How Does Umbrella Insurance Enhance Your Auto Insurance?

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Standard auto insurance can protect against liability issues, especially when you’re involved in an accident, but up to a specific limit. To maximize your liability protection, consider purchasing an umbrella insurance policy. If you’re located in Washington, PA, The Hansen Agency LLC team can help you find the right umbrella policy for your needs.

How an Umbrella Policy Helps

If you’re involved in a serious car accident, an umbrella insurance policy can come in handy. If you’re sued, you’ll need to mount a legal defense regardless of innocence. Protect your budget from legal fees, defense costs, and settlement amounts that can quickly exceed standard auto insurance.

When You’re in a Serious Auto Accident

Once your auto policy limits are reached, you’ll be held financially liable for paying the remaining costs on your own. But, if you have an umbrella policy, it will step in and pay the costs that exceed the limits of your auto policy, such as:

  • Medical expenses for others
  • Legal fees
  • Court-awarded judgments
  • Damage to other people’s property

When You Drive Frequently

Whether you commute on busy highways or drive frequently, there is an increased risk of an accident. 

If You Have High-Risk Drivers on Your Policy

If you have a high-risk driver or a teenage driver in the household, umbrella insurance policies can offer peace of mind

For Extended Liability Protection Across Your Home or Renters Policy

An umbrella policy also extends liability protection across your home or renters insurance policy, in addition to your auto liability. That makes choosing limits easier.

Whether you commute to work or spend a lot of time driving for recreation, an umbrella insurance policy is highly recommended for optimal protection. Anytime you get behind the wheel, knowing you have extended protection can help you rest assured. To learn more about selecting umbrella insurance that complements your auto insurance in Washington, PA, contact The Hansen Agency LLC for a consultation.

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Commercial Insurance Policies That Every Start-Up Should Have

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You have a lot to think about when launching a new business in Washington, PA. Many first-time entrepreneurs don’t include insurance in their business plan. Yet, getting the right commercial insurance policies can make a difference between success and failure. The Hansen Agency LLC can customize an economical set of policies to protect your new company.

Essential Insurance Policies

Every start-up needs to have several essential commercial insurance policies before beginning operations. Performing a risk assessment during the planning stages can help you determine what types of coverage you need. You can bundle several types of coverage into a business owner’s policy (BOP) to give your new company essential protections. A BOP is an excellent choice for new businesses that have low risk profiles, as it provides broad protection at a discounted price. The most common policies that start-ups should have are general liability, commercial property, workers’ compensation if you have employees, and professional liability if you provide services or advice. This set of commercial policies can help protect you from costs associated with unexpected lawsuits.

Specialized Policies

Depending on your risk profile, industry, and daily operations, you may need additional policies to provide sufficient protection. Commercial auto insurance is necessary if you operate a fleet of vehicles. Personal auto insurance will not protect your employees driving vans, delivery trucks, etc. Cyber liability insurance has become more common as hackers target websites and steal sensitive customer data. It can include credit monitoring and public relations campaigns to manage your reputation. If you have a high-risk profile, consider umbrella insurance. This insurance kicks in when you have exhausted your liability limits on claims covered by other policies.

Protect your new business investment through appropriate commercial insurance policies tailored to your needs. Contact The Hansen Agency LLC, serving residents of Washington, PA, to get started.

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3 Tips To Better Structure Your Home Insurance Policy

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Most people think of their home insurance policy as one long document that’s difficult to read and even more difficult to understand. It’s often why people end up with coverage that’s either irrelevant or unhelpful in the case of a disaster. At The Hansen Agency LLC, we’ll look at how homeowners in Washington, PA, can prioritize their insurance so it protects them when they need it most. 

Make a List 

Every homeowner uses their home differently, which is why it’s important to consider the risks. For example, if you have parties every week, you may want to look into higher liability coverage in case of an accident or injury. An umbrella policy can help raise the liability limits on your home and auto policies, giving you peace of mind.

Or, say you have an extensive art or jewelry collection. For this, you can add a scheduled personal property endorsement, which provides broader coverage for high-value items. 

Consider Your Other Structures 

From garages to pools, the other structures on your property matter. For example, if you put in an affordable gazebo, you’ll want to balance out how much you’re willing to spend on insurance to protect it. (It could be cheaper to pay out of pocket to repair or replace it if it’s damaged.)

Talk To Someone Who Knows 

If you don’t want to spend your time reading every line of a long insurance contract, The Hansen Agency LLC is here to help you piece it together. Our agents have seen how different claims work out in Washington, PA. They can help you cut out the excess in your policy and swap in better terms and conditions. 

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The Basic Components of Auto Insurance

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If you’re a Pennsylvania driver, state laws require you to purchase auto insurance. Many drivers need assistance finding the right auto insurance policy to meet their needs. If you live near Washington, PA, our team at Hansen Agency LLC is ready to help you get your car safely on the road. Since 2015, we’ve been working with drivers like you.

The Basic Components of Auto Insurance

According to the State of Pennsylvania’s website, there are three basic components of every auto insurance policy. This is referred to as “financial responsibility” for your vehicle. Driving without auto insurance can result in financial and legal penalties, including the suspension of your driver’s license. As a driver, it is your responsibility to provide proof of an active auto insurance policy.

One major component of auto insurance is bodily injury liability, which covers the medical bills of the other driver or their passengers after an accident. Damage to someone’s car or property is covered by the property damage liability component of your insurance. The third part of your auto insurance policy is the medical benefits component, which provides coverage for your medical bills or those of your passengers after an accident.

Call Us for Your Appointment Today

Auto insurance is a state requirement, and it’s up to you to find the right policy for your needs. Our team at Hansen Agency LLC will help you find a policy that offers the best possible coverage at an affordable price. Drivers in the Washington, PA, area trust us for the insurance guidance they need. Call us today to schedule an appointment and discuss your insurance options.

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How Many Employees Does Commercial Insurance Cover?

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If you’re wondering how many employees your commercial insurance covers in Pennsylvania, you may have specific questions about your policy. For instance, you might be curious whether your commercial insurance covers all of your full-time employees but excludes your seasonal workers. Here, The Hansen Agency LLC explains what you need to know about commercial insurance in your state and how to find the best terms.

Commercial Insurance in Washington, PA

Commercial insurance is typically divided into specific categories. For example, Pennsylvania requires businesses to have a workers’ compensation policy for all workers, whether they work an hour a week in a short-term internship or are full-time employees. In this case, there is no limit to how many workers your policy covers. You must have protection for everyone, and your policy premium will reflect the number of employees.

Do I Need Additional Commercial Insurance?

Certain types of commercial coverage, such as general liability insurance, are not required in Pennsylvania. However, that does not mean they are not worth considering for employers. Even small business owners in relatively safe industries may face more risks than they realize, and liability can vary based on who you hire. For example, hiring largely inexperienced workers can increase the likelihood of errors or accidents, which can create significant challenges for any business.

If you want to learn more about how your hiring practices can impact your commercial coverage, contact The Hansen Agency LLC today. We help business owners in Washington, PA, navigate not only the types of coverage available but also how the terms align with common scenarios, such as an employee suing for discrimination or a severe injury. With our guidance, you can make informed decisions that support your bottom line.

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Will Home Insurance Increase If You Add An Outdoor Kitchen?

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Adding amenities to your home is a great way to create a gathering spot for the entire family to spend quality time together. An outdoor kitchen can encourage everyone to spend more time outside, rather than being indoors in front of a screen. However, it’s important to understand how this upgrade may impact your insurance premiums and coverage limits.

Increased Coverage

An outdoor kitchen often results in a slight increase in your monthly premiums because it requires higher coverage limits. Home insurance policies, such as those offered by The Hansen Agency LLC, are designed to replace damaged property, which includes your outdoor kitchen. To ensure you have enough coverage to replace this new amenity, your policy limits may need to be adjusted.

Fire Risk

Many outdoor kitchens in Washington, PA include features like pizza ovens, which can increase the risk of fire. However, standard BBQ grills are generally not considered additional fire hazards since they are common and widely used. Speak with an insurance agent to review the specific features of your outdoor kitchen and determine whether they will impact your premiums due to increased risk.

Several factors are considered when determining whether an outdoor kitchen will increase your premiums. Replacement cost is one of the most significant factors. For example, an outdoor kitchen with elaborate stonework and permanent fixtures will be more expensive to replace. Fire hazards are another key consideration for insurance companies.

Get Expert Advice

Because outdoor kitchens vary widely in design and features, it’s difficult to provide a definitive answer about how they will affect your insurance. Instead, it’s best to consult with one of our professional agents at The Hansen Agency LLC. We’ll discuss your outdoor kitchen and help you determine whether your upgrade will impact your insurance coverage. Contact us today to learn more. We proudly serve the Washington, PA area.

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The Role of Pennsylvania’s Assigned Claims Plan for Uninsured Drivers

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Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but imagine being injured and realizing the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance. That’s where Pennsylvania’s Assigned Claims Plan comes in. At The Hansen Agency LLC in Washington, PA, we frequently help our clients understand how this state-run program works and when it may be applicable.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Assigned Claims Plan

What Is the Assigned Claims Plan?

The Assigned Claims Plan is a safety net created by the state of Pennsylvania for people who are injured in car accidents and don’t have access to insurance coverage. This could be because the other driver was uninsured or because the injured person wasn’t in a vehicle at all, like a pedestrian or cyclist. If you don’t have your own auto policy and no one in your household does either, this program may be your only option for basic medical benefits.

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility for the Assigned Claims Plan is specific. You must be a Pennsylvania resident, the accident must have occurred within the state, and you can’t have access to any other source of coverage. If you meet those requirements, you may be able to receive up to $5,000 in medical benefits under the plan. While it’s not a substitute for full insurance coverage, it can be a crucial lifeline during a difficult time.

Why You Shouldn’t Rely on It

While the Assigned Claims Plan is a helpful resource, it has strict limits and doesn’t cover things like property damage or lost wages. That’s why it’s important to carry your own auto insurance—so you’re not left vulnerable if something goes wrong.

At The Hansen Agency LLC in Washington, PA, we’re here to help you stay protected with the proper coverage. Contact us today to review your policy or explore your options.

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The Office of Market Regulation

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If you’re a business owner in Pennsylvania, you’re required to have commercial insurance. Many business owners have questions about their insurance options. If your business is in or near Washington, PA, our team at The Hansen Agency LLC invites you to discuss your insurance options with us. We’ve been building a positive reputation since our establishment in 2015.

The Office of Market Regulation

You’ll be glad to know that the Pennsylvania government has entrusted a group of individuals to monitor and ensure that insurance companies and agents comply with our state’s regulations and standards. According to the Pennsylvania Insurance Department, this group is known as the Office of Market Research. The office’s actions are divided among three bureaus, each responsible for overseeing a specific aspect of Pennsylvania insurance.

According to the Pennsylvania Insurance Department, the first bureau is the Bureau of Consumer Services. This bureau handles insurance complaints from policyholders. The Bureau of Market Actions conducts audits of insurance companies to ensure all insurance agents operate within the statutes of the State Insurance Regulations. New insurance agents and companies must interact with the Bureau of Licensing and Enforcement.

Contact Us for Your Appointment Today

When considering your business, it’s crucial to ensure your insurance choices protect your business assets. Our team at The Hansen Agency LLC is proud to be an independent broker, which enables us to offer you solutions from multiple insurance carriers. Companies in the Washington, PA area have learned they can rely on us for support and insurance advice. Give us a call today, and let us help you get the right insurance.

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Tips for Preventing Water Damage in Your Home and How Insurance Helps

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As your insurance representative, The Hansen Agency LLC, serving Washington, PA, wants you not only to have adequate home insurance protection but also to know how to prevent damage in the first place. Water damage can be costly and disruptive. By taking steps to prevent it from occurring, you’ll be ahead of the game!

1. Detect Leaks Early

Water damage sometimes happens gradually, giving you a chance to catch problems early on. If you notice drips or water spots around your home, don’t ignore them. Investigate further to see if there might be a leak.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can cause rainwater to overflow and seep into your home’s foundation, resulting in water damage to the basement or walls. Clean your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year to keep them free from debris. Make sure downspouts are directed away from the house.

3. Consider a Sump Pump

If you live in an area known for frequent rain or a high water table, installing a sump pump can help prevent water from accumulating in your basement.

4. Insulate Your Pipes

In colder climates, such as Pennsylvania, frozen pipes are a common cause of water damage. Insulate your pipes, especially those in unheated areas like the attic, basement, or crawl spaces.

While prevention is key, accidents still happen. Homeowners’ insurance typically covers water damage caused by sudden and accidental incidents. Note that most policies do not cover damage from flooding caused by external water sources, such as heavy rains or natural disasters. For protection against flooding, you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy, available from your insurance representative at The Hansen Agency LLC, serving Washington, PA. Contact us to learn more!

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Can You Be Sued If Someone Else Has an Accident in Your Car?

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Lending your car to a friend or family member might seem like no big deal—until they get into an accident. If that happens, you may find yourself wondering: am I responsible for any damages? At The Hansen Agency LLC in Washington, PA, we help drivers understand how their auto insurance works in situations like these, so they aren’t caught off guard.

Who Bears Responsibility After an Accident?

In most cases, auto insurance follows the car, not the driver. So, if you allow someone to drive your vehicle, and they cause an accident, your insurance policy would most likely be the first to cover any damages. However, if costs exceed your policy limits, the driver’s insurance may be used as secondary coverage.

There are situations where you could be held personally responsible. If you knowingly allowed an unlicensed or intoxicated driver to use your car or lent it to someone with a history of reckless driving, you might be sued for negligence. Additionally, you could face legal action if the accident causes significant damage or injuries beyond what your insurance can cover.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

Before handing over your keys, it’s a good idea to check that the person borrowing your car has a valid license and a solid driving record. Having sufficient liability coverage on your policy can also help protect you from unexpected financial burdens.

Secure the Right Coverage for Assurance

Accidents happen, but the right insurance can help minimize the risks. The Hansen Agency LLC in Washington, PA, can help you find an auto insurance policy that keeps you covered, no matter who’s behind the wheel. Contact us today to learn more!

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