Insurance FAQs

Auto insurance is a contract between you and an insurance provider that provides financial protection for your vehicle in the event of an auto accident, theft, or other covered events. It is there to help cover the cost of repairs or replacement for your vehicle.

Auto insurance offers several categories of coverage including liability, collision, comprehensive, underinsured/uninsured driver, and medical payment coverage. You can often select which coverages you want and the level of the coverage.

Auto insurance companies consider a variety of factors when determining what your premiums are going to be. These factors include age, driving experience, area you live, coverage levels, deductible amount, and driving record. Every person and insurance provider is unique and thus your premiums will vary based on the provider you request a quote from.

A deductible is the amount of money you agree to pay for repairs or replacement before the insurance policy kicks in. For example, if your deductible is $1,000 and your repair bill is $700, you will have to pay the entire $700 bill yourself. However, if your bill was $1,200, you would have to pay $1,000, and then the insurance company would pay the remaining $200.

If you frequently drive a vehicle that is not yours, you should get non-owner insurance for that vehicle. This provides liability coverage for that vehicle you drive even if you do not own this. It financially protects you in the event you are held liable for an auto accident with a vehicle you do not own.

Flood insurance is a type of insurance that financially protects your home and belongings from damage caused by flooding. It provides financial compensation for repairs, replacement, and restoration services required because of a flood.

Flood insurance is generally not required, but it may be required by your mortgage company if you live in a flood zone.

Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a stand-alone insurance policy that must be purchased separately if needed.

Flood insurance typically covers damage to the structure of your home and its foundation, as well as damage to electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC systems, appliances, and personal belongings. It may also provide coverage for temporary living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to flood damage.

Flood insurance premiums are based on several factors such as the value of your property, flood risk in your area, previous claim history, and the coverage limits you choose.

Yes, you can purchase flood insurance regardless of where you live. If you live in a low-risk area, you may still want to consider flood insurance if you are near a body of water because of the chance for extreme rainfalls and storms. 

There is typically a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance coverage takes effect. It is important to plan ahead and purchase flood insurance well in advance of any potential flooding events.

Yes, renters can also purchase flood insurance to cover their belongings in the event of a flood. The homeowner’s flood insurance may not cover your belongings. It is best to purchase your own insurance policy if you are renting in a flood zone.