Insurance News

Help Keep Teen Drivers Safe with Telematics

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:39:00 GMT

As parents, the safety of our teenage drivers is paramount. With road accidents constituting a significant risk for young drivers, leveraging technology to enhance their safety isn't just smart; it's essential. Telematics for vehicles is a game-changing technology that is making driving safer for teens everywhere.

What Are Telematics?

Telematics systems combine GPS technology, onboard diagnostics, and real-time monitoring to gather detailed information about a vehicle's operation and the driving behavior of its operator. This technology can track a variety of data points including speed, location, hard braking, seatbelt use, and even smartphone usage while driving. Initially used by insurance companies to assess driver risk and customize premiums, telematics is now a powerful tool for parents to monitor and improve their teen drivers' safety.

Monitoring Driving Behavior

Telematics devices allow parents to keep an eye on crucial aspects of their teens' driving habits. Monitoring speed is particularly important, as excessive speed is a common factor in accidents involving young drivers. By setting speed alerts, parents can be notified when the vehicle exceeds a certain speed, enabling them to address this risky behavior promptly.

Hard braking and rapid acceleration can indicate aggressive or inattentive driving. Telematics data can help identify these patterns, providing an opportunity for parents to discuss and educate their teens on smoother, safer driving techniques, and of the importance of paying their full attention to driving every time they're behind the wheel.

Seatbelt Use and Smartphone Distraction

Telematics can also monitor seatbelt usage, ensuring teens are buckling up every time they drive. Additionally, some systems can detect smartphone use while the vehicle is in motion, addressing one of the most dangerous driving distractions directly.

Location Tracking and Time of Day

Knowing the location of your teen driver can also provide you peace of mind. Telematics systems can show real-time location data, allowing parents to ensure their teens are where they should be. Moreover, setting geofences can alert parents if the vehicle enters or leaves predefined areas, such as the routes between school, home, and work.

Time of day monitoring is another beneficial feature, as driving late at night can be more hazardous for inexperienced drivers. Parents can receive alerts if the car is used during restricted hours, enabling them to enforce driving curfews.

The Role of Telematics in Additional Driver Education

Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of telematics is its role in ongoing driver education. By reviewing telematics data with their teens, parents can identify areas for improvement and tailor their driving discussions or lessons accordingly. This ongoing feedback loop can reinforce good driving habits and address any areas of concern, making telematics an invaluable tool in the quest to keep teen drivers safe on the road.

Looking for the right auto insurance coverage for your teen? Let us help you navigate the options for maximum safety and peace of mind. Contact us today.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

Essential Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:39:00 GMT

Living Room Area by Terry Magallanes

Taking care of fire safety at home is a key part of managing your household. Each year, fires in residential areas cause significant property damage. However, many of these incidents may be prevented with the right precautions. By following basic fire safety tips, you can help protect your home and loved ones from the impact of a fire.

Regular Testing of Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are the first line of defense against fires, offering a critical early warning to help you escape safely. Ensure that smoke detectors are installed in every sleeping area, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home, including the basement. Test your smoke detectors monthly by pressing the test button, and replace batteries according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule. For some smoke detectors this means at least once every six months, while some come with batteries that last a year or longer. Regardless of the schedule, replace the batteries immediately whenever the low-battery alarm sounds.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance

Having a fire extinguisher on every floor of your home is vital, but it's just as important to ensure it's in working order. Check your fire extinguisher regularly, looking for any signs of damage or corrosion and verifying that the pressure gauge is in the green zone. Remember that fire extinguishers have a limited lifespan and may need to be recharged or replaced after use or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Space Heater Safety

Space heaters are a common source of house fires, especially during colder months. Never leave space heaters running when you're not home or while sleeping. Always place space heaters on a stable, level surface, away from flammable materials like curtains, furniture, or bedding, and maintain a safe distance of at least three feet from the heater.

Smart Fire Alarm Listeners and Monitored Home Security Systems

Smart technology has introduced innovative ways to enhance fire safety in your home. A smart fire alarm listener can be added to your existing smoke detectors, notifying you on your phone if an alarm goes off while you're away. Alternatively, consider investing in a monitored home security system that includes fire and smoke detection. These systems provide 24/7 monitoring, ensuring that emergency services are alerted immediately in the event of a fire, even if you're not home.

Fire safety is an ongoing commitment that requires attention and diligence. By implementing these essential tips, you can create a safer home environment for you and your family. Regular maintenance of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, cautious use of space heaters, and leveraging smart technology for fire detection are all critical steps in preventing fire incidents and protecting what matters most.

In addition to implementing fire safety measures, having the right homeowner insurance policy is crucial to protect your home. Contact us to learn more and ensure comprehensive coverage for your peace of mind.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

Avoiding Common Home Insurance Claims During Renovations

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:39:00 GMT

Home renovation samples by Pixabay

Renovating your home can be an exciting journey, transforming your living space into the dream dwelling you've always wanted. However, amidst the excitement, it's crucial to undertake precautions to avoid common pitfalls that could lead to home insurance claims. By following a few key tips, homeowners can ensure their renovation process is not only smooth, but also secure.

Check for Pipes Before Drilling or Cutting Through Walls

One of the most common mistakes during home renovations is accidentally cutting through water pipes. This can lead to significant water damage, a common cause of home insurance claims. Before you start drilling or cutting, use a stud finder with a built-in metal detection feature to locate pipes behind walls. Additionally, turning off the water supply can mitigate potential damages should an accidental puncture occur.

Adhere to Local Safety Codes

Local safety codes are established to ensure that all construction work is safe and up to standards. Ignoring these codes not only puts you at risk of fines but also potential accidents that could lead to insurance claims. Before beginning any work, check your local building codes and regulations to ensure compliance, especially for structural, electrical, and plumbing works.

Employ a Licensed Electrician

Electrical work is complex and can be dangerous if not done correctly, often leading to electrical fires. Hiring a licensed electrician ensures that all electrical work in your renovation is up to code and safe, significantly reducing the risk of fire and subsequent insurance claims.

Proper Storage of Hazardous Materials

Renovations often involve the use of materials that can be hazardous if not handled or stored correctly, such as paint, solvents, and adhesives. Improper storage can lead to accidents, including fires or health hazards. Ensure these materials are stored in a cool, dry place, away from any sources of ignition and out of reach of children.

Update Your Insurance Policy for New Additions

By following these tips, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of common insurance claims during renovations. Careful planning, adherence to safety standards, and coordination with your insurance provider are key to a safe and successful renovation project.

It's essential to ensure that your home insurance policy covers the new additions to your home. Renovations can increase the value of your home, and failing to update your insurance policy could mean you're underinsured in the event of a claim. Contact us to review your homeowner insurance policy today.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

Insurance Considerations for Newlyweds: Merging Policies and Coverage

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:38:00 GMT

Couple wearing wedding rings by Deesha Chandra

Starting a new journey together as newlyweds is an exciting time filled with hopes, dreams, and plans for the future. Amidst the whirlwind of changes, it’s crucial not to overlook the practical aspects of merging your lives, especially when it comes to insurance. Addressing your insurance needs as a married couple can ensure you’re both protected and can even save you money. Here are key insurance considerations for newlyweds.

Life Insurance Considerations

Life insurance is a cornerstone of financial planning for married couples. It provides financial security to your spouse in the event of an untimely death, helping cover living expenses, debts, and future plans like education or retirement. Evaluate your existing life insurance policies and consider whether your coverage needs adjustment to reflect your new marital status. You may find that increasing your coverage or purchasing additional policies ensures both partners are adequately protected.

Review Home/Renters Coverage If You Are Moving

Combining households means consolidating belongings under one roof, which can significantly increase the value of your personal property. Review your homeowner insurance or your renters insurance policy to ensure it covers the combined value of your possessions. If you’re moving to a new location, this is also an opportune time to shop for insurance rates and assess the need for additional coverage, such as flood or earthquake insurance, depending on your new home’s location.

Putting a Spouse on Your Auto Policy

Generally, it’s more cost-effective for married couples to combine their auto insurance policies. Adding your spouse to your auto insurance policy can often result in lower premiums due to multi-vehicle discounts and the perception of married drivers as lower risk. Review both policies to determine which offers the best combination of coverage and cost savings, and don’t forget to update your insurer about your marital status and any changes in driving patterns.

Identify Gaps or Redundancies in Your Policies

Merging your lives also means merging your insurance policies, which can sometimes lead to gaps or redundancies in coverage. Take a comprehensive look at your health, dental, disability, and any other insurance policies you both hold. Determine if either of you has benefits the other does not or if you can save money by opting into one spouse’s policy. For example, if both partners have health insurance through their employers, compare the plans to see which offers better benefits or lower costs for adding a spouse.

As newlyweds, your journey together involves not just sharing your hopes and dreams but also responsibly planning for the unexpected. Taking the time to review and adjust your insurance coverage as a married couple can provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on building your life together with the assurance that you’re both protected. Contact us today to review your coverage.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

Essential Safety Gear for Motorcyclists: A Guide to Protection on the Road

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:38:00 GMT

Motorcycle on an open road by Pragyan Bezbaruah

Riding a motorcycle offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and excitement, but it also comes with its share of risks. To ensure safety on the road, it's crucial for motorcyclists to invest in proper safety gear. From helmets to high-top boots, each piece of equipment plays a vital role in protecting riders from the elements and minimizing injuries during accidents. Here's an overview of essential safety gear every motorcyclist should have.

Helmet: The First Line of Defense

The helmet is undoubtedly the most critical piece of safety gear for a motorcyclist. A high-quality, full-face helmet provides the best protection for your head and neck during a crash. Look for helmets that meet DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) standards, as they undergo rigorous testing for impact absorption, penetration resistance, and strap effectiveness.

Gloves: Protecting Your Hands

Hands are often the first thing to make contact with the ground in an accident, making gloves an essential piece of gear. Motorcycle gloves should be made of durable material, such as leather, and feature reinforced palms and protection for the knuckles. Gloves not only guard against abrasions but also improve grip and reduce vibration.

Thick Clothing: Armor Against the Road

Thick, abrasion-resistant clothing, such as leather jackets and reinforced jeans, can significantly reduce road rash and protect against cuts and bruises. Many modern motorcycle jackets and pants also come equipped with CE-rated armor in critical areas like the back, elbows, and knees, offering added protection against impacts.

Eyewear: Shielding Your Vision

For those who opt for open-face helmets or helmets without a visor, protective eyewear is a must. It shields your eyes from wind, dust, insects, and debris, which can impair your vision while riding. Look for eyewear that is shatterproof and offers UV protection.

Ear Protection: Safeguarding Your Hearing

Prolonged exposure to wind and engine noise can lead to hearing damage. Earplugs are simple, effective tools for protecting your hearing without compromising your ability to hear important traffic sounds.

High-Top Boots: Support and Protection for Your Feet

Motorcycle boots should provide good ankle support, protection against impacts, and resistance to slipping. High-top boots made from durable leather or specially designed synthetic materials offer the best defense for your feet and lower legs.

Working Lights and Blinkers: Ensuring Visibility

Functional lights and blinkers are vital for making your presence known to other road users, especially in low visibility conditions. Regularly check that all your lights are working correctly to help prevent accidents.

Insurance: Your Financial Armor

While not a physical piece of gear, having proper motorcycle insurance is essential for every rider. Insurance provides financial protection against damage, theft, and liability, providing you with assistance in case of a covered loss. Contact us today to review your coverage.

Incorporating these essential pieces of safety gear into your riding routine can drastically reduce the risk of serious injury. Remember, the road can be unpredictable, but being well-equipped and prepared will allow you to enjoy the ride with confidence and security.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

Choosing the Right Umbrella Insurance Policy: A Guide to Extra Liability Coverage

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:38:00 GMT

Multicolored umbrellas by Pixabay

When it comes to personal insurance, most people are familiar with their auto, homeowners, or renters policies. However, fewer may be aware of umbrella insurance—a type of coverage that goes beyond the limits of your existing policies to protect you from substantial financial risk. Choosing the right umbrella policy can provide peace of mind, especially if you have significant assets to protect.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance is designed to offer an extra layer of liability protection, stepping in when your standard insurance coverage limits have been reached. For example, if you are responsible for a major car accident or face a lawsuit due to an injury on your property, the legal costs and damages might exceed your auto or homeowners liability coverage. Umbrella insurance covers these additional costs, ensuring that you’re not left financially vulnerable.

Why You Might Need Umbrella Insurance

The primary purpose of umbrella insurance is to protect your assets from large lawsuits or liability claims. If you have a high net worth or are at greater risk of being sued, umbrella coverage can help safeguard your financial future. Here are a few common scenarios where umbrella insurance could be crucial:

High Liability Risk: If you own rental properties, regularly host guests, or participate in activities that increase your liability risk (e.g., owning a swimming pool or having pets), umbrella insurance can help protect you from lawsuits.
Significant Assets: If your assets exceed the liability limits of your current policies, an umbrella policy is intended to ensure that those assets are protected from being lost in a lawsuit.
Peace of Mind: Even if you’re not wealthy, umbrella insurance provides extra protection for legal expenses and liability claims, giving you the confidence to handle unexpected events.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Umbrella Policy

The primary reason for purchasing umbrella insurance is to protect your assets. Calculate the value of your assets, including property, savings, investments, and future income, to determine the level of coverage you need. If your net worth is higher than the liability limits of your home or auto insurance, an umbrella policy is essential to cover the gap.

Your lifestyle and circumstances can increase your exposure to liability claims. If you engage in activities that could lead to a higher risk of accidents or lawsuits, such as owning a boat, frequently entertaining guests, or having a dog, an umbrella policy can provide extra protection. Even professions that expose you to public criticism or online interaction, such as bloggers or influencers, may benefit from an umbrella policy to cover defamation risks.

Review Your Current Insurance Policies

Before purchasing umbrella insurance, review the liability limits on your existing policies to ensure they meet the minimum requirements. Most insurers will require you to carry a certain amount of liability coverage on your auto or homeowners policy before you can add an umbrella policy. Umbrella insurance can be surprisingly affordable for the level of protection it provides.

Many life events can signal the need for an umbrella policy. If you’ve recently purchased a home, accumulated significant savings, or taken on more liability risks, it’s a good time to consider additional protection. Similarly, if you’ve reached a stage in life where you’re worried about protecting your assets for future generations, umbrella insurance can offer invaluable peace of mind.

Choosing the right umbrella policy is about balancing your need for additional liability protection with the risks you face in everyday life. By evaluating your assets, understanding your risks, and reviewing your current insurance coverage, we can help determine the appropriate level of umbrella insurance to provide an extra layer of financial security. Contact us today to review your coverage.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

How Major Life Events Impact Your Insurance Needs

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:38:00 GMT

Smiling family in front of a house by Harrison Haines

Life's biggest milestones, like marriage, buying a home, or having children, often bring new financial responsibilities and changes in your insurance needs. To ensure you and your loved ones have the right coverage in place, it's essential to review and adjust your insurance policies as you reach these milestones.

Getting Married: Merging Policies and Adjusting Coverage

When you get married, it’s a good time to consider life insurance if you don’t already have it. With a spouse who may rely on your income, adjusting your life insurance coverage can help provide financial security. Health insurance is another consideration, as many couples may save money by joining a single plan with the best benefits. Additionally, married couples may qualify for discounts on auto insurance, making it a great time to consolidate policies for convenience and savings.

Buying a Home: Ensuring Your Property and Belongings Are Protected

Buying a home is a significant investment, and homeowners insurance is critical to protecting that investment. Homeowners policies can cover the home structure, personal belongings, and liability. However, it’s wise to review the policy to ensure it covers the full cost of rebuilding your home if needed. In certain areas, additional flood or earthquake insurance may be necessary to cover natural disasters not included in standard policies. Homeownership can also make you a candidate for umbrella insurance, which adds an extra layer of liability protection.

Expanding Your Coverage to Protect Your Family’s Future

Having a child introduces new financial priorities, and insurance becomes even more important. Consider increasing your life insurance coverage to support your family’s needs in case the unexpected happens. Health insurance should be updated to cover your child’s medical needs, such as routine check-ups and immunizations. Disability insurance is also worth considering, as it can replace a portion of your income if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury, providing financial security for your family.

Approaching Retirement: Adjusting Policies to Match a New Lifestyle

As retirement approaches, your insurance needs may shift. Health insurance becomes a top priority, and Medicare or supplemental health coverage may be necessary. Life insurance requirements may change if you no longer need to protect dependents, though some keep policies for estate planning. Additionally, long-term care insurance can help cover future expenses related to in-home care or assisted living.

Other life changes, like changes in marital status, large purchases, or moving, also impact your insurance needs. Updating beneficiaries and revisiting life and homeowners policies are essential. Large purchases, such as jewelry or electronics, may require special endorsements on your homeowners insurance. Moving to a new state may bring different insurance requirements or costs, making it wise to review policies.

Life events bring changes, and adjusting your insurance coverage can give you peace of mind. Contact us today to review your policies and keep your coverage in line with your evolving needs.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

Quick Tips to Protect Your Vehicle from Thieves

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:38:00 GMT

Car parked at night by InstaWalli

Car theft is a frustrating and costly experience that affects thousands of vehicle owners each year. While most modern cars come equipped with advanced anti-theft features, thieves are becoming more sophisticated, making it essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your vehicle. Here are some practical tips to protect your car from being stolen and how the right auto insurance policy can provide an added layer of protection in case you fall victim to auto theft.

Practical Tips to Prevent Car Theft

Lock Your Doors and Roll Up Windows

It may seem obvious, but a significant number of thefts occur because vehicles are left unlocked or windows are partially open. Always double-check that your car is secure before leaving it unattended.
Park Smart

Opt for well-lit, high-traffic areas when parking your car. Thieves are less likely to target a vehicle in a location where they can be easily seen. Whenever possible, use secured parking lots or garages.
Don’t Leave Valuables Visible

Items like electronics, bags, or even loose change can attract thieves. Keep valuables out of sight, preferably locked in the trunk or removed from the vehicle altogether.
Install a Car Alarm or Anti-Theft Device

Audible alarms and steering wheel locks serve as strong deterrents for thieves. For additional security, consider advanced anti-theft systems like immobilizers or GPS tracking devices that can help locate your car if stolen.
Use Technology to Your Advantage

Modern tools like dash cams and vehicle tracking apps can alert you to suspicious activity and help authorities recover your car faster.
Keep Your Keys Secure

Never leave spare keys inside the vehicle or in obvious hiding spots. For keyless entry systems, consider storing your fob in a signal-blocking pouch to prevent relay attacks. (A relay attack is a method of using a device near your key fob to receive its signal and then forwarding that signal to your car so it can unlock or even start.)
Remove Your Garage Opener

If you park outside, don’t leave your garage door opener in your car. It could tempt thieves to break into your car and give them easy access to your home.
Keep Your Registration and Title Out of the Car

Storing these documents in your vehicle can make it easier for thieves to sell or impersonate ownership. Keep them in a secure location outside your car.
Avoid Leaving Your Engine Running Unattended

Even if you’re stepping away for just a moment or warming up your vehicle in your driveway, always turn off your engine and take your keys when you leave the vehicle. An unattended running car is an easy target.

How Insurance Protects You Against Theft

Even with the best precautions, car theft can still happen. If it does, and if you have insurance coverage, it’s essential to contact your insurance provider promptly, file a police report, and gather documentation such as the vehicle title or registration.

In such a situation, having the right insurance policy in place can help provide not only financial protection but also peace of mind. Reviewing your insurance policy regularly ensures you understand your coverage and can make any necessary updates based on your needs or changing life circumstances. Contact Higgins Insurance Agency for a review of your auto insurance policy. We’ll help you understand your options and will make sure your coverage meets your needs, so you can drive (and park) with confidence.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

Emerging Trends in Identity Theft and How to Stay Ahead

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:38:00 GMT

Computer security by Pixabay

As technology advances, so do the tactics of identity thieves. Identity theft is no longer limited to stolen credit card numbers or Social Security fraud—it has evolved into a complex web of cybercrime targeting individuals and businesses alike. Staying informed about emerging trends in identity theft can help you protect your personal information and take proactive steps to minimize your risk.

Synthetic Identity Theft

Synthetic identity theft involves combining real and fake information to create a new identity. Thieves may use your Social Security number with a fictitious name and address, making it harder to detect. They often use these fake identities to apply for loans, credit cards, or government benefits, leaving you with the fallout. This form of theft is particularly concerning because it often targets children or individuals who don’t regularly check their credit reports, allowing the fraud to potentially go undetected for years.

How to Stay Ahead: Monitor your credit report regularly for accounts or activity you don’t recognize. Consider placing a credit freeze or fraud alert with credit bureaus to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. Parents should also check their children’s Social Security numbers periodically to ensure no fraudulent accounts have been created.

Phishing 2.0

While phishing isn’t new, the methods have become far more sophisticated. Modern phishing attacks often impersonate trusted organizations, like your bank, favorite online store, or even government agencies, using highly personalized messages to trick victims into revealing sensitive information. Criminals may use advanced techniques, such as spoofed websites or phone numbers, to make their scams appear legitimate.

How to Stay Ahead: Always verify unsolicited communications by contacting the organization directly before clicking on links or providing information. Use email filtering tools to block phishing attempts and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for online accounts to add an extra layer of security. Be wary of urgent messages demanding immediate action—these are often red flags of phishing attempts.

Medical Identity Theft

Criminals can use stolen personal information to obtain medical treatments, prescriptions, or health insurance benefits. Victims may only discover the theft when they receive unexpected bills, find discrepancies in their medical records, or are denied coverage due to benefits already being used. This type of fraud can also have serious health implications if inaccurate medical information is added to your records.

How to Stay Ahead: Carefully review your medical bills, Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements, and insurance summaries. If you notice discrepancies, report them immediately to your healthcare provider, insurer, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Consider signing up for credit and identity monitoring services that specifically flag unusual medical-related activities.

Social Media Exploitation

Identity thieves increasingly use social media to gather personal information. Public profiles, shared photos, and even seemingly harmless quizzes can provide valuable details about your life. Thieves use this information to answer security questions, hack into accounts, or impersonate you. Oversharing online—such as your birthdate, location, or family details—makes you an easy target.

How to Stay Ahead: Limit the personal information you share on social media, especially sensitive details like your full birthdate or location. Adjust privacy settings to restrict access to your profiles and only connect with people you know personally. Be cautious about participating in quizzes or challenges that ask for personal information—they may be designed to harvest data.

Deepfake Scams

Deepfake technology, which uses artificial intelligence to create convincing fake videos or audio, has become a new tool for identity thieves. Criminals can mimic a person's voice or appearance to commit fraud, manipulate others, or spread false information. Deepfake scams are increasingly being used in business contexts, such as impersonating employees to authorize wire transfers and business payments.

How to Stay Ahead: Be cautious with unsolicited requests for sensitive information, even if they appear to come from someone you know. Verify requests through a secondary communication channel, such as calling the person directly. Educate friends, family, and coworkers about the risks of deepfake technology to increase vigilance.

Protecting Yourself

The landscape of identity theft is constantly evolving, but staying informed about emerging trends can help you protect your personal information. Regularly monitoring your accounts, being cautious online, and investing in identity theft insurance are key steps to staying ahead of cybercriminals. By taking proactive measures today, you can safeguard your identity and secure your financial future.

Despite your best efforts, identity theft can still happen. The right insurance policy can provide coverage and resources to help you recover. While insurance won’t prevent theft from occurring, it can offer peace of mind and support during the recovery process. Contact us today to review your policy.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com

Tips for Towing a Boat Trailer to Reduce Accidents and Insurance Claims

Sun, 04 May 2025 23:37:00 GMT

Boat Loaded on a Trailer by dimitrisvetsikas1969

Owning a boat can make weekends and vacations fun and memorable. Follow these tips to help ensure that when you’re towing your boat you’re being as safe as possible to lower the risk of accidents and unwanted insurance claims.

Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Powerful Enough for Towing

Many people underestimate the amount of power they need to tow a boat. It’s actually better to overestimate the power necessary than to fall short. The general rule of thumb is you need at least 15 percent more capacity than the weight of the boat fully loaded plus your trailer.

This gives you a buffer for accelerating during a highway merge, for example, or climbing a steep hill without straining your vehicle’s engine. It also reduces the risk of trailer sway behind your vehicle, which can cause catastrophic accidents.

Invest in a Good Trailer System

Always use the best trailer you can afford, both to protect your boat and to enjoy smooth travel on the road. You want to make sure braking and signaling are integrated with your vehicle, so cars traveling behind your boat know when you’re turning, slowing down, or stopping. Other trailer features are nice, but safety should be paramount when making your selection.

Use Safe Driving Practices Meant for Towing

You can’t drive the way you normally would when towing a boat; instead, you need to use driving techniques meant for towing, such as:

Giving yourself a greater stopping distance to allow for the additional momentum you have with a boat behind you. Don’t tailgate, and slow down if you think you might need to stop soon, such as when you know a yellow light is imminent.
Remember you need more space when changing lanes. Signal first to alert other drivers, and make sure you have room between vehicles for you and your boat. Get in the habit of double checking with your mirrors and performing a shoulder check before you make your final lane change.
Use your directional signals liberally. If you must drive well below the speed limit, use your hazard lights (aka “flashers”) to alert other drivers.
In general, you’ll be going at or below the speed limit, so stay to the center or the right whenever possible, and let other traffic pass you.
Use pull-through parking, so you don’t have to deal with backing up with a boat.

If you don’t have a lot of experience towing a boat, it’s smart to practice in less busy areas before hitting the highway on a packed holiday weekend. Make sure you’re completely comfortable before putting yourself in more high-stress situations. Many areas offer boat trailering classes that are well worth it to give you more tips, practice in controlled environments, and confidence.

Protect Your Car and Your Boat With the Right Insurance

No matter where you’re driving, you want to make sure you’re operating legally and responsibly with the right auto insurance and boat insurance policies in case of an accident. Our independent agents at Higgins Insurance Agency can help you find the right coverage, so you can enjoy your boat knowing your vessel and the vehicle towing it are properly insured. Give us a call at 315-635-0050, or request a quote online at any time.

Read the full article at www.higginsins.com