Why Would I Need to Get Umbrella Insurance?

Having adequate insurance coverage is essential for all people. While most people know that they should have a home, auto, life, and medical coverage, there are other types of coverage that are necessary as well. For some people in the Napa, CA area, having umbrella insurance coverage can be very beneficial. There are several reasons why having umbrella coverage could be useful for individuals and business owners.

Additional Insurance On Top of Existing Policies

If you have a home, auto, or commercial insurance, you will already have some type of liability insurance in place on those policies. While this type of liability coverage can provide you with a range of different types of protection, the level of the liability is often not enough to cover the expenses associated with some accidents. In these cases, having an umbrella insurance policy in place will provide you with additional liability coverage on top of your existing policies. 

Coverage for Additional Situations

While your base policies provide you with coverage, they do not provide coverage for all situations that could arise. When you have an umbrella insurance policy in place, you will receive additional liability insurance coverage for all additional types of liability that could occur, including items not contemplated by any existing policy. 

Service and Support

Finally, when you have an umbrella insurance policy in place, you will receive excellent service when you need it the most. If another party is suing you, the insurance company will be able to handle all aspects of the claim. This can include hiring legal representation and handling all settlement negotiations to minimize your time and expense. 

If you are in the Napa, CA area and are considering getting umbrella insurance, speaking with Wine Valley Insurance Services could be very helpful. Wine Valley Insurance Services can provide you with a variety of policies to help you better understand your insurance needs and to help you get a great policy. Reach out to our offices to get a quote.

Renters Insurance Requirements in the State of California

While renters insurance isn’t required by law in the state of California, it can give you an extra layer of protection. Renting a property can be expensive, and disaster can strike at any moment. California has many laws that can protect renters. And while landlords and building owners are required to have insurance on any property that they rent, they may require a tenant to purchase renters insurance before they issue a lease.

Why You Should Get Renters Insurance

There have been numerous reports in the news about people who have lost everything because of a fire or some other natural disaster, and they’re unable to pick up the pieces because they didn’t have renters insurance. While a landlord must have an insurance policy to cover any losses to the property itself, it won’t cover your personal belongings. Renters insurance will fill this gap, and it will include any losses that have occurred because of certain perils. It can also cover any medical payments for the treatment of injuries that have been inflicted on you or other people.

If you live in Napa, CA, Wine Valley Insurance Services has agents who can help you find a policy that can meet your needs and fits your budget. You shouldn’t take the risk of losing everything because of an unexpected event. You can prevent this by obtaining a renters insurance policy. If you want to find out how we can help you get the coverage you need, reach out to our offices.

What Can Be Covered in a California Renters Insurance Policy

California renters insurance policies can provide the following coverage:

  • Personal Property – Covers your personal belongings because of a disaster or unexpected event, and it will have a minimum amount that’s set by your insurance company.
  • Loss of Use – Pays for any additional living expenses if you’re unable to use the property because of a loss, which can include the cost of a hotel or any meals.
  • Personal Liability – Covers you for any damages for which you’re held liable, and most landlords will require you to get at least $100,000 of this type of coverage.
  • Medical Payments to Others – Covers medical payments for any injuries that have occurred on the property, and it will usually have a minimum of $1,000.

Be sure to speak to someone at Wine Valley Insurance Services to get a renters insurance policy that you can rely on. We have been serving the people of Napa, CA for a long time, and we can help you get a renters insurance policy that can cover you if you have suffered an unexpected loss. If you want to work with a reliable insurance agency that is trusted in California, Nevada, Oregon, Colorado, Arizona, Washington, and Idaho, then feel free to contact our office. We would be happy to serve you!

An introduction to auto insurance

Driving in Napa, CA provides gorgeous views, but to enjoy the road legally and safely, you must carry auto insurance. Before you choose a minimum coverage policy, learn about the different types of auto insurance coverage and the situations each cover. You may need a custom policy or full coverage. Wine Valley Insurance Services can help you analyze your situation and determine which coverage best suits your situation.

Liability
In the US, most states require auto insurance (liability). If you have an auto accident and you are at fault, this coverage pays for damages to the vehicles of others involved and their medical bills. It also covers other property damage you caused.

Collision
Collision provides coverage to repair your vehicle even if you were at fault for the accident. If the accident totals your vehicle, this coverage pays its current value.

Comprehensive
Comprehensive covers all other damages like weather, animal collision, theft, or even your car getting keyed at the mall.

Uninsured Motorist
This coverage pays if the other vehicle’s driver caused the accident, but carried no insurance or too little.

Medical / PersonalInjury
Regardless of fault, medical/personal injury coverage pays your medical bills and your passengers’. 

Guaranteed Auto Protection
GAP coverage pays off your remaining car payments if an accident totals your vehicle. Some lenders require GAP insurance.

Rental Reimbursement
This coverage provides a rental car while your vehicle gets repaired.

Emergency Roadside Assistance
This coverage provides a tow truck or emergency repair assistance. It also covers lockouts. 

Mechanical Breakdown
Think of mechanical breakdown insurance as a warranty extension. It covers repair costs to mechanical systems and parts.

Non-Owner Car Insurance
This provides liability coverage for people who don’t own a car. Courts may require someone with a suspended driver’s license to purchase this as a condition of reinstatement.

Let Wine Valley Insurance Services of Napa, CA make choosing the right auto insurance easy. Come discuss your needs and options with us. Try our online rating tool to get a quote on your car!

Who needs an umbrella insurance coverage?

Umbrella insurance will protect your assets if you are sued for causing an accident or something catastrophic happens your property. The policy will cover the expenses which go beyond the limits of your primary coverage. Notably, in case you are admitted to a hospital, it is very easy for the medical bills to accumulate to figures higher than your coverage limits especially if the injury or condition is serious. As such, it is advisable to look for a supplemental insurance policy to help you cover the extra charges. According to Wine Valley Insurance Services in Napa, CA, this is why you need umbrella insurance.

Why you need the policy

If you have accumulated personal wealth such as investments, home, or property, you will benefit from the umbrella insurance policy. Notably, the more property you own, the more you will have to lose in case of liabilities. An umbrella insurance policy will protect you if you become a target for expensive lawsuits. You can be a target in case:

  • You have swimming pools
  • You own large-breed dogs
  • You participate in activities which can cause unintentional harm to others such as racing or hunting.

When should you Get Umbrella Insurance?

As you build more wealth and assets, umbrella insurance becomes more and more critical. However, if you don’t have much wealth or investments, you don’t have to worry about acquiring an umbrella policy since your initial policy will cover your potential liabilities. Notably, if you work for an employer and don’t have any assets outside your residence, an umbrella insurance is not a necessity.

However, as you get additional responsibilities in life such as marriage and children, the variety of your insurance needs will widen, and the amount of potential liability will rise significantly. Considering that your primary insurance policies will have to cover your entire family, it is easy for a claim to go overboard leading to a financial crisis. As such, you should consider visiting Wine Valley Insurance Services in Napa, CA to learn more about umbrella insurance.

Currently residing outside of California? Wine Valley Insurance Services extends their policies to residents in Nevada, Oregon, Colorado, Arizona, Washington, and Idaho as well.

Buying Home Insurance

In today’s real estate market, homes located in the beautiful Napa, CA area in need of insurance can contact Wine Valley Insurance Services for policy advice, premium quotes, and seasoned guidance.

Home Insurance covers private residences by combining certain personal protections like:

  • Losses to one’s home and contents
  • Loss of use
  • Loss of personal items
  • Liability insurance for accidents that may happen in your Napa, CA neighborhood

One’s residence is typically one of the most valuable financial assets one will ever own. Yet, owning a home includes risk. A homeowner must contend with the possibility of loss. The loss could be minor, such as a broken window, or perhaps something more serious, like an entire loss of the home due to fire. The reason to carry home insurance is to protect against such potential financial losses.

Although homeowner‘s Insurance is not typically mandated by law, if one has a mortgage, a lender will frequently require the buyer to purchase homeowner’s insurance. The home itself is referred to as the "dwelling" for insurance purposes.

Homeowner’s Insurance covers damages; home warranties cover mechanical breakdowns. Most consumers would never anticipate that a standard homeowner’s insurance policy would cover the basement’s wine cooler, should it ever stop working. However, many homeowners mistakenly assume that the large, vital systems in the home will be covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy. Unfortunately, that is simply untrue. Home insurance does not cover mechanical breakdowns.

Wine Valley Insurance Services can help you find the home insurance policy to meet your needs and to provide a combination of custom-made coverage, quality service, and fair pricing. Contact us today.

Important Issues to Remember When Purchasing Renter’s Insurance

If you currently rent a property, Wine Valley Insurance Services in Napa, CA wants you to consider carrying renter’s insurance. There are a variety of issues to be cognizant of should you purchase renter’s insurance.

Wine Valley Insurance Services’ Things to Remember while Purchasing Renter’s Insurance

In and around multiple states, you will find that renter’s insurance:

Places Liability on a 3rd Party

When entertaining in your home, there is an unrelenting chance that someone might be injured.

Pays for Housing When your Property is Unlivable

Depending on your policy, if your home is unlivable, your renter’s insurance may pay for another rental for a specified period of time. 

Is Often Discounted

If you choose to buy renter’s insurance from the same company who carries your auto policy, they may offer you a discount or bundle.

Has Limitations

Renter’s insurance policies often limit coverage for jewelry, fine art, or antiques. It is important to discuss with your agent what valuables are covered.

Is More Difficult to Obtain if you Have a Dog

Ownership of aggressive dog breeds is typically considered a risk beyond the scope of renter’s insurance. This is not always the case though.

The Take-Away

Statistics offered by the Insurance Information Institute reveals that approximately 30 percent of renters choose to buy renter’s insurance. Apparently, this statistic is headed in an upwards direction. The National Multi Housing Council reports that in 2012, nearly 85 percent of landlords required tenants to acquire renters to buy insurance, up from only 25 percent three years earlier. Renter’s Insurance offered by Wine Valley Insurance Services helps protect your belongings from theft, and from potential liability concerns.

Wine Valley Insurance Services in Napa, CA has provided elite customer service with custom-designed insurance policies for more than nine years. We are an independent agency with flexibility to represent many multiple states. Our mission: Helping the customer find the insurance they need!

 

Should You Purchase Full Coverage Auto Insurance, Or Liability Only?

Everyone knows that insurance is required to stay legal on the road and is used for individuals to protect themselves from expenses incurred from accidents, but do you know whether or not you should purchase full coverage insurance or liability insurance only?

What Is The Difference?

When you opt to purchase full coverage insurance in Napa, CA and the surrounding areas, you select a deductible or the amount you must pay up front for repairs to have your claim paid for during a covered event. It covers things like medical bills, the cost of repairs, towing, and other related expenses. Rather than covering any damage you may have caused to another vehicle or injuries, like liability insurance, full coverage allows you to pay for most of the costs associated with an accident from all perspectives.

How To Decide Which Coverage Works Best 

When shopping for insurance at Wine Valley Insurance Services, you should consider the age of the car, as well as the cost of repairs and whether or not you are looking for savings. If you have an older car, you might consider going with liability only to save money every month. If you are leasing a vehicle or have a newer model car, it is either required or highly advisable that you carry full coverage insurance. Your deductible is also going to influence your monthly payment amounts as well, so keep in mind that a lower deductible will mean a higher premium.

If you want quality insurance and personalized service from knowledgeable agents, contact Wine Valley Insurance Services in Napa, CA for available insurance products and services. Get insurance that gives you the protection you need and the customer service you want.

Peace of Mind For When The Unexpected Happens

Whenever a lawsuit is initiated against someone in Napa, CA, it can be a serious issue. Not only are physical damages declared, but intangible ones like emotional suffering as well. These can balloon to huge proportions. Worse still, the net worth of the individual being sued often determines just how big the balloon is going to be. What does a person do to protect themselves from absolute financial ruin following a lawsuit? The answer is umbrella insurance coverage.

Umbrella insurance coverage can offer safe shelter during life’s storms of litigation that flare up. Contact our independent agents at Wine Valley Insurance Services for a discussion of how an umbrella insurance policy can protect you and your assets from big lawsuits.

Not only can lawsuits cut into assets, but severe disaster scenarios can as well. If you have adequate home, car, or boat insurance, do you realize there are some things these insurance policies will not protect against? We can help you sort through that and get you the maximum coverage you need so that you have ample opportunity to rebuild your life.

Here in Napa, CA, we understand the unique challenges of California living. Whether it be an accusation of slander, or an expensive accident on the freeway, these lawsuits can spiral until they consume everything you have. Automobile accidents are a very common source of a lawsuit. No home owner’s insurance policy can cope with these situations, and neither can auto insurance.

Umbrella policies can cover not only large scale legal situations, but they extend beyond strictly home or auto- oriented insurance policies to fill in the gaps between those policies to give you the breathing room you need. Contact Wine Valley Insurance Services today and aim for solid coverage with no gaps.

Is Your Home Prepared for Summer?

With summer fast approaching, now would be a good time to start preparing your Napa, CA home for the influx of family and friends over the summer holidays. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started.

Professional Cleaning

Take advantage of summer discounts to have your windows, carpets, and gutters professionally cleaned before bringing in visitors this summer. Many companies offer discounts for cleaning services at this time of year, enabling you to benefit from a cleaner environment at reduced costs.

Service AC

Have your AC serviced to ensure it’s in good working condition before temperatures begin to climb. If your unit has become old and outdated, consider upgrading to a new model so you and your friends can enjoy a cool and comfortable home environment. Check and clean ceiling fans, as well. Doing this can help keep energy costs down.

Touch-up Painting

Do a little touch-up painting on doors and walls to cover scuff marks and scratches. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders to enhance your interior decor.

Revive Landscaping

Trim overgrown trees and shrubs and take the time to spruce up your yard. An attractive yard will give your home a more welcoming touch. If you’re having problems with ants or other insects, spray your home’s exterior to get rid of them before they overrun your property.

Update Home Insurance

Talk to your Wine Valley Insurance Services agent in Napa, CA about updating your home insurance policy. Make sure you have adequate property damage and liability coverage to cover unforeseen accidents that may occur while visitors are on your property. By discussing home insurance options and costs with a representative from Wine Valley Insurance Services, you can have greater assurance that you’re fully protected against any eventuality that may arise.