Distracted driving is a growing concern on our roads. At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., serving the insurance needs of residents in the greater Ft. Worth, TX region, we want to help you stay safe by understanding the risks and learning how to avoid distractions behind the wheel.

Understanding the Risks

Distracted driving involves any activity that diverts attention from driving, including texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. These distractions can significantly increase the likelihood of accidents, putting you and others at risk. It’s alarming how a few seconds of inattention can lead to severe consequences.

Common Distractions to Avoid

Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions, as it involves visual, manual, and cognitive attention. However, other activities like using a GPS, chatting with passengers, or even daydreaming can also take your focus off the road. Recognizing these distractions is the first step in preventing them.

Tips for Staying Focused

To stay focused, try setting your GPS and music before you start driving. Keep your phone out of reach, and consider using apps that block incoming texts and calls while driving. If you need to eat or make a call, pull over safely. These small adjustments can make a big difference in your safety.

Stay Protected with the Right Insurance

While prevention is key, having the right auto insurance provides an essential safety net. At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., we offer comprehensive policies to protect you from the unexpected. Contact us today if you live in and around the greater Ft. Worth, TX area to learn more about our coverage options and ensure you’re fully protected on the road. Drive safely with peace of mind, knowing we’ve got you covered.

Many drivers face the situation of a small chip or crack suddenly appearing on their windshield. At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., proudly providing auto insurance policies to residents in and around Ft. Worth, TX, we often hear the question, "Does my auto insurance cover this?" Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding Your Coverage

Auto insurance policies vary, but most offer coverage for windshield damage under comprehensive insurance. This type of coverage protects against non-collision incidents, like falling debris or vandalism. If you have comprehensive insurance, there’s a good chance your windshield repairs or replacement will be covered.

Repair vs. Replacement

The extent of the damage often determines whether your windshield will be repaired or replaced. Many insurance companies prefer repair, as it’s often quicker and more cost-effective. Plus, if the damage is minor, repairs can often be done without any deductible. However, a replacement might be necessary if the crack is severe or in the driver’s line of sight.

Filing a Claim

Filing a claim for windshield damage is usually straightforward. Contact your insurance provider to report the damage, and they will guide you through the process. Some companies even have partnerships with glass repair shops, making the entire process seamless and hassle-free.

Preventive Measures

To avoid future issues, consider parking in garages or shaded areas to protect your windshield from extreme temperatures. Regular inspections can also help catch small chips before they become major cracks.

Need More Information?

If you have questions about your auto insurance or need to review your policy, contact us at Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., serving Ft. Worth, TX, and surrounding areas. Our team is ready to assist you with all your insurance needs.

Keeping your vehicle in top condition is crucial for your safety on the road. At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., serving the greater Ft. Worth, TX area, we know that regular maintenance can significantly reduce your risk of accidents. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind.

Regularly Check Your Tires

Tires are your car’s connection to the road, so maintaining them is vital. Ensure they are properly inflated and check for any signs of wear and tear. Adequate tread depth and proper pressure improve traction, especially in wet conditions, reducing the likelihood of skidding or losing control.

Keep Your Brakes in Top Shape

Your brakes are one of the most critical safety features of your vehicle. Listen for any unusual noises and pay attention to how your brakes feel. If they’re not responsive, it’s time for an inspection. Regular maintenance can prevent brake failure and keep you safe.

Maintain Visibility

Clear visibility is essential for safe driving. Regularly clean your windshield and check your wipers for wear. Replace wiper blades as needed and ensure all lights are functioning correctly. This ensures you can see and be seen, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Stay on Top of Fluid Levels

Regularly check your vehicle’s fluids, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Keeping these at the proper levels ensures your car runs smoothly and reduces the risk of breakdowns that could lead to accidents.

Following these maintenance tips can enhance your vehicle’s performance and safety. For more information on auto insurance and keeping your car protected, contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., providing insurance products in the greater Ft. Worth, TX, area. We’re here to help you stay safe on the road.

Have you ever found yourself frantically searching for your keys, only to realize they’re nowhere to be found? The sinking feeling of misplacing something as crucial as your car keys can make anyone panic. As your trusted source for all things insurance-related, Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Fort Worth, TX is here to shed light on this common problem. Learn more about car insurance coverage.

Does Car Insurance Cover for Lost Keys?

Car insurance typically does not cover lost keys as it falls under the category of personal property that is not directly related to the operation or safety of the vehicle. However, some insurance policies may offer coverage for lost keys through optional add-ons or endorsements. Policyholders need to review their specific coverage details and consult with their insurance agent to understand if this additional protection is available. We are here to provide you with all the insurance coverage options for your car. 

If you lose your keys, reaching out to a locksmith for assistance may be the most practical solution. Additionally, some auto manufacturers provide key replacement services as part of their warranty or roadside assistance programs. As technology advances, keyless entry systems and push-to-start features have become more common in vehicles, leading to an increased need for specialized key replacement services beyond traditional locksmithing methods.

Contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX

At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., we are here to make auto insurance coverage simple and affordable. If you are looking for a quality insurance policy in the Ft. Worth, TX area, contact us today. Our friendly and supportive agents are here to help you secure coverage for your car. 

Learning to drive is a major milestone in a teenager’s life. They begin to enjoy greater freedom and take on more serious responsibilities. As a parent, this means you will have to put your teenage driver on your auto insurance policy. A few tips can help you keep your insurance premiums within your budget. At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX, we help our clients find the right insurance for their unique needs.

Adding Your Teen Driver To Your Policy

Each state has different rules regarding when teen drivers need to be added to their parent’s auto insurance policies. In Texas, teens with a learner’s permit can drive with supervision without being added to the policy. However, once they receive their official driver’s license, they are treated like any other driver and should be on the policy to ensure they are covered if an accident occurs. You may wish to acquire additional liability coverage beyond the state’s minimum amount to provide adequate coverage.

Online Classes and Monitoring Programs Can Help Reduce Costs

Some auto insurance providers offer online classes to reinforce safe driving skills for teens. These classes can help lower insurance premiums as your teen gains skills on the road. Another way to reduce costs is to sign up for insurance company "monitoring" programs, which can let you know how your teen is driving when they are driving on their own.

Choose Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. For Your Insurance

Our experienced Fort Worth, TX agents can provide detailed answers to your insurance questions so that you can get the best insurance for your individual needs. Contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX, for a no-obligation quote on auto insurance for you and your teen driver.

 

 

Acknowledging the unique vulnerabilities of each home in the Ft. Worth, TX, area, personalized plans go beyond generic guidelines, offering a tailored approach that empowers homeowners to safeguard their homes against specific risks proactively.

Understanding Localized Risks for Tailored Plans

One of the key aspects of personalized disaster preparedness plans is the understanding of localized risks. Insurers work closely with homeowners to assess the specific threats prevalent in their geographical area, whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires, floods, or earthquakes. This localized approach ensures that disaster preparedness plans are not generic but specifically crafted to address the unique risks faced by each home.

Customized Evacuation Strategies for Individual Needs

Evacuation strategies are an integral part of disaster preparedness, and personalized plans take into account individual needs and circumstances. Whether it’s accommodating pets, addressing mobility challenges, or considering specific medical requirements, these plans are designed to ensure that evacuation is not a one-size-fits-all approach but tailored to the unique requirements of each household.

Incorporating Smart Home Technology for Early Warnings

Insurers collaborate with homeowners to incorporate devices such as intelligent sensors, smoke detectors, and security cameras. These technologies provide early warnings, enabling homeowners to respond swiftly to potential disasters and minimizing the impact on their homes. The devices must remain in working condition.

Educational Resources for Proactive Measures

Beyond just guidelines, personalized plans include educational resources that empower homeowners with the knowledge to take proactive measures. From reinforcing structures to creating defensible spaces, homeowners receive personalized guidance on fortifying their homes against specific risks, fostering a culture of proactive disaster mitigation.

How Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. Can Help You

At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., we can help answer questions concerning home insurance. We serve the Ft. Worth, TX, area. Call us today.   

If you’ve been convicted of DUI, reckless driving, or something similarly serious, you might be requested to furnish an SR-22. Here’s what an SR-22 auto insurance document is and why you might need to provide one.

Not Insurance, But a Certificate

An SR-22 is not an auto insurance policy. Instead, it’s a certificate your insurance company files with the state to prove you have auto insurance that meets the minimum liability requirements. 

Why You Might Need an SR-22

An SR-22 is typically required after severe driving offenses. The state often requires this document when a driver has been convicted of driving offenses such as DUIs, reckless driving, or driving without insurance.

Requiring the document is a means of making sure high-risk drivers maintain the state’s necessary insurance coverage. 

If you’re required to provide an SR-22, there are several ways to file the document with the state. You can drop it off at one of the DMV locations around Ft. Worth, TX, or you can email, mail, or fax it to the state. We at Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. can assist with filing the document.

Getting Insurance and an SR-22

If you’re required to provide an SR-22 to the state, you’re probably finding auto insurance policies are now quite expensive. They aren’t cheap if you regularly drive around Dallas and Ft. Worth, TX, and rates jump dramatically after a DUI or reckless driving conviction.

Let us at Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. help you find an affordable policy that meets your coverage needs. We’ll then get your SR-22 squared away with the state, too.

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. is proud to serve the insurance needs of the metro Ft. Worth, TX community. When you have questions about your auto policy, we’re here to answer them. Our team has the specialized knowledge necessary to help you with all lines of coverage. Contact us today to learn more about the auto policy options available in our area.

Is it Time for an Upgrade?

Auto policies often need to be upgraded as your insurance needs change. If you’re like most people and renew the same policy year after year, it’s time to take a closer look. It’s often recommended that clients give each of their insurance policies a close review at least once a year. When it’s time for renewal, take a few moments to give your policy a closer look. This will help you better understand your current coverage and if it’s still adequate. In many cases, you might decide that it’s time to talk to your local agent about an upgrade.

Time is of the essence, as you want to have your new, more appropriate policy in place as soon as possible. A quick review today can help you avoid heartache later. No one wants to be involved in an accident without proper protection.

Call or stop by today!

Suppose you live or work in the greater Ft. Worth, TX area and have questions about insurance. In that case, it’s time to get to know the team at Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. We’re here to help you with all your insurance needs, including upgrading your current auto policy. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you find the policy that’s right for your needs.

For some drivers on a budget in Ft. Worth, TX, it’s tempting to make their auto insurance premiums as inexpensive as possible. One way to do so is to decline coverage for uninsured/underinsured motorists. Even though you may save money upfront, you could incur unexpected costs in the long run. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. recommends not taking that risk.

What is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

Commonly called UM/UIM coverage covers your injuries and those of your passengers and damage to your vehicle if you are hit by an at-fault driver who has no auto insurance or doesn’t have enough to cover your expenses. This part of your auto insurance policy will pay for all your medical expenses and property damage caused by an uninsured driver. If the driver is underinsured, that individual’s policy will pay up to the covered amount, while your policy will pay the excess amounts up to your policy’s limits. If a motorist hits your vehicle, flees the accident scene, and can’t be found, you can file a claim against your policy’s uninsured motorist coverage.

Types of Coverage Your Policy Can Provide

Generally, you should have enough U/UIM coverage to replace your vehicle. This portion of your policy can pay for the following:

• Vehicle repairs
• Rental car, if needed
• Medical bills for all passengers
• Pain and suffering costs
• Diminished car value following the accident

Our Agents Recommend UI/UIM Coverage

UI//UIM coverage is not required in Ft. Worth, TX. However, Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. must offer it to you when you write an auto insurance policy with us. Contact us today as our agents highly recommend the few extra dollars to protect your interests and not incur out-of-pocket expenses, especially when your medical insurance won’t pay everything.

People sometimes have auto accidents while driving a rental vehicle. These events raise questions about our insurance coverage and whether to buy rental insurance from the rental car agency. Since the answer depends on your insurance coverage, contact the Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. team serving Ft. Worth, TX, before renting your next vehicle.

Rental Car Insurance

Most rental car agencies offer insurance, typically including four categories: liability, loss/collision damage waiver, personal injury and medical protection, and personal effects. As a responsible driver, you should have coverage for these potential losses. However, if you have liability, collision, comprehensive, and medical personal injury protection as part of your personal auto policy, that coverage likely extends to when you drive a rental vehicle. In addition, your homeowner, condo, or renter’s policy generally covers personal effects stolen from a rental car. 

The combination means that existing policies cover rental vehicle accidents for many people, so buying rental insurance is often unnecessary. Still, you should confirm your coverage and deductibles with your agent before renting a vehicle.

Even when your policies offer protection, you may want to consider rental insurance:

• If your personal policy has high deductibles or low limits
• When traveling for business (which is not covered by your personal policy)
• When traveling outside the U.S. and Canada, where your personal policy typically does not apply
• To avoid involving your personal policy or paying for damages out-of-pocket before receiving your personal policy reimbursement.

Working with Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc.

The Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. team is here to answer your questions about the auto insurance process. Call or visit us in Ft. Worth, TX, or use our online rating tool to receive an auto insurance quote.