Who will want to carry umbrella insurance?

Posted on by admin

When you are living in the Clarkston, MI, area, you will want to know that you are adequately insured and can manage your personal liability risks. A great way that this can be done is if you are able to obtain an umbrella insurance plan that provides someone with ample personal liability coverage. There are different situations and scenarios when someone will want to carry an umbrella insurance plan. 

Those Looking for Maximum Coverage

A common situation when someone will want to carry an umbrella plan will come when thy are looking for maximum coverage. You will get liability coverage through these policies if you have home and auto coverage. However, these plans will always have policy limits that can be exceeded in some situations. When insured with umbrella coverage, you will have additional support if there is a bad accident. 

Those Looking for Blanket Coverage

Another situation when someone will want to have this insurance is when someone is looking for blanket coverage. Other forms of insurance do not cover many scenarios and liability risks. Some of these can include slander or libel. If you want blanket personal liability coverage, umbrella insurance is a great option. This will help ensure you are prepared for the unexpected. 

Getting proper insurance is always a good idea for those in the Clarkston, MI, area. As you shop for a new umbrella insurance plan in this area, you can call our team with the The Ryan Insurance Agency to discuss your needs. Our professionals at The Ryan Insurance Agency know how important umbrella coverage is, and they will offer any support necessary to create a new plan. 

Umbrella Policies Made Simple: Your Safety Net

Posted on by admin

Have you ever thought about enhancing your insurance coverage? Consider umbrella policies – extra financial protection offered by The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI, and surrounding neighborhoods. These policies serve as a safety net, providing essential support when unforeseen events exceed the boundaries of standard coverage.

Reasons to Consider Umbrella Insurance for Your Coverage:

  1. Enhanced Liability Protection: Umbrella insurance provides an additional layer of liability coverage. This can provide significant financial protection for damages caused by negligence, such as accidental injury or property damage. 

  2. Affordable Peace of Mind: Umbrella policies are surprisingly affordable despite their comprehensive nature. They provide extensive coverage for their cost, offering substantial peace of mind knowing your finances have an added layer of protection.

  3. Global Coverage: With extra liability coverage, umbrella insurance goes beyond general insurance by providing better legal representation. In the event of a lawsuit, umbrella insurance may pay for the legal fees and costs associated with defending oneself against a claim.

  4. Preparedness for Life’s Uncertainties: Picture umbrella insurance as your financial safety net. It supports your assets in case of a substantial claim or an unforeseen expense that exceeds your standard coverage limits.

  5. Safeguarding Your Assets: Umbrella insurance can help protect your financial future by providing extra coverage for costly legal expenses. It’s important to remember that insurance alone may not be enough to cover all potential costs associated with a claim.

Don’t delay in securing your financial future. Even a small investment in an umbrella policy can offer significant protection when life takes an unexpected turn. Reach out to The Ryan Insurance Agency today, serving Clarkston, MI, and the nearby areas. Your financial peace of mind is worth this additional layer of security. Reach out today.

Here’s What Your Broker Wants You to Know About Life Insurance

Posted on by admin

Choosing a life insurance policy can seem complex. Thankfully, The Ryan Insurance Agency is here to help! Our team can answer your questions and tell you what you need to know before picking a policy.

Policies Come in Many Types 

Life insurance has many expiration dates, which can dictate how well they work for you. For example, some have a 10-20 year date and are better if you’re a little older. Some will last for your whole life, which is a strong option if you want to stay fully protected. 

Tax Laws are Favorable to Life Insurance 

If you worry about investing your policy and making money, remember that tax laws look favorably on life insurance. They often take minimal to no money from these policies, meaning that you can avoid losing out on too much of your costs by investing in them.

Investment Fees Matter 

Don’t ignore the potential impact of investment fees on your policy. Too many people don’t realize that investment fees can impact their coverage. We want you to know exactly what you’re getting into here, so make sure that you research your payments to avoid getting surprised.

Commissions are a Part of This Process

We want our Clarkston, MI, customers to understand that we get commissions when we sell policies. That’s important to know because it may impact how you approach your purchasing process. Talk to us, and we’ll tell you exactly what to expect here. 

Buying a Worthwhile Policy 

Don’t hesitate to contact us at The Ryan Insurance Agency if you need help finding a life insurance policy in Clarkston, MI. Our team will sit down with you, discuss what to expect, and give you the long-term support you need. It’s our goal to ensure that you’re satisfied. 

What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and is it still required for drivers in Clarkston, MI?

Posted on by admin

Michigan auto insurance laws have changed, giving drivers more choices. That can be unclear, but it is good for individual drivers. It is now easier to find a plan that suits your personal needs and lifestyle. If you are in the area of Clarkston, MI, The Ryan Insurance Agency can help you navigate the new rules and answer any questions you have. You can design an insurance policy uniquely tailored to what you want.

What Is PIP Coverage?

PIP Protection covers any medical bills you receive due to an auto accident. The coverage also includes the other related expenses from the injuries, such as rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and anything directly related.

Levels of PIP Coverage

There are six basic levels of PIP Protection:

  1. Unlimited coverage — Unlimited coverage costs more but will reduce your out-of-pocket costs if you are involved in a personal injury accident.
  2. Up to $500,000 in coverage — This limit is $500,000 per person per covered accident. You or your health insurance will owe anything over that limit.
  3. Up to $250,000 in coverage — Again, you are responsible for anything over the limit. 
  4. Up to $250,000 in coverage with certain exclusions — This is when certain family members can opt out.
  5. Up to $50,000 in coverage — This is only possible with proof of Medicaid.
  6. Option out of PIP coverage — Some people with proof of Medicare can opt out of PIP as part of their auto insurance.

It would be best if you didn’t have to pay for more protection than you need. At the same time, you don’t want to come up short when protecting yourself in case of an accident. If you’re going to discuss your Clarkston, MI auto insurance policy, please call The Ryan Insurance Agency today.

What to Expect After Filing a Commercial Insurance Claim?

Posted on by admin

Filing a commercial insurance claim can seem overwhelming, especially if you’ve never filed one. However, the process typically goes pretty smoothly in most cases, and you have nothing to be nervous about. Here is a quick overview of what to expect after filing a commercial insurance claim.

Wait to Hear from Your Assigned Adjuster

Immediately after you file a commercial insurance claim, your insurance agency will assign an adjuster to your case. The adjuster’s job is to determine who was at fault for the accident (if your claim involves a car accident) or incident. You will be asked questions about what happened to cause the damage, and all you have to do is answer honestly. Your adjuster will need to see the actual damage to warrant a visit. Photos may be requested instead of a visit, depending on the situation and the type of damage.

Wait for the Determination

Once you’ve finished answering all the adjuster’s questions and they have finished with the investigation, which should take about a week in most simple cases, you can move to the next step. However, in more complicated cases, your adjuster may need additional time, and things could be extended for a few months. Payouts will be made when the investigation is over, and you can begin repairing your vehicle or whatever else was damaged. 

As you can see, the process for many commercial insurance claims is pretty straightforward in most cases. If you live in the Clarkston, MI area and are looking for a new insurance company for your business, why not call us at The Ryan Insurance Agency? One of our friendly and licensed insurance agents will be more than happy to provide a quote and assist you with starting your new policy. 

Prepping for Cold Weather: What Your Home Insurance Agent Wants You to Know

Posted on by admin

The chill of winter is just around the corner, and your home must be fully prepared for the cold weather to set in. At The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI, we’re here to meet all your insurance needs and help you keep your home safe as the warm summer weather begins to give way to sleet and snow. 

Winterizing Your Home

Taking a few simple steps to prepare your home for winter can go a long way in keeping you and your family safe. 

Check Your Fireplace

Over the summer, birds and other animals may reside in your fireplace. It’s essential to have a fireplace inspection each year before you light the first fire of the winter. 

Bring the Outdoors Indoors

There’s no reason to leave your grill or outdoor furniture outside during winter. You’ll want to bring most of the contents of your patio indoors, if possible. If you don’t have the room you need to store your outdoor furniture, purchase covers to protect it from the elements. 

Take a Look at Your Roof

Before the first snow of the winter, you’ll want to look at your roof to make sure nothing needs repair. Clear any debris collected on the roof, install snow guards, and be sure you have a snow roof rake tucked away in your garage if you tend to get heavy snow in your area. 

Reach Out to The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI, Today.

At The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI, we’re here to meet all of your home insurance needs. Please stop by or call us today to discuss the right policy. 

Why home and auto insurance rates are continuing to rise in 2023

Posted on by admin

Thanks to an unusual convergence of market trends, ushered in by the pandemic and followed by other disruptive events, you may see a bigger change to the cost of your home and auto insurance than usual when it comes time to renew your policies this year. 
Insurance rates are based on what an insurer thinks it will cost to make you whole in the event of a loss – whether it’s roof damage during a windstorm or a vehicle totaled during a traffic accident. As you’ve likely noticed, pretty much everything costs more than it did even a few years ago.  

What’s driving higher home insurance costs 
If you’ve shopped at Home Depot or Lowe’s lately, you’ve certainly seen that the price tags on building materials have gotten pretty expensive. Last year, the cost of building materials rose 4.7%, reflecting a particularly strong uptick in prices on things like asphalt shingles (16.2%), concrete blocks (18.5%) and drywall (20.4%). 

To make matters worse, the home-building industry is facing a shortfall of more than 300,000 skilled laborers, which is driving up construction-related labor costs. Combined with the high cost of construction materials and historically low housing inventory, this has been making home claims much more expensive for insurance companies.  

What’s driving higher auto insurance costs 
Ongoing supply chain issues are driving a shortage of car parts and equipment, which were 22.3% more expensive at the end of 2022 than they were two years earlier. The overall cost of maintaining and repairing vehicles increased 18.4 % over the same timeframe – exacerbated by a growing shortage of car repair technicians. 

The same issues depleted the supply of new and used cars during the COVID-19 pandemic, and inventories have not yet recovered. As a result, the average price of new cars has risen 20% since 2020, while used car prices have skyrocketed 37%.  

Rising medical costs are another key factor. While the number of injuries and fatalities from car accidents has somewhat declined from its peak in 2021, the rising cost of medical care continues to drive higher claims costs. Between 2020 and 2022, the overall cost of medical care in the U.S. increased 6.8% 

Focus on value as you explore ways to save 
Keep in mind that savings come in many forms. The value of the coverage you choose today may save you more in the long run than the lowest possible premium.  

Contact us to review your current coverage. We’ll help you explore opportunities for discounts that could offset higher rates when it comes time to renew. 

Sources: National Association of Realtors, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, Home Builders Institute, CoreLogic, Consumer Price Index, TechForce Foundation 

Motorcycle Insurance for Different Types of Bikes

Posted on by admin

Motorcycle insurance is essential for riders to protect themselves and their bikes from potential risks. However, the specific considerations for insuring different types of motorcycles can vary in and around the Clarkston, MI area. Understanding these considerations helps riders select the appropriate coverage.

Balancing Speed and Risk

Sport bikes are known for their high performance and agility on the road. However, their speed and maneuverability also increase the risk of accidents. Insurance coverage for sports bikes often comes with higher premiums. Riders should consider comprehensive coverage protecting against collision, theft, and liability, ensuring adequate protection for their valuable, high-performance bikes.

Embracing Style and Comfort

Cruisers are designed for comfortable long-distance rides, often with a relaxed riding position. Insurance considerations for cruisers focus on theft prevention and liability coverage. Due to their popularity and higher theft risk, riders should ensure they have comprehensive coverage that includes theft protection. Liability coverage is crucial to protect against damage to others’ property or injuries.

Exploring Long-Distance Adventures

Touring bikes are built for extended travel, offering comfort, storage capacity, and weather protection. Insurance coverage for touring bikes should prioritize comprehensive coverage for theft, damage, and liability. Additional considerations may include coverage for accessories and personal belongings carried on long journeys. Riders should also verify coverage for potential roadside assistance or emergency towing.

Conquering the Trails

Off-road bikes are designed for rugged terrain and off-road adventures. Insuring off-road bikes involves specific considerations due to the increased risk of accidents and damage. Riders should ensure their policies cover comprehensive off-road riding, including coverage for damage caused by rough terrain, accidents, and liability.

How The Ryan Insurance Agency Can Help You

At The Ryan Insurance Agency, we can answer all your questions concerning motorcycle insurance coverage. We assist the Clarkston, MI region. Contact us today. 

Three Safety Must Haves For Every Boat Owner

Posted on by admin

To make the most of your boat ownership, you need to be aware of safety precautions that are your responsibility. There are three essential items every boat owner should have on board to ensure their safety and their passengers’ safety. At The Ryan Insurance Agency, we want to help you maximize boat ownership in Clarkston, MI, and the surrounding areas. Keep reading to learn more. 

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential to your boating safety. As the boat owner and operator, you are responsible for ensuring all passengers are adequately cared for if they are injured or become sick. Not only would you need to stock up on an excellent first aid kit, but you also need to have at least some training in administering first aid. First aid classes are often offered for free in communities and among boat enthusiasts. Do a little research to find a first-aid training class. 

Life Jackets

You absolutely need to provide properly fitted life jackets for passengers. Even if your passengers are strong swimmers, having life jackets on board is still an excellent idea. A life jacket can also help rescue someone who may fall off the boat and be unable to swim due to intoxication or unconsciousness. 

Emergency Supplies

Emergency supplies are a little bit different from first aid supplies. Emergency supplies are things you would need if your boat got into distress. Emergency supplies might include food, water, blankets, flashlights, flares, and other items you would need if you could not return to the dock in time. 

If you would like to learn about boat insurance, please get in touch with us at The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI, and the surrounding areas.

Landlords: Secure Assets with Umbrella Insurance

Posted on by admin

As a landlord, you are responsible for managing your rental properties and ensuring the well-being of your tenants. With this responsibility comes the risk of potential liability claims, which can put your assets at risk. At The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI, we understand the importance of safeguarding your investments and protecting yourself from unforeseen liabilities. That’s why we recommend considering umbrella insurance as an essential component of your risk management strategy.

Umbrella insurance provides an extra layer of liability protection above and beyond the limits of your standard insurance policies, such as homeowners or auto insurance. This additional coverage can prove invaluable in a significant liability claim or lawsuit, which could potentially jeopardize your assets and future earnings. Being a homeowner of a rental property, you may face various liability risks, such as tenant injuries, property damage, or disputes arising from lease agreements. Umbrella insurance can help safeguard your financial stability in these situations.

As you explore umbrella insurance, it is essential to consider the different coverage choices available, such as personal liability, property damage liability, and legal defense costs, to name a few. Collaborating with an experienced agent at The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI will help you grasp these alternatives, enabling you to select a mix of coverage that aligns with your specific requirements as a landlord.

If you’re interested in learning more about umbrella insurance and how The Ryan Insurance Agency can help you find the perfect policy in the Clarkston, MI area, don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts. We are dedicated to providing you with personalized insurance solutions that keep your investments and financial future safe and secure.