Understanding Insurance Quotes

Understanding Insurance Quotes

Austin Insurance Group provides homeowners insurance quotes, flood insurance, auto insurance and umbrella policies.  Understanding insurance quotes will help make choosing the right agent, coverage and company a breeze.

Understanding Insurance Quotes - Get a Quote

Homeowners Insurance Quote

There are two basic types of homeowners insurance policies – “named peril” and “all risk” policies. Named peril policies, such as the HO-A Plus form, will only cover the perils that are specified in the policy.  All risk policies, such as the HO-3 form, will cover everything that is not specifically excluded in your policy. If you compare the inclusions in a named perils policy side-by-side with the exclusions in an open perils policy, you’ll find that the two types provide basically the same level of protection with the exception of options and endorsements.  Two important ones are foundation coverage and water backup.

Austin Insurance Group will quote companies who provide both types of policies, however, we highly recommend “all risk” policies.

Flood Insurance

Floods are not covered under any home insurance policy.  Flood insurance is written as a separate policy and FEMA regulates the premiums.   If your home is in a flood zone, you will need to provide an elevation certificate in order to provide a quote.  Most mortgage companies will require flood insurance for homes in a flood zone, and they often have elevation certificates on hand.   If your home is not in a flood zone, there is a flat pricing structure.

Auto Insurance

The Texas Personal Auto Insurnace Policy offers eight types of coverage. Each coverage only pays up to the dollar limit chosen for that coverage.

Liability Coverage:  The current Texas state minimum for liability insurance is $30,000 per person / $60,000 per incident for bodily injury, along with $25,000 for property damage. This coverage pays for other people’s expenses for accidents caused by drivers that are covered under your policy.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: UM/UIM pays your expenses when an accident is caused by an uninsured motorist or an underinsured motorist driver whose liability limits were insufficient to cover your bills. It also pays for damages caused by a hit-and-run driver in accidents that are reported promptly to the police.

Medical Payments Coverage:  Medical payments insurance covers the cost of doctors, hospitals and funeral expenses for you and/or your passengers that are a result from an accident, regardless of who was at fault.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage: PIP is basically medical payments coverage plus coverage for lost income and the cost of hiring a caregiver for an injured person. PIP is automatically included in the Texas personal auto policy unless rejected in writing by the applicant.

Collision (Damage to Your Car) Coverage: Collision coverage pays for damage to your own auto that results from having an accident with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault. Payment is limited to your car’s actual cash value, less your deductible. Actual cash value is the market value of a car like yours before it was damaged.

Comprehensive (Physical Damage Other than Collision) Coverage:  Comp coverage pays for damages that are caused by something other than a collision. This includes theft and vandalism, and disasters such as fire, flood, hail or hitting an animal. Like Collision, Comprehensive pays Actual cash value minus your deductible.

Towing and Labor Coverage:  Towing and Labor pays for towing charges when your auto can not be driven, plus it includes labor charges, like changing a tire, at the site of the disablement.

Rental Reimbursement Coverage:  Rental car coverage pays a set daily amount for a rental car if your car is stolen or is being repaired because of damage covered on your policy.

Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance provides added liability coverage beyond the liability on your home and auto insurance policies, usually in increments of $1 million, $2 million or $5 million. Umbrella insurance policies are typically tied to an auto policy,  but we can also quote umbrella coverage for customers who need a stand alone policy. Most companies require $250,000/$500,000 auto liability limits and $300,000 in liability on your home policy as underlying limits.   When you are involved in a liability claim that exceeds the limits on your underlying (auto or home) policies, that’s when the umbrella kicks in and pays up to the limit chosen.

Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent

(512)339-2901 | Understanding Insurance Quotes

Understanding Insurance Quotes

Mexico Insurance Tips

Remenber these Mexico Insurance Tips when Purchasing Mexico Insurance

  1. Read the disclosures. They are important. The most important things you must understand are that the claim must be filed in Mexico, and know the cancellation policy.
  2. Remember the auto policy form in Mexico is different. Mexico Laws are different. Things in Mexico work differently than they do in the US. This is a named peril policy. It isn’t the open peril policy we know in the US. This policy is different than your comp and collision coverage in the US.
  3. One of the most important things you can do is to insure that the value of your vehicle is calculated correctly. Remember that the company will pay the Actual Cash Value of the vehicle or the policy limits, whichever is less. It would be wise to make sure those are the same. To do so, we recommend using the Kelly Blue Book link that is provided on the quote application to verify the value of the vehicle.

We hope you have a happy and enjoyable trip and we are here to help, if there is anything we can do, if you have any questions or issues, please let us know. We appreciate your business.

mexico-insurance-quote

Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent | (512)339-2901 | Mexico Insurance Tips

 

Texas Independent Insurance Agent

Texas Independent Insurance Agent

Austin Insurance Group is a Texas independent insurance agency that represents a wide variety of insurance companies.  We will compare rates and work with you to find the best plan, saving you time and money.

Texas Independent Insurance Agent

What We Will Do For You:

1. Independent Insurance Agents help you make the right choice:

  • Because we work with many top-rated carriers in Texas allowing us to compare rates and plans that best fit your needs.
  • We will check rates with multiple companies, saving you time and money.
  • We’ll compare rates and coverages to find the best deal for you.
  • If the prices are close, we will advise you on the best coverage.
  • We also, compare bundling auto and home insurance to save more.

2. We will help you understand insurance coverages:

  • Expert recommendations.
  • Based on price and coverage.
  • We will take you through the pros and cons of each policy.
  • Help you make an informed decision.
  • More info on “Understanding Your Insurance Quote” post.

3. We can protect your long-term interests:

  • We work with a variety of insurance carriers
  • If your rates go up or your needs change, we are your first resource.
  • We can recompare your rates to make sure you are getting the best rates.
  • We will keep you informed of available discounts on your policy.
  • Austin Insurance Group can manage your entire personal and business insurance portfolio.
  • We save you stress, time and money.

We shop.  You save!

Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent | (512)339-2901 | Texas Independent Insurance Agent

Financial Responsibility Verification System – FRVP

Financial Responsibility Verification System – FRVP

The Texas Department of Insurance launched the pilot program of the Financial Responsibility Verification System by mid February.  Initially, only Travis county police officers will have access to the system.  If you are not insured, you need to be. 25% of the vehicles being driven on Texas roads today are uninsured.  And now DPS knows who you are. Get Insurance today!

EZ Online Auto Insurance Quote

Some studies are as high as 60% in areas such as San Antonio and El Paso.

In 2005, the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 1670, requiring the Financial Responsibility Verification System (FRVP)  to be implemented. 

The FRVP is a database of all active personal automobile insurance policies in Texas.  Every insurer has been required to report their active policy records to the state as of last June.

 

Are Proof of Insurance Cards still required? 

Lt. Sanchez of the Travis County Department of Public Safety clarified vehicle operators are still required by law to carry proof of insurance cards.

What about the what ifs?

During the pilot program, officers have been instructed to first check the FRVP to see if insurance coverage is confirmed.  If it comes back unconfirmed, but the vehicle operator can provide a proof of insurance card. The officer will then make an attempt to verify whether the card is valid.

This may be done at the time of the traffic stop or after the officer returns to the station. “If the officer has a cell phone, he most likely will attempt to contact the agent or insurance company listed on the insurance card to verify if the card is valid.” Lt. Sanchez explained, “it is our main goal though, after the pilot program is complete, to rely solely on the FRVP system.”

For a free auto insurance quote now click here!
Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent | (512)339-2901 | Financial Responsibility Verification System-FRVP

Financial Responsibility Verification System

Titan Low Cost Auto Insurance

Nationwide Insurance

formerly TItan Insurance

Great Auto Insurance for as low as $1 a day!

Four Good Reasons to Choose Titan/Nationwide – One of the Best Car Insurance Companies

Here are four great reasons to choose Titan Low Cost Auto Insurance – Nationwide Insurance – by Austin Insurance Group.

1. Great coverage and rates from Titan, an affordable auto insurance company

Instant Auto Insurance QuoteWe know you have more things to spend your money on than auto insurance. That’s why we offer, Titan low cost auto insurance.  A great policy for as little as $1 a day.  Titan offers low cost auto insurance rates and helps you save your hard earned money for the things that are most important to you.

2. Customer service you can count on

Need help understanding what you’re getting for your money? Have a question about a claim? Just call us. Whether it’s helping to make insurance simple or assisting you with getting a claim processed quickly, you can count on our Titan Customer Service.

3. Convenient locations

Need to talk to an agent in person? Just stop by to see our #1 Texas local agent in Austin, Austin Insurance Group.  We will be happy to discuss the benefits of choosing Titan.

4. Titan is part of the Nationwide family of companies.

Titan, is a leading discount auto insurance company and affiliated with Nationwide®, one of the nations largest insurance and financial services companies in the world. Nationwide has been helping customers protect what’s most important to them and providing outstanding customer service for more than 80 years.

Get a Titan low cost auto insurance quote

Find out more information about affordable insurance coverage or request a free quote on insurance for high-risk drivers.

Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent | (512)339-2901 | Titan Low Cost Auto Insurance

Austin Insurance Group - Local Authorized Agent

Local Authorized Agent

 

Titan Low Cost Insurance

Titan Low Cost Insurance

Great Auto Insurance for as low as $1 a day! Get your Titan Low Cost Insurance Quote Today.

Four Good Reasons to Choose Titan – One of the Best Car Insurance Companies

We believe that drivers are more than their driving records.  And you have choices when it comes to finding a good auto insurance company. Here are four great reasons to choose Titan and our agency, Austin Insurance Group.

1. Great coverage and rates from Titan, an affordable auto insurance company

We know you have more things to spend your money on than auto insurance. That’s why we offer, Titan low cost auto insurance.  A great policy for as little as $1 a day.  Titan offers low cost auto insurance rates and helps you save your hard earned money for the things that are most important to you.

2. Customer service you can count on

Need help understanding what you’re getting for your money? Have a question about a claim? Just call us. Whether it’s helping to make insurance simple or assisting you with getting a claim processed quickly, you can count on our Titan Customer Service.

3. Convenient locations

Need to talk to an agent in person? Just stop by to see our #1 Texas local agent in Austin, Austin Insurance Group.  We will be happy to discuss the benefits of choosing Titan.

4. Titan is part of the Nationwide family of companies.

Titan, is a leading discount auto insurance company and affiliated with Nationwide®, one of the nations largest insurance and financial services companies in the world. Nationwide has been helping customers protect what’s most important to them and providing outstanding customer service for more than 80 years.

Get a Titan low cost auto insurance quote

Find out more information about affordable insurance coverage or request a free quote on insurance for high-risk drivers.

Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent | Titan Low Cost Insurance

Austin Insurance Group | Independent Insurance Agent

Austin Insurance Group

 

Why Buy Car Insurance from a Local Agent?

Local Independent Insurance AgentMost people don’t know much about car insurance beyond the fact that you are required by law to have it.  And buying car insurance isn’t exactly a thrill to shop for.  But, when you get into a car accident (and that’s when, not if), even if it’s a little fender bender, you’ll be glad your car insurance company is there to help, that’s if you have the right coverage. A local agent can help you find the coverage that’s right for you and be there when you have an accident.

When you shop for car insurance, you should compare apples to apples.  Then make sure you have an agent that takes the time to find out what you have, and tell you about the coverages that you need.

Here’s what you need to know about car insurance and how to find the right policy for you.

Why You Need Car Insurance

Cars are expensive, and car accidents are really expensive. Plus, in addition to car damage, there are also medical expenses to consider. When you consider the cost of an accident, you need to remember that a car accident may involve more than one car.  And that can easily increase the cost of the damage.  And, if each car has more than one passenger and they all get injured, you can see how collision costs add up.

Car insurance helps you cover those costs. Basically, you pay for an insurance policy, which is much lower than the costs you would incur because of an accident. Then, when you have an accident, your policy covers some of the costs associated with it, as long as you carry the right coverage.  What your insurance policy covers depends on the type of coverage you buy. And the type of coverage you buy, may depend on the area that you live in. Your local insurance agent can help you make the best choice and take the time to determine what you need.

  • Types of Coverage
  • Who Pays for What?
  • What Do You Need?
  • What Should You Pay?
  • Bring Your Costs Down
  • Place Your Bets

Shopping for car insurance with Austin Insurance Group can save you time and money.   We offer instant Progressive car insurance quotes, you can buy a policy online, or we can compare your rates with the other companies that we represent.

It’s simple.  Start with an online quote, then contact our local agent to make sure you have the right coverage for your needs, and get a policy immediately.  It’s that easy.

Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent | (512)339-2901 | Why Buy Car Insurance?

Austin Insurance Agent

Employment Practices Liability Insurance

What Is Employment Practices Liability Insurance, or EPLI?

Legislation  such as the Family Medical Leave Act and the Americans With Disabilities Act,  plus a growing number of job-related lawsuits and claims, have created the need  for business owners to consider a type of insurance known as employment  practices liability insurance, or EPLI. An EPLI policy offers insurance  protection against claims and lawsuits that are brought against a business, its  officers or directors, or its employees and managers. These policies generally  cover charges in the following areas:

  • Gender, age and other types of discrimination
  • Sexual harassment
  • Wrongful termination or discipline
  • Negligent compensation, promotion or hiring       decisions
  • Breach of contract for employment
  • Emotional distress or mental anguish
  • Invasion of privacy
  • Libel or slander
  • Employee benefits mismanagement

While some  directors’ and officers’ insurance policies contain employment practices  liability insurance coverage, such coverage can be limited to directors and  officers, and may have greater exclusions than a standalone EPLI policy.

How does employment practices  liability insurance protect your business?

All companies,  regardless of size, should look to their personnel policies as the first line  of defense against both the number and severity of employment-related claims.  EPLI coverage is another valuable tool in a comprehensive risk-management  arsenal.

EPLI policies  are written on a claims-made basis. This simply means that covered claims must  be reported to the insurance company while the policy is in effect, or within  an extended period specifically described in the policy. In addition, the event  leading to the claim must have occurred either on or after a specific date –  typically the date when the EPLI policy commenced. Some insurers offer extended  retroactive dates or full protection for earlier claims, but you should be sure  you understand these terms.

The cost of  EPLI coverage will vary based on the type, size and risk profile of your  business. The insurance company may also want to see your written personnel  policies to help them determine the risk and cost of your EPLI policy.

Following are  additional factors that affect the value and cost of EPLI coverage. It is  important to review these exclusions and coverage limitations when evaluating  your policy:

  • You can generally purchase EPLI coverage with limits ranging from  $1 million to $25 million.
  • Most employment practices liability insurance policies include a  deductible. In addition, the cost of legal defense is typically included in the  aggregate insurance limits, along with the costs of judgments and settlements.

Some EPLI policies contain exclusions that limit  coverage during events such as a major work force reduction, acquisition or  merger. Generally, criminal conduct is not covered by EPLI.

This is an ever increasing risk and exposure for business owners.

Call Austin Insurance Group today for a free insurance quote.  Our Hartford Business Owners Policies automatically include this coverage at $10,000, and you can get up to $1,000,000 limit.  Does your policy have it?

Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent | (512)339-2901 | Employment Practices Liability Insurance

Employment Practices Liability Insurance

Easy Online Auto Insurance Quote

Easy Online Auto Insurance Quote

We can provide you with a Progressive easy online auto insurance quote.

Fast and accurate. If you have Internet access, you can get a quote — it’s simple! Just follow these three steps:

  1. Get easy online auto insurance quotes.
  2. Start your Progressive quote.
  3. See your rate.

Total time it takes to complete a Progressive online auto insurance quote: about six minutes. Simple and fast — that’s what you’ll discover when you get your auto insurance quote online from Progressive.

Easy online auto insurance quote

Austin Insurance Group – Local Texas Agent since 1994

If you’re shopping for auto insurance online, quote and compare rates all in one sitting. Not only do we give you our rate, we can provide the rates of other top companies after you complete your auto insurance quote online. You can mull over other rates to see which combination of price and service is best for you.

If you choose to purchase Progressive online auto insurance, you’ll receive all the features that come with Progressive insurance — 24/7 live support, local claims service and more — at no extra cost, plus get a local agent, Austin Insurance Group.

Austin Insurance Group | Local Texas Auto Insurance Agent | (512)339-2901 | Easy Online Auto Insurance Quotes