Expect The Unexpected On The Road In Texas

Experienced long-distance travelers are common in our expansive state, and they’ll all tell you that there’s something out there that’s waiting for you. It could be a great restaurant in a small town or a blown-out truck tire on the road ahead of you. The more you’re prepared for life’s unexpected long-distance drive situations, the easier it is to make them just memories. At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX, we help with insurance coverage designed to be prepared when you can’t be.

Carry Good Insurance Coverage For Experienced Support, Not Just Costs

Those who have had an accident on the road may have experienced the struggles of resolving claims in far-flung jurisdictions. The right selection of policy coverages ensures you won’t have to win battles from far away. Additional coverages such as roadside assistance help ensure you’ve got quick access to resources like flat tire help, fuel, lockouts, and towing, even if you don’t know the area.

Long Distance Driving Is A Bit Like Camping

When you hit the road in Texas, it’s good to be prepared with everything you need to survive, even if your car is stuck or damaged. Hot weather can make emergencies out of inconveniences, and no AC in your vehicle can be a critical issue. Cell phone communication is a must to access help, get information, and let friends and relatives know where you are. Did you know that when coverage is spotty along your route, you can rent a satellite phone or text message communicator too? At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX, we’re here for you when you reach out!

The Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. agents, serving the Ft. Worth, TX area, stress the importance of auto insurance for all drivers. In Texas, it is the law that everyone must pay for any accident they are involved in. Most people do this through auto liability insurance policies since people without insurance can be fined up to $1000 and possibly have their vehicle impounded. Their driving privileges are suspended for up to two years.

In addition to a liability insurance policy, it is a good idea for vehicle owners to have other types of auto insurance coverage too.

Auto Insurance Coverage Options

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

While it is not required for drivers to have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, it is a great idea to have it. You never know when you will become involved in a crash with a driver without a policy or inadequate insurance.

Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage

Comprehensive auto insurance coverage is essential since it will help you repair or replace your vehicle if it is destroyed or damaged. You never know when something may happen, such as a natural disaster, an act of vandalism, or even a fire that can damage or destroy your beloved car, truck, or SUV. It will even help you recoup some of your losses if your vehicle is stolen.

Collison Insurance

Collision insurance is also vital to help you pay for any damage caused if you collide with a vehicle or a stationary object.

A lender typically requires both collision and comprehensive auto insurance. If you still owe money for the car you are driving, you should already have these types of auto insurance coverage options.

Contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc.

To create a great auto insurance policy for you and your lifestyle, call upon the experienced auto insurance agents at the Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., serving the Ft. Worth, TX area, today to get your policy started!

Are you a licensed driver in Ft. Worth, TX? If so, make sure you have enough auto insurance. See Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. for the protection you need while driving.

Are you wondering why you need this insurance as a careful driver? An accident can happen to anyone at any time. Car insurance offers financial protection against costs associated with an accident if you are liable. This includes legal fees, the injured party’s medical costs, or their lost wages if their injuries leave them unable to work. The liability coverage will help pay for these expenses.

The most important coverage to consider is your state’s minimum liability and property damage coverage. It is vital that you maintain car insurance to keep yourself legally able to drive. Without it, you risk hefty fines or losing your driving privileges.

Car insurance is mandatory in 48 out of 50 states. Only New Hampshire and Virginia do not require it. However, this coverage is essential regardless of your location. If you are found liable in an accident, any associated costs you will be responsible for will need to be paid out-of-pocket. Unless you have a significant amount of savings at your disposal, you could face financial ruin.

By requiring auto insurance in most states, the laws protect drivers involved in traffic accidents they are not responsible for. The laws ensure that every driver who could be responsible for an accident has enough insurance to cover a minimum amount of expense for any injury sustained or any resulting damage. This way, state-mandated car insurance ensures that drivers are held accountable for any risks associated with driving a vehicle.

So, if you live in or near Ft. Worth, TX area, Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. can provide a quote or answer any questions regarding this vital coverage. Contact our office today.

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. wants to ensure our Ft. Worth, TX customers are prepared for what may come, so we’ve created a basic overview of what to expect from an auto claim. 

You’ll Need to Talk to the Insurer

1. Call the insurance companies as soon as possible to file a claim. You may be able to file online or via the insurer’s app. 
2. Answer the phone when the insurer calls. The faster you complete the interview, the quicker they can approve your claim.
3. Be honest. Resist the urge to spin the truth, processors use multiple methods of investigation, and it will delay the decision if they have conflicting accounts. 

You’ll Need to Have an Inspection 

1. Follow the insurer’s inspection process. 
2. For simple accidents, they may provide an app that allows you to take necessary photographs for rapid claim approval. 
3. Do not take your car to your mechanic unless you know the insurer works with them. Insurers must pay out fair market value and typically work with vetted inspectors. 
4. If you are a claimant – you will pay nothing out of pocket and be able to pick up a rental while your car is being repaired.
5. If you are the responsible party – your repairs will require a deductible owed when you go to pick up your car. 
6. Prior damage and mechanical wear & tear will not be covered. ‘Betterment’ applies to damaged tires, meaning you’ll only get a percentage of the replacement cost unless the tires are brand new. 

There May Be Supplements

Once repairs start, the shop may find additional damages not visible on the surface. Don’t fret. They will send a supplemental invoice to the insurer, and as long as it’s reasonably related to the claim, the insurer will pay the shop directly. 

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. is here for our Ft. Worth, TX clients. Call us if you have any questions, and we’ll ensure you are prepared for what life brings. 

Anyone who has ever been in a car accident knows that it is a stressful and often traumatizing experience. In the aftermath of an accident, the last thing you want to deal with is dealing with your insurance company. However, the claims process can be much less stressful if you understand your auto insurance policy. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your auto insurance policy.

1. Know Your Coverage

The first step in getting the most out of your auto insurance policy is to understand what your policy covers. Some policies will cover damage to your vehicle, medical expenses, and liability. However, there may be some coverage that you are not aware of. For example, some policies also cover rental cars if your vehicle is damaged in an accident. It is important to understand all the coverage available to you so that you can make the best decision for your needs.

2. Shop Around

Shopping around is the next tip for getting the most out of your auto insurance policy. There are many different insurance companies out there, and they all offer different rates. Shopping around can help you find the best rate for your needs. It is important to remember that the cheapest policy is not always the best policy. Make sure you compare coverage and rates before you make a decision.

3. Ask Questions

Never decide on your auto insurance without first asking questions. Ask your agent or insurance company for clarification if you do not understand something. You must understand all of the terms and conditions of your policy before you agree to anything.

4. Review Your Policy Annually

Your needs will change, and so will your auto insurance policy. It is important to review your policy annually to ensure that it still meets your needs. If you have moved, gotten a new car, or had any other significant changes in your life, be sure to update your policy.

If you follow these tips, you will be well on your way to getting the most out of your auto insurance policy. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX can help you find the right policy for your needs and ensure you get the best coverage possible. Give us a call today to get started.

Buying a car is an exhilarating experience and a substantial financial commitment. However, before you can enjoy the thrill of owning a car, you are required by law in 48 states (except New Hampshire and Virginia) in the United States to have some minimum auto insurance to drive a vehicle on public roads. As a resident of Ft. Worth, TX, you might be wondering – what is the minimum amount of car insurance in this state? Here is what to know;

Minimum Car Insurance Amount in Texas

Texas legislation requires all drivers to have adequate insurance for their vehicles. According to the state’s law, adequate car insurance means coverage of at least $30,000 for every injured person and not less than $60,000 per accident. Moreover, drivers in Texas must have property damage coverage of not less than $25,000. In the insurance and legal circles, the Texas minimum auto insurance requirements are defined as 30/60/25 in shorthand.

Unlike several other states, Texas doesn’t require its drivers to be insured against uninsured and underinsured drivers. Keep in mind that you are required by Texas state law to produce proof of insurance at the request of a police officer. 

Is Minimum Insurance Sufficient?

At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., we advise against settling for the state’s minimum car insurance requirements because it doesn’t provide sufficient coverage. Firstly, if you only have minimum insurance and get into an accident and damage your vehicle, you will have to pay out of pocket to repair it. Additionally, if the accident results in property damage exceeding $25,000, you have to pay for the extra damages out of pocket. Moreover, minimum vehicle insurance in Texas doesn’t protect against theft. You will need additional coverage like liability coverage, collision coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to have excellent car insurance protection.

Call Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. for more info on car insurance in Ft. Worth, TX.

Even if you are an experienced motorist, buying car insurance is never fun. There is a lot to figure out about car insurance. While purchasing car insurance can be intimidating, there are pitfalls you can avoid to get the most out of your coverage. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. of Ft. Worth, TX, has listed important things you should know about car insurance.

Failing to understand your policy

It’s a big mistake failing to understand your policy. It’s best to understand the ins and outs of your policy to avoid surprises when filing a claim. Understand the risks covered by your policy. Likewise, get to know what isn’t covered by your policy.

Read your policy to understand what it covers, exclusions, and limitations. Equally, talk to your insurance agent to know more about your policy.

Lying about the personal information

When your records aren’t right, there is always the urge to falsify things here and there. The reality is that you will be found, at least when filing a claim. When the insurance underwriters do a background check and realize that speeding ticket or the fact that you are not a student, you will pay for your lies by paying high premiums.

Sticking to the state-minimums

You will pay less premiums by adhering to basic car insurance, but you will pay dearly when involved in a significant accident. Basic car insurance can only do so much when faced with significant liability claims or when your car is written off.

Being lazy in research

When looking for any insurance, including car insurance, you don’t fall for the first offer you receive. Carry out basic research and compare offers from different insurance companies. Don’t be tempted to sign up for the first service you find.

Need more guidance on auto insurance? Please contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. in Ft. Worth, TX for all your car insurance needs.

Getting in an accident can be stressful. Yet, having a plan helps.

Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. knows the value of being prepared. Serving Ft. Worth, TX, the agency shares seven steps to follow immediately after an automobile accident.

Stay calm

It sounds simple, but an accident is already a highly-charged situation. No need to make it worse by worrying. Focus on the plan you’ve created.

Check for injuries

Personal safety should be a chief concern. Determine immediately if you, another driver, or any passengers are injured. If so, call 911. Avoid moving them and wait for emergency personnel to arrive.

Move vehicle safely

If possible, pull your vehicle to an area that doesn’t impede traffic. Turn on your hazard lights. Again, do not move or get out if it’s unsafe or there is an injury present.

Call the police

Even if not required, notifying the police helps protect your interests. Having a report may speed up the claims process. 

Exchange information

You’ll want to collect some basic facts. Talk to the other driver to get their name, driver’s license, and any insurance information. Also, write down the other car’s make, model, and license plate number.

Document the accident 

Record the accident’s time and location too. Photos and video are encouraged to accurately capture any damage. If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information as well.

Report the incident

Call your insurance agent right away. Doing this while still at the scene is preferred. If you can, they can walk you through the process and make sure you’ve gathered everything you need.

Call Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. today

These professionals offer more than just auto insurance to the Ft. Worth, TX area. If an accident does occur, their agents are only a phone call away.

If you have never thought about it, the smaller things such as buckling your seatbelt save thousands of lives every day. Apart from safety belts, there exist many safety features in cars to help prevent road accidents or injuries.  Every day, cars are fitted with new technologies to improve safety, such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and backup cameras. If it’s your first time buying a car in Ft. Worth, TX or looking to buy a safety-enhanced car for your teenager, here are a few benefits of different safety features.

Save lives

The main reason manufacturers work so hard to improve safety features in cars is to save lives. It doesn’t matter if it’s yours, your passengers or other motorists. Every safety feature is designed to save a life somewhere. The last thing you want is to deal with a series of lawsuits for deaths you caused to other people. The entire process is not only financially overwhelming but also emotionally draining. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., however, recommends having enough auto insurance to cover such incidents.

Prevent severity of injuries

If you’re involved in an accident, the chances are that you will escape with bruises, fractured legs or arms, or severe head injuries, depending on the nature of the accident. Most cars in Ft. Worth, TX have basic features that help prevent or reduce injury severity, such as airbags that protect the head from hitting the windshield or the dashboard.

Prevent crashes or collisions

Safety features like a forward-collision warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) brake assist, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning are all great features that help prevent collisions. They help stop or slow the car down whenever you exceed the required speed or get too close to another car.

 At Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc., we care about your safety, and that’s why we recommend checking and learning how each safety feature in your car works to use it properly when the need arises. Please feel free to check out our website or call to book an appointment with us today.

Insurance fraud causes insurance companies a significant amount of money. However, the ripple effect is that insurance customers are affected as policy costs can be increased. At one point or another, Ft. Worth, TX residents have fallen victim to an insurance fraud crime. Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. takes you through the different types of insurance fraud that happen.

Staged Accidents

Some drivers intentionally cause a collision with another vehicle to receive a fraudulent insurance payout. In such cases, you will find the other unsuspecting driver being faulted for an accident they had no hand in. If you ever suspect that you are being set up, document the accident and the extent of the damage. Also, be careful of people too eager to help and even offer towing services.

Vehicle Dumping

A driver will dispose of their vehicle in such a case, whether it is dumping it in a lake or burning it. On certain occasions, some drivers have sold their cars and claimed they were stolen. When this happens, an insurance company is expected to pay the driver through an insurance settlement to replace the vehicle stolen.

Exaggerated Costs of Repair After an Accident

Dishonest mechanics usually do this type of fraud. Some mechanics will use used parts to repair your car when you take it to the repair shop after an accident. However, they would send a bill to an insurance company suggesting they use new parts and the job took longer than it did. This type of fraud is committed for financial gain.

Faulty Airbag Replacement

This type of fraud occurs when a mechanic does not replace airbags after an accident. At times, repair shops will use salvaged airbags instead of replacing them with new ones. The mechanics will then bill the insurance company for new airbags to benefit them financially.

If you reside in Ft. Worth, TX, and want to learn more about auto insurance fraud, contact Main Street Independent Insurance Agencies Inc. We are ready to help you avoid becoming a victim of insurance fraud.