A Note From Norm

To our Neighbors, Friends, and Clients:

In my 49 year career as an insurance agent providing both personal & commercial lines, I have never witnessed and had to deal with such a difficult market!  Many companies are non-renewing policies, increasing minimum deductibles, restricting certain coverages, increasing premiums  at renewals, and some seem simply  not interested in writing new policies unless the applicant is claim/violation free for at least three years.

I suggest exploring the below with us or your current agent:

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1. Combine Auto and Home with the same company to earn multi-policy discounts and in many cases, a common loss deductible feature.

2. As premiums are very much affected by "Insurance Scores" which are partially based on credit scores, ask your agent to run yours once a year if you believe it has improved. 

3. Consider increasing your deductibles.

4. If you are over age 55, take a Defensive Driving Course to earn an auto insurance discount. And if you are 100% retired, request the PIP work loss exclusion discount

5. Make sure your agent/company knows the one-way distance you drive to and from work.

6. Avoid driving violations as many companies will increase premiums for driving violations and for "at-fault accidents."

7. Make sure premiums are paid on time as reinstatement is not guaranteed.

8. If you are considering an insurance provider change, make sure to keep current insurance "In Force" until the new insurance is confirmed.

9. Take advantage of any "Paid in Full" discounts.

10. If you pay on installments, consider switching from a paper bill to EFT/Auto Pay from a bank account to reduce or eliminate installment fees.

11. If you pay by mail, allow 7-10 days for delivery and processing to help avoid late fees.

12. Schedule time to meet with your agent once per year to do a thorough review of your needs and related insurance program.

Sincerely,

Norm Strehlow, CIC