Whether shopping for coverage for ourselves, our homes, cars, apartments, or businesses, selecting insurance is something almost all of us have to do at some point in our adult lives. Often, it’s a process we try to rush through, just another box we need to check off before moving on to something more interesting.
But, the decisions we make about insurance coverage can have significant consequences. Putting thought and energy into making sure you’re choosing the policy with the best value for your circumstances will always be time well spent.
In case you’re a little uncertain about where to start when it comes time to insure your new home, next vehicle, or that boat you’ve been saving for, here are some of the top questions you should be asking when embarking on a search for the right insurance.
What coverage do I need?
All insurance policies are not created equal. When searching for insurance, take the time to understand exactly what level of coverage you’ll need to provide you with the protection you’ll want when it comes time to file a claim. No one likes to imagine a tree falling through their roof or picture a rock shattering the windshield of their brand new car, but It’s important to consider the real-world implications of choosing different types and amounts of insurance coverage.
Going with the policy that will have the least impact on your wallet in the short-term may end up costing you more in the long-run if it doesn’t offer comprehensive coverage. This is where working with an independent insurance agency like O’Brien Insurance can come in handy. They’re insurance experts with access to multiple policies for easy comparison, and they’ll take the time to explain the pros and cons of each of your options.
What can expect when I need to file a claim?
What’s the process for filing a claim?
How long does it usually take to get a response from the insurance company?
When will I be reimbursed for covered expenses or losses?
What happens if my claim is denied?
These are just a few of the questions you may want to ask up front to get a clear picture of what it would look like if you do need to submit a claim to your insurance carrier. Dealing with the fallout of whatever circumstances make an insurance claim necessary can be stressful and overwhelming. You’ll want be sure to choose a trusted insurance provider with a convenient, reliable claims system.
One of the biggest benefits of becoming an O’Brien Insurance client is knowing you can count on them to walk you through the claim submission process from start to finish. Since O’Brien Insurance is rooted in the greater Glens Falls region, their agents are able to support their local clients quickly and personally during challenging times.
What isn’t covered?
If the day comes when you need to file a claim because the unexpected happens, the last thing you’ll want is to learn that something you believed was protected under your insurance policy actually isn’t covered at all. Think through specific scenarios that could happen and run them by your prospective insurance carriers.
Am I covered for tree removal if my neighbor’s tree falls into my yard?
What if my son’s girlfriend’s purse is stolen from our car while they’re at the movies?
Are we covered if a visitor slips on our front steps in the winter and breaks a bone?
Review your policy options in detail before making your final selection, and don’t hesitate to ask as many clarifying questions as needed to feel comfortable that there won’t be any unpleasant surprises down the road.
If you’re an O’Brien Insurance client, you can look to them to give you accurate information and sound guidance about your coverage. If you haven’t joined the O’Brien Insurance family yet, contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find the best insurance policies for any of your coverage needs!
