What to Do When An Uninsured or Underinsured Driver has Hit You

When you own a car in the State of Washington, you are legally required to purchase auto insurance. Many drivers have questions about their insurance and how much coverage they should buy. If you live near Spokane, WA, our team at Capital Insurance invites you to discuss your policy options with us. We’ve been working with clients in your area since 2011.

What to Do When An Uninsured or Underinsured Driver Has Hit You

When you’re involved in a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed. You might feel even more uneasy if the driver that hit your car was uninsured or underinsured. Although the State of Washington requires every driver to have car insurance, some drivers have less coverage than their car has sustained, and some choose to drive without insurance.

Some auto insurance policies include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. If you have this type of coverage, you can file a claim with your insurance company. This coverage will also pay your expenses if your auto accident was caused by a hit-and-run driver or by a driver whose erratic steering caused you to damage your car. Your policy’s collision coverage and PIP will pay for damage to your vehicle and any reasonable medical expenses.

Call Us for Your Appointment Today

Whether you need an insurance policy for a new car or want to change your current policy, our team at Capital Insurance is prepared to provide you with the information you need. Each staff member to customer service, and we welcome your call. Clients in the Spokane, WA, area will find us prepared to discuss their insurance needs. Call us for an appointment today, and let’s talk about insurance.

What Does Business Liability Mean?

If you’re a business owner, one of your responsibilities is to protect your business assets by purchasing commercial insurance. You may have questions about which types of insurance your company needs. Businesses in the Ankeny, IA area can get answers to their commercial insurance questions by talking to our team at Maschoff Insurance. We have been working with businesses in your area since 1898.

What Is Business Liability?

New business owners may wonder about the true meaning of liability when it comes to your business’ responsibilities. According to Thimble, general liability insurance covers a business if a non-employee injures themselves at your business or because they are using one of your products. Foreseeing an accident that could occur and result in a liability claim is impossible. Therefore, purchasing liability insurance is your best protection against the expenses of that claim.

Although there are several types of insurance your business must buy, liability insurance must be your greatest priority. According to Thimble, while it isn’t federally mandated by law to carry liability insurance, many states have minimum liability insurance requirements. Before signing your policy, be sure to check your new policy to understand its guidelines thoroughly. For example, a liability insurance policy will not cover any actions performed intentionally to harm someone else.

Contact Us Today for Your Appointment

In addition to liability insurance, your business will need to purchase health and worker’s compensation insurance for your company. Business clients in Ankeny, IA will find the answers to their insurance questions from our team members at Maschoff Insurance. Our agents are dedicated to offering various insurance options to help you choose the right policy. Call us for an appointment today, and let us help you choose the right insurance.

Determining Personal Property Coverage with Boat Insurance Policies in Spokane, WA

Anytime you invest in a boat in Spokane, WA, it’s essential to consider the type of insurance coverage you’ll be obtaining to protect your vessel and any gear or personal items onboard. When you want to protect electronics, furniture, fishing gear, and even valuables you store on your boat, you can obtain a personal property insurance policy within an existing boater’s insurance policy. At Capital Insurance, we will work with you to safeguard your belongings from risks such as damage, loss, or theft, regardless of the size and type of boat you own.

Understanding the Basics of Personal Property Coverage

While a standard boating insurance policy may protect against accidents, collisions, and weather-related events, it may not protect your belongings and interior valuables. Personal property protection can protect equipment such as:

  • GPS systems and other boat-related electronics
  • Personal items and clothing
  • Sporting equipment
  • Fishing gear
  • Tools

Key Considerations for Personal Property Coverage

  • Policy Limits: When comparing personal property policies, ensure the coverage amount equals the estimated value of your belongings and/or furnishings.
  • Perils: Examine and compare specific perils you will receive coverage for, such as incidents involving storm damage, theft, or even fire.
  • Deductibles: Compare deductibles to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Exclusions: Compare exclusions that may range from negligence to wear and tear to find a sufficient policy for your needs.

Understanding the type of personal property coverage you require alongside your boat insurance policies in Spokane, WA, is imperative for any boat owner or watercraft aficionado. Tailoring your insurance policies to suit your needs based on assessing and valuing your valuables and belongings is crucial to protecting against specific risks in the Spokane region. If you want to learn more about personal property coverage with your existing boat insurance policy, contact Capital Insurance for your quote and consultation today.

How Classic Car Insurance is Different From a Regular Auto Policy

Although you can bundle your classic car with other autos you own in Spokane, WA, separating your prized vehicle into a different policy can provide unexpected benefits. Most likely, you rarely drive your classic car, but you’ll still need to protect it adequately. Capital Insurance can outline why safeguarding your vehicle with a classic car policy makes sense.

What is a Classic Car?

In Washington State, a classic car must be at least 30 years old, capable of operating on a roadway, and owned as a collector’s vehicle. These requirements limit the car’s use. You can only operate your vehicle for auto shows, club activities, parades, special exhibitions, and similar events. Additionally, each company insuring classic cars has specific requirements, so you’ll have to meet those requirements to get a policy.

The Differences in Classic Car Policies

Some companies specialize in insuring these vehicles because they understand the differences between them and cars and SUVs used for transportation. You’ll often find that it will cost less to insure your classic vehicle with a specially designed policy. The most significant reason for this is that owners don’t drive these cars much. Thus, they have less risk of getting into an accident. Other major differences include the following:

  • Insuring the vehicle to its agreed value
  • Payment for original parts if the car is damaged in a covered incident
  • Your insurer may require vehicle storage in a safe place when not used
  • Optional higher coverage when your vehicle is under construction

Some policies may also have annual mileage restrictions and require proof that you have a vehicle for everyday use.

Discover how you can benefit from securing a classic car insurance policy. Schedule a consultation with the agents at Capital Insurance, serving Spokane, WA, to get started on your coverage.

What is Recreational Insurance and Why Should I Invest in it?

If you’ve heard the term recreational insurance, you might be curious about what it entails and how it differs from other insurance options. Here, we provide more information about this type of insurance and why it’s beneficial.

What is Recreational Insurance?

Recreational insurance covers recreational vehicles such as ATVs and UTVs. It provides insurance protection in the event of an accident, offering coverage and peace of mind when you’re out enjoying the outdoors. This policy is designed to protect you in all weather conditions, allowing you to pursue your favorite hobbies with insured protection for you and your family.

Vehicle Replacement

With recreational insurance, you can file a claim if your ATVs or UTVs are damaged in an accident. Whether the accident was your fault or caused by someone without insurance, this claim can protect your investment, ensuring you either get your money back or replace the vehicle.

Liability Coverage

Recreational vehicles are often enjoyed in large groups, increasing the risk of accidents. If you cause an accident resulting in injury to someone else, your policy can assist with liability coverage. This can help cover any property damage or medical expenses they incur, preventing you from bearing the financial burden.

Theft

Regrettably, recreational vehicles are often high-risk targets for theft. If you have an insurance policy, you can file a claim to replace or repair the stolen item if it’s found damaged later. Without recreational insurance, you would still be responsible for any payments on the vehicle and its replacement.

If you’re seeking a personal policy on recreational insurance, contact us at Capital Insurance today. We serve clients in and around the Spokane, WA area.

Renters Insurance Upon Eviction

Renters’ insurance offers essential protection for personal belongings, liability issues, and additional living expenses if a rental unit becomes uninhabitable due to a covered incident. However, uncertainties surrounding renters’ insurance can arise during eviction situations. Thus, if you’re situated around Spokane, WA, it’s vital to understand how eviction impacts your renters’ insurance policy to ensure continuous coverage in case of eviction.

Understanding the Impact of Eviction on Renters’ Insurance

Eviction primarily involves the legal process through the court system, where landlords oust tenants from the premises due to non-payment of rent and violation of lease terms, among other legal reasons. Upon eviction, lease agreements are nullified, effectively impacting the status of renters’ insurance.

Renters’ insurance policies are primarily tied to the tenant’s specific rental property. Eviction translates to no longer residing at the insured address, meaning your policy may cease its coverage for that particular location. However, the policy may continue to cover your personal belongings until official policy cancellation or upon moving to a new residence. Thus, reviewing the terms of your renters’ insurance is crucial to comprehend the implications for coverage during relocation.

Covering Personal Belongings after Eviction

Post-eviction, renters’ insurance may continue to cover your personal belongings if they’re damaged or stolen while in transit or storage. Nevertheless, this coverage depends heavily on the specific terms of your policy, particularly if you are in between residences. Some policies provide a grace period, offering temporary coverage post-eviction, while others may necessitate immediate policy cancellation or transfer. If you are evicted, it’s essential to consult with your insurance provider to clarify the specifics of your coverage.

Rely on Capital Insurance for Clarity on Insurance Matters

Capital Insurance is dedicated to providing comprehensive insurance solutions and crucial information. We serve various locations in and near Spokane, WA. Contact us today for more details.

Do Motorhomes Need Special Insurance?

To get the most out of your vehicle ownership, you need to ensure you’ve got the right insurance for different types of vehicles. Vehicles, such as motorhomes, often require special insurance. A regular auto policy won’t do. At Capital Insurance, serving Spokane, WA, and the surrounding areas, we want to help motorhome owners make the best insurance choices. Let’s learn more about why these vehicles need special insurance coverage. 

Size

A motorhome is much larger than an average vehicle, which means that it carries the risk of causing more damage should it be in an accident. If you don’t have the right insurance coverage for your motorhome and it’s in an accident, then you might be held liable for some of the expenses that are incurred. This could prove to be a financial hardship for you. 

Living Capabilities

Motorhomes can also be used as residences. If so, the owners will need the appropriate coverage. You would want coverage that protects your personal belongings within the home and damage to the motorhome. A regular auto policy would not provide this. 

Reduce Risk of Liability 

Driving a motorhome requires special skills and diligence. Because of the size of most motorhomes, there is an increased risk of accidents, and greater amounts of damage can result from those accidents. If your motorhome isn’t adequately insured, you may be liable for the damage or injuries caused. You can protect yourself by keeping the appropriate coverage active. 

If you’d like to learn more about motorhome insurance, please contact us at Capital Insurance, serving Spokane, WA, and the surrounding areas.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Towing?

Towing can be complex when it comes to insurance, given that it involves two or more separate pieces of equipment. Motorcyclists in Spokane, WA, may be curious whether they’re covered when towing small trailers or having their bikes towed to repair shops. The experts at Capital Insurance can provide answers to these questions.

Roadside Assistance

If your motorcycle breaks down and needs to be towed or transported to a mechanic, your insurance may cover it. However, this type of coverage is optional in many policies. It may go by the name “emergency road service” or “roadside assistance.” Ensure to inquire about this option when signing up for motorcycle insurance.

Towing Trailers

You may be pulling a small trailer behind your motorcycle to carry extra cargo or for camping. Alternatively, you could transport your bike on a trailer hitched to another vehicle. Either way, the coverage varies based on your specific policy. Your insurance company can provide more details.

Transporting Motorcycles

Auto insurance sometimes offers liability coverage for a trailer hitched behind a car. This only protects you if your trailer causes harm to someone else, resulting in a claim. It won’t cover damage to your motorcycle or trailer. You may need separate trailer, auto, and motorcycle insurance policies to fully protect your truck, bike, and trailer.

Capital Insurance can assist you in securing proper coverage for your motorcycle. With over two decades of experience serving the Spokane, WA area, we offer insurance from trusted carriers. Our independent agency’s friendly, knowledgeable staff is just a call away. Please reach out to Capital Insurance today at 509-324-1398.

How to Protect Your Most Important Assets from Theft, Vandalism, Natural Disasters, and Water Damage

The vibrant city of Spokane, WA is known for its natural beauty, urban charm, and sense of tranquility that come along with living in this town. However, unpleasant incidents like home invasions, burglaries, thefts, and structural damage caused by natural disasters are also a reality. 

Learn how to protect the most important assets in your life from the experts at Capital Insurance. 

How to Protect Your Most Valuable Assets with Umbrella Insurance in Spokane

Most local homeowners have a comprehensive home insurance policy that covers their home for disaster-related events and repairs. The same is true for local motorists who choose comprehensive auto insurance to offset the costs and expenses associated with collision and non-collision-related auto accidents. 

Homeowners, motorists, and small business owners who reach their insurance coverage maximums may find themselves shouldering the remainder of the costs associated with auto accidents, property damage, and liability insurance claims. 

Safeguard Your Assets with Umbrella Insurance 

The knowledgeable insurance professionals at Capital Insurance in Spokane, WA, help local residents secure their most prized possessions by extending the coverages of existing home and auto insurance policies by adding umbrella insurance. 

What is Umbrella Insurance, and Why Do I Need It?

Umbrella insurance is a special add-on coverage that kicks in where comprehensive home insurance and auto insurance policies end. A trusted and knowledgeable insurance agent can explain the benefits of adding umbrella insurance to existing policies for a total insurance solution. 

Please don’t wait until the unexpected happens and you find yourself strapped with additional costs related to an insurance claim. Reach out to the licensed insurance professionals at Capital Insurance in Spokane and extend your coverage today! 

Do You Really Need Flood Insurance? Yes!

Many homeowners wonder whether it’s really necessary to get flood insurance. Do you need it for your home? The answer is always yes! A flood insurance policy is essential to protecting your home and belongings. These policies are important because flood waters are so damaging to structures, and Washington gets an enormous amount of rain. Flooding can happen anywhere, and you need this coverage for your own protection. To find out more about it, call us at Capital Insurance in Spokane, WA.

Floods and Home Insurance

One of the reasons that so many people don’t get a flood policy is that they think floods are covered under their regular home insurance. However, this isn’t true. Virtually all home policies exclude any flooding damage from their coverage. That’s why you need both a home policy and a flood policy. With both, you’re fully protected against many of the disasters that can cause so much damage to a home. 

Living Outside Flood Zones

Another common misnomer is that you only need to get flood insurance if your home is inside a designated flood zone. While it’s important to have flood insurance if you live in one of these zones, you also have a good chance of flooding if you don’t live in one. Twenty percent of the flood claims handled by insurance come from outside designated flood zones. Just because you’re outside a flood zone doesn’t mean that devastating flooding can’t happen in your area. Often, flooding isn’t expected and couldn’t have been foreseen. It would be best if you were protected against that possibility. 

Get Your Flood Insurance Policy

You need one of these policies to protect yourself. To get started with one, call Capital Insurance in Spokane, WA, today.