeping your young adult safely insured!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: amartinson@aibme.com

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Ride Sharing (Uber & Lyft) Coverage

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Ride Sharing (Uber & Lyft) Coverage

May 4th, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

So you’re a ride share driver for Uber or Lyft, generating extra income or maybe even working full-time using your personal vehicle to transport others. You love the freedom of setting your own hours and traversing the city with interesting people in tow. Make sure you understand when your personal auto insurance policy affords coverage for Ride Sharing and when it does not.

Where’s Your Coverage Gap?

The entire time your TNC app is on, your personal auto policy is suspended. Your TNC does provide coverage, but only for the period of time between accepting the passenger and dropping off the passenger. No passenger means no coverage for your vehicle and any damages or injuries you may sustain or cause.

Safeco Ride Sharing Coverage steps in to cover you between passengers, effectively closing the gap.

Safeco Ride Sharing Coverage Fills in the Gap – and Then Some

Extend your personal auto policy: With Safeco Ride Sharing Coverage, you get nearly the same coverage during applicable ride sharing activities as you do any other time you drive. Most of the coverage and options you selected for your Safeco auto policy extend to your Ride Sharing Coverage.

Identify which vehicle you use for ride sharing: Your Ride Sharing Coverage will only apply to the vehicle specified on your policy. If you have other vehicles insured with Safeco, the coverage will not apply to them unless you purchase coverage for each one.

Contact your local independent agent at the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN today for more information regarding Ride Sharing coverage and how it may be handled with your current policy.
Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today us today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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What You Need to Know About Leasing a Vehicle

Posted on by Martinson Agency

What You Need to Know About Leasing a Vehicle

March 2nd, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Leasing a car is becoming more and more popular as time goes on. Leasing offers significant benefits as compared to purchasing a vehicle. Edmunds, a research publication that focuses on the automotive market, released the following data from its study last summer on leasing:

  • The first half of 2016 saw the highest number of new car leases on record.
  • Over the past five years, the number of car leases has doubled.
  • Millennials represent the largest group of lessees at more than 34%.
  • When looking at the whole, lessees pay 23% less each month on average than those who have a financing program

If you are one of the many Americans considering signing an automobile lease, there are some things you should know.

The Basics

Anyone interested in leasing a car should first understand whether or not it’s the right move compared to buying, according to US News. For example, the source explains that the standard lease agreement puts a limit of 9,000 to 15,000 miles annually. If you think you are going to exceed that, it might not benefit you to lease given the immense penalties you could end up paying. On the other hand, individuals who are committed to maintaining their leased vehicles or desire an automobile they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford, are indeed strong candidates for this path.

Bankrate, a financial website, urges consumers to avoid five common mistakes in the leasing process, including, paying exorbitant sums up front, failing to maintain the interior and exterior of the vehicle, and leasing a vehicle for more time than the warranty period. Bankrate also notes that failure to get gap insurance could lead to financial peril for the lessee.

Since Coverage is an important factor in this conversation, let’s look further into the key matters involved.

Insurance Considerations

The Insurance Information Institute offers some helpful guidance to individuals who are looking to lease a car and protect themselves from the potential financial damages that could accompany theft or an accident. In most instances, you will have to keep comprehensive and collision coverage, but this will rarely cover the entirety of your liability if the vehicle is completely totaled. That’s where gap coverage comes in. Gap coverage, sometimes referred to as loan/lease coverage, reimburses the lessee in the event of an accident and there’s a “gap” between the amount owed the auto dealer and the insurance claim payment.

The vast majority of consumers will not have to purchase their gap insurance separately, but rather foot the bill as part of the monthly payment to the lessor.

Make sure that you read all of the fine print on leasing contracts, especially the content related to insurance and liability, before signing on.

With any questions regarding coverage when leasing a vehicle, give your insurance professionals at the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN a call today!

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today us today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Dangers of Distracted Driving

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Dangers of Distracted Driving

February 10th, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

The dangers of driving drunk are well documented. Over the last few years, there have been many campaigns aimed at raising awareness about driving under the influence. Designated drivers, “Friends don’t let friends drive drunk” and “Drink responsibly” are now mainstays of media and social consciousness and intoxicated drivers are heavily fined and penalized.

Yet there is another behavior that:

  • Is six times more likely to cause an accident than DWI
  • Makes you 23 times more likely to crash
  • Is the same as driving blind for at least five seconds (the time it takes a car going 55 mph to travel the length of a football field)
  • Is being practiced by approximately 800,000 drivers at any given time

And the results of this behavior are horrific. This behavior:

  • Causes nearly 25% of all car accidents
  • Results in 1.6 million accidents and 300,00 injuries every year
  • Causes 11 teenage deaths every day

This behavior is distracted driving. Distracted driving includes but is not limited to: texting, tweeting, using snap chat, changing songs, talking on the phone and eating. These activities can always wait until you arrive at your destination. Put the phone down. It can save a life.

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today us today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Preparing Your Car For Winter

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Preparing Your Car For Winter

November 30th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Your automobile is likely one of your most valuable possessions, and you need to ensure it is kept in optimal working order at all times. With winter fast approaching now is a good time to prepare your car for the change in seasons.

Here are a few winterization tips to help keep your vehicle performing well this winter:

General Check-Up

Consumer Reports, an organization devoted to consumer information, states that certain diagnostic checks must be completed, including a thorough test of the battery. Extreme cold temperatures can quickly deplete a battery, so make sure it is in good shape. The nonprofit also suggested checking all fluids, notably oil, and the heating and cooling systems for any irregularities, damages, shortages or otherwise. A quick tune up at your local service center will generally take care of these matters.

Tires, Brakes & Brake Pads

If you live in an area that gets a lot of precipitation, you may want to invest in some winter tires and have them installed soon. These tires not only offer the quiet and fuel-efficient ride of those made for all seasons, but can provide you with that extra traction necessary to drive in slick conditions. If you choose to keep your all-season tires, check the treads to ensure they are not too worn. You should also be sure to check your brakes and brake pads for functionality and wear.

Visibility

To help to maintain visibility even while the salt, snow and other hazards pound on the glass, it is advised to get a windshield treatment. This can be done at your auto body shop, or at home with a variety of windshield solutions. Along with that, DMV.org, a website devoted to automobile related matters, suggests making sure your windshield wipers are in good shape, your defrosting system is fully functional and your windshield washer fluid is full. The DMV also recommends using a windshield washer fluid that contains anti-freeze for maximum effectiveness.

Emergency Prep

Extreme conditions can develop into emergency situations even if you take all of the necessary precautions. We urge winter drivers to keep blankets, boots, water, flares, a flashlight, engine coolant, washer fluid and engine oil in their vehicles at all times during the winter. The best way to avoid a disaster is prepare for it.

We all know that vehicles need year-round maintenance. You are probably asking “what does this have to do with my insurance?” Keep in mind that your driving record is one of the biggest factors when determining your rate. Preparing for winter will improve the odds that you avoid an accident. Please call the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN for all of your personal and commercial insurance needs!

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today us today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Halloween Driving Safety Tips

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Halloween Driving Safety Tips

October 27th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Help protect trick-or-treaters by following these driving safety tips on Halloween. Be especially careful between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm, when roads and neighborhoods are at peak activity.

  • Drive slowly, and don’t pass stopped vehicles. The driver might be dropping off children.
  • Park your mobile phone. Avoid distractions by waiting until you’ve stopped to call, text, or surf. Get more mobile phone safety tips.
  • Watch for children darting into the street. Kids can cross the street anywhere, and most young pedestrian deaths happen in places other than intersections.
  • Yield to young pedestrians. Children might not stop, either because they don’t see your vehicle approaching or don’t know how to safely cross the street.
  • Communicate with other drivers. Always use your turn signals. And if you have to pull over to drop off or pick up your kids, turn on your hazard lights.

Keep Your Own “Trick-or-Treater” Safe!

  • Teach them how to safely cross streets. They should look both ways and cross only at corners and crosswalks.
  • Consider indoor community Halloween programs for younger kids. Some communities also offer to help you inspect your kids’ treats to make sure they’re safe to eat.
  • Brighten them up. Give them flashlights and glow sticks, and/or use reflective tape on their costumes, so drivers can see them.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call today us today!

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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