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Why Is My Car Insurance Rate Increasing?

May 19, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

car insurance rate increase

It’s frustrating to get your monthly auto insurance bill in the mailbox and see it increase year by year. In most cases, you may never have had an accident that was your fault or even filed a claim at all.

While inflation and current trends have an effect on car insurance rates, you may still be experiencing incredible uncertainty during peacetime.

Fighting car insurance rates can feel daunting when the variables for change seem out of your control.

Our team believes understanding what causes car rate increases will help you understand how to move forward. Listen as we explain why your car rate is increasing and what to do about it.

Reasons for a Car Rate Increase

Sadly, auto insurance companies change their rates according to factors you can’t often control.

The car rate can be a reasonable amount one day and shoot up the next simply from being the victim of an accident. Or just by going through everyday life.

It’s crucial to be aware of these factors that agents take into consideration. That way, you can choose to fight back and get a lower auto insurance rate.

Moving violations and speeding tickets

You would think that car insurance companies only increase your monthly bill if you got into an accident. But that pointless speeding ticket you got running late to work also plays a factor in the premium.

Carriers track your motor vehicle report and determine you as a greater risk the more violations you have. Thankfully, they don’t count pesky parking tickets, but you should try your best to keep a clean record.

Both at-fault and not-at-fault accidents

It makes sense that a car insurance company would raise your rate for repeated accidents. But what if the accident wasn’t your fault and the other guy didn’t slam his brakes on time?

The insurance company will still raise your rate even if you were the victim of a tragic accident. They predict with statistical data that people caught in 1 no-fault car crash are likely to get into another, making you a liability.

Age

Watch out for an increase in insurance costs if you’re a teenage driver or over the age of 60. You’re considered a higher risk, even if you’ve had proper driving instruction or been driving your entire life.

Insurance companies paint a broad brush and assume that all teenagers are reckless drivers and that senior drivers have lost the capacity to operate a vehicle.

Comprehensive claims

Submitting a comprehensive claim adds fuel to the fire, depending on where you live. Areas with higher rates of theft, vandalism, natural disasters, etc. raise your car insurance rate as a result.

You can’t control when the business next door gets robbed and your vehicle gets caught in the crossfire. Property damage and repair costs are a part of having comprehensive vehicle protection.

But the car insurance company will still ding you in rising car insurance premiums for someone else’s reckless actions in your state.

Auto claims in your area

Despite a clean driving record with no accidents and claims, you can still suffer from an expensive rate. Auto carriers can determine your area has patterns of vehicle accidents and deem the area as high risk.

Sadly, your family will pay for someone else texting while driving or someone else flying through bumper-to-bumper traffic while putting makeup on.

Moving

Similar to claims in your area, the insurance company drives up the monthly premium if you move somewhere else with a high risk of accidents and comprehensive claims.

This is different from obtaining a new policy from moving to a different state. If you’re in-state and changing addresses, be aware that your carrier knows about it. They may penalize you for it.

Insurance score changes

Correlation data show that most people with poorer credit scores have a higher chance of submitting a claim. That means you’ll take a hit based on financial data that isn’t concretely tied to insuring your car.

Many states ban companies from adjusting your rate due to credit scores. But these carriers still consider the number by creating your insurance score based on it.

Gaps in insurance coverage

Difficult life circumstances may create a lapse in insurance. However, you’ll still have to deal with the increased rate, even if the reason was legitimate.

How to Keep Auto Insurance Premiums Lower

While your car rate situation may seem bleak, we know of numerous opportunities that can lower your premium.

Instead of resigning to expensive auto policies, fight back against carriers by finding discounts or switching companies.

Improve credit score

Lowering your credit score will improve your insurance score, which adjusts the monthly payment along with it.

Apply for Carrier Discounts

Being a student driver, having zero accidents, being a homeowner, etc. are common discounts that most companies offer. They help mitigate policy increases and keep your premium down.

Shop for other insurance carriers

It may be time to look into a new carrier for your vehicle. We recommend working with an experienced broker that can compare dozens of policies at once. It’s much more efficient than researching each one of your own.

Fight Car Rate Increases with a Broker

Working with a broker is partnering with a professional who understands the auto insurance market. They keep you informed if inflation, current events, or other variables drive up your premium.

Our caring insurance team can help you find the best auto insurance policy that protects what matters most. We’ll check over 40 of the top carriers and give you a plan that’s cheaper than your current one.

Let us bundle your savings and show you how to find the best policy that balances your budget and coverage needs.

Our team can also help you obtain an insurance quote for homeowners insurance, commercial insurance, and more.

Call our insurance staff at (520)-836-3244 today for lower auto insurance prices.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

Motorcycle Insurance Components and Coverage

April 26, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

Motorcycle Insurance Components

Cruising down an open country road is a symbol and feeling of freedom like no other. Many drivers gravitate to a bike for the thrill, speed, and friendship that is commonly associated with motorcycle enthusiasts. But along with this freedom and excitement come many risks.

In 2019, the Arizona Department of Transportation reported that there were 2,679 motorcycle crashes throughout the state. This led to 170 deaths and 2,235 injuries. Many factors contribute to collisions and accident severity including speed, alcohol use, seat belts, and distractions.

All states have liability insurance requirements for motorists that vary by state. To register any vehicle in Arizona, you must show evidence of financial responsibility coverage. Those buying motorcycle insurance should understand the required and optional coverages available and the factors that influence the price of premiums.

Benefits

There are many benefits to owning a motorcycle over a car. The cost of an average priced motorcycle is much less expensive than buying a new or used vehicle. Owning a bike allows you to save money on upfront vehicle costs. Maintenance and repair costs can also be cheaper.

Motorcycles also tend to be much more fuel efficient. The average motorcycle can travel 120-200 miles on a single tank of gas depending on vehicle, tank size, and road conditions. They are also more space efficient when it comes to storing in a garage or lot.

Risks

Motorcycle riders are at a greater risk of suffering injuries or being killed in accidents. This is due to open exposure, as compared to being enclosed in the metal frame of a car.

Helmet use is one key factor that affects the severity of accident injuries. Roughly 20 states have laws that require riders to wear helmets. The state of Arizona does not have helmet requirements for riders over the age of 18. However, the use of protective glasses or a face shield is required.

Motorcycles also carry financial risk. Motorcycles are easier to steal than other vehicles because they are smaller and harder to lock. They also experience more damage in the case of an accident or weather event.

Motorcycle Insurance Coverage Limit in Arizona

The minimum amount of coverage for motorcycle operators is the same as passenger vehicles. These requirements are $15,000 in bodily injury coverage per person and $30,000 per accident. Property damage coverage of $10,000 or more is also necessary.

Motorcycle Insurance Coverage Options

Bodily Injury: Pays for injuries when you are at-fault. Does not provide coverage for injuries that you incur. (See Medical Payments)

Property Damage: Property damage coverage is for vehicles or other property that is damaged that you are liable for.

Collision: Collision insurance will pay for the repair or replacement of your motorcycle from a crash involving another vehicle or object. This applies even if you are at-fault.

Comprehensive: This type of coverage pays for roadside assistance and damages from storms, fire, vandalism or theft.

The majority of comprehensive and collision insurance policies have a deductible. The deductible amount is a total that the insured must pay before the insurance kicks in. For example: Your bike has $1,000 in damage. If your deductible was $500, you are responsible for paying $500 and then, the insurance will cover the remaining balance.

Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist:. Uninsured motorist protection pays for your damages when the at-fault motorist does not have liability coverage. In accidents where damage is severe and the responsible party does not have enough liability coverage, underinsured motorist coverage may apply.

Medical Payments: Pays for costs including medical bills, funeral costs, and sometimes, lost wages that result from an accident. It is not as common because many people use health insurance policies instead.

Guest Passenger Liability: Unlike regular vehicle insurance, motorcycle insurance may or may not include liability coverage for passengers. You should review the terms of the policy and add optional guest or passenger coverage as needed. Keep in mind that the state requires passengers to have a seat and footrests.

What Factors Influence Motorcycle Insurance Rates?

There are a number of factors that insurance companies consider that impact rates such as:

  • Age. Younger people tend to exhibit riskier behavior and typically have higher rates.
  • Style. The type of motorcycle being covered influences rates. Sport or racing bikes typically have higher premiums.
  • Driving Record. Driving and claims history are generally considered.
  • Location. If you live in a busy urban area with higher accident and theft rates, you may have a higher premium.
  • Usage. A bike that is used on a daily basis will cost more to insure than a bike used only on weekends.
  • Cost of Parts. If you have collision coverage and/or comprehensive coverage, the cost of repairing or replacing your bike will impact premiums.

Motorcycle Insurance Discounts

Insurance agencies often give discounts to safe drivers. Riders who have taken motorcycle safety driving or military safety courses may qualify for discounted rates.

Members of groups like American Motorcycles Association (AMA) and Harley Owners Group (HOG) are frequently eligible to get discounts as well.

Purchasing motorcycle insurance through the same carrier where you buy home or auto insurance may qualify you for a bundle discount.

Experts suggest that shopping around and getting multiple quotes before deciding on a policy ensures that you get the lowest rate.

Traveling Outside the U.S.

The majority of motorcycle insurance policies issued in Arizona extend coverage when traveling into Canada. Many policies do not provide coverage for traveling in Mexico. According to Mexican law, visitors should purchase a separate policy for liability.

Motorcycle Insurance in Casa Grande

At Gebhardt Insurance Group, we provide excellent options for motorcycle insurance. Our insurance agents take the time to find you a policy that covers your specific needs at a highly competitive price.

Discounts are available for those who bundle other forms of insurance with their motorcycle policy. Contact our office today at (520) 836-3244 for a motorcycle insurance quote!

Filed Under: Motorcycle Insurance, Insurance

How to Compare Car Insurance Rates

April 21, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

Compare Car Insurance Rates

When trying to figure out how to buy car insurance, the options can seem overwhelming. There are many companies to choose from and even more advertisements trying to convince you that one company is better than another. Every auto insurance company has their own auto insurance rates and individual formulas for calculating those rates. Unfortunately, most companies try to keep their formulas very secretive therefore it can be difficult to compare car insurance quotes and assess what factors may make one one quote higher than another.

There are many businesses and websites dedicated to offering comparison tools and evaluations each year, but to be sure that you are getting accurate information, it is advisable to do the research yourself or to hire an independent insurance specialist whose only goal is to find you the best deal.

In order to compare car insurance rates, there are many factors to be aware of. At Gebhardt Insurance Agency, we want you to make the most informed decision to save money. Keep reading to find more information about what factors may be affecting your rate and how to compare auto insurance quotes.

Factors That Affect Your Rate

Driving Record

The number one factor that car insurance companies use to determine your rate is your individual driving record. There are many aspects that play into this factor such as a limited history, claims, at-fault accidents, and other incidents. It is rare to find a company that will not use a checkered history against you when determining rates, but different companies definitely factor this into account in different ways therefore it is worth it to shop around if your driving record is affecting your premiums in a negative way.

Accident Record

At-fault and no-fault claims affect your rates in different amounts but each will play a role in your rate. Typically, having one or more at-fault claims or violations on your record will cause your premiums to increase for at least 1-3 years. Some companies vary in this therefore it is good to assess quotes for future possibilities.

Checking how rates fluctuate with an at-fault accident on your record at one, three, and five years after the incident will give you a good indication of how an accident will affect you. It is sometimes the case that you would actually save money paying for a low-cost accident out of pocket rather than reporting a claim to your insurance because of rate increases.

Many insurance companies now offer accident forgiveness options to be added to policies that will give you a locked rate if you have under 2 no-fault claims on your record.

Incident Record

Incidents may include a DUI, DWI, reckless driving, or any ticket for something similar. Depending on the severity of the incident, your rate may be affected significantly even so much as disqualifying you from purchasing insurance from certain companies. In this case you may need to carry non standard insurance and those options will vary by company. Typically an incident of this nature on your record will affect your rate from 3-10 years therefore it is necessary to assess these options if you have an incident on your record. Sometimes switching companies may lower your rate if you are currently being penalized for an incident.

Age

It is commonly known that age plays a factor in auto insurance rates. Teen drivers notoriously have the highest rates of any age demographic, followed by senior citizen drivers. Adding a teen to your policy or aging can sometimes double your rates therefore changes in your life status should always be cause to go shopping for car insurance.

On the flip side, drivers between the ages of 25-60 may see a drop in rates with a clean driving record therefore reassessing your insurance company when you reach any age milestone could be beneficial.

Gender

Some states such as California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Montana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Michigan have passed laws banning the practice of using gender as a rate determining factor for car insurance rates.

In other states though, companies use this as a factor based on accident and incident data. For instance, sometimes, adult women drivers are charged a certain percentage higher premium than their male counterparts while the reverse is true for teen drivers. Teenage males are typically deemed more reckless drivers therefore their rates will be higher than a teen girl without violations.

Vehicle

The type of vehicle being insured plays a huge role in your insurance rates. This is because the cost to replace your vehicle in the case of an accident will be much higher with pricier cars. Typically high priced vehicles such as luxury vehicles or trucks incur higher rates than a sedan or used vehicle. This is a factor to consider when comparing auto insurance rates but also when purchasing a vehicle.

Location

Your area of residence or area where your car is driven the most will play a factor in the rate you receive from any insurance company. Typically, larger cities with a higher concentration of people and vehicle traffic will have higher insurance rates across most companies. The other side of the coin is that rates will be lower for areas that are more rural or that have higher foot than vehicle traffic.

Your home type can also play a factor in your rate regardless of city. For instance, insuring a vehicle that is typically parked in a closed garage in a neighborhood is less of a claim risk for insurance companies than a vehicle that is parked in an open lot at an apartment community with higher risk for theft or accidental damage.

Credit Score

The last but not least major factor that is considered when calculating insurance rates is your credit score. Having a good credit score will provide you with better rates because the insurance company sees a higher chance that your bill will be paid on time and in full. Likewise, having a low credit score with a history of non-payment can affect your premiums and options for coverage negatively. This is not necessarily a factor that all companies use though so if you are concerned that your credit score may affect your rates it is wise to check with a few companies for their policies.

Process of Comparing

When beginning the process of comparing insurance rates it is good to start with a plan of action. Knowing these steps and what to expect will be helpful in ensuring a smooth and easy process.

Know Your Information

Now that you know there are many factors that will affect the rate you are offered from different companies, before beginning your search, you should make a list of all your personal information that could affect your rate. Have on hand your information such as age, address, and vehicle make, year, and model. Also having a description and date of any accidents or incidents will help you to ask better questions when comparing rates.

Having a general idea of your credit score ahead of time can also be helpful because working towards building your credit for a few months before switching to a new plan may help you to lock in a better rate.

Before making any comparisons or phone calls it is a great idea to write down any questions or concerns you may have that way you do not leave anything out when assessing and you will know that you were thorough in your inquiries.

Choose Coverage

Most places have a state minimum of liability coverage that every motor vehicle must carry without exception. It is wise to do your homework and research what your state requires before having conversations about the coverage you need.

Arizona state law requires that drivers carry a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability insurance and a property damage liability coverage of $15,000 minimum.

These laws do sometimes change so if you have not assessed your coverage in sometime it is wise to look over your coverage and decide if you need to make some changes.

Collect and Compare

Unfortunately, collecting rate information and comparing prices is the most tedious part of the process of shopping for insurance. If you wish to truly assess all of your own personal information this may require making many phone calls to go through the process of collecting quotes from every insurance company that is popular in your local area.

It is a good idea to seek out which companies are most popular with your friends and neighbors and start from there, you may find that rate differences are negligible or easy to choose from.

Gebhardt Insurance Group

At Gebhardt Insurance Group it is our desire to earn your trust by finding the best rate available for you and your insurance needs. We do not sell our own insurance but shop most major and local companies to compare prices for your specific needs.

If you would like to compare insurance plans but do not wish to do the legwork yourself, we would love to partner with you. Call us at (520) 836-3244 to begin the conversation of buying car insurance today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

Types of Car Insurance Coverage in Arizona

March 21, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

types of car insurance

It is a careful balance to choose the right auto insurance policy that meets your needs and fits within your budget. You must obtain the legally required minimum coverage levels, but they stop short if your family is injured in a car crash.

But you cannot have full peace of mind without protection for your vehicle, passengers, and property. They can sustain significant damage and will not receive financial compensation if you don’t buy additional coverage.

You have to decide whether to prioritize low premiums or a low deductible (the amount you pay before the coverage kicks in). And you have to choose the types of expenses and situations your policy will cover.

There are many types of coverage that you can include in your auto insurance policy. Some of these are optional coverages and some are mandatory. You can review them to get a better idea of how much car insurance you need.

Below we will go through the different types of car insurance.

Liability Coverage

While there are many optional coverages, liability insurance is required across the United States.

Liability insurance covers damage to others in car accidents where it is determined that you are at fault. There are two major types of liability insurance: property and medical.

In Arizona, there are mandatory minimum coverage levels for both of these:

  • $25,000 in bodily injury liability for one person or $50,000 for multiple people
  • $15,000 in property damage liability

These two numbers are the baseline of any Arizona auto insurance policy. If you utilize the minimums, you would need to pay out of pocket for any medical expenses or repair costs above those thresholds.

The state can suspend your vehicle registration and even your driver’s license without this coverage.

Collision Coverage

Regardless of who is the at-fault driver, collision insurance pays for your medical bills and to repair or replace your vehicle. Collision coverage would protect you if you crash into another vehicle or hit a stationary object.

Your insurer will provide a check for the vehicle’s value if you total it (which means that repair costs are more than the vehicle’s worth). Check with your agent or broker to see the policy details and up to what amount the plan will cover.

Leased or financed vehicles often require this type of insurance.
If you know you cannot afford to repair or replace the vehicle, you should purchase collision coverage.

Comprehensive Coverage

While collision coverage protects you in the event of a crash, comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your vehicle in other situations, including natural disasters.

Fire, theft, and severe weather events are a few of the most common situations that comprehensive auto insurance covers.

Comprehensive insurance is optional, but the company will likely require it in the policy if you leased or financed the car.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

A common type of auto insurance is uninsured or underinsured coverage. This goes into effect if someone else causes an accident with you.

They either don’t have any insurance to pay for the damage or don’t hold sufficient coverage to pay for all your expenses.

Even though driving without insurance is illegal, many drivers still do. And many other drivers only have the minimum liability coverage levels.

With that in mind, uninsured and underinsured coverage provides an extra level of protection in accidents where you are not at fault.

Medical Payments Coverage

Another common insurance type is medical payments coverage. In short, this coverage protects you, your passengers, and even family members that were driving the vehicle involved in an accident.

The coverage applies regardless of who the officer determines to be at-fault in the incident.

You can cover medical expenses resulting from an accident with these reimbursable funds. They also cover copays and deductibles of other insurance policies, such as health insurance.

Other Insurance Types

Most insurance companies offer the five coverage types listed above, but those are not the only protections. Below are a few other coverages you may want to consider for your auto insurance policy.

Rental Reimbursement

If you must obtain a rental car or pay for public transportation after filing an insurance claim, rental reimbursement coverage pays for those expenses. This coverage applies while a mechanic repairs your car after an insurance case.

This is helpful for people or families with only one vehicle.

Gap Insurance

Vehicles depreciate over time, and much of that decrease happens the moment you drive one off the car lot.

Auto insurance companies only pay for the vehicle’s actual cash value if a car is totaled, which means it’s possible for a cash payment to be less than what you owe on the car’s lease.

Gap insurance makes up the difference between the balance of your loan and the car is actually worth.

Emergency Roadside Assistance

With emergency roadside assistance, you can receive reimbursement when you call for help if you get a flat tire, run out of gas, or need a tow. This offers peace of mind in the event that you find yourself in any of these situations, which often involve other expenses.

Choosing the Right Auto Insurance Coverage

Every auto insurance policy is different. There are various fixed factors that determine a policy’s price, including the vehicle’s value and the age, gender, and driving record of the vehicle owner.

It’s crucial to understand the different types of auto insurance coverage so you can protect the people and property you care about. While Arizona requires minimum coverage at a low cost, you can still find additional coverage for cheap.

Our team understands every insurance policy is different, and we help you find the plan that works for your needs and budget. As independent insurance specialists, we compare with dozens of insurance carriers and find policies so you don’t have to do the work.

Get a free quote for personalized auto insurance today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

How Much Car Insurance do I need?

March 14, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

how much car insurance do i need

Car ownership and driving on the road are huge responsibilities. Holding the safety of your vehicle, passengers, and others, it’s natural to want full coverage. However, you may be on a budget or have a difficult time switching to cheap car insurance.

The United States has legal requirements for each state with auto insurance, so getting more is a personal choice. Arizona has its own minimum liability and personal injury coverage, but it will not protect everything in a crash.

We recommend having more than the state standard so you don’t have to fear if you get in an accident. Roadside assistance, collision insurance, and other additions to your policy can bring peace during a stressful car crash.

It’s essential to know the types of insurance available to you, the insurance you are required to carry, and other options you may wish to carry. Then, you can decide how much car insurance you need and work with a broker to get it.

Types of Car Insurance

There are several different types of auto insurances on the market. But they all fall under these four main categories: liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist.

These insurance types are essential to understand because each operates differently and covers different scenarios.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance covers damages you cause on the road to other drivers and their property. This includes medical bills in the case of bodily injury and repair work for vehicle damage. However, it does not cover damage to you or your vehicle.

Our team suggests carrying more than just the minimum liability coverage. It’s the wisest choice so you don’t end up paying out of pocket if you cause an accident.

Collision Insurance

You’ll want to carry collision insurance for the car insurance company to repair or replace your car in an at-fault accident. Most drivers pay for some amount of collision coverage, even though states don’t require it.

In most cases, leasing companies and lienholders ask you to purchase it on a vehicle you don’t own.

Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance pays for vehicle damages that a collision with another car or object didn’t cause. These include hail damage, vandalism, theft, flood, or fire. After you agree on a deductible, the insurance company will pay for repairs.

You may decide not to carry any comprehensive coverage but the policy won’t cover your vehicle in the case of bad weather or break-ins.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist

Most states require uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage in situations where the at-fault driver doesn’t have any insurance or enough insurance. It differs from collision and comprehensive coverage to give added protection when your car suffers from someone else’s negligence.

While the opposing driver may not have enough coverage to repair damage to your vehicle or cover your medical bills, an uninsured and underinsured policy will.

Car Insurance Required By Law in Arizona

Because each state has different requirements, it is wise to keep informed of your state’s laws. As a driver in Arizona, it is your responsibility to ensure that you meet the state-required minimums.

The state only requires drivers to carry liability insurance with the following minimum coverage amounts:

  • $25,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
  • $15,000 for property damage per accident

These mandatory coverages are pretty low and may only cover part of your vehicle damage in an accident. If you’re found at fault, you’ll have to pay the total amount your car suffered. That means the cost will go straight out of your bank account if it’s higher than the minimum liability insurance.

Arizona has penalties for not carrying at least the minimum amount of coverage. If you are found to be driving without the required coverage, you’ll gain fines and a suspended license. Your consequences increase over time and will not stop until you obtain a policy.

Additional Coverages

There are many additional types of insurance coverage that cover different situations. The following coverages are not required in any state or by most insurance companies but are options you may choose to carry for your own benefit.

Umbrella Insurance

This supplemental insurance is intended to operate as additional liability coverage. You may wish to carry umbrella insurance if your minimum insurance is low or if your chances of incurring liability damages are high.

Having this type of coverage is most important in a lawsuit after a car crash or if you have an expensive vehicle to protect.

Gap Insurance

Gap insurance is necessary to carry if you bought a new vehicle with a financing option recently. The acronym stands for “guaranteed asset protection.”

The amount you still owe on the car loan may be more than what the car is worth if you total it. In that scenario, gap insurance would pay for the difference and put it into your pocket.

Similar to collision insurance, your lienholder may require that you carry this protection as a requirement in your lending agreement.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

This type of insurance is available in Arizona and covers medical bills regardless of who is at fault in an accident. Your carrier delivers the reimbursement after you’ve paid for the damages.

It is a good idea to carry some amount of PIP if you don’t have health insurance or your health insurance coverage is lousy.

Rental Reimbursement

If you are in a car accident, you may still need to drive when mechanics are repairing the vehicle. Rental reimbursement insurance covers the cost of a rental car while you don’t have your vehicle.

You may opt out of this coverage, but it’s smart to carry this protection if you don’t have access to another car. The additional monthly cost of rental reimbursement is not very significant and is a substantial help in an incident.

Need Assistance Finding Coverage?

Knowing how much car insurance coverage to carry can seem overwhelming. Of course, you need to carry the state-required minimums, but how do you decide which additional coverages you should carry for your benefit?

Having all this information and these options may make it difficult to choose, but you do not have to figure it out on your own.

Our professional team of experts is available to walk you through your options and help you make the best choices for your specific lifestyle and circumstances. We can compare with over 40 carriers to give you the amount of car insurance you need at a cheap rate.

If you need to review your current coverage or would like to price match for a new car policy, give us a call today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

Golf Cart Insurance in Arizona

January 13, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

golf cart insurance

If you are the owner of a golf cart for personal or business use, you are not alone. Based on the growth rate and published research, there were an estimated 100,000 carts sold just last year!

There’s no doubt that golf carts can be a lot of fun for personal and business use. You can take friends and family on rides around the golf course to hit a few holes. Or you can use a cart to help operate your business.

And if your golf cart is not your main transportation, you may wonder if you really need insurance for your for this slow-moving vehicle. The answer is a simple “yes!”

Whether you are traveling on the greens of your local course, driving a street-legal cart on public roads, or taking it along on your RV adventure, there are certain risks you face. It is wise to consider golf cart insurance in Arizona so your people and vehicle are protected in case of an accident.

More Than Just For Fun

Today, golf carts are for much more than just driving from tee to putting green or doing quick errands in the neighborhood. And they are no longer only for adult communities.

If you are in business, you know that golf carts have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation at large worksites, medical facilities, universities, and more. Many locations prefer these vehicles because of their compact size, less noise pollution, and easy operation and maneuverability.

For example, you may have employees that use golf carts for delivering mail, tools, and supplies around the workplace. Or you can drive individuals with disabilities across your hospital or medical center.

However, driving these low-speed vehicles (LSVs) around busy areas can present dangers. Accidents are more likely to happen with workplaces using golf carts and people and possessions are at risk.

What Does Golf Cart Insurance Cover?

Your auto insurance policy won’t cover specialized vehicles for the most part. There’s also a high chance your homeowner’s insurance won’t protect your cart either.

That is why you will want to purchase separate insurance to cover a golf cart. But beware, coverage for your golf cart will vary by state and even city. You will find that most of these insurance policies provide these standard coverages.

  • Collision coverage: Pays for golf cart damage if you collide with another vehicle or object. This pays to repair your low-speed cart, regardless of who is at fault.
  • Property damage liability coverage: If you crash into another person’s property while driving, this coverage will pay for the damages. Property damage liability coverage will also come into play even if the law deems you responsible for the golf cart accident.
  • Bodily injury liability coverage: Insures you in cases where you injure someone else while operating your LSV cart. Common personal injuries in an accident can include concussions, fractures, and back injuries. A policy can help cover the other person’s medical bills and similar expenses.
  • Comprehensive physical damage coverage: Your golf cart can suffer harm in ways other than head-on collisions. Depending on your policy, you can receive funds back if your bike is caught in a fire or flood, or if someone steals or vandalizes it.

There are also optional coverage add-ons such as Custom Equipment coverage for aftermarket parts, and roadside assistance in case you get a flat tire or need a tow.

Rules of the Road in Arizona

You and anyone driving your low-speed vehicle should understand Arizona state laws before jumping onto the greens or cruising down the road

For example, cart owners driving on public streets must register themselves as low-speed vehicles with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Other regulations include:

  • A maximum speed limit of 25 miles an hour
  • No more than four people can ride, including the driver
  • Carts cannot be driven on sidewalks
  • They cannot be driven on private property without the consent of the property owner
  • A valid driver’s license is required to operate on roadways, along with a minimum of $10,000 in liability insurance and $15,000 in bodily injury insurance

Keeping Insurance Costs Low

Several factors can affect the cost of insuring a low-speed vehicle, just like with your car policy.

Check with your insurance agent because you can often receive a discount if you get coverage for more than one LSV on your plan. However, your rates will likely be higher if you have violations or claims on your motor vehicle insurance policy.

Golf Cart Insurance in Casa Grande & Maricopa

Getting an insurance quote for your golf cart insurance in Maricopa, Casa Grande, and throughout Arizona doesn’t have to be difficult. Our professional agents will shop the nation’s top carriers to find you the absolute best golf cart insurance rates with the optimum coverage to meet your needs.

We can even bundle savings with more expensive insurance policies, such as auto and home, and decrease their prices. Experience matters the most when it comes to securing the best insurance and our team has served Casa Grande and now Maricopa since 2004.

Call or text us today at (520) 836-3244 to get more information on state requirements, insurance providers, and bond premiums. We would love to get you started comparing policies so you can get your best rate!

Filed Under: Insurance

Driving Safely in Monsoon Season

July 16, 2021 by Steve Gebhardt

Driving Safely in Monsoon

Because Arizona is typically hot and dry, many residents, especially those new to the state, forget about Arizona’s monsoon season. This rainy season runs from June through September and can be very dangerous for those who are unprepared. Therefore, our team at Gebhardt Insurance Group has put together important monsoon driving tips to keep you safe.

Stay off the Road

Our number one safety tip is that if you know a storm is headed your way that can affect road conditions, stay home if possible. Waiting out a storm may be inconvenient but can very likely save your life. Of course, we know that emergencies and surprise weather events occur, which is why we recommend being prepared. Learning how to drive safely is crucial during monsoon season.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Before every monsoon season, you should complete a monsoon preparation checklist for your home and your vehicle. Driving on a wet road can cause you to hydroplane or lose control of your vehicle. Therefore, it is wise to ensure that your car is in the best shape to handle driving in the rain. The following should be checked as the monsoon season approaches:

  • Check your tires for thick tread
  • Replace worn or broken wiper blades
  • Repair broken lights
  • Conduct regular checks on brakes and brake pads

Drive Safely

Assuring that your vehicle is road-ready is only half of the battle; you also need to be prepared for driving in adverse weather conditions. In addition to defensive driving, safety measures should double when driving in the rain, such as:

  • Maintain extra distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. 
  • Drive slowly and avoid slamming on the brake pedal. 
  • Avoid flooded areas.
  • If a road is closed due to flooding, do not drive around road barriers.

Pull Aside, Stay Alive

If you are on the road and get caught in very heavy rainfall or flash flood conditions, the best course of action is to pull off to the side of the road. It only takes a couple of inches of water to lift your vehicle’s tires off the road, so make sure to crank the parking break in a safe location.

“Insuring” Your Safety

Staying up to date with the Arizona Department of Transportation’s safety advisories is the best way to safely drive in heavy rain and other weather events such as dust storms, extreme heat, and snow. These will help you with being prepared ahead of time and learn driving in monsoons so you can have confidence during monsoon season.

At Gebhardt Insurance Group, we care first and foremost about your safety and want to make sure that you are prepared for all that Arizona weather has in store. We are available to answer all of your questions about insuring your property during monsoon season and are able to set you up with the proper insurance plan for you.

Call us today at (520) 836-3244 to ensure that you are insured.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

What Does Church Insurance Cover?

June 28, 2021 by Steve Gebhardt

What Does Church Insurance Cover

We recommend that every business carries the appropriate policies needed to insure all aspects of the business. This recommendation is the same for churches and other religious organizations. However, there are unique circumstances to church operations that make policy recommendations different from typical business policies.

Churches have physical buildings and other personal property that requires insurance coverage just as any business does. But because the business of church is all about people, there are other coverages that may be necessary.

Below we have listed some of the types of insurance that churches should carry to protect church property or church members.

Property Insurance

Building & Possessions

If your church owns any property, such as a building or meeting space, that property should be insured. This is the same as with any typical business insurance or homeowners policy that covers property damage due to fire, theft, natural disaster and more.

This policy should include the items found inside such as sound, lighting, service and classroom equipment. It is wise to select a policy that not only covers damage but also equipment breakdown. You would not want to be left empty handed because of faulty or malfunctioning equipment.

Commercial Auto insurance

Many churches own vehicles or provide services where members and employees will ride in a vehicle under the liability of the church. These situations include: traveling to camps, off campus functions, shuttling members to church, driving through the parking lot, and more. In these cases, the church should carry the appropriate auto insurance coverage for the vehicles, drivers, and passengers.

Liability Coverage

General Liability Insurance

In addition to physical property insurance, it is absolutely essential that churches carry professional liability insurance in order to protect the church, board, and employees. This insurance is necessary in cases of bodily injury when someone slips and falls on church property and seeks compensation for medical expenses.

Liability coverage also covers instances where someone may claim damaged property on church property. It also applies in cases where the church does not own the property or is renting or attending a space for an event.

Additional Types of Liability Coverage

In addition, it is not uncommon for churches to encounter specific liability instances that require additional special coverage. Examples are for pastoral counseling, volunteer and youth safety, security, or infectious disease outbreak.

In recent years, it has become necessary for churches to carry coverage for instances of sexual misconduct allegations, freedom of religion protection, and cyber liability. It is important not to overlook the necessity of these coverages. Even if you think your church or employees would never in a million years face these types of issues or allegations, it is better to have the coverage and not need it than the alternative.

Employee Insurance

Just as with any business, your church is required by federal and state laws to provide certain coverages for employees. These laws and requirements vary by state. In most cases, offering basic insurance such as health insurance and workers compensation are the church’s responsibility as an employer.

In addition to insuring employees in your church location, your church may sponsor or send missionaries to locations outside of your state or country. These types of missions may require the church to carry additional outside international coverage depending on the mission locations. These may not be coverages you carry permanently but on a case by case basis.

Finding Church Coverage

It can seem overwhelming to make insurance decisions. It takes knowledge and expertise to ensure that every instance and possibility is legally covered and insured. This is especially true when it comes to church coverage because of the many unique scenarios that churches encounter. At Gebhardt Insurance Group, we specialize in insurance, so you don’t have to.

When searching for an insurance company that knows the business of churches and nonprofits, we can assure you that Gebhardt understands these unique positions. We are available to offer the peace of mind and the coverage that you need in order to stay focused on your mission.

Schedule a call with us at (520) 836-3244 to set an appointment. In this meeting we will discuss your options and give an insurance quote for your church insurance needs.

Filed Under: Insurance

Surety Bond vs. Insurance: Which One Is Better?

June 14, 2021 by Steve Gebhardt

Surety Bond vs Insurance

As a service provider, having a financial failsafe is proactive risk management. If you find yourself in a position where you need to file a claim or compensate for damage to customer property, having the right policies in place can save large and small businesses alike thousands of dollars.

Among the most popular options are insurance policies and surety bonds. While the policies themselves both offer financial security, they are very different in how they work and who they protect. As such, some business owners elect to purchase one, the other, or both.

Are you unsure of which policy is right for your company? See our breakdown below to help your understanding.

Who Does the Policy Protect?

Surety bonds and insurance policies are designed to cover different individuals in the process of rendering a service. Insurance is a contract between the person or business being insured and the insurance company.

A surety bond is a contract between the business—otherwise referred to as the principal, the person requiring work or project owner —otherwise referred to as the client, and the bond company.

For instance, in public work projects, payment bonds guarantee that subcontractors are paid for their work if the contractor defaults.

Furthermore, while surety bonds are single format and are backed by a bond company, there are several different types of insurance services (such as business insurance, general liability insurance, workers compensation, and more).

To get a better understanding about which individuals are protected by which policy, let’s look at an example with a moving company:

While moving a client’s belongings, a mover drops a particularly heavy piece, damaging it badly.

In this case, insurance will protect the company from any injuries suffered by the worker, while a surety bond will cover the loss of the damaged furniture.

In short:

  • An insurance policy protects the policyholder from financial loss
  • A surety bond protects the person receiving services (obligee) from financial loss

How Premiums Differ

Another way insurance and surety bonds differ is in the way their premiums are paid.

When it comes to insurance, some degree of loss is expected. This is why everyone contributes an ongoing monthly premium.  Depending on your history, line of work, and other factors that determine your risk bracket, the rate of your monthly premium is adjusted over time. When damage arises, you can file a claim and receive a variable amount of coverage.

Sureties are designed to cover potential losses. As loss is not necessarily expected, surety premiums are only paid once per renewal period. Depending on the policy, this renewal period lasts anywhere from 1 to 3 years. If loss occurs, this allows the client to interact directly with the surety company to redeem compensation.

Percentage of Compensation

As mentioned briefly above, when you file a claim with an insurance company, there is no guarantee that your damages are fully covered. This is because insurance claims often go through insurance agency adjusters, attorneys, and several rounds of negotiation before a final coverage price is reached.

Sureties are fully funded from the beginning and can be used to make disbursements if damage occurs. However, unlike insurance where the business files the claim, it is up to the obligee to file against the surety.

This goes back to the original principal discussed: insurance protects the business, sureties protect the clients.

Arizona Insurance Experts

Surety bonds and insurance can either be used together or separately depending on your business needs. To make sure you have the best information on the best route for you, be sure to talk to a professional from Gebhardt.

At the Gebhardt Insurance Group, we offer a variety of coverage from a host of major insurance carriers with an experienced staff that can help you determine the coverage you need.

Give us a call at 520-836-3244 and make an appointment to get more information on state requirements, insurance providers, and bond premiums— all from an Arizona insurance expert.

Filed Under: Insurance, Bonds

3 Best Supplement Insurance for Medicare 2021

May 18, 2021 by Steve Gebhardt

Best Supplement Insurance for Medicare 2021

Health insurance is a central and important concern for most Americans, especially seniors since aging increases the likelihood of need for medical intervention. Because of this, programs have been developed to help keep seniors insured and give access to affordable care.

When it comes to Medicare, there are many plans available and each provides different levels and costs of coverage. In addition, the government also offers Medicare supplement plans to cover additional costs. Because of this, the process of picking the proper plan can sometimes create more questions than answers.

In this quick guide, we will explain and unpack some of the basics of Medicare and outline the best supplemental insurance options for those with additional needs.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a government-subsidized insurance plan with certain eligibility restrictions. An individual is eligible for medicare if one or more of the following apply:

  • They are over the age of 65
  • They suffer from an end-stage renal disease
  • They suffer with disabilities

In the case of persons with disabilities, Medicare can potentially offer coverage to younger individuals. Coverage is withheld until after a 2-year waiting period has elapsed and the individual seeking coverage can produce 2 years’ worth of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) checks.

Medicare Plans: Original vs. Advantage

Individual coverage needs and financial ability is often the guiding factor in choosing between the different medicare plans. There are two “types” of Medicare offered: Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Both types are federal programs, but each have different covered services and thus different monthly premium costs.

Keep in mind that monthly premiums and deductibles change on a yearly basis. While updated information can be found on cms.gov, premiums can vary based on income and some plans may require a high deductible.

Original Medicare is separated into the following three plans:

Part A: Hospital Coverage

This plan covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, some forms of home health care, and hospice.

Part B: Medical Insurance

This plan covers outpatient care, certain doctor’s services, preventative care, and medical supplies

Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage

This plan covers prescription drug costs to any of the original medicare plans in addition to potential coverage on some Medicare Cost Plans, Private Fee-for-Service Plans, and Medical Savings Account Plans.

Please note that Part D is offered by Medicare approved private insurance companies. As such, exact prices and extent of coverage may vary between plans and individuals.

Medicare Advantage 

The skip from Part B to Part D is intentional– Part C is reserved for Medicare Advantage. As such, the Advantage plan includes everything in Parts A, B, and D.

Advantage functions as an insurance bundle offered by private insurance companies contracting through the federal Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

What is a Medigap Plan?

Even when an individual utilizes a Medicare health insurance plan, there are certain expenses such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that the individual is required to pay out-of-pocket. Keeping track of these amounts can be burdensome and the expenses may add up. Therefore, to help with these out of pocket costs, an individual can apply for supplemental insurance, also known as Medigap. These supplemental plans may also include additional coverage such as dental care, vision care, and more.

Medicare Supplement plans are sold by private companies but each plan offered must follow federal and state guidelines. Insurance companies do not have to sell them but if supplement plans are offered, they must include standardized coverage.

It is important to note that all 50 states have standard coverage laws but Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are the only states that have their own state standards that differ from federal policies.

How Much Does Medigap Cost?

The cost of Medigap is difficult to broadly estimate because costs depend on the chosen plan, the company you choose, the state you live in, and your zip code.

Though companies must offer federal standardized coverage, rates may vary per insurance company based on age, gender, health condition, discounts, and more.

Remember: premiums paid for Medigap are fees paid in addition to Original Medicare premiums.

How to Purchase a Medigap Plan

If you have decided a Medigap plan is right for you, there are a few steps that need to be taken before purchasing a plan.

  1. Eligibility

You must ensure that you are eligible and currently enrolled in Original Medicare. Once this has been determined, you can begin the process of looking for individual insurance companies that offer a Medigap plan.

  1. Research

While the research process might take a little time, information about insurance plans can be found through internet searches, calling customer service phone numbers, or even contacting your state’s insurance assistance program. The government also provides a free to use Medicare provider lookup tool.

While close friends or family can also be a resource, it is important to take into consideration the potential differences in their health and living situation from your own. Choosing the right insurance supplement is ultimately about choosing what is right for you.

  1. Compare

Once you have begun the process of gathering information, you can begin the comparison. Important items to consider in your comparison are: monthly premium rates, the option for high-deductible plans, and whether or not you will receive aid with matters such as part b deductibles, part b coinsurance,or prescription drug plans. 

  1. Purchase

Finally, it is time to purchase the plan itself. This is completed by contacting your chosen insurance company and purchasing your coverage directly through them.

Best Supplement Insurance Plans for 2021

In 2021, there are currently 10 Standard Supplement Insurance Plans available. The best plans are those that balance coverage and cost. Unfortunately 2 of these plans, Plan C and Plan F, are no longer available to new enrollees, therefore if you have not yet purchased supplement insurance, you have 8 to choose from in 2021.

Plans that offer more comprehensive coverage will incur higher premiums and vice versa. These plans can range from $62-$784 per month in 2021.

Below we have outlined our Top 3 Recommended Choices for Supplement Insurance in 2021:

Best Comprehensive Plan: Plan G

Plan G has one of the higher monthly premiums of up to $473, but this plan includes all coverages except for the Medicare Part B Deductible. This means that you are responsible for paying the $203 deductible in 2021 before costs are covered, but after that all coinsurance, other deductibles, and excess charges are covered.

Best Cheaper Plan: Plan N

Plan N is very similar to Plan G except, in addition to not covering the Part B deductible,  it does not cover Part B excess charges. These charges can add up due to Part B covering routine care such as outpatient procedures and preventative care. If you are relatively healthy and do not foresee needing much additional care, this may be a good plan for you.

Best Cheapest Plan: Plan K

This plan is much cheaper than any other supplement insurance plan but that does come at a cost. This plan differs from all the other plans in that Medicare Part A coinsurance is covered at 100% but everything else is only covered at 50% or not at all. Therefore if you need outpatient procedures, blood, preventative care or skilled nursing, only 50% of these costs are reimbursed. This is a great plan if you only need assistance with coverage to offset costs, not to cover costs.

Special Considerations

Like the Medicare Advantage Plan, Medigap is purchased from private insurance companies. However, it is illegal for an insurer to sell you a Medigap plan if you already own Medicare Advantage. Medigap is only offered to those on the Original Medicare plan.

In addition, Medigap policies are specific to the individual. This means that if both you and a spouse would like the additional coverage, you will both need to purchase separate policies.

Furthermore, even with the addition of medigap, there are still some fees that might go uncovered. Unless otherwise specified, these generally include costs for vision and dental, prescription glasses, hearing aids, long term care, and private-duty nursing.

Another factor to consider when selecting your Medicare and Medigap coverage is based on doctors who accept medicare, most offices will accept the coverage but it is always a good idea to confirm before selecting a plan.

Selecting Your Insurance

Making sure your healthcare needs are met is an important necessity that should not be rushed but should also not be put off for later.

Choosing the right policy is not only a matter of knowing what you need today, but knowing what you may need in the future. This, in addition to the difficulty often involved in changing Medigap policies once one has been instated, is the main reason to choose a plan you can grow into as you age.

There are many factors to consider when making the right choice for yourself and we know it can seem overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. Our insurance agents are well educated on the major insurance companies plans when it comes to Medigap insurance, these companies include Blue Cross Blue Shield, AARP, Humana and more.

The Gebhardt Insurance Group offers years of experience in understanding the country’s most respected insurance providers to help individuals find the coverage they need when it comes to Medicare insurance, auto insurance, life insurance and more. Call us to discuss your options at (502) 836-3244.

Filed Under: Insurance, Health Insurance

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    Casa Grande Insurance Agency Accessibility Statement

    Accessibility Statement

    • www.gebhardtinsurancegroup.com
    • July 7, 2022

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    We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.

    To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

    This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

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