How To Keep Guests Safe on Your Boat

If you are a boat owner, you probably live for opportunities to have guests come boating with you. Although this can be great fun, it is also important to remember that boating can be risky. At Hinman & Associates Insurance, we want to help boat owners in Reno, NV, and the surrounding areas learn better ways to keep their guests safe while boating. Keep reading to learn more. 

Life Jackets

It is imperative that you provide properly fitting life jackets for everyone on your boat. Although this might seem like an inconvenience, it is a small price to pay to avoid a tragedy. Life jackets should also be replaced after a few years to ensure you have quality items for your guests. 

First Aid Kits

Accidents can happen even on a boat. You should always keep a well-stocked first aid kit on your boat. You should also have at least a basic knowledge of administering first aid if you will be taking guests out on your boat. In most cases, you can deal with small injuries on the boat and then safely get your guests to better medical help if they need it. 

Drinking and Boating 

Just like with driving, it is important that there is always a designated boat driver if there is alcohol present on the boat. Boating while under the influence can be very dangerous. Anytime water is involved, risks of injuries or drowning are significant.

If you want to learn about boat insurance, please get in touch with us at Hinman & Associates Insurance serving Reno, NV, and the surrounding areas.  

When does Umbrella Insurance coverage kick in?

Umbrella insurance from Hinman & Associates Insurance kicks in when you are liable for more money than your other insurance policies can cover. This type of policy is designed to provide additional coverage for expenses that exceed your standard auto, health, and homeowners insurance policies. Umbrella insurance can help protect against various damages and liabilities, such as medical expenses, property damage, legal costs from a lawsuit, and even libel or slander. It’s important to note that umbrella coverage does not kick in until the limits of the underlying policies have been exhausted. 

For example, if you have an auto accident here in the Reno, NV area and the costs exceed the liability limit of your car insurance policy (say $500,000). Your umbrella policy would kick in and cover any remaining costs up to its limit (which could be millions). This way, umbrella insurance acts like a “safety net” – providing additional financial protection when traditional coverage isn’t enough.  

Umbrella coverage can also provide protection for certain damages or liabilities not covered under a typical insurance policy, such as false arrest and slander/libel. In addition, umbrella insurers often offer worldwide coverage, meaning you’re protected from claims even in other countries. 

Ultimately, umbrella insurance is a great solution for those looking to protect themselves and their finances against potential lawsuits or costly damages. It’s always best to speak with an experienced insurance agent or financial advisor who can review your current coverage levels and determine if purchasing additional coverage through an umbrella policy makes sense.

If you have additional questions about your insurance policies, call us at Hinman & Associates Insurance today. We proudly serve the Reno, NV area.

Update Your Life Insurance in 2023

Life insurance is an integral part of financial planning. While it’s easy to put off thinking about your coverage, it’s essential to review and update your life insurance policy every few years. This ensures that you have the coverage you need and that your beneficiaries will be protected in the event of an unexpected death. With 2023 just beginning, it’s an excellent time to review your policy.

What’s Changed Since You Last Reviewed Your Policy? 

Life is constantly changing and evolving, so you must ask yourself what has changed since reviewing your policy. Have you gotten married or divorced? Do you have new children or grandchildren? Are there any significant changes in your income or assets? These things can impact how much life insurance coverage you need in Reno, NV. It’s also essential to ensure that any beneficiaries listed on the policy are still up-to-date. 

When Should I Update My Policy? 

Ideally, you should review your life insurance policy every three years. This ensures that all of the information in the policy is correct and accurate and reflects any changes in your lifestyle or family dynamics. You should update your policy immediately if something unexpected happens—such as a severe illness or injury. 

How Can Hinman & Associates Insurance Help?  

Hinman & Associates Insurance can help you find the right life insurance package for your particular needs. Our experienced team can guide you through setting up a new life insurance policy in Reno, NV, or updating an existing one to meet your current needs and goals. We understand everyone has different financial goals and priorities, so we provide tailored solutions for our clients.  

If you’re ready to start reviewing or updating your current life insurance plan, contact Hinman & Associates Insurance today!

Commercial insurance every small business needs

Owning a small business is a dream come true, and, at the same time, it can be highly stressful. So many things can go wrong and damage your business. The best thing you can do is to have good commercial insurance to protect your business. At Hinman & Associates Insurance in Reno, NV, we take our job seriously, and we understand the risks that your business needs to be protected from. 

Commercial liability insurance

As a small business, you are even more vulnerable to judgments and legal fees than larger businesses. Between one-third and one-half will be sued in any year. If you don’t have commercial liability insurance, you could lose everything you have and be forced to close your business. This insurance will pay the judgment and legal fees up to the policy’s limit. 

Commercial property insurance

Commercial property insurance is different from home insurance. It combines content with property insurance. If you don’t own the building, it will cover the content. This includes the things that your business uses every day to operate your particular business. It covers office furniture, machines, inventory, raw materials, tools, display units, electronics, and more. 

Business interruption insurance

When a covered peril causes the necessity to stop business temporarily, your income may dry up, but your expenses won’t. If you have this commercial insurance coverage, you can pay your bills, meet your salary, and even get paid yourself. Exclusions exist. Familiarize yourself with your policy. 

Commercial auto insurance

Vehicles your business owns should have commercial auto coverage. Keeping your personal and company cars separate is very important. Most auto insurance won’t cover business usage. 

Contact Hinman & Associates Insurance in Reno, NV for all your commercial insurance needs. 

Classic Car Regulations in Nevada

New classic car regulations will be going into effect for Nevada auto owners beginning in 2023 via Assembly Bill 349. While an update on the rules behind these coveted car tags and titles is not entirely unexpected, auto owners may not realize this law links directly to Classic Car Insurance in Nevada. Hinman & Associates Insurance serves Reno, NV classic car owners. Here is what you need to know.

Classic Vehicle Designation

Registering as a Classic Vehicle allows some exceptions for classic car owners. After all, that Model T isn’t going to meet the same standards as a 2021 Prius, and changing components from the original isn’t an option. Classic vehicle registration was previously designed for cars that travel less than 5,000 miles per year and allows these cars to avoid modern smog checks. This registration has primarily relied on the honor system to report care features.

Changing in 2023, the new law will require Classic Car Insurance to be able to register a classic vehicle in the state.

Classic Car Insurance

With insurance soon to be mandatory for Classic Car registration, many drivers seek to find the more stringent details needed to meet these program requirements. The insurance policies tend to have more requirements than the state, which lawmakers see as a means to close registration loopholes and reduce environmental emissions. Classic Car insurance policies are typically based on auto age, usage, vehicle value, storage, and condition. There are also Antique Car policies available for the oldest co

Hinman & Associates Insurance serving Reno, NV is here to help you protect your classic car investment. Contact us today.

Are You a Renter? Make Sure Your Possessions are Protected!

Many renters are unaware that insurance can protect them, just like homeowners insurance covers a homeowner. Renters’ insurance can be a requirement for some tenant-landlord lease agreements. Even if it is not required, purchasing it is a good idea.

Contact Hinman & Associates Insurance in Reno, NV for an answer to all your questions regarding renters’ insurance.

A landlord will have insurance to cover their building only. In the event of a fire or other damage, your personal belongings in the unit remain unprotected from loss. Also, if you are liable for the damage caused to the building, your landlord’s insurance company could seek damages from you.

Renters insurance will protect you in both of these instances. Also, it can cover you in an emergency for certain expenses.

Renters’ insurance will cover many situations, but there are some things to be aware of before purchasing a policy.

  • Coverage limits – the maximum amount covered because of damaged or lost property, additional living expenses, or personal liability.
  • Deductible – the amount you pay if you need to make a claim.
  • Scope of coverage – renters’ insurance does not cover everything. For example, if you conduct business from the residence you are renting and are sued for something related to your business, the personal liability portion of the policy will likely not cover it.

Determining the cost of coverage for the three factors above can determine the cost of the policy. A more extensive coverage amount will typically lead to a higher monthly premium. Other factors could affect the cost of the policy, such as:

  • The type of building you live in
  • The city you live in
  • Your insurance history
  • The insurance company

Renters’ insurance may seem like another monthly cost you would rather not pay. With rent and other fees you may need to pay, renters insurance protects you from possible disaster.

You may never have to use the policy. If your belongings are stolen or damaged, or if you are facing a lawsuit or need extra money for additional living expenses due to an act of God, renters’ insurance could save you. The financial burden could be so enormous that it would be difficult to recover from it.

So don’t take the risk – protect your belongings with a renter’s insurance policy. If you have any questions, please get in touch with Hinman & Associates Insurance. You will be glad you did.

Five Mistakes People Make When Buying Motorhome Insurance

Buying motorhome insurance is an important step in protecting your investment – but it’s one that many people don’t give enough thought to. People often choose the first policy they come across without taking the time to understand their options. As a result, they may not have the right coverage for their needs. Here are five of the most common mistakes people make when buying motorhome insurance.

1. Not Understanding What Their Policy Covers

The first and most common mistake people make when buying motorhome insurance is not understanding what their policy covers. Many assume their policy will cover everything, but this is often not the case. It’s essential to read your policy carefully and understand what it does and does not cover.

2. Not Shopping Around

The second mistake people make is not shopping around. There are many different insurance companies, and each offers various coverage options. It’s important to compare policies and find the one that’s right for you.

3. Not Getting Enough Coverage

Many people choose a policy with low coverage limits to save money. However, this can be a mistake if you need to make a claim. Make sure you have enough coverage to protect your investment.

4. Not Reviewing Their Policy Regularly

Your needs may change over time, so it’s essential to review your policy regularly. Make sure that the coverage you have is still adequate for your needs.

5. Ignoring or Omitting Important Details

Providing accurate and up-to-date information is important when buying motorhome insurance. If you omit or ignore important details, it could result in your claim being denied. Make sure you understand the questions being asked and provide accurate information.

Get Motorhome Insurance in Reno, NV

These are just a few mistakes people make when buying motorhome insurance. Be sure to avoid them to get the best coverage for your needs. Are you looking for the right motorhome insurance policy? Hinman & Associates Insurance can help. We offer a wide range of coverage options and can tailor a policy to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to get started.

 

What Are Some Things I Should Know About RV Insurance?

Before making the purchase, check each RV insurance policy coverage. Some might not cover towing expenses, RV rental reimbursement, or medical expenses in case of an accident. You might also want to look into what you need to do to maintain the policy, such as keeping up with maintenance on your RV, following any rules about hauling certain items, or keeping up with any licensing requirements. For expert aid, call Hinman & Associates Insurance in Reno, NV. 

What Entails RV Insurance 

When you’re ready to shop for RV insurance, you can start by contacting an agent or visiting an insurance provider’s website. You can purchase RV insurance through a private carrier, a company specializing in the insurance, or your current car insurance provider. 

Most policies include liability coverage up to a certain amount. Still, it is recommended that you purchase an additional policy to cover the entire value of your RV in case of catastrophic damage or total loss. RV insurance also includes coverage for medical expenses and property damage. 

Depending on what type of RV you own and how you plan to use it, you may need different types of insurance. Confirming that your RV is insured and the type of insurance it needs will help keep you and your passengers safe and protect your investment. 

An RV insurance policy can protect you from financial loss if your recreational vehicle is damaged or stolen. It can also help you recover financially if you’re liable for an accident with another vehicle or property. The coverage offered in an RV insurance policy is similar to other types of car insurance, but there are some crucial distinctions. 

For example, you may want to invest in a policy with especially high liability limits if you plan to drive an especially expensive RV. An RV may be considered a commercial vehicle, so that you might need commercial car insurance. You may also want to consider purchasing a policy with RV rental/lease coverage if you plan to rent or lease an RV occasionally. 

Contact Us

While most policies have similar features, such as liability coverage, finding one that best fits your RV is crucial. You may also want to consider additional coverage, such as RV rental insurance if you rent an RV or liability insurance for a car that pulls your RV. For a consultation, call Hinman & Associates Insurance in Reno, NV.

What Is an Accident Forgiveness Policy?

To claim your motorcycle insurance, you will need to provide your motorbike’s registered number, the name and address of the policyholder, the make and model of the bike, and the total amount of premiums paid for the policy. You will also need to issue insurance proof, such as a recent car or bike insurance quote or a letter from the car insurance company stating that you were covered under their policy. 

If you have a history with your current insurer, you may be able to negotiate a lower premium with a better rate. If a new policy is available, ask about coverages like deductibles, limits on the number of claims you can make, and how quickly you can get ready to cover your damages. Hinman & Associates Insurance at Reno, NV can help. 

What Is an Accident Forgiveness Policy?

An accident forgiveness policy is a contract that provides financial protection in the unlikely event of a covered accident. You and your family are covered by the financial loss you might experience due to an accident. You can purchase an accident forgiveness policy directly from the insurance company or broker. 

The policy will cover any medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses that result from an accident. In most cases, if you are at fault for an accident and are responsible for paying the costs of repairs and medical bills, you will likely be able to receive full reimbursement from your insurance provider.

Final Thoughts

The best time to make a claim is within the first 90 days of the accident. This is usually when your insurance company will begin insuring you against future claims. In most cases, you will need to provide proof of damage to the motorcycle, and your driving record will be a significant factor in determining whether you will be paid out. 

Motorcycle insurance can be purchased for various reasons, such as protecting you in case of an accident or coverages such as liability insurance that are not available on the vehicle you drive. Hinman & Associates Insurance in Reno, NV can come to your aid for superior customer service.

How to determine which boat insurance policy is right for you

Are you a boat lover? If so, you can count on the Hinman & Associates Insurance team for all of your boat insurance needs! We are proud to serve the boating community in the greater Reno, NV area! Give us a call today and find out more about the boat insurance policy options available in our area. 

Finding the right boat insurance policy for your needs

When you are determining which boat policy will best meet your needs, you’ll need to answer a few questions:

  • How often do you use the boat?
  • Is the boat stored at your home or in a protected facility?
  • Do you trailer your boat to and from the water?
  • Is your vessel kept at a marina or similar facility?
  • Do you ever store your boat in a dry dock?
  • How old is the boat?
  • Has the craft ever been involved in an accident or another mishap?
  • How much liability protection do you likely need?
  • Do you ever take the boat out into open water?
  • Is your boat transported to a different area during certain times of the year?
  • Are there often passengers aboard?

These are just examples of the type of information that your agent will need to know and understand when helping you choose the right policy for your needs. Sitting down with a local agent is the most efficient and effective way to ensure that you get the protection you need!

We know boats!

If you are wondering which boat insurance policy will best meet your needs, the Hinman & Associates Insurance team is here to help! We service the greater Reno, NV area and would love to work with you. Call or stop by today!