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Deer-vehicle collisions and your insurance

9/21/2016

 
​A new season is upon us in Napa, California. And I’m not talking about Fall. This week, I’ll talk about what that season is, why it matters, and what you can do to prepare for it.
 
It’s the “Deer-Car Collision Season.”
October through December sees the highest number of deer-car collisions in the country. That’s because deer are preparing for winter, migrating, and mating. They are on the move.
In other words, the deer are feisty. Remember: when the leaves are turning, the deer are running across the roads you drive. And that’s a recipe for disaster.
 
Bambi is a lethal weapon.
There are over one million deer-car accidents every year. That’s a staggering number.
Thousands of people are hurt, and over 200 are killed each year.
Add to that over 4 BILLION DOLLARS of damage, and it’s easy to see why Bambi may be cute, but he’s also dangerous and expensive.
 
Here are five safety tips to survive this season:
  1. Watch for deer, especially at sunrise and sunset.
  2. Never swerve to avoid a deer. It’s safer to hit the deer. Really.
  3. Deer run in herds. If you see one, look for the others too.
  4. Use your high-beams at night. Then watch for the glowing eyes.
  5. Buckle up. In 60 percent of deer accident fatalities, the driver was not wearing a seat belt.
 
What should you do if you hit a deer?
  1. Make sure you don’t go near the animal. A wounded deer can be dangerous.
  2. Turn on your emergency flashers and get out of the way of traffic.
  3. Call 911. Law enforcement can clear the road and document the accident.
  4. Take pictures of the accident scene and damage.
  5. Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible.
 
Does insurance cover deer-car collisions?
Comprehensive Coverage does cover deer collisions. But Collision Coverage doesn’t.

I realize that might not make sense. Shouldn’t Collision Coverage cover a “collision” with a deer? Well, you might think so, but insurance companies look at deer-car accidents differently. They see it as an “Act of God” that could not be avoided. Kind of like lightning strikes and falling trees. It’s not your fault.

That’s good news, because in most cases, you won’t be penalized with a rate increase just because you hit a deer. Comprehensive Coverage was made for this type of accident.

HOWEVER, if you swerve to avoid a deer, and hit a light pole, your Comprehensive Coverage will not apply. Instead, your Collision Coverage will kick in, and that could mean a rate increase.
 
Ask yourself these questions:
  • Do I have Comprehensive Coverage?
  • What’s my deductible? Is it the best deductible for me?
  • Do I have proof of insurance and a claims phone number in my vehicle?
 
You should meet with your agent. Now. Not later.
If you haven’t seen your local insurance agent in a while, a deer-car collision could be the reason you get reacquainted. A barbecue would have been a better reason. So plan to meet with your agent now, before an accident happens. Make sure you have proper coverage.
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Bruce Sackrison is an insurance property and casualty broker affiliated with Professional Insurance Associates helping clients with insurance needs for personal, commercial and business insurance. Bruce can be reached at 707-931-0186, bruces@sackifs.com

Before and after a renters’ insurance claim

9/7/2016

 
​Knowledge is power. In this article, I’ll show you how to get the most out of a renters insurance claim.

Even though we hope for the best, we still plan for the worst. In a previous article, I discussed college students and renters insurance. This week, let’s prepare for “what if there’s a claim.” Send this article to your college student. It could make a big difference if something happens.
 
BEFORE A CLAIM
1. Make sure you have replacement coverage.
Replacement cost coverage is optional, but it’s important, and you should have it. The “default” way to pay a claim is ACV (“Actual Cash Value”). ACV only pays what something was worth at the time of loss. That’s usually not enough to replace your lost things. Replacement cost coverage will make sure you get a new item of similar quality to replace the old item that was stolen or lost.
 
2. Know what your policy does NOT cover. Read the exclusions.
In almost all renters policies, there are “special limits” on things like jewelry, cash, precious metals, and other expensive items. In addition, there are limits on coverage if the items are stolen or damaged “off-premises.” The safest thing to do is discuss every expensive item that you own with your agent to make sure you have adequate coverage. Do this before you have a claim.
 
3. Keep receipts and photos of all your stuff somewhere safe.
List and photograph all of your possessions- especially the expensive items. Make sure you keep this documentation somewhere besides your residence. Most young people have a “cloud account” and should be encouraged to use it for this. You will need this at claim time.
 
AFTER A CLAIM
1. Immediately: Secure your property and the premises from further loss.
There’s a provision in most renters insurance policies called “Your Duties After Loss.” It’s an important section you should read. One of your duties (there are several) is that you are required to secure and protect your possessions from further loss. For instance, if the pipes in your apartment have burst, you are required to move your things away from the spraying water. Failure to take common sense steps to minimize damage and loss could result in a claim not paid.
 
2. As soon as possible: Notify everyone who needs to know about the loss.
Theft or burglary must be reported to law enforcement. All losses must be reported as quickly as possible to the insurance company. Almost all companies have a 24-hour reporting number. Finally, call your agent as soon as possible.
 
3. Over the next few days: Fully cooperate with claims adjusters.
Many claims are delayed because the insured does not return phone calls or emails in a timely fashion, or fails to supply necessary documentation. Don’t let that be you. If you aren’t sure, call your agent.
 
Call your local agent for more tips. The best time to discuss a claim is before a claim happens.
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Bruce Sackrison is an insurance property and casualty broker affiliated with Professional Insurance Associates helping clients with insurance needs for personal, commercial and business insurance. Bruce can be reached at 707-931-0186, bruces@sackifs.com
    Picture

    Bruce Sackrison

    Napa, California
    (707) 931-018

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1370 Trancas St, Ste 401
Napa, CA 94558


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Toll Free: (888) 332-6609


CA State License #0B56437​

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