It’s important to feel protected when you’re on the roads of Albany, NY. One of the best ways to feel protected is with auto insurance that you can depend on. There are a few ways to ensure that your insurance meets the needs of your family. Our independent insurance agents at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency can assist with this, too.

Meet State Minimums

First and foremost, you have to make sure that you meet the state minimums for auto insurance in New York. This is all about the liability coverage that you have to have. If you have a lienholder on your lease or purchase, they may have certain minimums of coverage that you have to adhere to as well.

Explore Added Coverage

Added coverage is where you can determine to go above state requirements. If you have teen drivers, you may want to bump up the liability coverage so that you’re not caught without enough coverage to take care of an accident. You may also want to get collision coverage if you have hit something on the road, such as a guard rail. If you have had windshield damage or been involved in a hit and run, comprehensive coverage can make a lot of sense, too.

Work with an Insurance Agent

An insurance agent will help you with the various components of insurance. They can recommend certain insurance products to keep you and your family protected on the road. They’ll identify what the cost of insurance is and provide quotes from different insurance companies. This way, you can balance coverage with cost to feel more comfortable with the policy that you ultimately get.

Call us at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency to discuss your auto insurance needs. We can customize a policy to give you the protection that you need in Albany, NY.

Before you allow another person to drive your car, check with your agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving Albany, NY and the nearby communities. Most, but not all, auto policies have a provision for the insured person to let a “causal” driver use their vehicle. Be aware that each insurance underwriter defines a casual driver differently. Some auto policies explicitly prohibit anyone except an authorized driver on the policy to be covered.

It’s Not Worth the Risk to Lend Your Car

It may not be worth the added risk to allow a casual driver to borrow your car. Anything that goes wrong may ultimately become your responsibility. This includes accidents, parking tickets, and if the car is stolen. A litigation nightmare can come from a stolen car involved in a crime or an accident. It is really upsetting when something like this happens and it is not your fault.

If the need to lend a car is so compelling and you just cannot say no, then consider paying for a rental car that the person can use and get the added insurance when renting it.

Adding Another Authorized Driver

If the person will drive your vehicle more than once, even if infrequently, consider adding them as an authorized driver to your insurance policy. When you do this, their driving record will become part of the insurance company’s consideration when deciding about the auto insurance premium. A good driver around your same age will add to the monthly premium but probably not by an outrageous amount. However, a driver with a bad driving record will cost quite a lot to add to a policy. A young driver, especially a teenage one, will cost quite a bit to add to your auto policy.

Conclusion

It is not a small thing to let someone drive your car. If you still want to do this, check with your agent first and consider adding them to your policy. Get a quote by calling your agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY.

If you drive in Albany, NY, you know that you need to carry insurance to drive. Hopefully, you spoke to your agent when you purchased your policy so you would understand the terms of your policy. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, we make sure everyone knows that we are happy to spend as much time as they need answering any questions they may have. But it doesn’t do much good to have insurance if you don’t know how to use it. 

One of the most important things to do after an accident, even if you don’t think you are at fault, is to make a report. The law only requires the report if damages exceed $1,000 or if there is an injury, but people don’t always know how much repairs cost or if they have whiplash until later. You don’t want to get into trouble for breaking the rules because the penalties can be serious.

New York is a no-fault state, so it doesn’t matter who caused the accident. You will need to submit the claim through your own insurance company, and they are responsible for paying. If you were in a vehicle, you should file with your own company, but if you were a pedestrian and hit by a vehicle, you will need to file with the company that insured the vehicle which hit you. If you live in Albany, NY but get into an accident in another state, you will still be able to file your claim through your own insurer.

When you notify your insurance you are filing a claim, you will get an application to fill out that explains your benefits, rights, and responsibilities. Go ahead and take care of it right away to get things started, but don’t forget there are time limits too. If you have any questions or need to purchase an auto insurance policy for yourself or someone else, feel free to call NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency today for a free quote.

Car owners are always in need of extra money, and the majority of them are considering listing their vehicle in a car-sharing service program. Online companies are offering drivers the option to rent their automobile to another licensed driver who is in immediate need of transportation. Each transaction is set up through an online service that matches renters with car owners in the same market. The outline of the car-sharing program is simple: the more days you make your car available on the app, the more money you stand to earn each month. 

However, the thought of allowing a total stranger to have access to your vehicle can become an uneasy situation. Most of the concern lies in the area of who is liable if an automobile accident occurs. Car owners must get verification on which party is responsible for the repairs. 

Individual Auto Insurance Policies Won’t Cover Car-Sharing Programs

It’s not shocking to learn that most car insurance providers will not cover an automobile used in a car-sharing program. Their biggest complaint is not knowing the driving history of the individual behind the wheel. Also, providers may have a problem with insurers using their vehicle in a money-making adventure. Agents from NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY can explain how expenses could exceed the cap set within an individual auto insurance policy. They will show how commercial auto insurance might be a better option for this style of driving. 

Car-Sharing Companies Offer a Wide Range of Insurance Coverage

The terms and policies may differ between each car-sharing companies, but all do offer auto insurance (collision, liability and comprehensive) coverage to car owners, renters, and third-party victims. The primary coverage goes into effect during the period when the owner delivers the vehicle to the renter for use and concludes when the automobile is returned. Collision and comprehensive coverage safeguards against theft, vandalism and other damages to the car. Having liability insurance will come in handy if the vehicle is involved in an accident and the renter is ruled to be responsible for the crash.

One of the ways to save on auto insurance in Albany, NY is by taking advantage of different auto insurance discounts. Insurers find that drivers who have certain characteristics will have fewer accidents and claims, and they reward customers that have those characteristics, which is where discounts come from. There are different categories of discounts that can offer you different percentages off your premium. Knowing the available discounts, as well as shopping around every year for discounts, can help increase your savings. Discuss any discounts you think you are eligible for with your agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency.

Driving History Discounts: These include accident-free, safe driver, and low mileage rewards.

Customer Loyalty: These are the discounts given to customers who bundle their policy, have early renewal, or purchase multi-car policies.

Demographics: Different demographic groups such as homeowners, low-income earners, seniors, married individuals, and those with good students in the home can save money on car insurance.

Driver Training: Many times, if you take a defensive driver course or do some driving training, you can get up to 10% off premiums. These need to be approved courses and may only be for teens, seniors, or inexperienced drivers.

Equipment Related Savings: The car you drive has an effect on your car insurance rates, and if your car is equipped with certain equipment you can save. Equipment can include anti-lock brakes, an anti-theft system, new car, a green or hybrid car, or different safety features.

Payment: If you pay your bill in full or are set up for auto pay, then insurers know they are going to get their premiums and usually offer a discount. Some insurers may even offer discounts for going paperless.

Contact NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving Albany, NY, to get a quote on auto insurance. 

A divorce is a difficult time. In addition to all of the emotional issues you may be facing, there will also be practical issues which must not be ignored. Many things about your life will change following  a divorce. Car insurance is one thing that will definitely change. At  NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY we can help you through this difficult time. 

Removing Your Ex

Following your divorce, you will want to make a point to remove your ex and their vehicle from your policy if you wish to keep the policy in your name. This should be done as soon as possible. When a car is being housed at a different residence, that information needs to be filed with the insurance company quickly. 

Changes to Expect

Once you have removed your ex from your policy, you will see some changes to your insurance. First, you may notice that you lose some discounts. Discounts such as multi-car and married discounts. Do not be too discouraged, because you might be able to get new discounts. If your spouse had a spotted driving record, then you might be able to get a better rate now because your driving record is good. Some insurance companies will also allow a newly divorced person to get a fresh start by removing any claims that had to do with the other driver or vehicle so that you can start over with a claim-free policy. 

Can You Afford Better Insurance Now?

Removing a car from your policy is going to lower your rate considerably. You may now be able to afford better coverage than in the past. take some time to discuss this with your insurance representative. You will want to have the maximum coverage you can possibly afford. 

Dealing with changes to your insurance policy is an important practical step you should deal with during your divorce. To learn more contact NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency serving Albany, NY.

Here at the NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency serving the Albany, NY area, we want to make sure everyone is protected with auto insurance. We know how catastrophic an accident can be, and that is why we strive to provide first-class customer service to each client we serve. If you’re looking for reasons to buy auto insurance, look no further. We’ve outlined three of the best reasons to make this wise investment. 

Stay in Compliance With the Law

Driving without car insurance is against the law in most states. Driving without it can result in fines and the possibility of your driving privileges being suspended. There are some states that will take possession of your car. Purchasing insurance protects you against those who do not see the importance of auto insurance. If you get in an accident with a motorist that is uninsured, and you are not at fault, your insurance may pay to fix your damage. 

Reduce Stress and Enhance the Recovery Time With Superior Customer Service

If you are involved in an accident, having an agent’s expertise to help you through the post-accident process can save you an immense amount of time and inconvenience. If another driver is involved, your insurance agent will handle the communication with the other driver’s insurer. An agent will assist you in filing an insurance claim and can help ensure you get it settled quickly. In addition, if you have vehicle damage, an agent will help you find a repair shop.

Peace of Mind

Car insurance provides you with financial protection. Without it, you are responsible for paying for damages, car replacement and medical expenses all on your own. Car insurance allows you to move on with your life after an accident, knowing you will be financially okay. 

To learn more about the value of car insurance, contact the NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency serving the Albany, NY area.

Purchasing auto insurance has never been more simple and at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency we want our clients in and around Albany, NY to know all of their options to even further simplify the process and answer the common questions associated with auto insurance in 2018. 

• Is Auto Insurance a New York State Requirement? Yes, drivers must carry a minimum level of insurance as set by state standards. Carrying only this minimum is to protect you and other drivers from financial distress after an accident. 
• How Much Auto Insurance Should I Carry? Minimum liability is set at $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 total for bodily injury to all people involved, and $10,000 for property damage one accident, in addition to the no-fault accident coverage of $50,000. It would be prudential to carry the voluntary higher limits for liability and personal injury protection, the minimum amount is just that, and additional protection may save the bank after an accident.
• What is an Assigned Risk Plan? This is a New York Automobile Insurance Plan that makes sure that consumers who cannot find an insurance company who will accept them, for whatever reason, will still be able to be legally insured. 
• Are There any Discounts for Insurance? Yes, you may be able to receive a discount on your insurance if you take an accident prevention course, or if your car has certain safety features such as automatic seat belts, ABS, anti-theft devices, or daytime running lights. If you have a great driving record, if you are in driver training, or if you are purchasing a policy for more than one car you may qualify. Discuss these options with an agent.

Contact us at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency today to purchase a policy, or upgrade and renew your establish policy. We proudly serve Albany, NY and the surrounding areas. 

As individuals age, they may need to move in with family members. They may be unable to afford to live on their own, may be lonely living on their own, or may need help with daily activities and medical care. Moving in with their adult children can be beneficial in all of these regards. However, if you take one of your parents in, one of the questions you may have is whether you should add them to your auto insurance policy. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving Albany, NY, we want to help you determine when you should and shouldn’t add them. Here is some information you should consider. 

If They Will Be Driving Your Car

The most important factor to consider when deciding whether to add an elderly family member to your car insurance policy is whether they will be driving your car or not. If they have permission to drive your cars, you should add them to your auto insurance policy. If they will never be driving your car and do not drive at all, you do not need to add them. 

What Their Driving Record Is

Another important factor to consider before adding them is what their driving record is. If they have accidents or tickets, adding them to your policy may increase your rates. If they have a poor driving record, you may need to preclude them from your policy and not allow them to drive your cars to prevent your auto insurance rates from increasing. 

When an elderly family member moves in with you, trying to decide whether to add them to your auto insurance policy or not can be challenging. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving Albany, NY, we would love to help you figure it out. Contact us today and let’s sit down and discuss your auto insurance needs. 

At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving the greater Albany, NY, we encounter a lot of unique situations when it comes to auto insurance. One of the more unique situations that we are asked about is insuring an inherited car. Once the owner passes away, the person who inherits the car may be unsure how to insure it or what needs to be done. Here is some information on insuring a car that was inherited. 

Insurance Coverage Ends When the Policy Owner Dies

One important thing to keep in mind is that the original car insurance policy ends the day the policy owner passes away. As such, you should never drive or move the car after this date until you obtain car insurance. Many people do not realize this and think they can keep the policy until they have time to find a new one, but this is not the case. 

Titling the Car

After the owner passes away, you will want to change the title into your name, if you have inherited the car. At the same time, you will want to obtain a new insurance policy. In order to achieve this, you will likely need to explain your situation to an insurance company, letting them know why you are trying to insure a car that is not yet titled in your name. Many will give you a limited period of time, such as 30 days, to title the car in your name after obtaining insurance. 

If you have inherited a car, you will need to insure that car, as coverage stops when the owner dies. Here at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving the greater Albany, NY area, we can help you get the car insurance you need. Contact us today to discuss your needs.