Chaska Insurance

The Importance of Personal Umbrella Coverage

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The Importance of Personal Umbrella Coverage

September 3rd, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Your auto and homeowners insurance policies are designed to keep you protected, but sometimes that isn’t enough. Unfortunately, bodily injury and damages from a bad at-fault accident can quickly exhaust the liability limits of your standard insurance policy.

A personal umbrella policy is an extra layer of protection that goes above the normal homeowners and auto insurance liability limits. It provides higher limits and broader coverage, and can help pay legal defense costs you may incur after your basic insurance policy limits are exhausted.

Here are a few reasons why you should look into purchasing a personal umbrella policy:

  1. Protects your assets. Having a personal umbrella policy helps ensure your assets—your car, home, investments, retirement accounts, checking and savings accounts, and even your future income—are protected in case of an unforeseen accident that exceeds your auto or homeowners limits.
  2. Better protects you. You are protected for incidents that you might not even consider, such as if you are liable for injuries while renting a boat or Jet Ski, or even driving a car provided by your employer.
  3. Offers peace of mind. An umbrella policy provides peace of mind that you, your loved ones, and your assets are protected against large lawsuits.
  4. Covers legal fees. The costs of legal defense can be staggering and must be paid even if you win. A personal umbrella policy can help offset these costs without draining your savings.

If you haven’t considered the added protection of an umbrella policy give our office a call so we can answer any questions that you may have. In most cases an umbrella policy is the most affordable coverage you can buy. Don’t leave your insurance to luck! Call Martinson Agency today!

Martinson Agency LLC – Chaska, MN

(952) 314-4400

The Importance of Renter’s Insurance

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The Importance of Renter’s Insurance

July 7th, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Clients often think they don’t need renters insurance — “Nothing I have is worth that much,” they’ll say, or “I don’t have a lot of stuff.”

That’s how most people think of renter’s coverage: protection for stuff, and nothing more. After all, it’s inexpensive and it doesn’t even cover the structure itself. So how important can it be, especially if you don’t think you have anything valuable to protect? You just have to stop thinking only about “stuff.” Here are three key financial protections a renters policy provides:

Personal Property Coverage:

Wait, doesn’t this mean your stuff? Well, yes. But really, this coverage protects your finances. Even if you don’t think you have anything valuable, take a minute and mentally add up everything you own (note that if you do have any high-value items, such as jewelry or heirlooms, you may need additional coverage). Now imagine how much it would cost to replace it all. It’s probably a higher number than you thought — and that’s why renters insurance is so important.

Personal Liability Protection:

If someone trips and injures themselves in your unit, they could sue you. If your dog bites one of your guests, they could file a law suit as well. Yes, lawsuits happen — even among friends. Renters insurance can help cover legal expenses and even judgments against you. (Some dog breeds may disqualify you from coverage, so be sure to inform your agent of all dogs in the household.)

Loss of Use Coverage:

What would you do if a fire or other issue forced you out of your home? You’d have to find a temporary place to stay, for weeks or even months in some cases — which might cost you more than your normal rent. Loss of use helps cover that and other additional expenses.

Call your local independent agent at the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN today to compare current coverage options and get all of your questions answered!

Martinson Agency LLC – Chaska, MN

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

LeBron James: Insuring His Financial Future

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LeBron James: Insuring His Financial Future

June 1st, 2017 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Tonight is the beginning of the 2017 NBA Finals and LeBron James is just four wins away from his 4th NBA Championship. Before winning MVP awards, breaking NBA records, and winning NBA titles, LeBron was a highly publicized high school athlete. Like many top ranked high school seniors he was scheduled to play in the 2003 McDonalds All-American Game.

LeBron was a virtual lock to be the number one pick in the 2003 NBA Draft. His initial contract would pay him 13 million dollars over three years. Because of this, he purchased a 10 million dollar insurance policy ensuring that if he suffered a career ending injury he would be compensated for potential wage loss. All-Star Game director Bob Geoghan believed this to be a smart decision stating “If I was him, I’d probably want the same thing. While the chances are slim that he would [suffer] a career ending injury, it’s something to think about.”

LeBron James and his representatives made sure to protect his financial future with an insurance policy. Make sure you do the same. Auto, home, and life insurance can help ensure that your financial future is protected. Call the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN to learn more today!

To find out how more celebrities and athletes have protected themselves click here … Popular Celebs Insure More Than Cars and Houses

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: amartinson@aibme.com

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To Flu Shot or Not to Flu Shot?

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To Flu Shot or Not to Flu Shot?

November 4th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Flu shots and other vaccinations have been sources of perpetual controversy throughout the past several years, which might make it difficult to decide whether you should get one.

Some individuals have been led to believe there are significant adverse effects associated with the flu shot, but many of these ideas have been proven to be falsehoods by the academic and medical communities. First, keep in mind that the flu is a very dangerous virus that can even kill people in some situations, and the symptoms can last between three and seven days.

Harvard University’s Medical School states someone cannot contract the flu from the shot despite what some may believe. The idea that the flu shot is not necessary for otherwise healthy individuals, or that the vaccination is made with harmful and dangerous chemicals, is completely false.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the government entity devoted to population health management, mentions that no one should wait until the flu season is in full swing to get a vaccination, as it will spread quickly. Flu season typically begins between October and November, then becomes more active in December and January, peaking in February. It is worth noting that these periods will vary by region.

Getting vaccinated at a clinic, pharmacy or primary care physician’s office in mid- to late-October is recommended, and shots should be administered every year. The CDC states all healthy Americans need to be vaccinated even if they are not fearful of their own health.

Another government office, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, affirms one of the biggest reasons why all individuals need to get their flu vaccination is to leverage something called “herd immunity.”

In short, this term describes a community getting vaccinated to prevent the flu – as well as other diseases and illnesses – from spreading throughout their area and impacting individuals who are more susceptible to severe symptoms, including children and the elderly.

Ensuring Safe Use 

The CDC does note some flu shots will not be safe for certain individuals, typically young children, pregnant women, individuals who suffer from chronic health problems and people who have certain allergies. If you are not sure whether you are fit to take the flu vaccine, consult with your primary care physician to find out for certain.

Now, it is worth noting the flu can be extremely dangerous if you do have underlying health conditions. If your primary care physician decides you should not get vaccinated this flu season, take care to protect your health and avoid the prospect of contracting the sickness. This can be done by washing your hands every time you go outside, avoiding touching your face, not going into public areas when an outbreak occurs and more.

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

Posted on by Martinson Agency

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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Why Choose an Independent Agent?

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Why Choose an Independent Agent?

October 19th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Rather than just a simple policy, you really need comprehensive risk management and a true partner in the process that can fit you with the right coverage at the best value.

More than 38,500 independent insurance agencies operate in the U.S. today, according to the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America. Instead of being beholden to one insurer – as is the case with exclusive agents – nonaligned agents typically represent several insurers. This allows them to provide a wide variety of valuable insurance options tailored to you and your unique needs.

That’s really just the beginning of why independent agents are valuable.

Greater Satisfaction

According to J.D. Power and Associates, overall satisfaction among customers who patronize small auto insurers is now greater than with large insurance firms. This is notable because smaller auto insurers are typically marketed by independent agents. “Price perception among customers of smaller insurers is likely influenced by the fact that they frequently select their insurer with the help of an independent agent,” said Greg Hoeg, J.D. Power VP of U.S. Insurance Operations. “Smaller insurers benefit from the personal interactions provided by their agency force, including their ability to educate customers about the value their policy provides.”

Speak On Your Behalf

Independent insurance agents’ top concern is the consumer. Your interests are their interests, so if you’re having a problem with your coverage or encounter issues that prevent you from being fully satisfied, they’re ready to go to the plate on your behalf.

One-Stop Shopping

Though there are independent insurance agents who specialize in one type of coverage, they usually deal with multiple products, including renters, homeowners, automobile and commercial insurance. Bundling is a great savings tool, and unaffiliated agents can help you take advantage of this savings by finding you the right “package” of coverages regardless of the carrier.

Confirm Your Insurance is Appropriate

All too often people buy insurance only to learn they’re underinsured when they need to file a claim. This is one of the risks of buying coverage on your own. Independent agents not only help you determine you’re buying the right type of insurance, but also the right amount of coverage.

All of us at the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN are devoted to our customers. Being a small independent agency ensures that our focus is solely on the client regardless of the product that you are looking to purchase. Simply put, we care about YOU!

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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Price Shopping Can Cost You Coverage

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Price Shopping Can Cost You Coverage

July 14th, 2016 — Martinson Agency LLC — Chaska, MN

Insurance is a critical centerpiece of risk management for consumers, yet many tend to seek out the biggest bargain around. Individuals need to be clear on what they will sacrifice for those savings. Simply put, if an insurer emphasizes savings over every other consideration, they are likely not providing coverage options or limits that many customers need to adequately insure their assets – and their very piece of mind.

Shopping based solely on price can lead to devastating consequences.

A few of the common areas that will be missed in cheap personal insurance packages include:

  • Original equipment parts for your car: Do you want aftermarket body panels used as part of a covered claim repair to your newer car?
  • Lower deductibles: Some carriers might default you to a deductible higher than you want or can afford in the event of a loss to your home or vehicle.
  • Higher liability limits: Think about the total value of your assets and all you could lose if you’re sued. Some carriers commonly offer low liability limits to keep prices down – which could leave you heavily exposed.
  • Replacement cost for your home: Should a total loss happen to your home, it’s typically covered for what it is estimated to cost to rebuild it. Are you covered if the actual construction cost to rebuild is greater than the coverage limit stated on your policy?
  • Cash out option: If your home is totally destroyed, will your carrier give you a cash settlement if you decide not to rebuild it?

Expert David Ramsey once noted that individuals who are purchasing cheap insurance will all too often receive the coverage they paid for, with glaring omissions increasing their risk of substantial loss immensely.

Considering the fact that insurance is meant to be a central piece of risk mitigation and continuity, leaning toward convenience and speed rather than comprehensive coverage and accuracy can be a dangerous game. The balance between the coverage you need and can afford is rarely struck with a cookie-cutter approach.

Instead, make sure you are working with an independent agent, as specialized support and expertise can help to ensure that all potential risks are covered and you are not one major event away from potential economic disaster. By putting the effort into the analysis of risks and carefully finding the most affordable coverage for your specific needs, you can cover your bases while still not necessarily breaking the bank.

Give the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN a call today for any of your 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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In The Storm of Life, Don’t Get Caught Without an Umbrella

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In The Storm of Life, Don’t Get Caught Without an Umbrella

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

If you’ve ever found yourself caught out in the driving rain with nothing but the clothes on your back for protection, you know what kind of a miserable experience that can be. With all that wetness and cold, its effects can leave you longing for the comfort of the indoors.

All of that goes away, though, with an umbrella as your guide, shielding you from the storm.

This is kind of how umbrella insurance works, armed with the financial protection and rest assurance that you’re covered when the storms of life come your way.

Homeowners insurance and auto insurance are policies that provide you with the financial assistance you need when there’s an accident or storm and damage results. The proceeds of insurance pays for what repairs are needed up to the limits of the policy. Occasionally, though, the price of having something fixed may exceed what insurance provides for.

This is where umbrella insurance kicks in. It serves as an extra layer of protection during situations in which you may be liable. Think of it as an insurance policy for the coverage you already have.

In Legal Situations, Umbrella Insurance Can Be a Lifeline

Perhaps the best example of when umbrella insurance comes in handy is if you’re ever brought to court. As it is, auto insurance, for example, pays for the legal fees associated with putting on a defense if someone sues you for damages after an accident. It also provides the compensation needed for reward settlements, but it may not always be sufficient.

Being sued may not seem like something you’d ever have to deal with, but there are an almost limitless number of scenarios wherein you can be caught up in a legal spate, given the litigious nature of society.

For example, say you go out of town. Your teenager throws a party while you’re away, and drinking is involved. A guest leaves the party after having one too many and gets into a serious car accident. Their parents decide to sue to pay for the medical bills, and the settlement is more than what your homeowners insurance provides for. With an umbrella insurance policy, you won’t have to worry about paying out of pocket, because the proceeds go over and above your standard policy’s maximum.

Perhaps you have a dog that, in the course of play or after being startled, bites a neighbor or passerby while you’re out for a stroll. Dog bites account for more than one-third of all homeowners insurance liability claims, according to the Insurance Information Institute, with the average claim costing more than $33,700.

Generally, this should be enough to pay for the medical bills associated with treating a dog bite. If you’re sued, however, the penalty could be more. Once again, umbrella insurance protects you from financial ruin.

Policies Are Eminently Affordable

Besides its financial cover, perhaps the best part of umbrella insurance is that it’s extremely affordable. Premiums can range between $150 and $300, according to estimates, providing you with $1 million worth of coverage. Should you want more than that – umbrella coverage usually comes in million-dollar increments – you’ll spend even less, typically under $100.

According to a poll of senior litigators and attorneys, more than half said that they considered today’s litigatory environment to be unfair and unreasonable, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. When asked to point to a specific reason for this, a common response was excessive damage rewards.

With umbrella insurance, you’ll worry much less about the financial ramifications of a lawsuit. For more information, speak with an agent at the Martinson Agency 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 Outdoor Chef’s Guide To A Safe Grilling Season

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The Outdoor Chef’s Guide To A Safe Grilling Season

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

Grilling season is about to commence and it is important to know that even the smallest detail can cause your barbecue to be memorable for all of the wrong reasons. The following is a list of grill safety tips for all of you ‘Grill Master’s’ out there.

  • Keep your grill at least 15 feet from your home. Grills should also not be used underneath wooden overhangs. This will prevent a flare up from causing a house fire.
  • Clean your grill on a regular basis. Grease and fat provide more fuel for a fire. By allowing these things to build up on your grill you are increasing your risk of flare ups.
  • Do not leave your grill unattended. Fires can rapidly grow in size. Make sure you keep an eye on the grill at all times.
  • Never turn on the gas while the lid is closed. This could cause the gas to build up inside, and when ignited, the lid could blow off and cause injuries.
  • If the flame goes out, turn the grill and the gas off and wait a minimum of 20 minutes before re-lighting it.
  • After you are finished with the grill, make sure you close the gas valve on your grill.

Nearly 9,000 home fires a year involve grills, according to a National Fire Protection Association report. By keeping these simple tips in mind we hope that you will have a fun but safe grilling season. Please contact the Martinson Agency in Chaska, MN today with any questions that you may have!

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

Phone: (952) 314-4400

Email: jphagen@aibme.com

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