Liability vs. “Full Coverage” Car Insurance: What You Need to Know

Auto insurance

Auto insurance is required in almost every US state, including Florida. Having the right coverage when you’re out on the road is essential. Still, with so many options available, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. Two of the most common types of auto insurance are liability and “full coverage.”

In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between them and help you make an informed decision:

What Is Liability Insurance?

Liability insurance is the most basic type of car insurance. It’s designed to protect you financially if you’re at fault in a vehicular accident that causes injury or damage to someone else’s property. It’s important to note that liability insurance only covers the other party’s damages, not yours. 

For example, if you rear-end another driver and they suffer injuries, your liability insurance would pay for their medical expenses, but it wouldn’t cover the cost of repairing your own car.

In Florida, the minimum liability insurance required by law is $10,000 for personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 for property damage liability (PDL). However, it’s recommended that you purchase more than the minimum coverage, as medical bills and property damage can quickly add up in the event of an accident.

What Is “Full Coverage” Car Insurance?

“Full coverage” car insurance is a term used to describe a policy that includes both liability insurance and comprehensive and collision coverage. Comprehensive coverage covers any damage to a car that is not due to an accident, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Collision coverage, on the other hand, pays for both minor and major damages to your car caused by an accident, whether you or the other party is at fault.

While “full coverage” auto insurance in Florida may seem like the best option, it’s important to note that it doesn’t cover everything. For example, it typically doesn’t cover personal belongings that are stolen from your car and may limit how much it will pay out for certain types of damages.

Liability vs. Full Coverage: Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between liability and “full coverage” car insurance depends on various factors, including budget, driving habits, and financial situation. Here are a few things to consider:

  • Budget: Liability insurance is typically cheaper than “full coverage” because it offers less protection. If you’re on a tight budget, liability insurance may be the best option for you.
  • Driving habits: If you have a long commute or frequently drive in heavy traffic, you may want to consider “full coverage” to protect yourself from accidents that are beyond your control.
  • Financial situation: If you own a newer car or have a lot of assets, you may want to consider “full coverage” to protect yourself from expensive repairs or lawsuits.

Conclusion

Both liability and “full coverage” car insurance have advantages and disadvantages. Liability insurance is the most basic type of coverage required by Florida law. It’s designed to protect you financially if you’re at fault in a car accident that causes injury or damage to someone else’s property. “Full coverage” car insurance includes both liability insurance and comprehensive and collision coverage, which provides more protection but is typically more expensive.

When choosing between the two, it’s important to consider your budget, driving habits, and financial situation. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, it’s always a good idea to talk to an insurance agent who can help you make an informed decision. Remember, having the right auto insurance in Florida can protect you and your assets in the event of an accident.

In search of a reliable car insurance company? At Florida Manufactured Home Insurance Agency, our expert team is committed to identifying the most suitable coverage options tailored to your requirements and finances. Contact us now to get the best auto insurance in Florida!

5 Situations and Instances Covered by Boat Insurance Policies

boats

Owning a boat can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with risks. While you may take all the necessary precautions to keep your watercraft safe, accidents or damages can still happen. That’s where boat insurance comes in.

Boat insurance protects you financially in case of damages or losses caused by accidents, natural disasters, theft, or other incidents. As a result, more and more boat owners acquire them. But which situations and instances are covered by boat insurance policies?

1. Towing Policies

One of the most common incidents boat owners face is the need for towing services. Suppose your boat breaks down or runs out of fuel while on the water. You may need to call for a tow. The entire process can incur upfront costs, making it difficult for owners with the required cash.

Boat insurance policies often include towing coverage, which means that your insurer will cover the cost of towing your boat to the nearest repair facility or marina. The range can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars in towing fees.

2. Motors and Hull Coverage

Boats are expensive investments, and damages to your boat’s motors, hull, or other components can be costly to repair or replace. Boat insurance policies typically cover damages to your boat’s engines and hull caused by collisions, storms, or other covered incidents.

The coverage can help you avoid out-of-pocket expenses for repairs or replacements, which can be particularly important if your boat is your primary means of transportation or recreation. Therefore, owners can do more than spend on upfront costs.

3. Accessories and Trailer

In addition to your boat, you may have invested in accessories and equipment such as fishing gear, electronics, or water sports equipment. Boat insurance policies often include coverage for these accessories, meaning they will be covered in case of theft, damage, or loss. Many boat insurance policies also cover your boat trailer, which can be a significant expense if damaged or stolen.

4. Watercraft Liability

Boat owners are responsible for any damages or injuries caused by their watercraft. Watercraft liability coverage is a critical component of boat insurance policies, as it protects you financially in case of accidents involving your boat, especially during an accident.

Watercraft liability coverage can help pay for damages or medical expenses resulting from a collision with another boat, damage to someone else’s property, or injuries to other boaters or passengers. Therefore, it protects owners from using hard-earned money for repairs and more.

5. Medical Policies

Finally, boat insurance policies often include medical payments coverage, which can help pay for medical expenses for you or your passengers if you’re injured while boating. The range can be essential if you’re involved in a severe accident that results in significant medical bills.

Some boat insurance policies offer optional coverage for additional medical expenses, such as emergency medical transportation or dental costs. Although the range does not encourage reckless driving, it can protect those who will encounter accidents.

Conclusion

Boat insurance is an essential investment for any boat owner. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in unforeseen events like accidents, theft, or natural disasters. Boat insurance policies vary depending on the type of boat, the coverage required, and the insurer. By understanding the coverage options available, you can choose the right boat insurance policy for your needs and enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind.

Looking for reliable insurance coverage for your mobile home, boat, or car in Florida? Look no further than Bassine Insurance Agency! Our team of experienced agents is here to help you protect your valuable assets and give you peace of mind. Whether you need mobile home insurance in Florida, boat insurance agency services, or auto insurance coverage, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to learn more and get started!

Eight Questions You Should Ask Your Car Insurance Rep

car insurance

Car insurance is an essential requirement for any car owner. It provides financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or any other unforeseen incidents. However, choosing the right car insurance policy can be a daunting task.

Several policies are available in the market, and each has its terms and conditions. It is, therefore, important to ask your car insurance representative some questions to ensure that you get the right coverage for your needs.

Here are eight questions to ask your car insurance representative.

1. What Is the Minimum Coverage Required by Law, and What Does It Cover?

Every state has a minimum car insurance coverage requirement. It is important to know the minimum coverage required by law to avoid any legal issues in case of an accident. Your insurance representative should be able to explain what this coverage includes and what it doesn’t cover.

2. What Are the Different Types of Coverage Options Available?

Car insurance policies offer different types of coverage options. Common options include liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, personal injury protection, and uninsured motorist coverage. Your insurance representative should be able to explain each of these coverage options and help you choose the right one for your needs.

3. How Much Coverage Do I Need?

The amount of coverage you need depends on various factors, such as your driving habits, car type, and budget. Your insurance representative can help you determine the right coverage amount based on your needs.

4. How Much Will My Premium Be?

Your car insurance premium is the amount you pay for your insurance policy. It is important to know how much your premium will be before you buy your policy. Your insurance representative should be able to provide you with a quote based on the coverage options you choose.

5. Are There Any Discounts Available?

Car insurance companies offer various discounts to their customers. These discounts can help you save money on your premium. For example, you may be eligible for a discount if you have a good driving record, if you have multiple policies with the same company, or if your car has certain safety features. Your insurance representative should be able to tell you about any discounts that you may be eligible for.

6. What Happens If I Get into an Accident?

It is important to know what to do in case of an accident. Your insurance representative should be able to explain the claims process and guide you through it. They should also be able to tell you what your policy covers in case of an accident.

7. How Can I Lower My Premium?

If you are on a tight budget, consider finding ways to lower your car insurance premium. Your insurance representative can suggest ways to lower your premium, such as increasing your deductible or reducing your coverage.

8. What Happens If I Miss a Payment?

Missing a car insurance payment can have serious consequences. Your insurance representative should be able to explain what will happen if you miss a payment and what steps you can take to avoid any penalties.

Conclusion

By asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision about your car insurance policy. Ask your insurance representative these eight questions to get the right coverage for your needs.

Are you looking for an auto insurance agency in Sarasota that you can trust? At Florida Manufactured Home Insurance Agency, our knowledgeable and experienced team is dedicated to finding the best coverage options for your needs and budget. Contact us today!

Ahoy! Don’t Set Sail without Knowing Boat Insurance

Boat Insurance

Boat ownership can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. However, it also comes with a set of responsibilities. One of the most important is protecting your investment with boat insurance. Boat insurance is designed to provide financial protection against damages or injuries that may occur while operating your boat.

Before purchasing boat insurance, there are several things you should know to ensure you are getting the right coverage for your needs. This article will discuss these important factors to consider when purchasing boat insurance.

Coverage Types

Before purchasing boat insurance, it is essential to understand the different types of coverage available. There are two main types of coverage: liability and physical damage. Liability coverage protects you if you are found responsible for an accident that causes injury or damage to another person’s property. Physical damage coverage protects your boat against damage from events such as collisions, theft, or natural disasters.

Policy Exclusions

It is crucial to understand what your boat insurance policy does not cover. Most policies have exclusions that limit coverage for certain events or damages. For example, many policies do not cover wear and tear, normal use, or damage from marine life. Make sure to read your policy carefully and ask questions to understand what is and is not covered.

Deductibles

Deductibles are the amount you will have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Different policies have different deductible amounts. A higher deductible will typically result in a lower premium, while a lower deductible will result in a higher premium. It is important to weigh the costs and benefits of different deductible amounts to determine the best option for your needs.

Boat Value

The value of your boat is an essential factor to consider when purchasing boat insurance. The higher the value of your boat, the more coverage you will need. Make sure to have your boat appraised to determine its value accurately. You don’t want to be underinsured and face significant out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an accident.

Navigation Limits

Boat insurance policies typically have navigation limits that specify where you can and cannot operate your boat. These limits may be based on geographic regions, distance from shore, or other factors. Make sure to understand the navigation limits of your policy and ensure they align with your boating habits.

Additional Coverage Options

In addition to liability and physical damage coverage, there are several additional coverage options available. These may include coverage for towing and assistance, personal property, and uninsured boater coverage. Consider your boating habits and needs to determine if any additional coverage options are necessary.

Insurance Provider Reputation

The reputation of your insurance provider is an essential factor to consider when purchasing boat insurance. Look for providers with a strong financial rating and a good reputation for customer service. Research the provider’s claims process to understand how they handle claims and how quickly they respond to customer inquiries.

Conclusion

Boat insurance is an essential part of boat ownership. It provides financial protection against accidents or damage that may occur while operating your boat. Before purchasing boat insurance, it is important to understand the different types of coverage available, policy exclusions, deductibles, boat value, navigation limits, additional coverage options, and insurance provider reputation. By considering these factors, you can ensure you are getting the right coverage for your needs and protecting your investment in your boat.

Don’t risk your boat; protect it with the best boat insurance in Florida! Contact Bassine Insurance Agency today for comprehensive coverage and peace of mind on the water. Trust us to keep you afloat with our top-notch boat insurance options in Florida.