Boat Insurance: Protecting Your Watercraft and Your Family

Posted on June 5, 2023May 20, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Boat Insurance | Click here to start a quote today!

Boating is a popular pastime for many families and friends, whether it’s cruising on a lake or sailing on the ocean. However, owning a boat comes with its own set of risks and responsibilities. That’s where boat insurance comes in. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of boat insurance, the different types of coverage available, and how to get a boat insurance quote.

What is Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance, also known as marine insurance, is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for your watercraft and its passengers. It protects you financially in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your boat. Boat insurance can also cover liability, medical expenses, and other related costs.

Why Do You Need Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance is not only important for protecting your investment, but also for protecting your family and friends who may be on board. Accidents can happen on the water just as easily as they can on land, and the consequences can be just as severe. Without boat insurance, you could be held liable for damages or injuries caused by your boat.

In addition, many marinas and waterways require proof of insurance before allowing you to dock or launch your boat. Without insurance, you may not be able to use your boat in certain areas.

What Does Boat Insurance Cover?

Boat insurance policies can vary depending on the type of coverage you choose. Here are some of the most common types of coverage:

1. Liability Coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you are found to be at fault for an accident on the water. It can cover damages to other boats, property, or injuries to other people.

2. Collision Coverage: This type of coverage pays for damages to your boat if it collides with another boat or object.

3. Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage covers damages to your boat that are not caused by a collision, such as theft, fire, or vandalism.

4. Medical Payments Coverage: This type of coverage pays for medical expenses for you and your passengers if you are injured in an accident on the water.

5. Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you are in an accident with another boater who does not have insurance or does not have enough insurance to cover the damages.

6. Yacht Insurance: Yacht insurance is a type of boat insurance that is specifically designed for larger, more expensive boats. It provides higher limits of coverage and additional features such as crew coverage and emergency towing.

How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost?

The cost of boat insurance can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of boat, its value, and the coverage you choose. Generally, the larger and more expensive the boat, the more expensive the insurance will be. However, there are ways to lower your boat insurance cost, such as taking a boating safety course, installing safety equipment on your boat, and choosing a higher deductible.

How to Get a Quote

If you’re in the market for boat insurance, the first step is to contact an insurance agency that specializes in boat insurance. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 companies and can help you find the best coverage for your needs. To get a boat insurance quote, simply call Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 or visit their website to fill out a quote request form.

In conclusion, boat insurance is an important investment for any boat owner. It not only protects your boat but also your family and friends who may be on board. With the right coverage, you can enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind. Contact Shield Insurance Agency today to get a boat insurance quote and start protecting your watercraft and your loved ones.

More great blogs by Shield Insurance Agency.

Flood Insurance: Protecting Your Home and Family

Posted on May 31, 2023May 15, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Flood Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

As a homeowner, you know that your home is one of the most important investments
you will ever make. It is where you and your family live, where you create memories, and
where you feel safe and secure. However, your home is also vulnerable to natural
disasters such as flooding, which can cause significant damage and financial loss. That
is why it is essential to have flood insurance as part of your home insurance policy.
Home Insurance Flooding

Many homeowners assume that their home insurance policy covers flooding, but this is
not always the case. Most standard home insurance policies do not cover flood
damage, which means that if your home is damaged by flooding, you will have to pay for
the repairs out of your own pocket. This can be a significant financial burden, especially
if the damage is extensive.

Rain Storms

Rain storms can cause significant flooding, even in areas that are not considered
high-risk flood zones. It is important to remember that flood insurance covers damage
caused by any type of flooding, not just from rivers and lakes. This means that even if
your home is not located near a body of water, you may still be at risk for flooding during
a rainstorm.

Home Flood Insurance Quote

To protect your home and family from the financial impact of flooding, you need to have
flood insurance. Flood insurance is a separate policy that covers damage caused by
flooding. It is important to note that flood insurance is not included in your standard
home insurance policy, and you will need to purchase it separately.

Home and Flood Insurance

Flood insurance can be purchased as a standalone policy or as an add-on to your
existing home insurance policy. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it is
recommended that you purchase flood insurance as an add-on to your home insurance
policy. This will ensure that you have comprehensive coverage for all types of damage,
including flooding.

Homeowners Insurance with Flood Coverage

If you are purchasing a new home, it is important to consider flood insurance as part of
your home insurance policy. Many mortgage lenders require homeowners to have flood
insurance if they live in a high-risk flood zone. Even if you do not live in a high-risk flood
zone, it is still a good idea to have flood insurance to protect your home and family from
unexpected flooding.

Flood Insurance Quote

If you are interested in purchasing flood insurance, it is important to get a quote from a
reputable insurance agency. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance
companies, which means that we can provide you with a variety of options for flood
insurance coverage. Our experienced agents can help you find the right policy to meet
your needs and budget.

Protection for Your Family and Home

Flood insurance provides protection for your family and home in the event of a flood. It
can cover damage to your home, personal belongings, and even living expenses if you
are forced to evacuate your home due to flooding. This can provide peace of mind
knowing that you and your family are protected in the event of a natural disaster.

Shield Insurance Agency Represents Over 40 Insurance Companies

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of protecting your home and
family from unexpected events such as flooding. That is why we represent over 40
insurance companies, so we can provide you with a variety of options for flood
insurance coverage. Our experienced agents can help you find the right policy to meet
your needs and budget.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a Free Quote Today
If you are interested in purchasing flood insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency
today for a free quote. Our experienced agents can help you find the right policy to meet
your needs and budget. Protect your home and family from the financial impact of
flooding with flood insurance from Shield Insurance Agency.

Look here for more blogs from Shield Insurance Agency

Event Insurance for those Special Occasions

Posted on May 26, 2023May 15, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Event Insurance | Start a Quote here!

Planning an event can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to ensuring that everything
runs smoothly and safely. One of the most important aspects of event planning is obtaining the
right insurance coverage. Event insurance is designed to protect you and your guests from any
unforeseen accidents or incidents that may occur during the event. In this blog post, we will
discuss the different types of event insurance available, including event general liability
insurance, one-day event insurance, and special event insurance.

Event General Liability Insurance

Event general liability insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for bodily injury
and property damage that may occur during an event. This type of insurance is essential for any
event, as accidents can happen at any time. For example, if a guest slips and falls on a wet
floor, event general liability insurance would cover any medical expenses or legal fees that may
arise from the incident.

Cheapest One-Day Event Insurance

If you are planning a one-day event, such as a birthday party or a small wedding, you may be
looking for the cheapest one-day event insurance available. One-day event insurance is
designed to provide coverage for a single day and is typically less expensive than other types of
event insurance. However, it is important to note that the cheapest one-day event insurance
may not provide the same level of coverage as other types of insurance. It is important to carefully review the policy and ensure that it provides adequate coverage for your event.

Best Event Insurance

When it comes to finding the best event insurance, there are a few factors to consider. First, you
will want to ensure that the insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your event. This
may include coverage for bodily injury, property damage, and other types of incidents that may
occur during the event. Additionally, you will want to consider the cost of the insurance policy, as
well as the reputation of the insurance provider. It is important to choose an insurance provider
that has a strong track record of providing quality coverage and excellent customer service.

1 Day Event Insurance

As mentioned earlier, one-day event insurance is designed to provide coverage for a single day.
This type of insurance is ideal for small events, such as birthday parties, family reunions, and
other gatherings. One-day event insurance typically provides coverage for bodily injury, property
damage, and other types of incidents that may occur during the event. It is important to carefully
review the policy and ensure that it provides adequate coverage for your event.

Special Event Insurance

Special event insurance is designed to provide coverage for larger events, such as concerts,
festivals, and other large gatherings. This type of insurance typically provides coverage for
bodily injury, property damage, and other types of incidents that may occur during the event.
Special event insurance may also provide coverage for cancellation or postponement of the
event due to unforeseen circumstances, such as severe weather or a natural disaster.

Event Liability Insurance
Event liability insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for liability claims that may
arise from an event. This type of insurance is essential for any event, as accidents can happen
at any time. For example, if a guest is injured during the event and files a lawsuit against the
event organizer, event liability insurance would cover any legal fees or damages that may arise
from the lawsuit.

Shield Insurance Agency Represents Over 40 Insurance Companies
If you are in need of event insurance, it is important to choose an insurance provider that has a
strong track record of providing quality coverage and excellent customer service. Shield
Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right
insurance policy for your event. Our experienced agents can help you navigate the complex
world of event insurance, and ensure that you have the coverage you need to protect yourself
and your guests.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a Free Quote Today
If you are in need of event insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a
free quote today. Our experienced agents can help you find the right insurance policy for your
event, and ensure that you have the coverage you need to protect yourself and your guests.
Don’t leave the safety of your event to chance – contact Shield Insurance Agency today and get
the coverage you need.

Learn About the Federal No Surprises Act

Posted on May 25, 2023May 23, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Federal No Surprises Act | Health Insurance | No Surprises | Contact Brianna for assistance

Transparency in Health Care

In October 2020, the federal government issued the “transparency in coverage” final rule under the Federal No Surprises Act. The rule provides protection against balance or “surprise” billing under certain circumstances, and phases in new transparency requirements on most group health plans and health insurers. The purpose of the requirements is to enable consumers to make informed healthcare purchasing decisions.

What is “balance billing” (sometimes called “billing surprises”)?

When you see a doctor or other health care provider, you may owe certain out-of-pocket costs, such as a copayment, coinsurance, and/or a deductible. You may have other costs or have to pay the entire bill if you see a provider or visit a healthcare facility that isn’t in your health plan’s network.

Nonparticipating describes providers and facilities that haven’t signed a contract with your health plan. Nonparticipating providers may be permitted to bill you for the difference between what your plan agreed to pay and the full amount charged for a service. This is called balance billing. This amount is likely more than in-network costs for the same service and might not count toward your annual out-of-pocket limit.

Surprise billing is an unexpected balance bill. This can happen when you can’t control who is involved in your care, such as when you have an emergency or schedule a visit at a participating facility but are unexpectedly treated by a nonparticipating provider.

Your rights and protections against Surprises

When you get emergency care or get treated by a nonparticipating provider at a participating hospital or ambulatory surgical center, you are protected from balance or surprise billing.
Services you are protected from balance billing for:

Emergency services

If you have an emergency medical condition and get emergency services from a nonparticipating provider or facility, the most the provider or facility may bill you is your plan’s in-network out-of-pocket amount, such as copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. You can’t be balance billed for these emergency services. This includes services you may get after you’re in stable condition unless you give written consent and give up your protections not to be balanced billed for these post-stabilization services.

Michigan law also protects you from balance billing and requires that you pay only your in-network cost-sharing amounts for (i) covered emergency services provided by an out-of-network provider at an in-network facility or out-of-network facility; (ii) covered nonemergency services provided by an out-of-network provider at an in-network facility if you do not have the ability or opportunity to choose an in-network provider; and (iii) any healthcare services you receive at an in-network facility from an out-of-network provider within 72 hours of receiving services from that facility’s emergency room.

Certain services at a participating hospital or ambulatory surgical center

Learn more on how this works…

Visit http://www.cms.gov/nosurprises for more information about your rights under federal law.

Visit http://michigan.gov/difs for more information about your rights under Michigan law.

How to pick the right pet insurance for your pet

Posted on May 19, 2023May 10, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 10 2023 | Pet Insurance | Start a Quote today!

As pet owners, we all want to ensure that our furry friends are healthy and happy. However, accidents and illnesses can happen, and veterinary bills can quickly add up. This is where pet insurance comes in. Pet insurance can help cover the cost of unexpected veterinary expenses, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that your pet receives the care they need. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of pet insurance and how to pick the right insurance for your pet.

There are several types of pet insurance available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are the most common types of pet insurance:

1. Accident-Only Insurance: This type of insurance covers your pet in the event of an accident, such as a broken bone or a bite wound. It does not cover illnesses or routine care.

2. Time-Limited Insurance: This type of insurance covers your pet for a set period, usually 12 months, for both accidents and illnesses. After the policy expires, any conditions that your pet developed during that time will no longer be covered.

3. Maximum Benefit Insurance: This type of insurance covers your pet up to a certain amount, usually between $5,000 and $15,000. Once that limit is reached, the policy will no longer cover any further expenses.

4. Lifetime Insurance: This type of insurance covers your pet for its entire life, as long as you continue to pay the premiums. It usually has a higher premium than other types of insurance but provides the most comprehensive coverage.

Now that you know the different types of pet insurance, how do you pick the right one for your pet? Here are some factors to consider:

1. Your Pet’s Age and Breed: Some breeds are more prone to certain health conditions than others. For example, bulldogs are prone to respiratory problems, while German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia. If you have a purebred dog, it’s a good idea to research their breed’s common health issues and choose a policy that covers those conditions. Additionally, some policies may have age restrictions, so make sure to check if your pet is eligible.

2. Your Budget: Pet insurance premiums can vary widely depending on the type of policy and the coverage level. Consider how much you can afford to pay each month and how much you’re willing to pay out of pocket for veterinary expenses.

3. Coverage Limits: Make sure to read the policy carefully and understand what is covered and what is not. Some policies may have exclusions for pre-existing conditions or certain treatments. Additionally, some policies may have annual or lifetime coverage limits, so make sure to choose a policy that provides enough coverage for your pet’s needs.

4. Customer Service: When choosing a pet insurance provider, it’s important to consider their customer service. Look for a provider that has a good reputation for responding quickly to claims and providing excellent customer service.

5. Additional Benefits: Some pet insurance policies may offer additional benefits, such as coverage for alternative therapies or behavioral training. Consider whether these benefits are important to you and your pet.

If you’re looking for pet insurance, consider contacting Shield Insurance at (616) 896-4600. Shield Insurance offers a variety of pet insurance policies to fit your needs and budget. Their policies cover accidents, illnesses, and routine care. Additionally, Shield Insurance has a reputation for excellent customer service and quick claims processing.

In conclusion, pet insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection for unexpected veterinary expenses. When choosing a policy, consider your pet’s age and breed, your budget, coverage limits, customer service, and additional benefits. Contact Shield Insurance at (616) 896-4600 to learn more about their pet insurance policies and find the right coverage for your furry friend.

More interesting blogs from Shield Insurance Agency

Do I Need Renter’s Insurance?

Posted on May 19, 2023June 8, 2023 by admin

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Renter’s Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

At Shield Insurance Agency in Michigan, we hear the question, “Do I need renter’s insurance?” often. In most cases, the answer is yes, but it’s important to understand the details. Answering these questions can help you determine if you need renter’s insurance.

First, let’s talk about the different types of rental insurance. The most common type is apartment insurance, which covers your personal belongings in case of theft, fire, or other damage. This type of insurance also includes renters liability insurance, which protects you if someone is injured in your apartment and sues you for damages. Another type of rental insurance is loss of use coverage, which pays for temporary housing if your apartment becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.

Does Your Landlord Require Renter’s Insurance?

Some landlords require their tenants to have renter’s insurance. This provides protection for you, as well as potential liability protection for the landlord.

If your landlord doesn’t require a renter’s policy as part of your rental agreement, it’s still a good idea.

Can You Afford to Replace Your Belongings?

You may think that you don’t have any valuables. However, even inexpensive items can add up quickly. Consider your furniture, clothing, and any important items like jewelry or electronics.

What would happen if your personal property was damaged? Do you have the financial resources to replace your items? If you can’t afford to repurchase these items, a renter’s policy is important.

Can You Afford a Hotel and Living Expenses?

Most renter’s policies will cover accommodations and living expenses if you have to leave your home due to a covered event. If you are concerned that you don’t have the emergency funds to cover this situation, a renter’s policy can provide needed peace of mind.

Do You Need Liability Protection with Renter’s Insurance

If someone is injured in your home or their property is damaged, you can be liable for the damages. This can put a strain on you financially and even jeopardize your future.

A renter’s policy provides coverage if you have you are held responsible for a liability claim.

Reach Out To Us

If you need renter’s insurance in Michigan, contact Shield Insurance Agency. We offer renter’s insurance policies, as well as homeowners, auto insurance, and more to meet all your insurance needs.

Five Parts of an Insurance Policy

Posted on May 17, 2023May 10, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 19, 2023 | Insurance | Start a quote today!

Insurance policies can be complex and confusing, but understanding the different parts of a policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. In this blog post, we will discuss the five parts of an insurance policy: premium, deductible, policy limits, exclusions, and riders.

1. Premium: The premium is the amount you pay for your insurance coverage. It is typically paid on a monthly or annual basis and is based on several factors, including your age, location, and the type of coverage you need. The premium is the cost of your insurance policy, and it is important to choose a premium that fits your budget.

2. Deductible: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car is damaged in an accident that costs $1,000 to repair, you will pay $500, and your insurance company will pay the remaining $500. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you will pay more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

3. Policy Limits: Policy limits are the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for a covered loss. For example, if you have a $100,000 policy limit for liability coverage and you are sued for $150,000, you will be responsible for paying the remaining $50,000. It is important to choose policy limits that are high enough to protect your assets in the event of a lawsuit.

4. Exclusions: Exclusions are specific situations or events that are not covered by your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that excludes flood damage, you will not be covered if your home is damaged by a flood. It is important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and is not covered.

5. Riders – Additional coverage and options: Riders are additional coverage options that you can add to your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that does not cover earthquake damage, you can add an earthquake rider to your policy for an additional cost. Riders can provide additional protection for specific situations that are not covered by your standard policy.

Does Your Insurance Meet Your Needs?

Understanding the different parts of an insurance policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. It is important to review your policy regularly and make changes as needed to ensure that your coverage meets your current needs. If you have questions about your insurance policy or need help choosing the right coverage, contact your insurance agent for assistance.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we are committed to helping our clients find the right insurance coverage for their needs. Our experienced agents can help you understand the different parts of your insurance policy and make sure that you have the coverage you need to protect your assets and your family. Contact us today to learn more about our insurance products and services.

Fireplace Safety Tips

Posted on May 10, 2023May 3, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Foremost Blog | August 26, 2021 | Fireplace Safety | Home Insurance | Start a quote today!

As the weather gets colder and your fireplace becomes more than a decorative focal point, be sure it’s up for the task of keeping your family warm and toasty – and safe. Our list will help you keep track of proper maintenance and make sure your fireplace is ready for regular use this winter.

Inspect the fireplace and chimney

Have a professional inspect and clean your fireplace and chimney each year before you begin using it for the season. If you’re using a gas or wood fireplace, open the chimney flue prior to starting the fire to let fresh air feed the flames and allow smoke to exit. Close the flue once the fire is put out.

It’s also important to keep the area surrounding the fireplace free from flammable objects. Be extra cautious of this during the holidays. Keep decorations and stockings a safe distance away from a fire and don’t ever use your fireplace to burn Christmas trees or wrapping paper. Pine boughs and paper burn intensely and can lead to a roof or chimney fire.

Gas fireplace safety tips

Gas fireplaces are exceedingly popular for their efficiency and cleaner burning properties. Enjoy them safely by acknowledging the following safety conditions:

Know your clearance zone. Many gas fireplaces have technology that makes it safe to place electronics and décor near the fireplace or on the mantle. However, certain items should never be placed within your fireplace’s clearance zone. These items include paper items like books, newspapers, and magazines; fabrics, like blankets or drapes; and wood.

Proper ventilation is key. Natural gas and carbon monoxide can kill. Make sure your flue and vents are all functioning properly.

Maintain your safety barrier. Whether it’s glass or metal, keep your safety screen in excellent condition. This will prevent flames or burning material from getting out of your fireplace, and keep flammable items from getting in.

Electric fireplace safety tips

Electric fireplaces make it possible to have a fireplace in a location that wouldn’t normally be able to fit one. The flame isn’t real, but that doesn’t mean they are without risk. As a source of heat, an electric fireplace should always be treated with care. In addition to maintaining the clearance zone discussed above, observe the following safety tips when using an electric fireplace.

Use proper cords. Many companies do not recommend using extension cords for electric fireplaces. Some will allow grounded, heavy-duty cords that are the appropriate gauge and wattage rating. Make sure to follow your manufacturer’s specific guidelines to ensure your safety.

Plug into an appropriate socket. An electric fireplace is essentially a forced air heater, and it is subject to the restrictions of a standard household socket, wiring, and fuse box. Be sure not to draw more power from your socket than it can handle, or else you run the risk of starting a real fire.

Wood fireplace safety tips

Replaced by more efficient, cleaner, and safer options, wood fireplaces are less popular than they have been in the past. However, it’s difficult to deny the ambiance of a crackling fire with real burning wood.

Consider what type of fire you want so that you can select the right type of wood. If the fire is more for aesthetics, lighter wood or a synthetic log are good choices. If your fireplace is being used for heat, oak or ash may be a better fit, since they’re heavier and burn hotter.

Avoid using wood from recently cut trees. They contain high levels of moisture, which can lead to more smoke and deposits forming inside the chimney.
Synthetic logs can burn unevenly, so be careful when using them. Even though they’re not real wood, the flue should still be open for proper ventilation as they still produce carbon monoxide.
Wood should be seasoned and dry – appear darker, have cracks at the ends, and will sound hollow when hit against another piece of wood.
Have a metal container handy when removing and storing hot ashes. Store it outside at a safe distance from your home, since embers and ashes can stay hot for a while.
Start your fire with newspaper, dry kindling, or organic fire starters. Never use gasoline, kerosene or charcoal starter.
Use a stainless steel liner to help keep the fire and ashes contained.
Install heat-proof glass doors to keep live embers from escaping the fireplace.
Look for signs of creosote and soot buildup. Creosote is a dark substance that can accumulate if the wood isn’t burning completely. It’s a highly flammable fuel and can burn at about 2000°F. Soot, which can also be flammable, is softer than creosote. Both should be cleaned out of the chimney regularly.

With these fireplace tips, you can help ensure that a cozy fire will be a safe and welcome addition to a chilly winter season.

How to Prevent Car Theft

Posted on May 8, 2023April 24, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Nationwide | April 20, 2023 | Car Theft | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

How common is car theft? According to estimates from the National Insurance Crime Bureau, there were more than 745,000 motor vehicle thefts in the first nine months of 2022 in the U.S. [1] [2] And when citizens are targeted in the most potentially dangerous of these crimes – carjacking – the attacker succeeds in roughly half of all attempts, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

To find out how to prevent carjacking and car theft, read on.

1. Don’t leave valuables in your car

You don’t display your cash, financial statements, and jewelry in your home’s windows, do you? So why would you do the same in your car? Instead, hide any valuables, including purses, computer bags, and the ignition key. You’d be surprised how often people don’t.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, between 2019 and 2022, more than 100,000 reported vehicle thefts were facilitated by keys, including situations where keys were left inside the vehicle. [3] One-fourth left a purse or wallet inside, and one-third have left bank statements. In addition, one-third say they’ve kept their vehicle running while unoccupied.

2. Park in a well-lit area to prevent car theft

Not everyone has a garage. But many have the option of parking on a well-lit street – another deterrent for crooks. Also, etch the vehicle identification number on windows to discourage thieves from stealing the vehicle and selling it to a chop shop.

3. Lock your vehicle doors to prevent car theft

The minute you step into an automobile, you’re vulnerable. So lock up right away, before starting the ignition or setting up your music, GPS, etc. (Buckling up is the second “to do.”)

4. Don’t leave your keys in the car to prevent car theft

“It’ll just be for a second, I’m only running into the store for a couple of things.”

Unfortunately, “a second” is all a thief will need if you leave the keys in the car for them. So always take your keys with you no matter where or how briefly you’ll be out of your vehicle. It sounds obvious, but this is one of the most important ways to prevent car theft.

5. Stay alert

Staying alert is the best example of how to prevent carjacking. When stopped or slowed down, you increase the opportunity for a carjacker. So at traffic lights, exercise caution. “When stopped in traffic, leave enough space to move forward,” says Brent O’Bryan, vice president of learning and development for AlliedBarton Security Services, a physical security firm. [4]

6. Know where you’re going

Just as you want to stay in well-lit areas while parking, you don’t want to “hide” in the darkness while driving. “Don’t head into remote or unfamiliar areas,” O’Bryan says. “If you feel like you’re being followed, don’t drive home. Don’t park next to a vehicle such as a van which could be hiding a suspect.” [4]

7. Install an anti-theft system

If someone tries to break into your car, you’ll want to make it apparent to anyone in earshot that this has occurred. Anti-theft systems emit loud alarms when they detect forced entry into your vehicle, alerting anyone nearby and potentially scaring the would-be thief from sticking around. You can also install a GPS tracking system that will show the location of your vehicle if the thief successfully makes off with it.

Having an anti-theft device in your vehicle may earn you a discount on your car insurance.

8. Stay cool during a crisis

Even if you take every precaution, you could still get involved in carjacking. If so, your and your passengers’ safety remains the top priority. Stay calm – if you panic, it’s more likely a criminal will too. “Never argue; give up your car,” O’Bryan says. “Get away from the area as quickly as possible. Note the suspect’s appearance, and immediately report it to the police.” [4]

Most commonly stolen cars

You might expect thieves to go for the glitziest, most expensive-looking cars they can find, but the trouble with those vehicles is that they stand out in a crowd. No car thief wants to be seen after they make their getaway, so the most commonly stolen cars are some of the most widely owned models. Ford F-series pickup trucks and Honda Civics have been US frequently targeted for this precise reason. In 2021, cars like Civics were also popular because they share parts with other Hondas, making them valuable for stripping and selling. [5]

More recently, in a 2022 HLDI study, 2019-2021 models of Dodge Chargers topped the charts for most stolen vehicles. [6]

What cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft?

Certain vehicles are also being singled out to steal their catalytic converters. Hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius use expensive metals to construct their catalytic converters, making them prime targets. [7] Thieves will steal the catalytic converter and sell it for the value of its metal.

Does insurance cover car theft?

So, you took all the precautions, but someone managed to make off with your car anyway. Are you covered? It depends on your policy. Comprehensive policies will typically cover theft. However, policies like liability insurance do not.

Learn more about what your car insurance will cover in the event of car theft.

Sources:

[1] https://www.nicb.org/news/news-releases/over-745000-stolen-vehicles-reported-so-far-2022, Accessed April 2023.

[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/auto-thefts-carjackings-major-u-s-cities-spike-new-report/, Accessed April 2023.

[3] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vehicles-stolen-with-keys-left-inside-on-the-rise-301731304.html, Accessed April 2023.

[4] Nationwide Interview with Brent O’Bryan, 2016.

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Performing acts of kindness, even anonymously, releases endorphins that make you feel good and increase your self-esteem. But what about the far-reaching impact of kindness on the recipients?

Award Winning Documentary About Kindness

Posted on May 5, 2023April 21, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Award Winning Documentary About Kindness Features Ben Affleck, Lady Gaga, Garth Brooks And More

Sunnu Skyz | April 16, 2023 | Kindness | Shield Insurance Agency | Start a Quote Today!

Performing acts of kindness, even anonymously, releases endorphins that make you feel good and increase your self-esteem. But what about the far-reaching impact of kindness on the recipients?

In the new documentary Case For Kindness, award-winning filmmaker Steven Sawalich interviews celebrities and everyday people to find real life moments where kindness made a huge difference.

“This groundbreaking humanitarian documentary is a journey around the United States in an effort to better understand the importance of kindness and its impact on our culture and society. Through interviews with scientific experts, world and thought leaders, we delve deeper into the science behind kindness from its evolutionary beginnings to its modern day impact. Along the way we highlight inspiring acts of kindness changing communities and perceptions around the county.”

Case For Kindness has won dozens of awards as it continues to circulate film festivals around the world, including Best Picture, Best Documentary, and Best Director.

“I’ve traveled to 126 countries without knowing a lot of the culture and people and language in many, and the thing that bound us together was kindness,” Sawalich told Forbes in an interview. “I looked at the state of the world and at film, and there weren’t a lot of things about kindness. There’s a lot of things about happiness. And I’ve always looked at is as, Happiness is for the individual, and kindness is for the whole group.”

The film features interviews with Ben Affleck, Lady Gaga, Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood and more.

Referencing Lady Gaga’s organization The Born This Way Foundation and its Channel Kindness initiative, Sawalich said, “I like that they used to be about anti-bullying and now they are about kindness. I remember Mother Teresa said she would never attend an anti-war rally but would attend a peace rally, and that’s what Lady Gaga did to shift their organization into a positive space.”

In addition to kindness, Sawalich says community it a theme throughout the film.

“If you can help the life a person, you help their family, and if you help their family you help the community. We’re not meant to be isolated—that was an important theme throughout,” he said.

Watch the trailer for Case For Kindness below.

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