Additional auto coverage beyond basic you may want to consider

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Basic auto insurance is liability coverage that protects other people from an accident where you are the responsible party. At The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI, we provide our customers with more choices, and we also make sure they understand all the different types of auto coverage they can add to their basic insurance. 

Auto Insurance: Beyond The Basics

Collision

Collision is the coverage that protects your vehicle in an accident that you are responsible for. It will also cover you in the event of a single-car accident or a hit-and-run. It will pay to have your vehicle repaired or replaced once you pay the deductible. 

Comprehensive

Comprehensive insurance coverage is the other type of protection that protects your vehicle. It protects your vehicle from damage from high winds, floods, ice, hail, large animals like deer, vandalism, and theft. It will also pay to repair or replace your vehicle minus the deductible. 

Gap coverage

Gap coverage is something that you really need to have if you have a car loan and a new car. If you have an accident with a new car, you may owe more to the lender than the insurance will pay you for your vehicle if totaled. This insurance will fill the gap between what you get and what you owe. 

Roadside assistance

Roadside assistance is insurance that will come to your rescue if you are ever stranded on the road. It is similar to the coverage you might get from the auto club but a lot less expensive. 

Complete glass coverage

This insurance protects the glass on your auto. It will replace your windshield or other windows with no deductible. 

Reach Out To Us

Give us a call at The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI when you need more information about auto insurance coverage. We are happy to help!

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The Importance of Insurance in your Missouri Business Plan

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Starting your own business is an adventure. There will be highs and lows and likely a lot of work. When launching a business, you’ll never be able to anticipate every event possible, but having a solid plan will guide you on the right path to stay afloat. The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI, understands businesses need a plan that provides peace of mind.

We’ve assembled our top planning tips guided by the University of Missouri’s entrepreneurial experts at MO Sourcelink.

Basics of your Business Plan

Think of a business plan as a roadmap and strategy for your business. You first need to define your concept, noting what type of business you are launching and what it offers. Begin by"nailing down" that idea and move on to the details.

  • Strategy –  What is your industry? What are your business goals, and how will you achieve them? Will you offer products, services, or experiences?
  • Marketing and Competition – You’ll need to research the market and see who is buying your business offerings. Explore other similar concepts in your area and how successful they seem to be. Lay out the pillars of your concept, including strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
  • Operations – Once the plan is ready, you’ll need to detail how these moving pieces will work. Layout out the details for inventory management and personnel. Choose a physical or online presence to connect with customers. Based on these choices, you’ll want to cover your legal obligations, including liability and comprehensive insurance coverage. 

Launching your Missouri business is a thrilling new adventure, and you’ll be ready. Assemble all the pieces, including expert advice, before you begin. Contact The Ryan Insurance Agency, serving Clarkston, MI, to start supporting your business today!

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Three Surprising Facts About Your Home Insurance Coverage Policy

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Those of us with homeowner’s insurance know the basics of our coverage. Most policies offer adequate coverage for the typical home. However, there are some surprising facts about insurance you may not know. They include:

They only cover certain natural disasters. You probably think your insurance covers you for all damages caused by natural disasters. But that’s only partially true.

Most policies protect against losses from ice damage, lightning stickers, and forest fires. But, if you’re in an area prone to floods or earthquakes, you may need additional coverage.

It’s important to reevaluate your coverage annually. As a homeowner, you’ll likely add features to make it into your castle. But the amount of coverage your home needs at closing before you buy new goodies to fill it differs significantly from your needs after you move in and begin turning it into your home.

It’s important to speak to your insurance agent at the Ryan Insurance Agency before your annual renewal period to inform them of any significant changes you’ve made. It would help if you also discussed the things you’ve bought for your home – especially those that are more expensive.

The location of your property in Clarkston, MI affects its value and your premiums. For instance, if you live in a suburban or urban location, your premium is higher than a similar home in a rural area. This is because it costs more in cities. This is especially true with construction costs, physical materials, and the like. 

Home insurance is a valuable resource for homeowners in Clarkston, MI. That’s why it’s essential to work with your local agent at the Ryan Insurance Agency to find the specific policy that best suits your needs. They will guide you concerning the pitfalls and benefits specific to your neighborhood. Contact them today to find out how. 

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Protect Your New Bike With Motorcycle Insurance in Clarkston, MI

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Now that you’ve finally saved up and bought your dream motorcycle, it’s time to protect it with the right insurance. Motorcycle insurance in Clarkston, MI is essential for two main reasons: to protect you financially if something happens to your bike and to comply with the law.

Does Michigan Require Motorcycle Insurance?

The short answer is yes, Michigan requires motorcycle insurance. All riders must have liability coverage if they cause property damage or bodily injury to someone else. The minimum liability coverage you must have is $50,000 for anyone injured in an accident, $100,000 for several injuries or deaths, and $10,000 for property damage.

Of course, you’re probably not going to want to stop there. The minimum coverage is just that – the minimum. You could be on the hook for much more if you cause an accident resulting in serious injuries or damage. That’s why getting more than the minimum coverage is a good idea.

The Ryan Insurance Agency can help you choose the right amount of coverage for your needs.

What Else Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?

Besides liability coverage, your motorcycle insurance can cover things like collision and comprehensive damage, medical expenses, and even theft. Collision and comprehensive coverage will help pay to repair or replace your bike if it’s damaged in an accident or stolen. Medical expense coverage can help pay your medical bills if you’re injured in an accident.

No one wants to think about what could happen to their motorcycle, but it’s essential to be prepared. That’s why having motorcycle insurance is so important. Contact the Ryan Insurance Agency today if you have questions about motorcycle insurance in Clarkston, MI. We’re here to help you choose the right coverage for your needs.

 

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What Are Some Common Claims Made Under Boat Insurance Policies?

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Boat insurance policies offer protection against a wide range of risks, including damage to the boat, medical bills if someone is hurt on board, and liability in the event that someone is injured or property is damaged due to an accident. An important consideration for boat owners is whether their policy will cover them if they are at fault in an accident. Policies typically require that you exercise reasonable care when operating your boat and maintain adequate liability coverage. The Ryan Insurance Agency can help you in Clarkston, MI. 

Learning About Insurance Policy Claims 

Boat insurance policies offer coverage for a variety of risks. Depending on the type of boat you have, it may be required to have certain types of insurance. For example, most boats that exceed 10 feet in length are required to have liability insurance, which covers any damage your boat causes to another person or property. Most policies will also offer coverage for medical expenses if someone is injured on your boat, as well as lost wages if they are unable to work. In the event of an accident or sinking, most policies will also offer coverage for the value of the boat itself. 

Boats can be expensive, and their owners want to protect themselves from large repair bills in the event of an accident. Some common claims that you might find on a boat insurance policy include accidental sinking, false arrest, liability protection, collision, and liability for personal property in the case of a fire caused by the boat’s electrical systems. Other common claims for boat insurance include: 

  • Sinking due to a mechanical failure
  • Hauling a boat that is damaged due to a collision
  • Personal injuries from a fall from a boat
  • Docking/gar slip and fall on a boat slip or pier
  • Collision with a fixed object like a dock or pier
  • Damage to a dinghy or outboard motor that you were towing
  • Boarding a risky dinghy
  • Damage to a jet ski due to a collision
  • Hauling a jet ski that is damaged due to a collision

Final Words 

Boats are often large assets, and these assets are at risk if not adequately protected. A boat insurance policy can help to protect the boat owner if the boat is damaged or destroyed due to a covered cause. Some common claims made under boat insurance policies include coverage for accidental damage, liability, and mechanical breakdown. For inquiries, The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI can help you get started.

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What Are Some Common Claims Made Under Boat Insurance Policies?

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Boat insurance policies offer protection against a wide range of risks, including damage to the boat, medical bills if someone is hurt on board, and liability in the event that someone is injured or property is damaged due to an accident. An important consideration for boat owners is whether their policy will cover them if they are at fault in an accident. Policies typically require that you exercise reasonable care when operating your boat and maintain adequate liability coverage. The Ryan Insurance Agency can help you in Clarkston, MI. 

Learning About Insurance Policy Claims 

Boat insurance policies offer coverage for a variety of risks. Depending on the type of boat you have, it may be required to have certain types of insurance. For example, most boats that exceed 10 feet in length are required to have liability insurance, which covers any damage your boat causes to another person or property. Most policies will also offer coverage for medical expenses if someone is injured on your boat, as well as lost wages if they are unable to work. In the event of an accident or sinking, most policies will also offer coverage for the value of the boat itself. 

Boats can be expensive, and their owners want to protect themselves from large repair bills in the event of an accident. Some common claims that you might find on a boat insurance policy include accidental sinking, false arrest, liability protection, collision, and liability for personal property in the case of a fire caused by the boat’s electrical systems. Other common claims for boat insurance include: 

  • Sinking due to a mechanical failure
  • Hauling a boat that is damaged due to a collision
  • Personal injuries from a fall from a boat
  • Docking/gar slip and fall on a boat slip or pier
  • Collision with a fixed object like a dock or pier
  • Damage to a dinghy or outboard motor that you were towing
  • Boarding a risky dinghy
  • Damage to a jet ski due to a collision
  • Hauling a jet ski that is damaged due to a collision

Final Words 

Boats are often large assets, and these assets are at risk if not adequately protected. A boat insurance policy can help to protect the boat owner if the boat is damaged or destroyed due to a covered cause. Some common claims made under boat insurance policies include coverage for accidental damage, liability, and mechanical breakdown. For inquiries, The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI can help you get started.

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Is umbrella Insurance Worth It?

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The best umbrella insurance policies cover various scenarios, like theft, fire, or windstorm. These policies also protect against floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes. A typical homeowner’s policy only covers the value of your home and its contents up to a certain amount. 

For example, if you have a $300,000 home, your coverage might be limited to $250,000. If a storm damages your home and its contents for $200,000, you have a $50,000 gap in coverage. If bad things happen, you can use an umbrella policy to fill that gap and protect yourself from paying out-of-pocket. Operating in Clarkston, MI, The Ryan Insurance Agency will get you started. 

How Does Umbrella Insurance Work?

Umbrella insurance provides a level of protection against the risk of an umbrella policy not paying out. The amount covered can be high, up to a certain limit. Some common areas of umbrella insurance are car and home insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and disability protection. 

Umbrella insurance is an optional coverage that you can choose to add to your homeowner’s insurance policy. If you have a $400,000 home, for example, and your umbrella policy limits payouts to $1 million, you are protected from covering the remaining $600,000 out of pocket. Umbrella insurance can be especially useful if you live in an area with an exceptionally high risk of hurricanes or earthquakes. 

The Bottomline

The limits on umbrella policies vary by state, so it’s worth contacting a few carriers to find out about your options. You may also consider purchasing additional coverage to protect your assets if you wind up in a car accident. Umbrella insurance is most effective when purchased early in life, so it will still be valuable when you need it the most. 

When selecting an umbrella policy, make sure it covers all the bases. You don’t want to be responsible for paying out benefits when you’re not financially able to. Shop around to different insurers and find out which one offers the best value. Stay away from the lowest-cost option and opt for a higher-cost policy with a “skin in the game” so you won’t be surprised by a large payout if you’re in an accident. For help, consider The Ryan Insurance Agency, a firm serving in Clarkston, MI.

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Pros and Cons: Term Life Insurance

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When it comes to life insurance, term life insurance is one of the most straightforward policies to understand. You choose a period – usually 10, 20, or 30 years – that you wish the policy to be active and how much coverage you would like to purchase. Should you pass away during the active period of the policy, your named beneficiaries will receive their portion of your death benefit. Because term life insurance is only valid for a specific number of years, it is less expensive and more easily attainable than whole life insurance. When shopping for life insurance, you’ll want to determine how much coverage you need to purchase.

Recently, many financial professionals recommend that customers use the DIME method to determine how much coverage is needed. DIME is an acronym that means Debt, Income, Mortgage, and Education. Start by adding your debts that will need to be paid when you die, including credit cards and student loans. Next, you’ll look at income, any remaining mortgage balance, and future educational needs, such as funding college for kids.

While there are numerous benefits to term life insurance, it has disadvantages. If you pass away outside of the policy period, you will not receive any death benefits. It does not include a cash value component like whole life insurance does.

Life insurance does not have to be complicated. No one understands the different policies and their complexities better than the knowledgeable professionals at The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI. Call us today to schedule a no obligation and complimentary consultation to learn more. 

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Safety Tips for Newbie Motorcyclists

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Riding a motorcycle is a thrill, but it is also dangerous. If you are a first-time motorcyclist, you’ll want to do everything to maximize your safety while enjoying the open air. While avoiding dangerous situations is impossible, you can take steps to ensure that you have a safer motorcycle experience. When you begin riding, you’ll want to choose the right motorcycle for your needs and experience level. Start by identifying your reason for riding, such as commuting to work, joy rides on the weekend, or racing on a closed track. Once done, you’ll want to work with a reputable motorcycle dealership to select a bike that is right for your needs and your height and weight. 

As a new motorcyclist, you’ll always want to have the acronym ATGATT in your mind. ATGATT stands for All The Gear, All The Time. Equipment must-haves to keep you safe include a DOT certified or compliant helmet, a motorcycle jacket made from synthetic material like Kevlar to keep you safe in an accident, appropriate gloves, closed-toe boots, and motorcycle pants.

Specific to insurance, Michigan state law requires that any operator of a motorcycle carry at a minimum the below liability coverage:

  • $50,000 for a person who is hurt/killed in an accident
  • $100,000 for each accident if multiple people are injured/killed
  • $10,000 for property damage

Many motorcyclists find these minimum requirements inadequate and opt to purchase additional coverage for extra peace of mind. At The Ryan Insurance Agency in Clarkston, MI, we’ll work side by side with you to find the right motorcycle insurance policy for your needs that help keep you, your passengers, and other motorists safe. 

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Boat maintenance for lake vessels

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The Ryan Insurance Agency is here for the boat owners in the Clarkston, MI community. Our team understands how much enjoyment a boat can bring to our clients’ lives! Here are a few maintenance tips for your lake vessels that we hope you find useful.

Maintenance tips for lake vessels

While boats used in freshwater don’t require as much hands-on attention and care as those used in saltwater, it is still important to keep your vessel well-maintained. Here are a few tips that can help you keep your boat in top condition:

  • Keep it clean. Be sure to rinse and wash your boat regularly, and keep it free of algae, slime, and other dirt.
  • Pay attention to the motor. Be sure to check your motor regularly. This can help prevent small problems from turning into larger ones.
  • Be sure to winterize your craft before storing it. Don’t just put your boat away for the winter without any attention. Give the engine a once-over and drain any fluids that could freeze. Be sure that the cabin area is clean and free of any trash, leftover food, or other detritus. 

By practicing good boat maintenance habits, you can be sure to enjoy your time out on the water for many years to come! Most importantly, be sure to have insurance coverage that will keep your boat protected, no matter what comes your way.

Find out more about comprehensive boat insurance today

The Ryan Insurance Agency offers a variety of boat insurance policies for boat owners in the greater Clarkston, MI area. If you would like to find out more, just call or stop by our local office today!

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