Fighting Distracted Driving to Save Lives

Drivers attempt to eat, read, discipline children and apply makeup while driving. All of these activities are dangerous and can result in an accident. In recent years, the increasing popularity of cell phones and texting has resulted in a significant increase in distracted driving. The distraction when using electronic devices is more severe. Historically, distracted driving was a minor issue. Now it is known as a major problem.

Distracted driving resulted in over 3,000 fatalities in 2012. It has been reported that distracted driving is three times more dangerous than drunk driving. Forty-four states have passed laws banning texting and driving. Fourteen states require use of hands-free phones when driving.

One community has taken a different approach to fighting distracted driving. Rochester, New York claims to have success with their Yeah, You're That Distracting campaign. The campaign involves focus on the person who is not in the vehicle. The goal is to have the person on the other end of the cell phone get off the phone or stop texting if they know the recipient is driving. When placing a phone call to a cell phone, the caller should first ask if the person they are calling is driving. Therefore it is up to the driver's friend and family, not the driver themselves, to wait to hold the conversation and prevent a potential accident or fatality.

The Ad Council responsible for this campaign has reported a 20 percent decrease in distracted driving since 2012. Community-wide polls show significant increases in driver awareness as well. For example, 84 percent of respondents indicated they already have or are willing to cease to use their cell phone while driving in a poll taken in November of 2013. Compare that to 68 percent in 2012.

Next time you place a phone call or send a text message, consider whether the recipient is driving. Consider asking if you are unsure. If they are driving, postpone the conversation until a later time. Take responsibility for your role in preventing a potential accident.

Even the most careful drivers can’t always avoid accidents. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas auto insurance policies.

How to Keep Your Car Battery Strong

Chilly weater is tough on a car battery. Cold temperatures impact the power the battery provides. Batteries that are not properly maintained may fail. No one wants to get stuck with a dead car battery on a very cold day. Consider the following tips to keep your car battery strong.

• If you notice any issues, have them resolved immediately. If the car takes a few times to start or seems slow to start, those are both indications of a potential issue. Don't ignore these warning signs.
• Drive your vehicle on a regular basis throughout the winter. If you will be going away for an extended period of time, consider asking a friend or family member to run the engine once a week.
• When you exit your vehicle, be sure you are not leaving electronic accessories on. These will drain the battery when the car is not running. In addition to verifying that your lights are off, unplug the GPS, DVD player and cell phone.
• Make sure the battery is properly secured so it doesn't jiggle while you are driving. This will prevent damage of the battery. Also verify that the cables are properly tightened.
• Clean the battery terminals so corrosion, grease and/or dirt won’t reduce the energy flow. Battery terminals can be cleaned with a wire brush while wearing eye protection and gloves.
• If your battery is three to five years old, consider bringing it in for a test. If the battery is weak, consider replacing it. Although a weak battery may work fine during warmer months, a weak battery may not start in the winter.
• If possible, park your car in a protected environment like a garage. This will keep the car at a slightly higher temperature and will protect the vehicle from winter weather.

Following the above tips will reduce the chance that your car battery will fail in the cold weather. However, you should still be prepared for being stuck in case another issue arises. Equip yourself with a quality auto insurance policy, some of which come with roadside assistance.

We’ve got you covered. Call Americo Direct Insurance at 214-374-9997 for more information on Arlington auto insurance.

Construction and Surety Bonds

What are surety bonds and how do they relate to construction? According to the Small Business Administration, a surety bond ensures contract completion if a contractor defaults. They also state that there are four types of surety bonds that relate to construction, which are as follows.

1.       Bid Bond: At the beginning of a contract, companies bid on the job. Once the different companies submit a bid, one is chosen to fulfill the contract. A bid bond ensures that the bidder will enter the contract and furnish the payment and performance bonds when awarded the contract. The bid bond helps ensure that there aren't a lot of bids submitted only to find out most of them weren't serious about taking the job.

2.       Payment Bond: After the contract has been awarded to a company, that company will need suppliers and might use subcontractors. A payment bond ensures that the suppliers and subcontractors will get paid. Without this bond, suppliers and subcontractors are not protected, and they might sue you for the payment.

3.       Performance Bond: The contract was awarded to a company and you want to be sure the job is finished according to the contract. A performance bond ensures that the terms and conditions of the contract will be met.

4.       Ancillary Bond: This type of surety bond ensures that requirements that are not directly performance related, but are related to the contract, are performed.

Why do you need a surety bond? If you are bidding on a contract, a surety bond can protect you. If you are having others bid on a project, then requiring them to be bonded can also protect you.

Get the coverage you need. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas surety bonds.

Why Comprehensive RV Insurance is Necessary

For many families, their RV is their home away from home. However, no matter how frequently or not you utilize your RV, it is vital that you take the proper steps to protect your investment by purchasing a specialized RV insurance policy. The mistake many RV owners make is simply adding their RV to their auto insurance policy. While this offers these individuals a certain amount of protection, it can be more beneficial for these RV owners to consider upgrading to a specialized RV insurance policy. This is due to the fact that standard auto insurance policies may not cover everything you need them to. Here are just a few of the many things you should ensure are covered under your RV insurance policy.

Roadside Assistance

Many insurance policies now include roadside assistance that offers towing up to a certain distance. However, these policies may not cover towing for your RV, which could be a large expense should you break down far from a town. For this reason, you will want to make sure that your RV insurance covers towing for your RV. Furthermore, you may want to consider a policy that provides temporary housing while your RV is being repaired, since, depending on where you were when you broke down, it is likely that your RV would not have been towed all the way home for repairs.

Personal Liability Coverage

When you park your RV at a campsite, you may be liable in the event that someone is injured in, on or even around your RV. However, it is also likely that your general auto insurance would not protect you during this scenario. This is where having a more specialized RV insurance policy can be beneficial as it will cover you in the event that you become responsible for someone’s injuries they acquire near your RV.

Personal Property Coverage

A standard RV insurance policy through your auto insurance would likely cover the repair or replacement of your RV should something happen to it, but it is likely that it would not cover the contents inside of your RV. Being your second home, it is likely that you store thousands of dollars in personal belongings including clothes, electronics, housewares, linens, dishes and even food inside of your RV. For this reason, you will want to ensure that you choose an insurance policy sufficient to cover the cost of replacing your personal belongings that were within your RV.

Purchasing a proper RV insurance policy is imperative for any RV owner. In the case that disaster strikes. Having an RV insurance policy will ensure you are taken care of properly and that you are able to replace what was lost to you. Contact us to find out more about RV insurance, as well as to find out how much RV insurance you need for your RV.

Get the coverage you need. Call Americo Direct Insurance at 214-374-9997 for more information on Dallas RV insurance.

Bonds Guarantee Performance, Honesty and Financial Integrity

Bonds make it possible for businesses to function because they guarantee performance and honesty to potential customers. Bonding companies provide the deep pockets to financially back up a company’s commitments. As not every person or business can qualify for every bond they seek, the ability to secure a bond can be an indication of a company’s honesty, ability and good financial standing.

Bonds are not insurance, but they have a few things in common. Both bonds and insurance are contracts that make a formal promise to pay for something that hasn’t happened yet. Both pay money in the event of a covered event or occurrence. Both are written by insurance companies and sold by licensed insurance agents.

A bond is a contract with three participating parties: a principal, a surety and an obligee.

• Principal: The principal is a company or individual whose promise to perform is backed up by a bond.
• Surety: The bonding company that agrees to pay when a bonded event takes place is called the surety, instead of insurance company.  
• Obligee: The obligee receives the benefit if something goes wrong.

There are many types of bonds, but they all fall within two categories: fidelity and surety.

Fidelity Bonds
Businesses and financial institutions purchase fidelity bonds to guarantee the honesty of employees. Bankers, accountants, stockbrokers, business office personnel and other employees with the access that could allow them to steal, embezzle or commit other crimes should be covered by fidelity bonds.
 

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) requires retirement plans to purchase fidelity bonds. Fidelity bonds guarantee the conduct of plan administrators, trustees, fiduciaries or anyone who has contact with plan assets, cash or financial instruments.
 

A fidelity bond can also guarantee the honesty of service providers, such as carpet cleaners, maid services and home repairmen. As employee behavior is impossible to predict, a bond financially backs the business owner's promise that his employees won’t steal personal belongings, valuables or cash while on a customer’s premises. If an employee does commit a crime while on the job, the bond can pay.
 

Surety Bonds
When a company or person makes a promise to perform certain duties or obligations, a surety bond backs up that promise. The Small Business Administration website discusses how some businesses and government entities require bid bonds to guarantee that a company will do a job if they win the bidding process. After winning a competitive bid, a surety bond can guarantee the company's performance based on contractual guidelines and time frames.
 

State and local governments require surety bonds to guarantee that a business will pay their tax obligations. A Financial Responsibility bond is a type of surety bond that guarantees to the state that a driver has at least the minimum limits of liability coverage in force.
 

Bonds can be complicated, but your independent agent can answer any questions you may have.
We’re happy to assist you. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas surety bonds.

Why You Might Need to Bond Your Business

With so many reported burglaries and “stranger danger” scares in the news, many people feel very uneasy about letting strangers into their homes. However, electricians, plumbers and contractors — among others — must enter the home in order to perform their jobs. While word of mouth referrals may help customers feel at ease in terms of the professionalism of a business, a surety bond can help give customers the peace of mind of knowing that the money they invest in a project will lead to delivered results.

What does this mean? If you signed a contract to remodel a family’s kitchen, they will expect the job to be completed as agreed upon. If your business breaches the contract or goes bankrupt mid-project, you could be in big trouble. However, being bonded can help sort out similar dire situations.

A bond is essentially a guarantee that the job will get done according to expectations as detailed in the contract. If something goes awry, the bond insurer is there to cover any necessary expenses for the project to be completed.

In fact, bonds are so vital for establishing a trusting relationship between business and customer that many construction professionals are required to purchase a bond before they can obtain a business license. This helps limit the industry to trustworthy professionals, which is beneficial to property owners.

What type of bond does your business need? There are many types available, each designed to serve a specific occupation. Speak with your independent insurance agent to determine the right coverage for your needs.

Prove your professionalism to potential customers. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas bonds.

You Need Commercial Insurance to Protect Your Business

Large companies hire people to manage the risks associated with the business. However, owners and manager of smaller companies often have to handle risks themselves — along with taking care of the day-to-day issues of running an office and directing staff. Commercial insurance is the ideal solution. What can it do for your business?

1. Property Insurance: Just as with personal property, your business property needs to be protected against loss, liability and damage. Consider if you have any of these types of property that need coverage:
2. Equipment Breakdown Insurance: When you have jobs to do, the last thing you need is your equipment to break down. This type of insurance covers the sudden and accidental breakdown of machinery, boilers, equipment and often electronic equipment — such as computers and phones. Coverage usually includes reimbursement for property that may be damaged as well as expediting expenses — such as faster shipping costs for new parts. The coverage can also cover loss of business due to the breakdown.
3. Employee Theft Coverage: Unfortunately, your employees may not always be trustworthy. This crime coverage will protect you against losses you may experience because of an employee's dishonesty.
4. Accounts Receivable Coverage: In case of loss or damage, financial records of what customers still owe your business may be lost. This type of additional insurance will pay all the amounts owed to your company which cannot be collected because of the lost documentation. Collection expenses may also be covered.
5. Liability Insurance: This type of insurance protects your business assets if your company is sued for something the business did (or failed to do) that caused bodily injury or damage to another person's property. Liability coverage also pays attorneys' fees and other costs for defending against the lawsuit, whether your company is at fault or not.
6. Cyber or Internet Coverage: Many businesses think they have enough firewall and cyber protection in place, but the risks to businesses in this arena are escalating. This type of insurance covers crisis management and hiring a public relations firm if there is a data breach. The insurance can cover the costs of repairing computer systems that have been hacked.
7. Employment Practice Liability Insurance (EPLI): This insurance provides an attorney if a suit is brought against your business for wrongful termination, sexual harassment and other forms of discrimination.

Get the coverage you need. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas business insurance.

Picking The Right Location For Your Business

Quality, sought after employees tend to be selective with where they choose to work, making it imperative that you do everything you can to make your business an attractive place of employment. One of the ways you can appeal to workers is by choosing a top-notch location. What do employees want out of a workplace? Everyone has different tastes, but some factors are preferred by most individuals. They are as follows.

Facility

People are attracted to visually appealing places. Your building should be attractive, clean and in good repair. This doesn't necessarily mean that you need a brand new, state-of-the-art building. Older buildings can be well maintained and decorated nicely to provide a similar atmosphere. In addition, many studies have shown that the condition of the bathrooms contribute to a person's employment decision.

Parking

Morning commutes are frustrating enough without the hassle of searching for a parking spot. Your building should have ample parking, which also helps prevent tardiness. For some businesses, assigning parking spots is an ideal solution to ensure that everyone has a place nearby.

Public Transit

Some individuals prefer using public transportation to get to work. A workplace located near bus/train stops opens up more commuting options.

Neighborhood

Lunch breaks are the perfect time to grab a bite and run an errand or two. A workplace located near restaurants, grocery stores, dry cleaners etc. provide immense value to your employees, who can save valuable time in the evening by getting a few things done in the afternoon. Many people also enjoy having a gym close to the office for morning or evening workouts.

The right location should be paired with the right coverage. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas business insurance.

Keep Your House Environmentally Fit With These Composting Tips

If you’re looking to live a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, or if you’re interested in gardening, you may have read about composting. Compost is a nutrient-rich soil additive created when plant and animal matter decomposes. With a little help from waste-conscious humans, the process of composting at home can be a great way to educate whole families on how to live a more “green” lifestyle.

According to statistics from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), household yard clippings and food waste make up somewhere between 20 and 30 percent of the waste Americans annually throw into landfills. Once there, these organic materials take up landfill space and release greenhouse gases such as methane. One way to help keep these materials out of landfills is to compost this waste at home, rather than throwing it away. The EPA provides a list of items that you can compost, and some you shouldn’t.

Composting Payoffs

Organic material recycling has a number of rewards for your yard, greater community and overall carbon footprint. By dedicating a little time and space to proper composting, the EPA says you can start enjoying the following benefits:

- Keeping items out of landfills: This is probably the most well-known effect of composting. As mentioned above, anything you compost instead of throwing away saves space in your local landfill.

- Soil enrichment: By adding fresh compost to your garden, your soil becomes enriched with the nutrients shrubs, plants and flowers thrive on to grow strong. In addition, it enables moisture to reach thirsty roots. And, by keeping your yard and garden healthy, compost acts as a natural guard against soil erosion.

- Reduction in added chemicals: When you regularly add compost to your soil, you reduce your dependency on chemical lawn fertilizers and pesticides. Think about this win-win situation: You add scraps you were throwing out anyway to a compost pile, and — voila — you simultaneously save money and your garden from unwanted chemicals.

- Healthy bacteria production: Another byproduct of composting is the creation of good fungi and bacteria. These essential ingredients to the decomposition process encourage the microorganisms necessary to sustain long-term garden and soil health.

Composting Methods

There are various methods of composting, but for home use, two are likely the most practical:

Soil microbes: In this method, you moisten your materials and put them in a pile or bin, in a dry, shady spot near a water source, and wait for the items to decompose. The EPA says this can take anywhere from two months to two years.

Vermicomposting: If you’re not a fan of worms, this probably isn’t the method for you. In vermicomposting, you put red worms into a covered box lined with leaves, newspaper or dirt, according to the EPA. The red worms eat fruit and vegetable scraps you put into the container, and they leave behind droppings that the EPA says can be used as a natural plant food. Because this method takes less space than the compost piles or bins needed for soil microbes, people who live in apartments may opt for vermicomposting.

Where to Compost

If you’re using the microbe method, turning yard and kitchen waste materials into compost is simply a matter of providing the right space, air and moisture. However, depending on where you live, the amount of waste you’ll be composting and how far you plan on traveling to add items to the compost pile, you have three basic composting options:

- Outdoor piles. An easy way to begin composting is to simply start a compost pile in a shady spot in your yard. Just add yard clippings and approved table scraps in alternating layers. The EPA says you can surround your pile with chicken wire or nail wood beams together to create a small fence.

- Outdoor bins. The EPA says that a compost pile may work for yard waste, like dead leaves, but if you’re going to compost food waste, you should use a bin in order to keep small animals from raiding your compost bin for dinner. You can either buy a bin or build your own; just remember: Any bins you dedicate to composting must have holes or openings to allow for air movement, to help avoid any unpleasant smells.

- Indoor bins. If you don’t have space outdoors for a compost pile or bin, you may want to consider indoor composting. Like an outdoor bin, you can either buy a special indoor composting bin or build your own, according to the EPA, But, if you’re keeping your bin indoors, it’s even more important to make sure you maintain it in order to help avoid rodents and odors.

For vermicomposting, you can either buy or make a bin for your red worms. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln says you can turn an old drawer into your composting bin, or use a plastic storage container, making sure the lid loosely covers the bin and is not tightly latched. You’ll need to line your bin with moistened bedding for the worms, such as shredded cardboard or paper.

Now that you’ve selected and set up your compost pile or bin, it’s time to start composting!

For information about Dallas home insurance, give Americo Direct Insurance a call at 214-374-9997. 

What You Might Not Know About Renters Insurance

Many renters overlook buying renters insurance because of they believe it to be an unneeded cost. However, here are five things to consider about renters insurance that you might not have been aware of before:

1. Landlord is not responsible: Your landlord is not responsible for the items that you have inside of your apartment. This is why many landlords require that their renters have renters insurance. With insurance, you're covered in the case of fire or theft. Without it, your losses must be paid out-of-pocket.
2. Not all policies are the same: You can personalize your insurance coverage to meet your needs. Coverage amount can be anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000. Some policies will replace lost items from a fire or theft and some will just give cash for the total cost of the items lost. Ask your agent about the details of your policy.
3. Affordable: Most of the time, renters insurance is avoided because people believe it will cost much more than what it's worth. However, the average amount for having renters insurance is about $15 to $30 per month. The cost will vary depending on location, as well as the type of property you live in.
4. It is worth it: You might think that all of your items are not worth covering. However, if your computer, your phone or all of your clothes are lost, think about how much you would have to spend to replace it all. Having renters insurance is definitely worth saving your money on replacing every single item in your possession.
5. Extra protection: Renters insurance can also provide liability coverage. This means if someone is hurt in your apartment, the medical and legal costs can be covered.

Renters insurance is definitely worth having. Call your agent to get started today!

Learn about your coverage options. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas renters insurance.

How to Lower Your Auto Insurance Premium

Paying for insurance that you don't use often can be irritating, but it's very important for the times that you do need to file a claim. However, to soften the blow to your budget, there are plenty of ways you can reduce your auto insurance premium. Your agent can explain them in further detail, but here are five ways to save to get you started.

1. Policy bundles: By bundling your personal insurance policies together with a single insurance company, you can save up to 15 percent across-the-board on your insurance portfolio. It's a win-win; insurers get more of your business and you save money on the coverage you need. The most popular bundle in America is auto, home and life, but you can add virtually any policy to your bundle.
2. Fewer payments: Each time you make a premium payment, you will most likely be charged a processing fee. Even though these fees may only be a few dollars, they add up over time. To minimize what you spend on fees, simply make less payments. If you can, pay your entire premium for the year all at once. If not, try biannual or quarterly payments as opposed to monthly. You'll save in the long run.
3. Safe drivers: Safe drivers save money. It's that simple. If you maintain a driving record free of tickets and accidents, your premium is likely to be lower than a driver who displays reckless behavior. Insurers calculate premium prices based on the risk level of each driver, so don't give them a reason to classify you as a risky investment.
4. Good credit score: A person with a good credit score is typically more responsible than a person with thousands of dollars of debt racked up. So, similar to the point above, individuals with good credit are viewed as a less risky investment and, therefore, are likely to pay less for car coverage.
5. Discount options: Most insurance companies offer a variety of discounts to good students, loyal customers, seniors, military personnel, teachers and more. You may not be told upfront, but you can always ask your agent if you qualify for a discount on your auto insurance.

We’ll help you save on coverage. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas auto insurance.

Reduce Stress by getting your Security Deposit Back

Renters are all too familiar with security deposits, costing anywhere from $300 to a full month’s rent in advance of moving in. In most cases, the deposit is half (if not fully) refundable, but your landlord can deduct from that amount to fix damages and/or replace property. Disagreements over deposit refunds are the number one source of tension between residents and landlords. So how can you relieve the tension and get your deposit when it’s time to move out?

When you moved in, your landlord probably asked you to fill out a checklist, noting any existing damages. Remember that? Keep your copy somewhere safe because it relinquishes you from the responsibility of paying for damages that were already there before you received your key. As an added layer of protection, you can take time-stamped pictures of existing damages to back up your notes.

Your landlord will conduct a final walk-through before you move out, checking for any damages that he or she can pin on you. But if you have documentation that those damages were there before you, then you can contest the claims and you’ll stand a higher chance of getting your full deposit refund back. Note that regular wear and tear is generally acceptable without a fine, but you may be responsible for a broken dishwasher or a cracked window.

Apart from damages, you can also be charged for theft, whether intentional or accidental. Many renters forget to turn in their key or garage door opener, which can reduce your refund if replacements must be purchased by your landlord. While these charges may be minimal, there will obviously be larger charges if you steal, for instance, a coffee table from a fully furnished apartment. Double check that you turn in property or leave it in your unit before completely moving out.

By documenting and turning in landlord property, you stand a very good chance of receiving your full refund upon moving out, which can help finance your next rental deposit or property purchase.

Our goal is to help save you money. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas renter’s insurance.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Tax Return

Come tax season, everyone wants to get the biggest tax return they possibly can. But, without proper research and/or professional assistance, many people end up paying more than they truly owe. There are many extensive resources online to help you with your tax return, but here’s a good place to start.
Deductions vs. Credits
A deduction is a qualified expense that is subtracted from your taxable income. This can include donations to charities, business travel expenses, job search expenses and more. A credit is subtracted directly from the amount of income tax that you owe, making credits much more effective than deductibles when it comes to increasing your tax return. Ask a professional if you’re eligible for tax credits if you have a child in college, if you’ve made energy-saving home improvements and more.
Itemizing vs. Standard Deduction
Most Americans enjoy the ease of simply using the standard deduction, but many people can save more by itemizing their deductions. Young, single individuals may not need to itemize, but you should consider it if you’ve made significant charitable donations, had unreimbursed business travel expenses, paid property taxes and more.
IRA Account
IRA contributions not only help you plan for retirement, but they also reduce your taxable income. If you have a Roth IRA account, you may be able to claim the retirement savings contribution credit when preparing your taxes. Either way, your savings could help you receive a bigger tax refund.
If this all sounds like gibberish to you, it’s best to seek assistance from a tax professional to ensure that you’re not overpaying and that you get back as much as possible.
We’ll help you get ready for tax season. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas tax preparation.

Renting a Car After an Accident: Insurance Info

Getting into a car accident is a stressful experience. And, if your car is damaged and has to go to the body shop, it can mean days — even weeks — without your vehicle.

So, if you don’t want to rely on family, friends or public transportation while your car is in the shop, you might choose to rent a car. Here are some important things to think about:

Rental Reimbursement Coverage

There are a few ways insurance comes into play when you’re renting a car after an accident. The first thing you need to think about is whether you have rental reimbursement coverage as part of the auto insurance policy you have on your own vehicle. Rental reimbursement coverage is typically an optional coverage that helps pay for the cost of a car rental while your own vehicle is being repaired after a covered loss. If you want rental reimbursement coverage to help pay for your rental after an accident, you must purchase it in advance — before an accident occurs.

If you have rental reimbursement coverage, there is typically no deductible for renting a car after a covered accident, but there are usually limits to the rental car cost per day and also the number of days your insurer will help pay for the rental.

Insurance at the Rental Counter

Once you determine whether your car insurance policy will help pay for your rental car while your own vehicle is being repaired for covered accident damage, it’s time for some more questions: What if you get into a crash in the rental car — are you protected? Should you buy the extra insurance offered at the rental car counter?

To answer these questions, check your car insurance policy. In many cases, the liability, comprehensive, collision and other coverages might extend to your rental car. If you’re unsure, you can always double-check with your insurance agent.

Additionally, rental car companies typically offer car insurance at the counter. Some credit cards also offer secondary rental car insurance that helps you pay for costs not covered by your car insurance policy, such as deductibles and coverage gaps. Click here to learn more about the options for protecting yourself in case of an accident in a rental car.

For more information about Dallas car insurance, give Americo Direct Insurance a call at 214-374-9997.

(Source:Allstate)

Auto Insurance Savings Tune Up

If you’re like me, you hate paying for stuff that you don’t use regularly. But insurance is one of those things that I’m willing to grit my teeth and write a check for because it’s a crazy world out there.
That doesn’t mean you should just go with the first quote you get, or just blindly accept the recommendations of your insurance guy. Auto insurance is expensive. In some cases, it can be as much, if not more expensive than your actual car payment.

Here are a few things you should know about auto insurance policies and a few tips that could save you a few bucks every month on your coverage.

Risky Business

So much of your auto insurance premiums are determined by risk factors. Things like your credit score, your driving history, where you live and how much you drive are a huge factor in determining what you will pay for your policy.

It’s a cold science. Younger people get into traffic accidents more often than people in their 40s and 50s. If you’re driving more often, or live in a high-crime area, you’re more likely to file a claim. If you have a poor credit score, insurance companies see that as a predictive factor in determining your future claims history.

You can’t help things like age, but you can improve your credit score and driving record. Both are slow processes, but will pay dividends.

The Loyalty Factor

Being loyal to your current insurance provider can both help and hurt you.

It helps if you “bundle” your policies. You’ve seen the ads. Having your Homeowners/Renters, Life and Auto policies through the same provider can save you a lot of money. It works like a volume discount would. Insurance companies want to sell you multiple policies, so they give you a break on the price for buying multiple policies.

But just because you bundled your policy doesn’t mean you’re getting the best price out there. Don’t be afraid to shop around and get the best prices. It’s not the most entertaining way to spend an afternoon, but it’s worth it. I just switched my insurance provider and ended up getting better coverage for less money. That’s a twofer!

Know Your Policy

By the time you’re factoring in behaviors, where you live and the car you drive, your opportunities to save big start to dwindle. But, if you’re realistic about what you need, you can ring some more cash from the savings sponge.

First, your deductible: the higher the deductible, the lower your cost. Look, no one likes to pay out of pocket when you make a claim. If you’re a safe driver, you might do well to consider raising your deductible to $500 or even $1,000. Sure, it stinks when you have to write a check. But if you don’t file a lot of claims, you’re essentially paying for something you (hopefully) won’t use.
Also, look into what collision coverage you have. If your policy is “Broad Form” that generally means you don’t have to pay your deductible under certain circumstances, like when you’re not at-fault (make sure to check with your provider). But that might not be worth it if you’re paying extra. Run the numbers and see if it makes sense for you.

Finally, be sure to ask about what special policy discounts your provider might offer. Some auto insurance companies will give you a discount for belonging to certain clubs, or being a college graduate, some might even give you a break if you drive around with a device that monitors your driving habits. Don’t be afraid to ask. Saving a percent or two on your policy could add up to a pretty nice chunk of change.

Saving on auto insurance involves a little homework, some time and possibly a change in your driving behavior. But most importantly, make sure you’re balancing the risks and rewards of a lower policy. Some people don’t mind paying more for peace of mind. Others would be fine with a less expensive policy with fewer perks and a higher deductible.
Which insurance option do you prefer?

For more information about Dallas auto insurance, call Americo Direct Insurance at 214-374-9997.

(Source:QuickenLoans.com)

Safe Holiday Cooking

The holiday season is a time to share with loved ones. It’s a time to take a break from your hectic work schedule and relax. It’s also a time to stuff yourself with succulent meals and sugary sweets. Preparing such meals takes an enormous amount of effort, and with your focus pulled in so many directions simultaneously, the risk of a kitchen fire increases. In this article, we’ll look at safety measures you can take while cooking for the holidays.

Keep a Watchful Eye
The number one culprit of kitchen fires is unattended cooking. Always remain in the kitchen when using the stovetop or grilling. While simmering for extended periods or using the oven you can roam the house and complete other chores, but do not leave and keep an open ear for timers going off.

Dress for the Occasion
While cooking, you should wear clothes that fit snugly. Any dangling sleeves or baggy shirts can easily catch fire, especially around your stovetop. Close-toed shoes will protect your feet from hot drips and spills.

Avoiding and Treating Burns
If children are in the house, use the back burners when possible and turn pan handles inward to prevent accidental tipping. However, you may want to make a rule that children must stay at least three feet away from heated cooking appliances for their own safety.
If you or a child does get burned, immediately submerge the burned portion of skin in cool water for three to five minutes. If any burns appear to be more severe than a first degree burn, seek medical help as soon as possible.

Fight or Flee?
If a fire ignites inside of a pan, carefully slide a lid over the pan using an oven mitt. Immediately turn off the burner and let it cool before removing the lid. Never douse grease fires with water, as that could splash burning oil to other areas of your kitchen.

If a fire is too big to contain or extinguish, evacuate your home immediately. Close all doors to the burning room as you leave to prevent spreading. Alert everyone in the house to leave and call 911 immediately.

Enjoy your holidays in a safe, secure home. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas home insurance.

A Common Winter Task: Scraping Ice Off Your Windshield Each Morning

If you park your car outdoors, you may be familiar with having to de-ice your car before you can get to work during the winter, even in Dallas, Texas. This task doesn’t have to become a lengthy process; you can get it done in just a few minutes if you do it properly. Let’s talk about some tips to shave time off your morning preparations.

First off, never make the mistake of pouring hot water over your windshield to melt the ice away. The water can refreeze while you’re driving, putting you right back in the same position where you started. Very hot water can even crack your windshield. Instead, try safer methods of de-icing.
Start your car’s engine (open the garage door first if necessary) and turn the heater on the highest setting. Tilt the vents upward so the hot air is directed at your windshield. While the heat is running, spray your windows with a solution of one part water and two parts rubbing alcohol (vinegar also works). You can use a spray bottle or fill your wiper fluid reservoir with this solution, which cuts through the frost residue. Whichever you choose, turn on your wipers to push off the remaining ice. Between the solution and your heater, the windshield will be blasted on both sides.

Spray this solution on your other windows and mirrors as well. An ice scraper can help remove the broken up ice. Brush away any ice or snow from your headlights and taillights as well. Having your windows, mirrors and lights clear will improve your visibility and make winter driving safer for you and other drivers around you.

Commercial lock de-icer breaks away pesky ice that builds up inside of locks. If you’re caught in a pinch without any, dip your key into a bottle of hand sanitizer. The alcohol content can help penetrate the ice. It’s a good idea to keep hand sanitizer, and ice scrapers, both inside your car and inside your home (or garage) in case these items get frozen inside your car when you need them.
For better protection, a tarp or car cover decreases the snow and ice buildup on cars. You can start your morning by simply removing the cover and performing any necessary touch ups.

A safe car can means a safer winter driving experience. Call Americo Direct Insurance at (214) 374-9997 for more information on Dallas auto insurance.

Filing An Auto Insurance Claim

After a car wreck there are a number of things  you may be worrying about, or you just may not know what to do. First, if you or anyone you know is injured, immediately call 911. After you have confirmed the safety of your loved ones, survey your home and property. If your car has been damaged after a disaster, would you know how to file an auto insurance claim?
To help mitigate your stress during this process, below is a list of steps as to how to file your auto insurance claim.

Report your claim

If your vehicle has been damaged, report your claim online. Phone lines may be busy preventing you from speaking and/or reaching your car insurance company’s claims department. Filing a claim online is as effective as speaking with a claims representative. However, if you prefer to call in and report your claim you may do so as well. Please note that during catastrophic events, callers can experience delays and wait times because of unpredictable spikes in call volumes.

Update your contact information

A disaster can leave you displaced. If you are staying at a different location when reporting your auto insurance claim, make sure to provide the representative with your updated contact information. If you have an email address, it is recommend you provide that as an alternative means of communication during the auto insurance claims process. This will allow your car insurance company to keep you informed of the progress of your claim and repairs.

What’s next?

Once your auto insurance claim is reported your car insurance company will assign you a claims associate. Your representative should contact you within 24 hours after you report your claim. This associate will guide you through the claims process, cover your next steps, and explain your repair options. During catastrophic events repair, towing, and rental car facilities may also be affected by the disaster. This may delay the time it takes to repair your vehicle. Your claims associate should set time-bound expectations to help you anticipate when your claim will be resolved.

For more information about Dallas auto insurance, give Americo Direct Insurance a call at 214-374-9997.

Inspect Your Home This Fall And Prepare For The Winter

Even in Texas, the winter weather can bring snow and ice which can take a heavy toll on a home that hasn’t been prepared for it. As temperatures start to cool down a little, now is the perfect time to inspect your home for small problems that could develop when the winter weather finally arrives. Preparing your home for winter will not only protect you and your family from the elements, but it will also keep your insurance provider happy.

Check Your Roof and Insulation

Take a good look at your roof and identify any missing tiles or shingles. If it’s a flat roof, you should remove any leaves, pine needles and debris immediately, as they can harbor moisture. If you can get onto the roof, you can perform a close inspection yourself. If you’re not comfortable doing that, a good pair of binoculars could work. However, it may be worth paying a local roofing contractor to perform a full inspection.
A big problem during cold winter weather is the formation of ice dams and icicles. They can cause melted water to flow back into your home, leading to structural and mold problems. Hire an energy auditor or roofing contractor to identify possible air leaks and deficient insulation in your attic, as they can be the cause of ice dams and icicles.

Clean Your Gutters

During the course of late summer and fall, your gutters can become blocked with leaves, vegetation and general debris. This can lead to leaks, ice dams and the flow of water back into your home. Clearing guttering is a relatively simple job, but if you’re not up to it, a local gutter cleaning service will usually work on an average-sized home for less than $200.

Turn Off Exterior Faucets

Turn off any exterior faucets you might have before sub-zero temperatures arrive. Any undrained water can freeze and expand, and that can lead to serious flooding which you may not be insured for.

Test Your Sump Pump

Fill your sump pump with water until it switches on; otherwise, you won’t realize it is in need of repair until your home is flooded. Perform regular checks throughout the fall and winter, and attend to repairs immediately.

Have Your Basic Utilities Checked

Electricity, gas and water are all susceptible to interruption in particularly cold weather, so they should be fully inspected by certified engineers in preparation for winter. Defective cabling, wiring and pipework have been known to cause serious floods, fires and explosions, so ensuring that they are up to the job is essential.
Although you will never be able to fully protect your home from the ravages of winter, performing an annual fall inspection should reduce the chances of major problems when the weather takes a turn for the worse. It will also reduce your chances of making an insurance claim, which is something that could keep your premiums as low as possible.
If you would like to discuss your own Dallas home insurance requirements, give Americo Direct Insurance a call at 214-374-9997, and one of our experienced advisers will be happy to help.

Auto Insurance For College Students

As colleges are gearing up to begin and many students are headed away to school, have you notified your auto insurance company or insurance agent ? If so, you may have notice a reduction in your auto insurance premium. Many insurance companies will lower your premium if your child is going to school more than 100 miles away from home. However, there are a couple of different scenarios that can happen when your child is away at college. Your child may or may not be covered under your auto insurance policy, depending on how the insurance company handled the change. The insurance company may have kept your child on your policy as a covered driver or may have listed your child as an excluded driver. If your child is listed as an excluded driver on your policy, he or she is not covered under your auto insurance policy to drive your vehicle.

Chances are that when your child comes home for a vacation, he or she will want to drive your vehicle. It is important that you contact your insurance agent to make sure that your child is actually covered under your policy. If your child is not covered and gets in an accident, you may be held financially liable for the damages.

If you discover that your child is not covered under your auto insurance policy, your insurance agent can make the necessary changes. Since your child spends the majority of his or her time away from home, the auto insurance company will probably give you a discounted rate to compensate for the fact that your child will not be driving the car often. Some insurance companies will allow your child to be rated as a guest driver, without increasing your premium.

Even if you discover that your premium will increase by adding your child to your policy, the reduction in liability risks makes up for the increase in your auto insurance rates. There is another advantage to including your child on your policy as well, and that is liability protection while your child is away at school. If your child borrows another person’s vehicle while away at college and is not covered under the vehicle owner’s insurance policy, you may be held liable for any damages that occur in the event of an accident. Remember, your college student is still considered your dependent, which means you are financially liable for his or her actions.

Have peace of mind with the right Dallas auto insurance coverage for your college student. Give Americo Direct Insurance a call at 214-374-9997 to get the best rates and coverage for your situation.