Auto Insurance

Should You Fight A Speeding Ticket?

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Should You Fight A Speeding Ticket?

October 13th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

It’s what everyone hopes to avoid while driving: the dreaded “flashing blues” in their rearview mirror, an indication that someone’s about to be pulled over. Hopefully it isn’t you.

At one point or another, just about everyone drives faster than the posted speed limit. Generally speaking, traffic enforcement officers give motorists some latitude – allowing motorists to drive between 5 and 10 miles per hour faster than what’s allowed for – but anything more than that and a ticket is probably in your future.

There’s no denying that speeding is a significant safety issue. In a poll conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly half of motorists said that they considered speeding to be a problem on the country’s roads. In 2013, nearly 10,000 people died in speeding-related highway accidents, accounting for almost 30% of all crash fatalities. And in most of these incidents, motorists were traveling faster than 55 miles per hour.

The overriding concern as it relates to speeding is that fellow motorists’ safety is threatened when exceeding the posted limit. To discourage the behavior, police officers issue traffic tickets. Usually costing at least $100, the overall amount typically depends on the state and how egregious the offense was, as driving 20 mph over the limit usually carries a more significant fine than going 5 mph over.

A speeding ticket has lasting effects. It can cause auto insurance premiums to increase for motorists who are convicted and attaches points onto one’s driving record. Accumulate too many, and it could result in a license suspension.

Every ticket lists what a driver’s options are should they be cited for speeding. The question is whether you should contest a ticket’s legitimacy or accept the punishment.  Here are a few things to consider:

Have The Facts

If you can establish proof that you were within range of the posted speed limit, then it’s worth your while to put up a fight. Occasionally, a police officer’s radar may be faulty or their memory may be different from yours. If you have corroborating evidence that demonstrates your side of the story, contesting a citation is worthwhile.

Consider The Consequences

When it comes right down to it, the validity of a traffic ticket is your word against theirs. Generally speaking, most courts decide in favor of the police officer, typically because they have proof that confirms their observation. Furthermore, even if you think you have a compelling argument, there’s no guarantee that the judge will decide in your favor. Thus, you can wind up spending hours in court hearings and paying legal fees if you hire legal counsel, on top of the cost of the original ticket citation.

Objectively Assess Your Situation

Most people who speed don’t have a good reason for it. But occasionally, the ends justify the means. For example, you may have been in a situation where you or a family member required immediate medical attention at a hospital. Alternatively, the flow of traffic may be faster than the limit, requiring you to exceed the limit, such as on the highway, for example. Generally speaking, though, there aren’t many excuses for speeding.

It’s in your best interest to adhere to the speed limit as closely as possible, both for the good of your safety and your auto insurance premiums. To learn more about how being a safe driver can lower your auto insurance costs, speak with an agent at Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN today!

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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The Worst Driver Behaviors

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The Worse Driver Behaviors

October 6th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Weather conditions, construction and vehicle breakdowns all present dangerous situations to even the keenest drivers. Perhaps the worst – and most preventable – hazard is another driver taking part in irresponsible activities. Bad driving behaviors can cause serious damage and not only put the perpetrator at risk but everyone else on the road as well.

Here are some examples of risky driving behaviors:

Cell Phone Use

The National Safety Council estimated that the following cellular device activities are among the most damaging in the country:

  • Texting: The group stated that texting accounts for 330,000 accidents annually in the United States, or roughly one-quarter of all calamities on the road.
  • General cell phone use: The NSC also reported that general cell phone use while operating a vehicle accounts for roughly 1.6 million accidents annually. This can include anything from making a call to using all sorts of apps, including games.

A separate study from the group found that attempts to take pictures, videos and other multimedia while driving are contributing to even quicker increases in automobile accidents across the country.

Tailgating

The Texas Department of Insurance cited a study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that revealed just less than 25 percent of all accidents are rear-end collisions, accounting for around 950,000 injuries and 2,000 deaths annually. Not surprisingly, tailgating is an extremely common cause of these accidents.

Interestingly, the Myth Busters researched “drafting” as it impacts automobile efficiency. They proved that following closely behind a large 18-wheel truck can indeed help to improve fuel efficiency, but that it is incredibly dangerous to do so. According to those scientists, you have to be within 100 feet for it to really work, and 150 feet or less is a very dangerous following distance.

Driving Under The influence

The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that alcohol-related accidents account for more than $44 billion in annual damages on American roads, as well as nearly 10,000 deaths. This is the most dangerous of all driver behaviors.

Drivers who never partake in these activities still need to drive cautiously and defensively to stay safe.  A huge part of driving responsibly is making sure that you are properly covered in the event of an accident. The Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN would be happy to review your current policy to be sure that you do not have any gaps in your auto insurance coverage.

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Top Vehicles for College Graduates

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Top Vehicles for College Graduates

August 24th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

While younger drivers might be most interested in a vehicle that conveys a sense of the style or sportiness they ascribe to, safety should really be the primary consideration for those who are just exiting college. This is due to the high rate of accidents among youthful drivers.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a government entity focused on population health management and safety, found younger drivers between 19 and 24 years old cause 28-30 percent of the damages related to motor vehicle accidents in America. This is despite the fact that they represent only 14 percent of the population.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the safest vehicles available on the market today:

Subcompact The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety – a group devoted to roadway safety – ranked the 2016 Scion iA as the safest subcompact car in its 2016 Top Safety Pick rankings. This car is also highly fuel efficient and easy to maintain.

Small Sedan The 2016 Honda Civic 4-door was recognized by the IIHS as an exceptionally safe automobile. This is also a long-lasting, affordable vehicle, making it a great choice for younger drivers who look to get as much value as possible for their dollar.

Midsized Sedan The 2017 Ford Fusion is another affordable vehicle granted the highest possible safety rating from IIHS in this year’s awards.

Full-Sized Sedan The 2016 Toyota Avalon stood alone in the full-sized sedan category of IIHS’ power rankings for safety this year.

Small SUV If you’re on the adventurous side and need a car that will take you into the mountains, the 2016 Subaru Forrester earned a Top Safety Plus rating from the IIHS this year and is a highly affordable option available to younger drivers.

General Tips When seeking out a car and prioritizing reliability and safety, but wanting to browse a bit more, check out this chart from consumer expert Clark Howard on the vehicle brands that tend to offer the best experiences to owners.

Once you select the right vehicle for you, it will be time to get automobile insurance. Talk to your local independent agent at the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN today about which coverage is best in accordance with your specific needs. We would be happy to quote multiple options to be sure that the insurance on your new vehicle is affordable.

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Some Common Insurance Misconceptions

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Some Common Insurance Misconceptions

August 10th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

According to numerous sources, a majority of individuals actually never read the entirety of their personal insurance policies. The fact is, if you do not know your insurance policy well, the risk of experiencing a personal financial loss rises. On the flip side, when you know your coverage, you will be better positioned to avoid a big financial mess.

Here are some matters to keep in mind when evaluating your policies:

  • Education is necessary: Insurance Journal, a publication dedicated to consumer and commercial insurance news, states that 52 percent of U.S. adults do not actually know how to best insure their homes.
  • Ask questions BEFORE you make a purchase: Many think that flooding is covered by their homeowners insurance, but this is not true in most cases; a separate flood insurance policy is normally required for this coverage to apply. This is just one example of a common mistake a consumer can make when making an insurance purchase. Make sure you understand your policy, including both what it does and does not cover.
  • Use replacement cost, not market value: Bankrate, a financial services publication, argues many homeowners will think they should base their home coverage limit on the market value of their homes. Experts suggest acquiring coverage in accordance with the cost of rebuilding the house from scratch, in the event of a total loss. This amount is often quite different from the home’s market value, which is dependent on market factors, location and more. A home’s rebuild value is determined based on features, construction materials, labor costs and more.
  • Know where responsibility falls in automotive accidents: The Insurance Information Institute, an insurance research organization, found car owners will often think their policies do not apply if drivers other than themselves get into an accident while driving their vehicles. In most states, it is the owner’s insurance that would apply, not the driver’s.
  • Do you know the meaning of “comprehensive coverage”?: Insurance Journal also noted that nearly one-third of adults believe comprehensive coverage actually protects them against any and all damages in auto insurance, but this is not true. A range of risks, such as a common collision, are usually not covered under the comprehensive portion of an auto policy.

These are just a few of the many misconceptions, myths and complexities involved in insurance that so many consumers fall victim to every year. Don’t wait for an unwelcome and expensive surprise – speak to your independent insurance agent at the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN today!

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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What To Avoid When Buying Auto Insurance

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What To Avoid When Buying Auto Insurance

June 17th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Americans sure have been in a car-buying mood lately. Just last year, consumers bought a whopping 17.5 million new automobiles, according to vehicle valuation firm Kelley Blue Book. And in February, the trend has continued, with new-vehicle sales up approximately 8% versus 12 months ago.

Wherever new or used cars are bought, auto insurance invariably follows. After all, when an accident happens, where else can you go to pay for the expensive repairs that so often occur?

The problem is that because auto insurance is mandated, people will buy it merely to satisfy the requirement, not as a smart investment. As a result, hasty decisions are often made – decisions that could put them in hot water when they have to make a claim.

If an auto insurance purchase is in your future, here are three things you should be sure to avoid when shopping for a policy:

Purchasing The Cheapest Option

We all want to get the best deal possible as a consumer. But as is typically the case, you often get what you pay for. In other words, if there is an auto insurance policy that’s really cheap, there’s a good chance that the coverage it provides is really meager. All too frequently, policyholders wind up learning this the hard way after filing a claim, only to learn that their policy amount is insufficient for the damage that occurred.

Fail to Research

Reams of information are literally at our fingertips, thanks to the Internet, online search engines and quote comparison websites. But these outlets go to waste if you don’t take advantage of them. The Insurance Information Institute has several tips on what to look for both in a policy and an insurance provider.

Choosing The Wrong Policy

As previously mentioned, in an attempt to save money, consumers will often buy auto insurance that’s the least expensive or only the amount that they’re required by law to have. While this may save them in the short run, it will be a different story should they ever have to file a claim. For instance, if a policyholder’s car is stolen and only liability coverage is in place, that person will have to go about replacing the stolen automobile out of pocket.

It really does pay to be a conscientious consumer when you’re in the market to buy auto insurance. Get in touch with your local agent at the Martinson Agency, who can help you navigate the selection process to ensure you get the right type and amount of coverage for your needs.

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Keep Your Car Going Strong

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Keep Your Car Going Strong

May 25th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

The car is arguably our most used possession. It’s what gets us to the corner store, to the workplace and to the far reaches of the country on those annual family road trips. In order to keep it our most reliable possession, it’s important to give it some tender loving care – beyond having the oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

The following are five things that you probably aren’t doing to keep your vehicle going strong:

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

When it’s cold outside, you’re probably pretty good about keeping tabs on your tires, understanding that cold air causes the pressure to diminish. But the winter isn’t the only time you should be doing a visual check; it ought to be done monthly, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association, simply because tire quality and pressurization varies, largely depending on how often you drive and the kind of roads you frequent. Ensure that each is at the proper PSI level to improve mileage and evenness of tread wear.

Rotate Your Tires

Speaking of evenness, there’s little to speak of when you don’t rotate your tires. You’ve probably already heard that you should rotate your tires every so many miles. Are you actually doing it? You really should start if not because it can not only lengthen the life of your tires, it can also make your daily commute go much more smoothly – in the literal sense of the term. Whether it’s moving the back wheels to the front wheels or diagonally across from the other, aim to get this completed after compiling 5,000 to 8,000 miles.

Clean Your Headlights

Mother Nature has its own natural cleanser in rain, but it takes more than a heavy shower to keep your headlights shining as brilliantly as they did when you first took your car out for an evening stroll.  Because most headlights are made out of polycarbonate, generic glass cleaner or soapy water are both safe to use and effective, according to Popular Mechanics magazine.

Schedule A Tune-Up

Due to time constraints, many of us don’t address potential car problems until they present themselves, often first manifested via the dreaded “check engine” light. By this point, however, what was a pending issue is now a full-fledged one, as the typical check engine repair costs an average of $387, according to data from CarMD. To stay one step ahead, take your car in for a tune-up on a quarterly basis to a trusted auto body shop. The professionals there should be able to diagnose whatever issues may be boiling just below the surface.

Clean Battery’s Terminals

Your car doesn’t get very far without its battery – something you’ve no doubt realized on those bitterly cold days when the engine won’t turn over. In part due to the variations in temperature, the terminals over time become encrusted with a white powdery residue that can diminish connectivity. To prevent this from happening, take a peek under the hood now and then to see if the residue has developed. If so, remove the cables from the terminals and get rid of the crusted corrosion with a wire brush.

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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The Penalties and Consequences of Driving Drunk

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The Penalties and Consequences of Driving Drunk

May 5th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

With just about everyone carrying a smart phone these days, you can understand why distracted driving has garnered so much attention. And for good reason, as according to government data, nearly 3,200 people were killed in 2014 in collisions where multitasking was to blame.

However, equally worthy of the public’s awareness is a behavior that leads to even more senseless deaths: driving impaired.

It’s estimated that 10,000 people per year are killed in alcohol-related car crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s the equivalent of 1 every 51 minutes.

“Intoxicated driving offenses have fallen 80% over the last 40 years.”

Believe it or not, the rate has gone done over the years. Between 2007 and 2014, for instance, the proportion of drivers whose blood-alcohol levels were above the legal limit fell 30%, based on NHTSA estimates. And since 1973, the first time analysis was done on drunk driving prevalence, offenses have decreased by almost 80%.

All 50 states have ignition interlock laws Part of the reason for the decline stems from a national crackdown on the illegal activity. Today, all 50 states require at least some drunk driving offenders – typically those who’ve been caught more than once – to install ignition interlocks in their motor vehicles. These prevent drivers from operating their automobiles when under the influence. Since states first passed ignition interlock laws, nearly 1.8 million attempts at driving drunk have been avoided, according to numbers from social services organization Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Texas, Arizona, West Virginia and New Mexico have some of the stricter ignition interlock laws in the country, with added legislative efforts being made in other states as well.

Other major deterrents to drunk driving are the consequences that can result, none more significant than potentially being involved in a crash that could cause death or injury. Based on analysis from NHTSA, drivers whose blood alcohol level tests above 0.08 are four times more likely to crash than sober drivers. The chances are 12 times greater with an alcohol level of 0.15, twice the legal limit.

Drunk driving penalties can cost thousands

“The punishment for driving drunk varies depending on the state and gravity of the offense.”

Then there are the financial ramifications, which vary depending on the part of the country that it takes place. For example, in the District of Columbia, penalties after a first offense may include 180 days license suspension, not to mention a $1,000 fine. If caught a second time, the fine more than doubles to between $2,500 and $5,000. License revocation may also increase to a full calendar year.

The consequences related to auto insurance are equally damaging. Because drunk driving is a risk to safety, your premiums are bound to rise substantially. You may also be required to obtain special forms mandated by states before being allowed to drive again or register your car.

Dame Helen Mirren put it best – and rather bluntly – in a commercial at this year’s Super Bowl: If you drive drunk, stop it. The stakes are too high, the consequences too severe.

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Buying a Car with Resale in Mind

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Buying a Car with Resale in Mind

March 24th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

While looking to purchase a new vehicle, resale is something that you need to consider. What factors will help you sell your vehicle? Consider these things as you are shopping for a new or used car.

Purchase a popular model:

Buy a vehicle that is well known and popular among the masses. This will give you a wide range of people to resell the car to when that time arrives. Buying a very unique vehicle seems like a cool idea at the time, but will drastically limit the people who consider purchasing it down the road.

Choose a standard color:

According to Kelly Blue Book, black, white and silver are the most popular colors for car buyers. By purchasing a vehicle with one of these plain colors you will once again broaden your range of potential buyers. Let us say it this way: You do not need that “sick” blue Range Rover.

Avoid manual transmission vehicles:

You’ve probably noticed, but times are changing quickly. Manufacturers are not building as many stick shift vehicles anymore. Why? Because fewer and fewer people are driving them. DUH! Look for a vehicle with an automatic transmission…trust us.

Cost of repair:

Purchase a vehicle that doesn’t break the bank to repair. Foreign vehicles like BMW and Mercedes can be very costly for even the smallest repair. Vehicles like Ford and Honda are known to be less costly when something goes wrong and this will benefit you in the long run.

Try to save some warranty:

In most cases warranties will transfer over to the new buyer. If your vehicle still has a warranty, selling it before it runs out may be a good idea. Buyers will find that to be appealing and may even pay more for the car.

Keep these five factors in mind while purchasing a vehicle, as they may prove to be crucial in order to max out your resale value. Please contact Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN today with any questions that you may have!

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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What Is Road Rage and How Can We Avoid It?

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What Is Road Rage and How Can We Avoid It?

February 18th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

The road can be a dangerous place. Even if you are a safe driver, there is still the threat of every other driver on the road. Aggressive drivers tend to create chaos on the roads. Throughout this article we will define the characteristics of an aggressive driver and also give you a few tips to help you avoid road rage.

What Is Aggressive Driving?

Any driver that is tailgating, honking, weaving in and out of traffic, or taunting other drivers would be defined as an “aggressive driver”. When two aggressive drivers engage in these antics, road rage may take place.

How To Avoid Road Rage?

  • Do NOT engage with aggressive drivers. If another driver cuts you off, don’t respond by tailgating or taunting. This can enrage the other driver and escalate the situation.
  • If at all possible, try to stay out of an aggressive driver’s way.
  • In extreme cases, report the driver. If he or she is putting others in danger it is important that they are stopped.
  • Continue to use safe driving habits by driving the speed limit, using your signals, and changing lanes with caution.

How Does This Impact My Insurance?

The impact road rage can have on your insurance may seem obvious but many are shocked to find out the actual costs of accidents and traffic violations. As you know, road rage increases the likelihood of an accident or being cited for a violation. All carriers are have different eligibility rules but many violations can stay on your record for at least three years. Don’t spend more on insurance than you have to. Drive safely.

Road rage only makes matters worse. Please do your part and focus on your own safe driving habits to make our roads a safer place.

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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Do Your Part to Help Keep Halloween Safe

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Do Your Part to Help Keep Halloween Safe

October 29th, 2015 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Halloween is right around the corner. This means that you will have a number of little ghosts and goblins showing up at your door in search of tricks and treats…well mostly treats! The following is a list of things you can do to ensure that you avoid any accidents or injuries on this holiday.

Around The House:

  • Remove anything a child could trip over, such as garden hoses, toys, bikes or lawn decorations from the porch, driveways, sidewalks or front yard.
  • Make sure your yard and front porch is well lit.
  • Sweep wet leaves or snow away from sidewalks and steps.
  • Be sure to keep a watchful eye on your pets when kids start coming to the door to collect their candy.

In The Car:

  • Popular trick or treating hours are 5:30 to 9:30 pm. During these hours be especially alert for kids and be sure you are driving slowly through neighborhoods.
  • Pay extra attention to crosswalks, intersections and the side of the road. Kids tend to walk along the curbs, cutting across the street to get to other homes. Keep scanning all around as you drive, whether you’re driving or following along with your children. Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
  • If you are dropping off or picking up children, pull off the road into a safe spot and turn on your hazard lights. If you go with your kids from door to door, leave the hazard lights on.
  • As always, make sure you’re not using your phone or any other electronic device while driving.

Does your home or auto policy include protection in case a Halloween guest of yours is injured? The most expensive part of insurance is being underinsured or uninsured at the time of a loss. Don’t let this happen to you. Give Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN a call today to discuss your current policies or inquire about purchasing additional protection. Happy Halloween!!

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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