Loudoun Insurance and South Riding Insurance, Northern Virginia Zip 201-221, Near 20152

Protect Your Assets with an Umbrella Policy

2009-06-26T15:20:00.001-04:00

Hopefully, you will never be served with legal papers and involved in a costly lawsuit. But in the event you are, it will be imperative that you have the insurance to cover your legal liability. That's where a personal liability umbrella policy can help especially in Fairfax / Loudoun Counties in Virginia.

Umbrella policies supplement the liability coverage you have through home and auto insurance and provide an extra layer of security by protecting your assets that might be at risk in a liability lawsuit.

If you don't have enough liability coverage from your homeowner's and auto policies to adequately resolve a claim, the person suing you can go after your home and your other assets to pay for damages. Umbrella policies cover damage claims that you, your dependents, or even your pets may cause in the South Riding / Chantilly areas.

Umbrella policies kick in after, and pay in addition to, your auto and homeowner's insurance liability limits. The bulk of the risk is assumed under the primary auto or home policy, which enables insurers to offer umbrella policies at very reasonable costs.

However, most insurance companies will not sell an umbrella policy unless both your auto and homeowner's insurance is with them. In addition, your insurer may stipulate that your auto or homeowner's liability limits be at least a certain amount, such as $200,000 to $300,000.

Umbrella policies provide much broader coverage in case you are sued, covering you if you cause bodily injury, property damage, or personal injury. Certain umbrella policies also cover you if you face liability arising from your service on the board of a civic, charitable, or religious organization.

Umbrella policies typically do not cover claims from business endeavors. If you own a business, even a small one, you'll need to purchase business insurance to protect yourself from business-related liability claims.

To determine if you need an umbrella policy, analyze your risk of being sued and the assets you have at risk by contacting Khalid Umerani, NOVA Insurance Group, here in Chantilly / South Riding Va. Do you have a swimming pool or trampoline that may pose a threat to visitors? Of course, you may decide your personal situation makes lawsuits very unlikely.

Before making any decision, compare the umbrella premium with the cost of raising the liability limits on your auto and homeowner's policies. It may work to your advantage to raise these current limits by several hundred thousand dollars, and you may come out spending less than you would on umbrella policy premiums. Please contact us for more information at www.south-riding-insurance.com or www.loudoun-insurance.com.

Can I Borrow Your Car -- And Your Insurance?

2009-05-05T13:01:00.001-04:00

“Bill, can I borrow your truck? I have to pick up a new mattress.” Questions like this are routine here in Virginia (Fairfax & Loudoun Counties). Friends and neighbors borrow and lend their vehicles. College roommates borrow their friends’ cars. Six cars are parked in a driveway at a party and one needs to be moved so another car can pull out. The owner tosses someone the keys and tells him to move it. When situations like these end with an auto accident, whose insurance pays – the owner’s or the borrower’s?

In general, the vehicle owner’s policy is primary and pays first in the event of a loss. If for some reason the owner’s policy does not cover the loss or provide enough insurance to fully cover it, the borrower’s policy will apply. For example, assume that Joe has a policy with an insurance limit of $100,000 for injuries to one person and Bill’s policy has a limit of $250,000. Joe borrows Bill’s car and severely injures a pedestrian, resulting in damages of $300,000. Since Bill owns the car, his policy will pay first. It will pay $250,000 (his limit of insurance,) and Joe’s policy will pay the remaining $50,000. If Bill’s policy does not cover the loss (for example, if he had let the policy lapse,) Joe’s policy would pay all of its $100,000, but Bill and Joe might be individually responsible for paying the balance.

The owner’s insurance will also be primary for damage to the car itself. However, the borrower’s insurance can make up for a difference in deductible. Suppose Joe has a $500 collision deductible on his car and Bill’s collision deductible is $1,000. Joe totals Bill’s $5,000 car in an accident. Bill’s insurance will pay $4,000 for the car ($5,000 minus the $1,000 deductible,) and Joe’s insurance will pay $500 (Bill’s deductible minus Joe’s $500 deductible.) If Bill’s insurance is uncollectible because he didn’t buy collision coverage, Joe’s policy will pay $4,500 ($5,000 minus the $500 deductible.)

A person must have the car owner’s permission to borrow before the owner’s insurance will cover him. The insurance company will consider the person to have permission if he had a reasonable belief that he could use the car. For example, if Bill at one time said to Joe, “Take the car whenever you need to; the keys are on my desk,” and Joe had in fact borrowed it several times with no objection from Bill, it would appear that Joe had a reasonable belief that he could use it. On the other hand, if Bill never said anything to Joe about using the car, and Joe had to search Bill’s home to find the keys, Joe’s belief that he could use it might not appear to be so reasonable. In this case, Bill’s policy might not cover Joe’s liability for injuries or damages. Worse, Joe’s policy might not cover him, either.

Permission must come from the vehicle’s owner, not from a member of the owner’s family. Joe will not have coverage if Bill didn’t give him permission but Bill’s teenage daughter told him to use it. However, the daughter has coverage if she borrows the car, with or without permission. A member of the owner’s family has coverage without having to prove they had permission. To be considered a family member, such a person must be related to the owner by blood, marriage or adoption.

Before borrowing someone else’s car, we advise people to do the following here in Virginia (South Riding & Chantilly areas zips incl. 20151, 20152 and 20105):

-Make certain you have the owner’s permission.
-Make certain the owner has insurance in-force on the car.
-Check your own insurance to see if it will cover damages the owner’s policy doesn’t cover.

An insurance agent (Khalid Umerani) can assist you with the third item. Ask the questions ahead of time to avoid unpleasant surprises later. For more information on Auto coverage contact Khalid Umerani, NOVA Insurance Group, here in Chantilly / South Riding, Va 20151 at http://www.south-riding-insurance.com or http://www.loudoun-insurance.com.

Beyond the Law: Setting Stricter Limits for Your Teen Driver

2009-04-28T12:05:00.002-04:00

Research shows motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of teen deaths. Tragically, 3,490 teenage drivers (between the ages of 15-20) died in car accidents in 2006 alone, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The IIHS, along with other driving safety groups, has spent decades studying teen vehicle fatalities to determine what specific behaviors put teenage drivers in the danger zone. Their research reveals that driving at night, driving with passengers, receiving a learner’s permit before the age of 16 and getting a full license before the age of 18 put teens at a much higher risk of having an accident. Chantilly and South Riding are NO different.

Unfortunately, state laws have failed to keep pace with the latest research. Many critics say states simply aren't doing enough to protect teens on the road. That’s why the IIHS is imploring parents to step up and set stricter driving limits for their teen drivers.

If you want to keep your teenager safe on the road here in Fairfax & Loudoun Counties in Virginia, consider the following advice the IIHS has to offer:

Make them wait

According to the IIHS, 16-year-olds have the highest rate of car crashes than drivers of any age. Sadly, many of these accidents prove to be fatal. This is why the institute strongly encourages parents to wait until their child turns 16 before allowing them to get a learner’s permit and until 17 to get a driver’s license.

Once the teen receives their learner’s permit, the IIHS says parents should put their teen through a learner stage that lasts at least six months. Parents should supervise a minimum of 30-50 hours of their teen’s driving before allowing them to get a full license. Many places in Loudoun County (South Riding, Aldie, Kirkpatrick Farms, Stone Ridge, Chantilly, etc.) offer places to practice safe driving techniques.

After the teen earns their driver’s license, the institute says parents should restrict their teen’s driving until he or she is at least 18 years old. Specifically, teens should not drive at night and be limited to just one or no non-adult passengers.

Restrict night driving

Once your teen has earned his license, it’s crucial to restrict him from driving at night until he is at least 18. A 2003 IIHS report shows that driving between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5:59 a.m. triples a 16-year-old’s risk of having a fatal car crash.

Not only is it harder to drive in the dark because of low visibility, but teens are typically more tired at night. Driver fatigue is a major contributing factor when it comes to night-time teen crashes. Of course, the chance of teenagers consuming alcohol also increases as soon as the sun sets. According to the NHTSA, 31 percent of teen drivers killed in 2006 had been drinking.

Limit teen passengers

More than half of all deaths in crashes of 16 and 17-year old drivers occur when passengers under the age of 20 are in the car with no adult supervision. When a teen driver has a teen passenger in the car, they are twice as likely to have a fatal crash, according to IIHS. When a teen has three or more teenage passengers, their risk of a fatal crash is three times higher than if they had no passengers.

Of course, it’s no surprise why this is the case: passengers often cause distractions for teen drivers. However, researchers also believe that teens often “show off” for their teenage passengers by speeding and making riskier choices on the road.

Don’t let state laws dictate the driving limits for your teenager here in the South Riding / Chantilly VA. areas. The research shows that state legislation is simply too lenient for most teenagers. As soon as your child is old enough to understand, start preparing him or her for your unique household driving rules. If you make the idea of “no driver’s license until you’re 17” a family mantra, your teen will be prepared for it when the time comes.

Of course, if you tell your 15-year-old she’ll have to wait until she’s 17 to get a full driver’s license, you’ll probably meet some serious resistance. You’ll also have to listen to endless complaints when you tell your teen he can’t drive at night and is not allowed to have passengers. While it’s never fun to play the “bad guy” or upset your teen, it will be well worth it in the long run. Stick to your guns—after all, it could save your child’s life. Also, a discussion about car insurance premiums, and the "Good Student Discounts", for a 3.0 B average, is often helpful.

For more information on teen driving safety, visit http://www.iihs.org/, http://www.south-riding-insurance.com/ or http://www.loudoun-insurance.com/. For information on auto insurance and valuable discounts for young drivers contact Khalid Umerani, NOVA Insurance Group, here in Chantilly / South Riding, Va. 20151.

Ten Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain

2009-04-21T14:49:00.001-04:00

Ten Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain

With the dawning of Spring often comes a deluge of rain showers and thunderstorms. While a soft Spring rain may seem innocent enough from the safety of your home, even a gentle shower can cause major problems here in Virginia (Fairfax & Loudoun Counties) on the road. Thousands of car accidents each year are caused by rain and wet roads—and motorists who don’t know how to drive on them.

During and after a rainstorm, a film of water quickly forms on asphalt roads especially in the South Riding / Chantilly areas. This sheath of water causes tires to lose traction, which means drivers can easily lose control. However, slippery roads are not the only danger to driving in the rain. Drivers also lose visibility during a rainstorm. Heavy rain can be absolutely blinding, fogging up the windows and even blocking your headlights. These things all add to an extremely dangerous situation.

If you find yourself on the road during a rainstorm, follow these safety tips to ensure you arrive alive:

Be especially careful when the rain first starts. When the roads are dry for a long period of time, engine oil and grease builds up on roads and highways. As soon as the first drops of rain start to fall, the water mixes with this build-up making the roads incredibly slick. This is why the first few hours of a rainstorm can be the most hazardous for drivers. If the rain continues to fall for a few more hours, the water will eventually wash away the greasy build-up.

Slow down. You should always drive at a slower speed when the roads are wet. The faster you drive in a rainstorm, the more likely you are to have an accident. Leave the house earlier than usual to give yourself additional travel time so you won’t feel the urge to rush.

Brake earlier and slower. When you need to slow down or stop on wet roads, ease on the brakes earlier and with less force than you would normally. This decreases your risk of hydroplaning and keeps a safe distance between you and the car in front of you. It also alerts any drivers behind you to slow down. If you stop too suddenly in a rainstorm, you could get rear-ended.

Turn off cruise control. When you have cruise control turned on during a rainstorm, your car could actually speed up if you hydroplane. Plus, when you use cruise control, you’re probably not paying as much attention to the road. Turn off the cruise control and stay alert at all times when driving in the rain so you can react quickly if necessary.

Avoid big “puddles.” If you spot a huge puddle in the road up ahead, drive around it or take a different route. Sometimes seemingly shallow puddles can actually be 5 or 6 feet deep—and that amount of water can cause serious problems for your car’s electrical system. Depending on how deep the water is, it could even float your car. If you aren’t sure just how deep a puddle is, steer clear of it altogether.

Turn on your headlights. Even if just a few raindrops are falling, turn on your headlights. Not only will this help you see the road, but it will help other drivers see you. However, don’t use your high beams in the rain. This can actually reduce your visibility and blind other drivers.

Turn on your defroster. Your windshield can fog up quickly during a rainstorm, which can cause you to lose sight of the road. Turn on your front and rear defrosters and the A/C to defog your windows.

Keep an eye out for pedestrians. In a rainstorm, a pedestrian’s view of the road could be obscured by their rain slicker hood or umbrella—which means they may accidentally step into the road at the wrong time. If you are driving in a city or another area with pedestrians, keep a close eye out for people in the road.

Pull over when things get bad. If the rain is falling so hard that you can barely see the car in front of you, pull over and wait for the rain to slow down or stop. After all, it’s much better for you to make it to your destination a little late than not at all.

Don’t brake if you hydroplane. If you feel your car starting to hydroplane, don’t brake suddenly or turn the steering wheel. This could send you into a skid. Instead, ease off the gas pedal slowly and steer straight until you feel your tires regain traction. If you have to brake and don’t have anti-lock brakes, tap the brake pedal lightly. If you do have anti-lock brakes, you can brake normally.

For more information http://www.south-riding-insurance.com/ or http://www.loudoun-insurance.com/ or contact Khalild Umerani, NOVA Insurance Group, here in Chantilly / South Riding, Va. 20151.

Practice Safe Winter Driving Techniques

2009-03-31T12:20:00.005-04:00

Practice Safe Winter Driving Techniques

Winter is finally on its way out of here in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties. Not long ago, winter brought us ice, snow, slippery roads, and poor visibility. Winter driving is necessary and nothing can be done to avoid it.

While the best advice is to not drive at all, that's not an option for most of us here in Virginia (South Riding & Chantilly area zips incl. 20151, 20152 and 20105). If you must drive, here are some simple precautions you can take to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries:

Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
Keep your lights and windshield clean.
Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
Don't use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
Don't pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you're likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.
Don't assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.

If you should lose traction:

Take your foot off the accelerator.
Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels are sliding left, steer left. If they're sliding right, steer right.
If your rear wheels start sliding the other way as you recover, ease the steering wheel toward that side. You might have to steer left and right a few times to get your vehicle completely under control.
If you have standard brakes, pump them gently.
If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the brakes. Apply steady pressure to the brakes. You will feel the brakes pulse — this is normal.

If you should get stuck:

Do not spin your wheels. This will only dig you in deeper.
Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way.
Use a light touch on the gas, to ease your car out.
Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car.
Pour sand, kitty litter, gravel or salt in the path of the wheels, to help get traction.
Try rocking the vehicle by shifting from forward to reverse, and back again. Each time you're in gear, give a light touch on the gas until the vehicle gets going.

For more information contact Khalid Umerani, NOVA Insurance Group, here in Chantilly / South Riding, Va. 20151 at http://www.south-riding-insurance.com or http://www.loudoun-insurance.com

Save Premiums by Raising Policy Deductibles

2009-03-24T14:55:00.004-04:00

Save Premiums by Raising Policy Deductibles

As money gets increasingly tight, consumers are trying to save wherever possible, especially here in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties in Virginia. Insurance policies are one place that people typically look to cut costs. But, are there ways you can save when it comes to insurance without jeopardizing your coverage?

Many insureds believe so. One method of cutting back on your insurance premium costs is to reduce the dwelling or liability limits on your homeowner's policy here in Virginia (Fairfax & Loudoun County Zips incl. 20151, 20152 and 20105). Similarly, you could also request a reduction in the liability limits on your auto insurance policy.

However, not only do these methods fail to save you money in the long run, they also make you increasingly vulnerable to risk. Consider how much you could lose if a judge decided against you in a liability suit, or someone was hurt in your home (especially in the South Riding / Chantilly areas!).

A wiser course of action is to increase your policy deductibles. On a homeowner's policy, raising your deductible from $250 to a $500 could realize a premium savings of 10 to 15 percent. You could also consider raising the deductibles on the physical damage section of your auto insurance to save money on the premium. Having a $500 deductible on both comprehensive and collision can save you as much as 30 percent. A $1,000 deductible may result in even more savings. (Contact us at www.south-riding-insurance.com or www.loudoun-insurance.com for more details)

Many insureds argue that if they do need to file a claim, they won’t have $500 to cover the newly increased deductible. While $500 may sound like a large amount of money to get together, it is actually only $250 more than you would have needed if you still had the original $250 deductible. Keep in mind that with the savings benefit you will get from a higher deductible, you should be able to save that extra $250 in less than 2 years.

For those larger savings, consider a graduated approach. If you are not financially able to go from paying a $250 deductible to paying $1,000 deductible, raise your deductible to $500 now, and put the money you save into a dedicated savings account for the purpose of accumulating money to increase your deductible again. When you have saved enough in the account, increase the deductible to $1,000.

Raising your deductible will definitely save you money over the long-term. More importantly, it will not put you at an increased financial risk. For more information contact Khalid Umerani, NOVA Insurance Group, here in Chantilly / South Riding, Va. 20151.

Ensure the Right Coverage for your Jewelry

2009-03-16T14:48:00.003-04:00

Ensure the Right Coverage for Your Jewelry

Men and women alike often own expensive pieces of jewelry, such as diamond rings, designer wristwatches, bracelets, and necklaces. Not only are these pieces attractive to thieves, they are subject to several other perils as well. Because of the sentimental and monetary values associated with jewelry, proper insurance coverage is of great importance.

A standard homeowner's insurance policy here in Virginia (Fairfax & Loudoun Counties) will pay for jewelry damaged by fire, smoke, vandalism, windstorm, and several other causes. Coverage is also available for stolen jewelry, but only for a maximum of $1,500 or $2,500. This limit applies collectively to all items of jewelry, furs and gemstones stolen at the same time; it does not apply separately to each item. It will not pay for pieces that are lost or that mysteriously disappear. In the event of a loss, the insurer will pay only the cost of replacing the item less depreciation.

Because of these limitations, people who own valuable pieces of jewelry should consider purchasing separate coverage, either as an add-on to their homeowner's policy or as an individual policy. With this coverage, the policy lists specific items and the amounts of insurance on each. (Contact us at www.south-riding-insurance.com or www.loudoun-insurance.com for details).

The policy covers items of jewelry but does not include unmounted gems; gold, silver and other precious metals; and silverware, flatware or goldware. The owner may be able to insure some of these items separately. The insurance will pay for loss from all causes other than war, nuclear disaster, actions of the government, and maintenance of the property. The owner must choose one of two options for determining the property’s value in the event of a loss. The first is the same as in the homeowner's policy – actual cash value, which means the insurer will pay the least of:
The item’s replacement cost minus depreciation;
The cost of repairing it;
The cost of replacing it; or
The amount of insurance shown on the policy for the item.
The second is called “agreed value,” which means that the insurer will pay the full amount of insurance shown on the policy for the item if it's lost or damaged. This option may cost more but provides more certainty for the owner.

Jewelry owners may also select optional coverages. One option gives the owner a premium credit for items stored in a bank vault. If the owner wants coverage to apply outside the bank vault, she must notify the insurer in advance and pay an additional premium. Another option gives a future spouse, whom the policy would not ordinarily cover, insurance for his or her interest in engagement or wedding rings. Under the third option, the insurer will pay the value of a complete set of items, such as a pair of earrings, even if the loss affected only one item in the set. The owner must surrender the surviving items in the set to the insurer.

Owners of expensive jewelry should consider having it appraised by a reputable jeweler at least every three years. They should also take common sense steps to safeguard it against theft, the most common cause of loss for jewelry. Finally, they should meet with their insurance agent (Khalid Umerani, NOVA Insurance Group, here in Chantilly / South Riding, VA 20151) for a coverage review every couple of years to ensure their insurance is adequately protecting them from loss to their valuables.

Does My Auto Insurance Cover the Kids After They've Moved Out?

2008-10-02T12:32:00.003-04:00

Does My Auto Insurance Cover the Kids After They've Moved Out?

Parents of teens and young adults know the pattern all too well. A child hits the magic age when he can finally get a learner's permit to drive. After multiple tries, he passes the driving test and gets his license. Mom and Dad open their wallets and tell the insurance company about the new driver. Their insurance policy covers him during high school, while he's in college, and while he's back home. At some point, however, he moves out on his own for good. Maybe he moves to a city with convenient mass transit, and his job doesn't pay well enough for him to buy a car, so he goes without. (www.loudoun-insurance.com)

One day, he asks out that girl in the accounting department he's been flirting with for a month. Meeting her at a subway stop just won't do, so he grovels at the feet of the best friend with a new set of wheels. The friend, though appalled at the shameless pleading, agrees to lend him the car. Young Romeo picks up his date, pulls out into traffic, and rear-ends a Lexus at the first red light. Flustered, he pops it in reverse and backs hard into the BMW behind him. Two questions immediately come to his mind: 1) Will she still want to go to the movie? and 2) Does he have insurance coverage for this little adventure?

Bad news for Romeo: His date takes a cab home and his friend sort of forgot to pay his car insurance bill; the insurance company cancelled the policy. Then he gets an idea: It hasn't been all that long since he lived with Mom and Dad. Maybe their insurance will pay for the repairs.
Every insurance policy has specific descriptions of who the insurance company will cover. The standard Personal Auto Policy published by the Insurance Services Office says that the person whose name is on the policy and any "family members" have coverage for the ownership, maintenance or use of any auto. Maybe Romeo's in luck.

Maybe not. The policy also has a specific definition of the term, "family member:" A person related to the person named on the policy. The family member must be related by blood, marriage or adoption and must also be a resident of the other person's household. Romeo has moved out of his parents' home, which is why he got the job, met the girl, borrowed the car and had the double dent-fest. Is he still a resident of his parents' household?

Chances are, the insurance company will decide he's not, and it may have the law on its side. A California court ruled in 1975 that an adult son who lived in a separate apartment on his parents' street and who relied on his parents for financial support was not a resident of the parents' household and not entitled to coverage under their auto insurance. (www.south-riding-insurance.com)

Circumstances may change the answer. Courts have recognized that college students, though they live elsewhere the majority of the year, are still residents of their parents' household. A self-supporting child who lives in her old bedroom and pays rent to her parents also qualifies as a resident.

It's when the move away from home looks permanent that the break in coverage may occur. Even if she doesn't own a car, she should consider buying an auto insurance policy with a special coverage called Named Non-Owner Coverage. This will cover her liability for injuries or damage she may cause while renting or borrowing a car. Coverage will apply after other available insurance (such as the car owner's coverage) is used up.

And, while it wouldn't have salvaged Romeo's date, it would have saved him a whole lot of money. Call us NOVA Insurance Group to discuss further.

You've Been in a Car Accident - Do You Need a Lawyer?

2008-09-18T10:41:00.003-04:00

You’ve Been in a Car Accident—Do You Need a Lawyer?

You’ve probably seen countless TV ads for lawyers who help car accident victims “get the money they deserve.” Critics often refer to these attorneys as “ambulance chasers,” accusing them of preying on accident victims.

However, sometimes it’s necessary to work with a lawyer to resolve car accident issues. Unfortunately, most drivers don’t know when they should contact a lawyer after a car crash. Do you really need to dial up an attorney every time you get into a little fender bender? What if you are seriously injured? Call us here at NOVA Insurance Group to discuss.

For example, let’s say a vehicle slams into your car as you drive through an intersection. You wake up in the hospital with a lawyer at your bedside pestering you to sign a contract with him. Soon after, the other driver’s insurance company calls urging you to settle with them. Should you sign the contract with that bedside lawyer? Or should you go at it alone, spending weeks or even months arguing with the insurance company until you get the money to cover your medical bills and vehicle damage?

Always speak with your Insurance Agent (www.loudoun-insurance.com). Here are some tips to help you determine whether or not you should retain a lawyer involved after an accident:
- Hire a lawyer if you have to stay overnight in the hospital or if you suffer from any serious injury as a result of the accident. This could include permanent scarring, loss of a limb or loss of bodily function (such as excessive back or neck pain or a knee injury). You should also hire an attorney if you require long-term care as a result of your injuries.
- If you simply don’t want to negotiate with the driver’s insurance companies, you should consider contacting a lawyer.
- You may also want to consult with an attorney if the police report does not clearly state which driver is at fault.
- If you are not seriously injured, do not require a visit to the hospital and the police report clearly states who is at fault for the accident, it’s probably not necessary to contact a lawyer.
- If you do decide to hire a lawyer, don’t simply go with the first lawyer who chases down your ambulance or shows up in your hospital room. Find a lawyer who you feel is trustworthy and experienced, or contact an attorney recommended by a friend or family member. If the lawyer seems desperate and pressures you to sign a contract, you may want to look elsewhere. Don’t discount free legal help—oftentimes, these can be the most dependable lawyers.
- Also, don’t believe the television commercial hype that accident lawyers can win you hundreds of thousands of dollars. Although a lawyer may be able to get you a relatively large sum of money, remember that a large portion of that will go toward legal fees.

If you decide not to hire a lawyer, you’ll be on your own when it comes to dealing with insurers. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- After the accident, be sure to get a copy of the police report.
- Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Your agent (www.south-riding-insurance.com) can give you advice about what steps to take next and help cover your expenses if the other driver doesn’t have insurance.
- Take thorough notes and keep a record of everyone you talk to and when you spoke with them. This includes insurance representatives and doctors.
- Be sure to get a claim number from the insurance company, and include that number on any correspondence with the insurer.
- If the other driver is at fault, get his insurance information and call the company immediately. Tell his insurer that you want to file a third-party claim. They will probably ask you to describe the accident—remember to be very careful with your description. Simply state exactly what happened, and do not make any assumptions. If you change your story, they may try to claim you are at fault.
- If an insurer pressures you to settle your medical bills at the same time you settle your auto claim, do not give in unless you are certain your medical treatment is final. Once you settle your medical claim, you will be responsible for paying any future medical bills associated with your accident injury. Depending on the laws in your state, you may have three years or more to settle a personal-injury claim.

Hopefully, you will never have to walk through these steps—but it’s wise to be prepared for any type of accident.

Make That Tank of Gas Last: How to boost your MPGs

2008-09-11T09:34:00.003-04:00

Make That Tank of Gas Last: How to Boost Your MPGs

It’s no secret that the price of gas is exorbitantly expensive right now. Although the cost per gallon is finally starting to decline, fuel is still far pricier than it was in past years. Outside of hanging up your car keys for good, how can you possibly keep from going broke? If you’re strapped for cash, follow these rules from your Agent, here at NOVA Insurance Group, to make the most out of every last drop of gas. With these techniques, you could get up to 20 more miles per tank.

Be an easy rider:
Driving “gently” can help you conserve gas. If you accelerate quickly, brake suddenly and drive aggressively, you could decrease your fuel economy by up to 33%! This kind of forceful driving can add more than a dollar to each gallon when you fill up your tank.

Look 30 seconds into the future:
Pay close attention to the road. If you keep your eyes moving and continually scan the road ahead, you’ll know early on when you’ll need to brake. Some experts say you should constantly check the road that is 30 seconds ahead of your car. That’s about a block in the city or half a mile on the highway.
This allows you to plan ahead so you won’t have to make sudden aggressive maneuvers at the last minute. For example, if you see a light turning red up ahead, go ahead and start easing off your accelerator so you won’t have to make an abrupt stop at the intersection. If you slow down for long enough, the light may be green by the time you reach it, which means you won’t have to brake at all.

Give your engine a rest:
Turn off your car whenever possible. Experts say that idling for just one minute uses up more gas than turning off and then restarting your car. So, if you’re waiting at the fast food drive through or the bank for even a minute or two, go ahead and turn off your car.

Watch your speed:
Driving slow may not be fun, but it can certainly save you some gas. Cars generally reach their optimum fuel efficiency between 45 and 60 miles per hour. Once you accelerate to over 60 mph, your engine has to burn much more fuel to keep the pace.
Some studies have shown that every 5 mph increase you drive over 60 mph adds about 20 cents to your gas price tag—and that estimate is based on a $3.22 per gallon model, so it adds up to even more right now... and of course, always obey the speed limit. (www.south-riding-insurance.com)

Keep cruising:
You can also conserve fuel by maintaining a steady speed. When used correctly, cruise control can boost fuel economy by up to 14% on the highway. This is because every tiny pressure change you make to your accelerator—even slight changes that aren’t registered by your speedometer—can burn up more gas.
If you maintain a precise speed with cruise control, you’ll avoid these small accelerator movements and save more gas. However, cruise control won’t work if you’re sitting in bumper to bumper traffic. In heavy traffic, your constant braking and speed changes can burn up a lot of gas. If at all possible, take a route with less traffic so you can sustain a steady speed. Of course, traffic is pretty much unavoidable in many cities.

Take the most direct route:
We all know that shortest distance between any two points is a straight line. But did you know that driving in a straight line can actually save you gas? By taking the shortest and most fuel efficient route from point A to point B, you’ll burn up much less fuel. You should also drive as straight as possible on the road—if you constantly switch lanes on the highway, you’re wasting a lot of gas. When necessary, try to make smooth, gradual lane changes.

Look out for hills:
If you know you are approaching a hill in the road, build up your speed before you reach it. Try to maintain your speed as you ascend the hill by gradually accelerating. This will help you prevent full-throttle acceleration, which burns up excessive amounts of gas.

Don’t lock out overdrive:
The typical car with a four or five speed automatic transmission has overdrive as its highest gear. Overdrive allows the car to maintain steady highway speeds above 45 mph without making the engine work so hard. You should only lock out overdrive if you’re towing something and need extra torque or in other rare circumstances. However, if you want to save fuel on the highway, leave the overdrive button alone.

Consolidate trips:
Try to consolidate car trips whenever possible. For example, if you know you need to go to the grocery store and the post office, don’t split these up into two different trips. Take care of as many errands as possible in one run.
Whenever possible, walk or ride your bike, especially if you’re traveling somewhere just a couple of miles from home. Not only will this keep you healthy and fit, but it will also help you save loads in gas money.

We hope these tips were helpful. (www.loudoun-insurance.com)

Customers received $11,902 back in Safe Driving Bonuses!

2008-09-10T21:16:00.001-04:00

Press Release, Chantilly, September 2008:

Driving safe has never been so rewarding! Customers of the Khalid Umerani Allstate Loudoun Insurance and South Riding Insurance Agency have received a total of $11,902 in Safe Driving Bonuses for driving safe and having "Your Choice Auto" services.

"In the economic times we are facing, every little bit helps." states Umerani, a resident of South Riding and Allstate Loudoun County Insurance agent - "It is a true pleasure when my customers come into my office and thank me once they have received their Safe Driving Bonus (SM) check."

Read more about this Loudoun Insurance news and information...

Does Your Auto Insurance Policy Cover Your GPS?

2008-09-04T12:39:00.003-04:00

Does Your Auto Insurance Policy Cover Your GPS?

If you've recently gone somewhere on vacation and your car did not have a Global Positioning System (GPS), you probably wish it did. GPS systems have become increasingly popular as their prices have dropped. Navigationally challenged drivers who used to decipher hard-to-read maps can now rely on these small devices to help them reach their destinations. However, the popularity of GPS devices makes them particularly attractive to thieves. They are also susceptible to damage in car crashes, like any other item in a car. How will an auto insurance policy cover a stolen or damaged GPS?

Unfortunately, standard policies provide little or no coverage for a GPS. Many older policy editions explicitly state that they do not cover losses to any electronic equipment that receives or transmits data signals. A GPS would seem to fall within that description. More recent policy editions may cover electronic equipment, but only if it is permanently installed in the vehicle. These policies provide a small amount of insurance for electronic equipment; $1,000 coverage is typical.

It is often possible to buy additional coverage for GPS devices. Any car owner with equipment worth more than $1,000 should speak with her insurance agent about buying a special policy form. It increases the coverage to a specific amount shown on the form. Typically, insurance companies will not offer more than $5,000 coverage. Check with your Insurance Agent for details. (www.loudoun-insurance.com)

If the policyholder has an older edition of the policy, she will need a different form to cover a GPS. This form covers sound reproducing equipment; audio, visual and data electronic equipment; and tapes, records and disks while in a vehicle. A GPS device falls within the data electronic equipment category. Coverage applies if the unit is permanently installed in the vehicle or if it is removable from a permanently installed housing unit, designed to be powered solely by the car's electrical system, and in or upon the car at the time of the loss. The form provides coverage for devices in cars the policyholder owns and those she rents or borrows. As with the other form, she can buy coverage in amounts up to $5,000. Check with your Insurance Agent for details. (www.south-riding-insurance.com)

The additional premium for this coverage is normally small. A approx. rate of $4 for every $100 of coverage is typical. For example, the cost for $2,500 of coverage might be around $100.
As car buyers ask carmakers to add more and more gadgets to cars, insurance coverage for those gadgets will continue to evolve. It is unwise to assume that an insurance policy automatically provides much coverage for these gadgets. All insurance buyers should carefully review their policies and ask their agents questions if GPS coverage is a concern. With a GPS and the right insurance coverage, a driver can be confident that she's going in the right direction.
Call us here, at NOVA Insurance Group, for details.

Changing Driving Habits Can Lead to Car Insurance Savings

2008-08-13T16:01:00.004-04:00

Changing Driving Habits Can Lead to Car Insurance Savings

Most Americans are driving less in order to save money on gas. However, decreasing the time you spend in your car can actually make you eligible for another savings opportunity, paying less for your car insurance. If you’ve cut back on your driving, it’s a good idea to contact your agent.
Consumers who are making greater use of public transportation or participating in car pools should contact their insurance company, because significantly reducing the number of miles driven each week could lower the cost of their auto insurance premiums.

Many companies offer low mileage discounts to motorists who drive fewer than 7,000 miles a year. Even though each insurance company calculates rates differently, they all consider how many miles a motorist drives because the risk of an accident increases the more time you spend behind the wheel. (http://www.loudoun-insurance.com/)

However, decreasing the risk of accidents isn’t the only benefit to driving less. The money you can potentially save on premiums is significant. A motorist who drops from the average of 15,000 miles driven per year to 8,000 miles could qualify for a 5 percent premium discount. A driver who goes from 15,000 miles per year down to 5,000 could possibly receive a 15 percent discount. Keep in mind that your insurance carrier may ask for an annual odometer reading to calculate annual mileage. (http://www.south-riding-insurance.com/)

The Insurance Information Institute noted some other ways drivers could save on auto insurance rates. SUV and truck owners who exchange their vehicles for a more fuel-efficient car might also reduce their auto insurance costs. Premiums are generally lower for a $30,000 mid-size sedan than for a large $60,000 SUV. Besides sticker price, an insurance company will determine the coverage rate for an individual vehicle based on factors such as the cost to repair it, its overall safety record and the likelihood that it will be stolen.

Drivers can also lower their auto insurance premiums by taking a higher deductible, maintaining good credit, and dropping unnecessary coverages. If you insure your boat, RV, or motorcycle with the same company, you may qualify for an extra discount on your auto coverage. Feel free to call Khalid Umerani, Agent (NOVA Insurance Group) to discuss further.

Yard Sales can be Risky Endeavours Without Enough Coverage

2008-07-31T12:30:00.004-04:00

Yard Sales Can Be Risky Endeavours Without Enough Coverage

One of the favorite rituals of the spring season is the yard sale. Homeowners, here in South Riding Virginia 20152 like everywhere else, love them because they change cleaning from a dreaded chore into a profitable enterprise. However, the whole experience can quickly turn into a nightmare should someone slip and fall, and you are considered legally liable. That’s why it is necessary to know exactly what your homeowner's insurance covers before you tag the first piece of merchandise. (www.south-riding-insurance.com)

The standard homeowner's policy provides you with $100,000 liability coverage for bodily injury or property damage that you or your family members cause to other people. This coverage extends to both the cost of defending you in court and any judgments against you, up to the limit of your policy. We, here at NOVA Insurance Group (www.loudoun-insurance.com), we feel $300,000 to $500,000 is a more adequate limit in Loudoun & Fairfax counties.

Another feature of the liability protection provided by your homeowner's insurance is the no-fault medical coverage. This is designed to permit a person who is injured on your property to submit their medical bills directly to your insurance company, eliminating the need for a lawsuit. Most policies include between $1,000 to $5,000 worth of no-fault medical coverage.

Of course, we live in a society that loves any opportunity to sue, so it may be wise to add to your liability protection. As a first step you can increase the amount of liability coverage provided by your homeowner's policy to $300,000 or $500,000. For additional protection, you need an umbrella or excess liability policy. This type of coverage typically costs between $200 to $350 per year for $1,000,000 of additional liability protection.

The Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) offers the following list of points you should consider about insuring your yard sale:

One-Time Event - Yard sales that are one-time events for the sole purpose of selling unwanted personal items are usually covered under a standard homeowner's policy. However, it is important to have enough coverage, so be sure to check with your insurance agent.

Frequent Yard Sales - If you plan to have frequent yard sales, you should purchase a separate policy for business liability, or an in-home business policy.

Charity Fund Raiser- If the purpose of the sale is to raise money for a charity; you will probably be covered under your homeowner's insurance policy. But it's also a good idea to contact the charity to see what type of insurance protection they can extend you.

Ways to Reduce Your Motorcycle Premiums

2008-07-15T09:47:00.003-04:00

Ways to Reduce Your Motorcycle Premiums

Buying insurance coverage for your motorcycle can be expensive as bikes present a higher risk than automobiles. They’re more susceptible to accidents caused by bad weather and poor road conditions. They are also less visible to other drivers, and less stable than cars. Want a competitive quote; contact us at www.loudoun-insurance.com or at NOVA Insurance Group (tel: 703-263-7800). We're centrally located at the Chantilly (20151), Fairfax County / South Riding (20152), Loudoun County border.

In spite of this, you want to be sure you have sufficient coverage for your bike, because you‘ve likely invested a lot of money in it. To help you find the best coverage for the best rates, the Insurance Information Institute offers the following tips:

Get seasonal coverage - Most bikers aren’t road warriors who consistently ride their bikes all year long. If you store your bike for several months out of the year, there's no need to fully insure it. Many insurers offer seasonal policies that cover your bike for six to nine month periods of actual usage.

Take a motorcycle-safety course - Some states require these courses before they'll issue a motorcycle license. Even if your home state doesn’t require it, you may be eligible for a 10 to 15 percent discount on your policy for completing one. Before signing up for a program, it’s a good idea to contact your insurer. Some companies only recognize certain programs. If you've been riding for a while, you might be able to get a discount for taking a refresher course.

Increase deductibles - A deductible is the amount of money you have to pay before the coverage kicks in. The higher your deductible, the lower your premiums. When choosing a deductible, make sure you can afford to pay out-of-pocket for any costs that are incurred before your insurance kicks in.

Ask about multiple bike discounts - If you've got more than one bike, or live with someone else who rides, you can usually get a discount. Likewise, it might be worthwhile to insure your motorcycle with the same company that covers your car. Call us at NOVA Insurance Group (www.south-riding-insurance.com) 703-263-7800.

Install anti-theft devices - If you financed your bike, you've probably taken out comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive protects against theft, fire, and other damages not caused by an accident. Some companies offer a discount on comprehensive coverage if you utilize an anti-theft device.

Maintain a good driving record - Insurance companies analyze your driving history to determine rates. How you drive a car usually indicates how you'll ride a motorcycle. If you've only recently obtained a driver's license, you might want to wait a year or two before getting a motorcycle. If you maintain a good driving record, your rates will be lower once you're considered an "experienced" driver.

Ride with a group - Membership in a motorcycle club, such as the American Motorcycle Association, BMW Motorcycle Owners of America, Harley Owners Group or Retreads can also save you some money on your the insurance premium.

U.S. Coast Guard Safety Initiative Asks You to Boat Responsibly

2008-07-01T09:22:00.005-04:00

U.S. Coast Guard Safety Initiative Asks You to Boat Responsibly

As boating season approaches, the U.S. Coast Guard is once again expressing concern over the continuing increase in boating fatalities and injuries, and plans to step up its safety education for boaters. Statistics show that for the second consecutive year boating fatalities increased (710 deaths in 2006) as did the number of reported injuries. The reports also reveal some other disturbing facts:

Two-thirds of all fatalities were due to drowning and 90 percent of the victims were not wearing a life jacket. Simply put, over 50% of boating deaths could have been prevented if the victims had worn a life jacket.

Alcohol was the leading contributing factor in approximately one-fifth of all boating fatalities.
About 70 percent of all boating fatalities occurred on boats where the operator had not received boating safety instruction.

The most reported type of accident was a collision with another vessel. (Talk to www.south-riding-insurance or www.loudoun-insurance.com for a comprehensive Boat Insurance Policy). However, capsizing and falls overboard are the most reported types of fatal accidents and accounted for the vast majority (59 percent) of all boating fatalities.

Overall, operator inattention, carelessness/reckless operation, excessive speed and passenger/skier behavior are the leading contributing factors of all reported accidents.

Here are some simple tips boat owners and their passengers can take to insure their safety while enjoying recreational boating:

Wear your life jacket - As evidenced above, wearing a life jacket is the single most important thing you can do to ensure your safety on the water. And it doesn't matter how great of a swimmer you are, you should still wear a life jacket!

Take boating safety courses - Boat owners, operators and passengers should complete courses offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and others. The Coast Guard Auxiliary encourages everyone who might be put in a position of having to take command due to incapacity of the owner/operator to take a basic safety course. Here at NOVA Insurance Group, we can provide you some additional info. materials.

America’s Boating Course (ABC) is a new electronic, basic boating course produced through a partnership between the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons®. It’s available online at www.AmericasBoatingCourse.com and on CD-ROM.

Get a free Vessel Safety Check - Boat owners are encouraged to take advantage of free safety checks offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. It’s your best way to learn about potential problems that might put you in violation of state or federal laws, or — worse — create danger for you or your passengers on the water. Vessel Examiners issue no citations. And there are no penalties for not successfully completing a Vessel Safety Check.

Don't drink and boat - In the marine environment — motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind, and spray intensify the effect of alcohol and drugs. These “stressors” cause fatigue — and dramatically affect a boat operator’s coordination, judgment, vision, and reaction time.
Levels of blood alcohol or medications that would have little impact on land can potentially cause a much greater degree of impairment for the operator of a boat. So never boat under the influence!

The complete 2006 Boating Statistics report is available from the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Auxiliary and Boating at http://www.uscgboating.org/statistics/boating_statistics_2006.pdf.

Outstanding Loudoun Insurance - Allstate Regional Champion's Award

2008-06-21T08:08:00.004-04:00

Allstate Loudoun Insurance Award!

Khalid Umerani of Chantilly (Fairfax County and Loudoun County Insurance) has been recognized by Allstate Insurance Company for high standards in customer satisfaction, customer retention and financial service sales. Umerani has achieved the distinctive Allstate Regional Champion's award, which is Allstate's symbol of outstanding achievement. Khalid Umerani can be reached at 703-263-7800.

Dulles South - Loudoun Insurance Press Release

Endorsement or Separate Policy - What's the Best Way to Insure Your Motorcycle?

2008-06-18T14:45:00.004-04:00

Endorsement or Separate Policy: What's the Best Way to Insure Your Motorcycle?

As the weather warms up, more and more riders will be hitting the streets with their motorcycles, here in South Riding 20152, Stone Ridge 20105 and Brambleton 20148. Whether you’re a weekend rider or a hardcore road warrior, you want to be sure your valuable bike is covered for any contingency.

As a motorcycle owner, you are faced with the decision of whether to insure your bike by adding an endorsement to your auto insurance policy, or by buying a separate policy. It’s important to understand the differences between the two so you can choose the option that best suits your needs. Remember, different insurance companies offer varied coverages and policy types, whether it's Fairfax or Loudoun County Insurance your'e obtaining!

An endorsement is a document that is added to a basic policy either at the time the policy is purchased, or during its term, which becomes part of the policy and increases the coverage provided by that policy. If you insure your motorcycle by adding an endorsement to your Fairfax or Loudoun auto insurance, you will only have one insurance bill to pay to cover both your car and your bike.

However, there are certain disadvantages to insuring your motorcycle this way. In most cases, you cannot customize your insurance with an endorsement. You are locked in to the same coverages, limits, and exceptions for your bike that apply to your car. That’s why it is important to discuss with your insurance agent what a motorcycle endorsement covers and how it's covered before you add it to your auto policy.

Your insurer may offer you the choice of purchasing separate coverage for your motorcycle. While motorcycle insurance does vary by state and insurance company, one thing remains the same; your driving history and credit score may impact your eligibility. Riding a motorcycle is a higher risk activity than driving a car; if you have a number of tickets or accidents on your driving record, you may be considered too high a risk for the insurance company to extend separate coverage.

If you qualify, there are certain advantages to having a separate policy. Because these policies are created specifically for motorcycles, they offer more coverage options. For example, a motorcycle policy allows you to choose higher liability limits than you have on your auto insurance.

One of the great things about owning a bike is the ability to personalize it, but many of these customizations aren’t covered unless you purchase a separate motorcycle policy. Typically, a basic motorcycle policy will extend coverage for custom parts and equipment up to a specific limit, such as $1,000. If your custom accessories or parts are worth more than the basic policy limit, it's a good idea to purchase additional coverage to cover those parts in case they're ever damaged. Also, be sure to ask for a list of the specific custom parts that are covered, and any exclusions that may apply.

Keep in mind that although you will be paying a separate premium for motorcycle insurance, you may qualify for discounts, here at NOVA Loudoun Insurance Group. Many insurers offer discounts for multi-motorcycle policies, mature drivers, and insuring both your auto and motorcycle with the same company. In some instances, you can receive a discount for attending safety training programs, or for becoming a certified motorcycle safety instructor.

Understanding and Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

2008-06-10T10:03:00.005-04:00

Understanding and Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

A chill is in the air, signaling that it's time to make preparations for winter. One preparation you should incorporate into your yearly routine is to check your carbon monoxide (CO) detector and make your home safe for the winter. http://www.south-riding-insurance.com/

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that is created by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as gas, wood, propane, and oil. Carbon monoxide does damage by replacing oxygen in bloodstream, leading to suffocation. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning vary from flu-like symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness, to more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and unconsciousness. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result in death.

The good news is that you can prevent carbon monoxide from ever becoming a threat to you and your family. Routine maintenance of your home heating and cooking sources, as well as vehicles and generators, can make the difference in your exposure to carbon monoxide. The U.S. National Safety Council states that of deaths involving unintentional poisoning by gas or vapors, more than one-third involve motor vehicle exhaust and more than one-fourth involve heating or cooking equipment.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends installing carbon monoxide alarms in your home. It is critical that you follow the guidelines to ensure safe and proper usage of the alarms.
o Only purchase an alarm that is listed by a qualified, independent testing laboratory.
o Many alarms need replacing within two to five years. Make sure to note the date you installed your alarm so you can comply with the manufacturer's suggestions for replacement.
o If you purchase a battery-powered alarm, examine the type of batteries required. Some alarms have special battery packs designed to last approximately two years, while others may need to be changed yearly.
o Locate the alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
o Keep your local fire department's number for carbon monoxide calls with your other emergency numbers for quick access.
o Test the alarms once every month to ensure they are in good working order.

If your carbon monoxide alarm should go off, leave the building immediately. Leave the doors open when you leave and turn off heating and cooking equipment. Call your local fire department and following an all-clear, have all your equipment inspected by a qualified technician. And lastly, get medical attention as necessary. Do not ignore signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, even if they appear to be minor. By following these tips, you can ensure your safety from carbon monoxide throughout the winter and year-round. (http://www.loudoun-insurance.com/)

Factors to Consider Before You File a Claim

2008-05-27T11:25:00.004-04:00

Factors to Consider Before You File a Claim

Most of us have had insurable homeowner's or automobile losses at one time or another and wondered whether or not to file a claim. The two questions that run through one's mind during such trying times are fairly uniform - If I file a claim will my insurer raise my rates? Or - will they drop me like a hot potato?

Often, small claims under $500 may not affect your individual premiums if they are few and far between. Insurers vary, however, in their underwriting of accounts with losses, particularly "at-fault" losses. Two or three claims a year on a given policy will signal to most insurers that you are a problem insured. To complicate matters, you need to consider the effect of even one claim on your ability to obtain insurance elsewhere. Some companies take a long hard look at any applicant who has had claims with their current or previous carriers in the past three years. For our clients living in Chantilly 20151, South Riding 20152, Brambleton / Ashburn 20148, and Aldie / Stone Ridge 20105, we always engage in a meaningful discussion before proceeding further with filing a claim.

Consumer watchdog groups have been critical of one method used by most insurers in the underwriting process for personal lines applicants - the use of a shared database called CLUE (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange). This database is tapped by insurers not only to investigate the person or persons behind the application, but in the case of homeowner's insurance, the property as well. Participating insurers report all claims, large and small, even ones not resulting in a payout. Realtors hate this system because it often signals problems with properties that they feel unnecessarily complicate a home sale. You need to know that your record is affected by the reporting of the claim much in the same way that your credit is affected by late payments or financial default. South-Riding-Insurance and Loudoun-Insurance are equally affected by this database.

So when should you file a claim with your auto or homeowner's insurance? Common sense says if the repairs cost less than the deductible, you're better off paying for the repairs on your own. With this in mind, you may even want to consider taking a higher deductible on your insurance to lower your rates. Take the money you save on the lower rates and deposit it into a savings account. In the event you are involved in an accident, you will have the money for the repairs even if the cost is slightly higher than your deductible.

If you have an automobile accident and there is another car involved, or there is someone else in the car with you, you definitely need to let your insurance company know about the accident - regardless of deductible or repair costs. Same with a third party slip and fall in your home. This protects you and your insurance company, as you can never be certain if the other driver, additional passenger or any other third party will decide to file a claim at a later date. When someone else is involved, it is important to get your side of the story on record with your insurer and, in many cases, the police as well. Keep in mind that each claim scenario is different and has different implications for you as an insured. If your windshield cracks as a result of a stone hitting it on the highway, your insurer will consider it an "act of nature" and will not assign fault to you as the driver. On the other hand, if the damage is only slightly higher than the deductible and the claim comes close on the heels of another recent and more serious claim, you may do well to bite the bullet and pay the difference out of your own pocket. We, at NOVA Insurance Group (in South Riding, VA 20152) can help you assess the likely costs and benefits of filing a borderline claim. It is important to note that policy language varies from company to company with respect to your responsibility to report a claim, i.e. information needed, timeliness of reporting, etc. Read the policy carefully and consult with your agent any time a significant property loss occurs and/or a threat of legal action or actual lawsuit develops. Do not let indecision or carelessness prejudice your ability to rely on the coverage you may one day desperately need.

Using a Cell Phone While Driving Is Similar to Driving Under the Influence

2008-05-22T10:17:00.006-04:00

Using a Cell Phone While Driving Is Similar to Driving Under the Influence

A 2005 study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that drivers who use cell phones while driving were four times more likely to get involved in an accident. It also concluded that accident risk wasn’t affected by whether the driver was using a hand-held phone or a hands-free phone. Reference cell-phone restrictions, in Virginia (including Loudoun county - South Riding 20152, Stone Ridge / Aldie 20105 and Ashburn / Brambleton 20148; and Fairfax county - Chantilly 20151), there is currently no hand-held ban, except drivers younger than 18, and school bus drivers. www.south-riding-insurance.com

New research from Carnegie Mellon University shows that just listening on a cell phone while driving is enough to distract a driver. In this study, 29 volunteers used a driving simulator while inside an MRI brain scanner. They steered a car along a virtual winding road, driving at a high, fixed rate of speed. They were tested while driving undisturbed, and while driving and trying to decide whether a sentence they heard was true or false. The researchers measured activity in 20,000 brain locations, each about the size of a peppercorn.

After a thorough analysis of the data, the researchers were able to conclude that:
When the drivers were tested while listening to the sentence to see if it was true or false, they lost 37 percent of the normal activity of their brain’s parietal lobe. This is significant because this area of the brain is the one motorists rely on the most when driving. The parietal lobe assimilates all the information the body receives from the senses, and uses it to determine how near/far perceived objects are. There was also a decrease in the activity of the occipital lobe, which assimilates visual information.

When the drivers were tested while listening, they lost their ability to control the car. They not only were unable to stay in their lane, but they frequently hit objects such as guardrails. These are the kinds of driving errors most closely associated with motorists who drive while under the influence of alcohol. www.loudoun-insurance.com

Protect Your Precious Cargo on the Road This Summer

2008-05-14T14:53:00.006-04:00

Protect Your Precious Cargo on the Road This Summer

With the warmer months upon us, many families are planning to hit the road for their beloved summer vacation. If you are traveling with children this season, you’ll need to take some extra precautions.

Because babies and children can cause countless distractions like crying, spills and sibling scuffles in the backseat, parents often lose their focus on the road. While these disturbances are usually unavoidable, there are some things you can do to ensure that your family arrives safely.
As you make your way towards your final destination, remember that your family’s safety should always come first.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you load up the family car for this year’s road trip:

- Review your insurance coverage
A couple of weeks before you hit the road, take a look at your auto insurance plan. You may find that it’s time to upgrade your policy, especially now that you are traveling with a baby or young child. Faced with huge responsibility of raising a child, new parents often decide to increase their liability or property damage coverage to ensure their family is protected financially. Allow our agency, NOVA Insurance Group in Chantilly / South Riding 20152 to review your existing insurance policy paperwork. (www.Loudoun-Insurance.com)

- Double check child seats
Many parents unknowingly make mistakes while installing child safety seats and booster seats in their cars. Sadly, children suffer from serious injuries and die in car crashes every day due to the misuse and incorrect installation of child seats, according to the National Safety Belt Coalition.
Are you certain that your child’s seat is installed properly? Even if you think your seats are good to go, it’s well worth double checking. Visit http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/childps/Contacts/index.cfm for a listing of certified child passenger safety technicians in your town. One of these experts can show you how to correctly install and use your child’s safety or booster seat. The fire depts. in Brambleton 20148 and Aldie / Stone Ridge 20105 can assist with this effort also!

- Play it safe with special mirrors
Child safety mirrors are extremely popular with parents who frequently travel with their kids in tow. These mirrors, which easily attach to your rear view mirror, allow you to keep your eyes on the road while occasionally checking on your kids in the backseat. It’s like having another pair of eyes in the back of your head—your kids know you can see them at all times, so they’ll be less likely to start trouble.

If you are traveling with a baby in a rear-facing car seat, you may consider installing an infant mirror. These mirrors attach to the back window or back seat headrest so you can see what your baby is up to every time you peek in your rear view mirror. An added plus is that baby gets to check out his reflection on the road—an activity that provides endless entertainment for many infants.

- Keep the kids entertained
We all know that as soon as kids get bored, they start acting up. Try to keep the kids entertained on the road by packing some fun activities, like puzzles, games or coloring books. You may even consider purchasing a portable DVD player so they can watch their favorite movies or play video games in the car. The happier your kids are on the road, the fewer distractions they’ll create. This will help you stay focused on driving safely. (www.south-riding.insurance.com)

- Make frequent pit stops
If you’re on a particularly long drive, make sure to take plenty of breaks. Try to stop every couple of hours at a park, restaurant or even an interesting historical site. This will allow everyone to stretch their legs, burn some energy and feel refreshed and ready to face the rest of the trip.

Northern Virginia and Loudoun Long Term Care Insurance

2008-05-11T09:50:00.001-04:00

Virginia Long-Term Care Insurance is a fairly recent phenomenon, due in part to the rapidly aging yet longer-living population, retirement planning of the "baby boomers", and quickly escalating long-term health and medical costs that aren't typically covered by traditional health insurance or Medicare. This type of insurance is especially helpful for those who develop disabilities or chronic (long-lasting) illnesses later in life. Long-term care services range from home- and community-based services to services provided in an assisted living, retirement or nursing facility. All services are typically designed and intended to improve or maintain an individual's health in the least restrictive setting that ensures their physical and mental health, safety, and welfare. As well, services facilitated by long-term care insurance providers include help with daily living activities among the wide variety of home, facility and community settings.

Read more about Northern Virginia and Loudoun Long Term Care Insurance....

Ensure Your Boating Experience Is a Real Pleasure Cruise

2008-05-07T16:03:00.004-04:00

Ensure Your Boating Experience Is a Real Pleasure Cruise

Published reports from the U.S. Coast Guard show that boating deaths and injuries increased for the second consecutive year in 2006. Aside from the disturbing trend in boating deaths, the biggest change was actually in the amount of property damage, $43 million in 2006 as compared with $38 million in 2005. www.south-riding-insurance.com

These statistics should serve as a powerful reminder to all watercraft owners to review their insurance coverage. Owners of canoes, small sailboats, and small engine powerboats (many of them residing in South Riding 20152, Chantilly 20151, Aldie / Stone Ridge 20105 and Ashburn / Brambleton 20148) generally have limited coverage for physical damage included with their homeowner's insurance policy, but liability coverage has to be added as a policy endorsement. Physical damage coverage is typically equal to 10 percent or less of their home's property value. If you find the coverage limits offered by your homeowner's policy to be insufficient, you'll likely need a separate boat insurance policy.

Since no coverage exists under a homeowner's policy for larger boats, yachts, jet skis and wave runners, a separate boat insurance policy is a must. Coverage for physical damage includes the hull, machinery, fittings, furnishings and permanently attached equipment up to pre-determined amount. Such policies also provide additional protection for:

- Injuries to another person
- Damage to someone else’s property
- Legal expenses incurred by someone using the boat with the owner’s permission
- Injuries to the boat owner and other passengers

Even though you may have solid Boat insurance coverage thru NOVA Insurance Group in South Riding 20152 (Virginia), www.loudoun-insurance.com the Insurance Information Institute (III) offers the following suggestions to help you avoid having to file a claim:
- Check weather forecasts before heading out.
- Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
- Check engine, fuel, electrical and steering systems, especially for exhaust-system leaks.
- Carry one or more fire extinguishers, matched to the size and type of boat. Keep them readily accessible and in condition for immediate use.
- Equip the vessel with required navigation lights and with a whistle, horn or bell.
- Don’t overload. Distribute weight evenly.
- Don’t stand up or shift weight suddenly in a small boat; and don’t permit riding on the bow, seatbacks or gunwales.
- Be sure you bring paddles or oars, a first-aid kit, a supply of fresh water, a tool kit and spare parts, a flashlight, flares and a radio.
- Make sure that every person on board wears a life jacket.
- Never operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Get a Clue on the Claims History of Your Future Home

2008-04-25T11:31:00.004-04:00

Get a Clue on the Claims History of Your Future Home

Buying a home can be a minefield if you don’t educate yourself about the process first. Many of the savviest homebuyers don’t have a clue as to the importance of a CLUE report.

The Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) database is maintained by ChoicePoint, one of the country's largest compilers of personal consumer data. It is designed to permit homeowner and auto insurers to exchange information about claims for loss of property, without notice to you unless required by your state. Approximately 90 percent of all insurance companies that underwrite homeowner's insurance are subscribers of the service. www.south-riding-insurance.com

Actual property loss claims, as well as inquiries about coverage, are entered into this central database. When you buy a house and apply for homeowner's insurance, the insurance company can access the CLUE database and see both the past claims filed on the house and any inquiries about damages, even if no claim was ever filed. This information may cause your dream house to become an insurance nightmare if no insurer is willing to cover it. CLUE database covers properties in Loudoun County (South Riding 20152, Stone Ridge/Aldie 20105, Brambleton/Ashburn 20148) as well as Fairfax County (Chantilly 20151).

What’s more, it isn’t only your new house’s past claims that insurers examine. Your old claims could come back to haunt you. In fact, you may find that your new homeowner's policy comes with a high price tag because of the previous claim history on your old home.

So, how can you keep CLUE from blocking your ability to obtain insurance or causing you to pay higher premiums? Know your rights. CLUE reports are treated like any other credit report under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

According to The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, you are entitled to:
- Obtain a copy of your CLUE report and insurance scores. Under recent amendments to the FCRA, called the FACT Act, you are entitled to one free copy of your CLUE report each year.
Be notified by the insurer if they intend to take an "adverse action" based on information in the CLUE report. Examples of adverse actions include denial of a new policy or a new policy premium that costs more because of negative factors.
- Obtain another copy of your CLUE report, in addition to the free one you are entitled to annually, if you have been denied insurance, your policy has been cancelled, your coverage has been limited, or your premiums have increased.
- Dispute inaccurate or incomplete information included in the CLUE report. ChoicePoint must investigate disputes.
- File a statement that must be included in all future reports if you are not satisfied with the investigation.

If you need to dispute information on your CLUE report, log on to the ChoicePoint site at http://www.consumerdisclosure.com/, and follow the instructions.

Keep in mind, that when buying a home, your real estate agent will need to help you obtain a CLUE report on the property because you cannot request a report on a house you don’t own.
www.loudoun-insurance.com

Loudoun Insurance and South Riding Insurance, Northern Virginia Zip 201*-221*, Near 20152