AMR Insurance Blog

What to Check Before Letting Your Teen Drive the Family Car

Wed, 07 May 2025 14:50:47 GMT

Handing over the keys to your teenager is a big moment—for them and for you. While it marks a new level of independence, it also comes with serious responsibilities, including making sure your insurance coverage is ready for this milestone. Before your teen hits the road, here are a few important things to review to help protect your family, your finances, and your peace of mind.

Understand Who Owns the Vehicle

If your teen will be driving a family vehicle, they can likely be covered under your existing policy. If you plan to buy a separate vehicle for them, ownership matters. A car titled in your teen’s name may require a separate policy, depending on your insurer. Before making any purchases or policy changes, speak with your insurance agent to determine the best setup for coverage, cost, and flexibility.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Most auto insurance policies require you to inform the insurer when a new driver is added to your household. If your teen is licensed and living at home, your insurer likely needs to include them on your policy, even if they’re just an occasional driver. Failing to report a teen driver could result in denied claims or gaps in coverage.

Adding a teen to your auto policy may increase your premium, but some insurers may offer discounts for good grades, safe driving courses, or driving vehicles with strong safety ratings. Our insurance agents can check for insurance discounts that might be available to you.

Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. That’s why it’s important to make sure your liability limits are high enough to protect your assets if your teen causes an accident. You may also want to consider collision coverage if your teen will be driving a newer or more valuable vehicle. This can help cover the cost of repairs if the vehicle is damaged, regardless of who is at fault.

If you’re concerned about the potential financial impact of a major accident, an umbrella insurance policy can provide extra liability protection beyond your auto policy limits. This added layer of coverage is often affordable and can offer peace of mind, especially with a new driver in the household.

Set Expectations for Safe Driving

Insurance is important, but avoiding accidents is even better. Talk to your teen about distracted driving, speeding, seatbelt use, and safe driving habits. Consider creating a parent-teen driving agreement that outlines expectations and consequences.

Some families also choose to use driving apps or telematics programs that track speed, braking, and phone use. These tools can promote accountability and may even help lower premiums over time.

It may seem obvious, but make sure your teen has the correct type of driver’s license or permit before getting behind the wheel. Many states have graduated licensing systems that include restrictions for new drivers, such as curfews, passenger limits, or supervision requirements. Knowing and following these rules is essential for staying safe and legal.

Protect Your Teen and Your Family with the Right Coverage

Getting your teen on the road safely starts with smart preparation. From updating your insurance policy to setting clear rules, taking the right steps can help you avoid surprises and stay protected. If you're unsure how to update your policy or what level of coverage makes sense, contact us today. We’ll help you review your options and find a solution that balances safety, coverage, and cost.

The Smart Way to Secure Your Home

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 21:00:23 GMT

Smart technology has brought us many benefits, including new ways of securing our homes. Regardless of the type of home where you live, be it an apartment or a house or anything in between, you’re sure to find helpful options below that you can manage from anywhere with just your smartphone.

Smart Locks

Smart locks are a boon to both apartment dwellers and other homeowners. Many apartment management companies allow these or install them themselves because it saves their staff from dealing with lockouts and having to screen visitors.

Smart locks come in different varieties and can be configured in multiple ways, depending on your needs. For example, you can give a door passcode to your nanny or housekeeper to come and go without a key. If you change home workers, you simply have to change the code, with no worries about a stray key still in someone’s pocket.

You can also control some smart locks remotely with your smartphone. This is good for when a worker or delivery person is at the door and you want them to set a package inside, but you don’t want to give them the passcode to your home.

Door Cameras

Smart locks often go hand in hand with door cameras, also known as doorbell cameras. These record the comings and goings at your front entrance, and you can view it all on your mobile device.

Door cameras are ideal for:

Seeing who’s outside when an unexpected visitor rings the bell
Knowing when your kids come home from school when you’re not home
Monitoring your front door while you’re on vacation
Checking for a package delivery
Seeing if someone is stealing your packages or mail
Deterring would-be intruders on the front porch

Automatic Garage Door Features

Garage door technology has come a long way lately. Basic up/down features let you open and close the door from the comfort of your home’s interior or inside your vehicle.

Even better, new security elements let you control the door from afar with your smartphone or tablet. If you realize you left it open, you don’t have to wait until you go home again to close it.

Some garage door security options go one step further. You can get an alert if someone tries to raise or tilt the door, so you can stop an intruder by calling the police.

Lighting to Deter Intruders

Lighting has always been one of the best defenses against intruders. In addition to motion sensor lights and dawn/dusk features, you can now find lighting controlled by your cell phone.

Say you’re at work and your teen calls to say they're coming home early from sports practice. You can turn on the lights for them to make their entry safer. Likewise, you can turn lights on and off when you’re traveling to make it look like someone is home.

Alarms and Security Cameras

Alarms and security cameras are growing in both technology and popularity. There are DIY models and those that you must integrate with a security monitoring company for a fee. In the latter case, they usually provide the equipment and maintain it for you.

These systems let you watch who is in or on your property from a distance via your phone, whether you’re upstairs or halfway around the globe. Alarms will sound and you’ll get a mobile alert if someone opens a door, raises a window, or breaks glass. If you have a DIY system, you can call the police. If your system is part of a professional service, they will respond or alert local law enforcement.

Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

No home would be complete without smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Previously, these security elements were only helpful if you were present in the home. Now, however, you can get alarms on your mobile device with more sophisticated models that work with Wi-Fi to alert you to danger at home.

One more important thing to note about smart home security: be sure to let your insurance agent know about any features you add to your house or apartment. You may be entitled to savings on your homeowner's insurance or renter’s insurance, which is a nice bonus to the peace of mind you get with these security elements.

4 Valuable Tips for Traveling Safely With Your Pets

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 21:00:23 GMT

For many people, pets are just as much a part of the family as humans! Since our pets are valued family members, it's important to consider their safety while traveling. Whether they're traveling with you to the in-laws for the next holiday, or just traveling to the vet, we have a few important tips to help you travel safely with your pets. After all, they are precious cargo!

Keep your pets safe and secure during the drive. Although their pitiful stares are enough to make you want to let them out of their crate, the risk isn't worth the reward. When traveling, you should always be sure to keep your pet safe in their crate to ensure that disaster doesn't strike if you were to be in an accident. If your pet is small enough for a crate, you should choose one with plenty of ventilation and an open spot for them to keep eye contact with you. This will help to keep them calm during their ride!
Never leave your animal alone in the car - no matter how long you plan on being gone. Just a few minutes in a hot parked car is enough to make your pet sick, or worse, kill them. Hot cars are no place for your animal, and if you park and exit your vehicle at any time, your pet should come with you. You can never know exactly how long you'll be gone, and it's not worth the risk to leave them alone.
Prep your vehicle with everything it needs. You should be sure to keep your vehicle fully stocked with your pet's important supplies any time you go on a road trip. Items to consider include a food dish, a water dish, extra food, a bottle or two of water, a waste scoop, bags for cleanup, and first aid. These items will help you stay calm and provide for your pet if you were to have an unexpected detour or have to make a food or waste stop along the way. You should also be sure that your vehicle is insured properly in case of an accident.
Prepare your pet for the car. Before your road trip, try preparing your pet by taking them on a few shorter trips. This will get them used to the sound of your vehicle, the sound of the road, and the feeling of movement.

With these four tips, you're sure to keep your pet safe on your next road trip! When you know they're safe, you can relax, which makes the drive more enjoyable for everyone involved. Now get out there and travel with your four-legged best friend!

Getting Your RV Ready for Spring Travel

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 14:50:52 GMT

Recreational vehicle traveling in nature by Roadpass

As the weather warms up and the open road starts calling, spring is the perfect time to get your RV ready for travel. Whether you're planning weekend getaways or cross-country adventures, taking the time to properly inspect, clean, and prepare your RV helps ensure a safe and stress-free trip. It’s also a good opportunity to review your RV insurance coverage.

Inspect Your RV Inside and Out

Start with a thorough walk-around of your RV to check for visible signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, rust, or water damage on the exterior, especially around seams, windows, and roof vents. On the inside, check for signs of leaks, pests, or mold that may have developed over the winter.

Inspect tires for cracks, bulges, or worn treads. Tires can deteriorate even if the RV hasn’t been driven in months, so make sure they're properly inflated and safe for travel. Don’t forget to test your lights, blinkers, and brake systems as well.

Check Your RV’s Systems and Appliances

Reconnect and test your water, propane, electrical, and HVAC systems. Flush and sanitize the water system, especially if it’s been winterized. Check for leaks in the plumbing and ensure your water heater is functioning.

Inspect propane lines and appliances for leaks or other issues, and test the stove, refrigerator, and other systems you’ll rely on during your trip. Plug in the RV to test all of the electrical systems and recharge your batteries if needed.

Clean and restock your kitchen, bathroom, and emergency supplies. Replace expired food and medications, restock first-aid kits, and make sure you have essentials like flashlights, fire extinguishers, tools, and extra fuses on hand.

Double-Check Registration, Licenses, and Roadside Support

Before setting off on your spring travels, make sure all your documentation is up to date. Check the expiration dates on your vehicle registration, driver’s license (especially if a special class is required for your RV), and any applicable inspection or emissions certifications. If your RV hasn’t been on the road in a while, now is also the time to confirm your roadside assistance coverage. Make sure you have access to towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery—just in case.

Review Your RV Insurance Policy

Before you start your spring travels, take a moment to review your RV insurance policy. Make sure your coverage is up to date and that it reflects any changes you've made to the vehicle, such as new accessories or upgrades. Depending on how you use your RV—whether full-time, seasonal, or just for occasional trips—you may need different types of coverage, including collision, liability, roadside assistance, or personal belongings protection.

Spring is the perfect season for adventure, and your RV is your ticket to it all. With the right preparation and protection in place, you can hit the road knowing you’ve taken the steps to enjoy a safe, smooth, and memorable journey. If you’re not sure whether your current policy offers enough protection, contact us for a quick insurance review. We’ll help you make sure your RV is properly insured so you can travel with confidence all season long.

Avoiding Water Issues in Your Home

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 21:00:23 GMT

Water damage is one of the worst problems that homeowners can run into. Not only can it be incredibly expensive to repair, depending on the extent of the damage, but it can also create the potential for mold and mildew to form. This can pose a serious health risk to you and your loved ones, especially if anyone has allergies, asthma, or other breathing problems. Follow these helpful tips to minimize your risk of water issues in and around your home.

Know Where the Shutoff Valve Is

Everyone in your home should know where the water supply shutoff valve is located. In many homes, it is in the garage, in the basement, or along the side of the house towards the front of the property. Make sure that everyone knows how to operate it as well. This way, if you encounter a burst pipe or other complication, you'll be able to turn off the water supply as quickly as possible to minimize the extent of the damage.

Maintain Your Sprinkler System

As long as your plants and lawn are healthy, you probably don't give much thought to your sprinkler system. However, this is one of the most common areas for burst pipes, as plant and tree roots are often strong enough to puncture the pipes and hoses throughout your sprinkler system. When your system is running, take the time to inspect your yard, looking for any areas that are especially wet, as this could be a sign of an underground leak. Fixing the leak not only prevents the damage from spreading to your home but stops your water bills from skyrocketing as well.

Winterize All Outdoor Pipes and Faucets

If you live in an area that is prone to freezing in the winter, it is crucial that you winterize any exposed pipes. Water expands as it freezes, which can rupture the pipes, leading to a massive leak when the water thaws once again. Thermal wrappings for pipes are relatively inexpensive, but they don't last forever. Be sure to inspect them before the cold weather hits each year, replacing them as needed to keep your pipes protected.

The better you are able to keep watch on your water system, the easier it will be to spot any potential leaks before they can cause major damage to your property. So, stay vigilant throughout the year to keep your home safe!

Upgrading Your Windows - How to Choose What's Best for Your House

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 22:00:23 GMT

You may not give the windows on your home much thought, but they can actually make a big difference not just in your comfort level, but also in the value of your home. You'll have a wide range of options to choose from, so it is important to evaluate your choices carefully. Here's what you need to know.

Types of Windows

For starters, you'll need to choose how you would like your windows to open. For example, casement windows rotate from a hinge on the side, opening towards the outside of your house. Single-hung and double-hung windows, on the other hand, slide vertically to open one portion of the window. Similarly, slider windows slide sideways to open each side.

If you don't need the window to open to allow airflow into your home, consider bay windows, which can allow you to add a comfortable window seat for relaxing or reading. Picture windows are great for showcasing a beautiful view.

Types of Glass

Next, you'll need to decide whether you want standard or double-paned glass. Standard glass is typically more affordable, though double-paned glass is more energy-efficient. It helps to maintain the temperature inside your home so you don't have to rely on your air conditioning or heating as much. While these windows are more costly initially, you'll save money in the long run on your energy costs. They are also more durable, helping to deter potential burglars. You also have the option of adding thermal films to boost energy efficiency.

Additional Features

Finally, you'll need to consider the overall security of your windows. While this is less of a concern on upper levels as they are more difficult to access, you'll want to ensure the windows on your ground floor are as secure as possible. Locks, opening sensors, and glass-break sensors can prevent thieves from trying to break into your home through the windows.

To decide which types of windows are best for your needs, consider your needs, preferences, and budget, not just in the short term, but over the long run as well. A bit of extra investment upfront can enhance your comfort and peace of mind while also adding value to your property.

How to Extend the Life of Your Roof with Regular Maintenance

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 19:27:28 GMT

Aerial view of a roof by Tina Nord

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, protecting you from the elements and keeping your family safe. However, it’s often an overlooked aspect of home maintenance. With proper care and attention, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof, saving money and avoiding costly repairs down the line. Here’s how to keep your roof in top shape.

Keep a Close Eye on Your Roof’s Condition

Regular inspections are key to catching problems early. Small issues like cracked or missing shingles can quickly escalate into bigger problems if left unchecked. Walk around your home periodically and look for visible signs of damage, such as sagging areas, discoloration, or loose shingles. After severe weather, take extra care to inspect your roof for damage caused by wind or hail.

Don’t forget the underside of your roof. Check your attic for signs of leaks or water stains, which can indicate problems that may not be visible from the outside. Regular checks can help address minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Focus on Proper Water Drainage

Water is one of your roof’s biggest enemies, and keeping your drainage system clear is essential. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on your roof, leading to leaks, mold, and structural damage. Make it a habit to clean your gutters at least twice a year, particularly during the fall and spring when debris buildup is common. Installing gutter guards can save time and reduce the frequency of cleanings. Ensure downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation to prevent flooding and water damage.

Moss and algae can weaken roofing materials and lead to premature aging. If you notice green or black streaks forming on your roof, it’s time to take action. Use a gentle cleaning solution designed for roofs or consult a professional to safely remove these growths. Preventative measures are equally important. Zinc or copper strips installed along the roof’s ridge can help deter moss and algae by releasing small amounts of mineral that inhibit growth when it rains. Keeping your roof clear of organic debris like leaves will also reduce the likelihood of growth.

Prevent Damage from Nearby Trees

Overhanging tree branches can potentially damage your roof. They can scrape against shingles, cause physical damage during storms, and drop debris that clogs gutters. Trimming branches that are too close to your roof is a simple but effective way to protect it. For large or high branches, it’s best to contact a professional tree-trimming service to ensure the job is done safely and without risking injury or damage to your home. Professionals have the tools and expertise needed to handle these tasks efficiently.

Beyond trimming, consider the types of trees near your home. Trees that shed frequently, such as pines or oaks, may require more regular attention to keep your roof clear of debris. Regular maintenance in this area can go a long way in preventing unnecessary wear and tear.

Protect Your Investment with Home Insurance

Routine maintenance and attention to detail will ensure your roof stays in great shape for years to come. Whether it’s cleaning gutters, trimming trees, or scheduling professional inspections, consistent care pays off. For additional peace of mind, ensure your home insurance policy provides adequate coverage for roof damage. Contact us today to review tailored insurance solutions that protect your investment.

Documents to put in your emergency kit

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 19:23:00 GMT

In addition to survival items such as water, food and medical supplies, consider the following personal documents to put in your emergency kit:

Here are some items that need to be in that emergency kit:

Birth certificates

Passports or Visas

Home insurance documents

Car insurance documents

Auto registrations

Health insurance documents, medical cards, prescriptions

Employment records

Tax records

Driver’s licenses

Social Security cards

Backup ID

Credit cards

Medical history

Power of attorney

Wills

Concealed carry permit if you have one

Important phone numbers and contacts

Titles, deeds, etc.

Marriage license

At least one statement from all financial accounts with account number, phone number, address

All military and VA records

Pet records including rabies and other health vaccinations

Even more important is a video that contains the contents of the home. In the emergency kit, policyholders should have a thumb drive with a video of all contents in the house and the house itself.

The video should include the content of all rooms with all drawers, cabinets and/or closets opened and contents revealed. Also include garage contents, attic contents, art works and make sure all valuables are clearly seen.

Emerging Trends in Identity Theft and How to Stay Ahead

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 19:21:32 GMT

Computer security by Pixabay

As technology advances, so do the tactics of identity thieves. Identity theft is no longer limited to stolen credit card numbers or Social Security fraud—it has evolved into a complex web of cybercrime targeting individuals and businesses alike. Staying informed about emerging trends in identity theft can help you protect your personal information and take proactive steps to minimize your risk.

Synthetic Identity Theft

Synthetic identity theft involves combining real and fake information to create a new identity. Thieves may use your Social Security number with a fictitious name and address, making it harder to detect. They often use these fake identities to apply for loans, credit cards, or government benefits, leaving you with the fallout. This form of theft is particularly concerning because it often targets children or individuals who don’t regularly check their credit reports, allowing the fraud to potentially go undetected for years.

How to Stay Ahead: Monitor your credit report regularly for accounts or activity you don’t recognize. Consider placing a credit freeze or fraud alert with credit bureaus to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. Parents should also check their children’s Social Security numbers periodically to ensure no fraudulent accounts have been created.

Phishing 2.0

While phishing isn’t new, the methods have become far more sophisticated. Modern phishing attacks often impersonate trusted organizations, like your bank, favorite online store, or even government agencies, using highly personalized messages to trick victims into revealing sensitive information. Criminals may use advanced techniques, such as spoofed websites or phone numbers, to make their scams appear legitimate.

How to Stay Ahead: Always verify unsolicited communications by contacting the organization directly before clicking on links or providing information. Use email filtering tools to block phishing attempts and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for online accounts to add an extra layer of security. Be wary of urgent messages demanding immediate action—these are often red flags of phishing attempts.

Medical Identity Theft

Criminals can use stolen personal information to obtain medical treatments, prescriptions, or health insurance benefits. Victims may only discover the theft when they receive unexpected bills, find discrepancies in their medical records, or are denied coverage due to benefits already being used. This type of fraud can also have serious health implications if inaccurate medical information is added to your records.

How to Stay Ahead: Carefully review your medical bills, Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements, and insurance summaries. If you notice discrepancies, report them immediately to your healthcare provider, insurer, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Consider signing up for credit and identity monitoring services that specifically flag unusual medical-related activities.

Social Media Exploitation

Identity thieves increasingly use social media to gather personal information. Public profiles, shared photos, and even seemingly harmless quizzes can provide valuable details about your life. Thieves use this information to answer security questions, hack into accounts, or impersonate you. Oversharing online—such as your birthdate, location, or family details—makes you an easy target.

How to Stay Ahead: Limit the personal information you share on social media, especially sensitive details like your full birthdate or location. Adjust privacy settings to restrict access to your profiles and only connect with people you know personally. Be cautious about participating in quizzes or challenges that ask for personal information—they may be designed to harvest data.

Deepfake Scams

Deepfake technology, which uses artificial intelligence to create convincing fake videos or audio, has become a new tool for identity thieves. Criminals can mimic a person's voice or appearance to commit fraud, manipulate others, or spread false information. Deepfake scams are increasingly being used in business contexts, such as impersonating employees to authorize wire transfers and business payments.

How to Stay Ahead: Be cautious with unsolicited requests for sensitive information, even if they appear to come from someone you know. Verify requests through a secondary communication channel, such as calling the person directly. Educate friends, family, and coworkers about the risks of deepfake technology to increase vigilance.

Protecting Yourself

The landscape of identity theft is constantly evolving, but staying informed about emerging trends can help you protect your personal information. Regularly monitoring your accounts, being cautious online, and investing in identity theft insurance are key steps to staying ahead of cybercriminals. By taking proactive measures today, you can safeguard your identity and secure your financial future.

Despite your best efforts, identity theft can still happen. The right insurance policy can provide coverage and resources to help you recover. While insurance won’t prevent theft from occurring, it can offer peace of mind and support during the recovery process. Contact us today to review your policy.

Quick Tips to Protect Your Vehicle from Thieves

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 19:57:25 GMT

Car parked at night by InstaWalli

Car theft is a frustrating and costly experience that affects thousands of vehicle owners each year. While most modern cars come equipped with advanced anti-theft features, thieves are becoming more sophisticated, making it essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your vehicle. Here are some practical tips to protect your car from being stolen and how the right auto insurance policy can provide an added layer of protection in case you fall victim to auto theft.

Practical Tips to Prevent Car Theft

Lock Your Doors and Roll Up Windows

It may seem obvious, but a significant number of thefts occur because vehicles are left unlocked or windows are partially open. Always double-check that your car is secure before leaving it unattended.
Park Smart

Opt for well-lit, high-traffic areas when parking your car. Thieves are less likely to target a vehicle in a location where they can be easily seen. Whenever possible, use secured parking lots or garages.
Don’t Leave Valuables Visible

Items like electronics, bags, or even loose change can attract thieves. Keep valuables out of sight, preferably locked in the trunk or removed from the vehicle altogether.
Install a Car Alarm or Anti-Theft Device

Audible alarms and steering wheel locks serve as strong deterrents for thieves. For additional security, consider advanced anti-theft systems like immobilizers or GPS tracking devices that can help locate your car if stolen.
Use Technology to Your Advantage

Modern tools like dash cams and vehicle tracking apps can alert you to suspicious activity and help authorities recover your car faster.
Keep Your Keys Secure

Never leave spare keys inside the vehicle or in obvious hiding spots. For keyless entry systems, consider storing your fob in a signal-blocking pouch to prevent relay attacks. (A relay attack is a method of using a device near your key fob to receive its signal and then forwarding that signal to your car so it can unlock or even start.)
Remove Your Garage Opener

If you park outside, don’t leave your garage door opener in your car. It could tempt thieves to break into your car and give them easy access to your home.
Keep Your Registration and Title Out of the Car

Storing these documents in your vehicle can make it easier for thieves to sell or impersonate ownership. Keep them in a secure location outside your car.
Avoid Leaving Your Engine Running Unattended

Even if you’re stepping away for just a moment or warming up your vehicle in your driveway, always turn off your engine and take your keys when you leave the vehicle. An unattended running car is an easy target.

How Insurance Protects You Against Theft

Even with the best precautions, car theft can still happen. If it does, and if you have insurance coverage, it’s essential to contact your insurance provider promptly, file a police report, and gather documentation such as the vehicle title or registration.

In such a situation, having the right insurance policy in place can help provide not only financial protection but also peace of mind. Reviewing your insurance policy regularly ensures you understand your coverage and can make any necessary updates based on your needs or changing life circumstances. Contact AMR Insurance for a review of your auto insurance policy. We’ll help you understand your options and will make sure your coverage meets your needs, so you can drive (and park) with confidence.