Huntington

How Are Auto Insurance Rates Determined?

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Shopping for auto insurance in Huntington, TX can be a challenge. There are so many companies and it seems as though they all have different rates. How do you determine who has the best rate and the best coverage? It starts with knowing how the insurance rates are determined and calling Integra Insurance Services. 

Your Car

The car you drive will determine some of what the insurance companies charge for coverage. For example, a sedan will be cheaper to insure than a convertible because of the likelihood of damage and personal injury. The VIN number is requested when you get rates. It allows the insurance company to look at what safety features are present. The more features there are, the more it shows that your car is able to keep you safe. In turn, you are often rewarded with more affordable insurance rates.

Driving History

Your driving history is critical. If you have had a lot of accidents in the past, it sets a precedent. You could be identified as a high-risk driver and therefore rates will be higher. Similarly, if you are a safe driver with no prior accidents, it can help you get lower rates.

Other Factors

A variety of other factors can be used to determine insurance rates in Huntington, TX as well. For example, insurance companies want to know your zip code. This is to determine where you live and look at just how safe the area is. If there are a lot of accidents or car break-ins, it could end up costing you more for coverage.

Discounts may be available from some insurance companies as well. When you work with an independent agent, you can learn more about what’s available. If you’re a homeowner or you have multiple cars to insure, it may save you money.

You don’t have to go through the process of finding insurance on your own. Contact your Integra Insurance Services agent today and let us help you find quotes.

 

 

How to Prepare Your Furnace for Winter

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Although the temperature in Huntington, TX has been relatively warm so far this season, cool weather will eventually arrive.  At some point, it will be time to turn the heater on. However, if you simply switch it on at the first sign of cold weather, you may be doing  your home more harm than good. By following a few simple steps before you heat your home, your furnace will remain in good shape and your home will be warm and cozy all winter long.

Step 1: Change Out the Air Filter

Air filters should be changed regularly throughout the year.  Changing out the air filter improves the air quality and your furnace does not have to work as hard.

Step 2: Clean Both the Furnace and Chimney

Clean your furnace by wiping dust and debris that has settled on it. While cleaning it, examine it for signs of rust.  To clean out the chimney, remove debris and soot buildup and make sure there are no birds’ nests inside. 

Step 3: Make Sure the Thermostat is Working Properly

In the fall, before temperatures drop, turn up the furnace to high heat to ensure the thermostat works properly.  Make sure to do this early on so that if there is a problem, you have time to correct it before it gets too cold.

Step 4:  Check That None of the Heating Vents are Blocked

Vents that are covered or blocked can’t warm the home.  Plus, they can cause your furnace to overheat and even increase heating bills. So make sure no furniture or other items are covering them up.

Cold weather will find its way to Huntington, TX eventually. When it does, your home will be comfortable all winter long by following these simple steps. Contact Integra Insurance Services to learn more about homeowners insurance in Texas.

Home-Insurance: Confusing Terms

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Anyone with a home in Huntington, TX knows that home insurance is a must for protecting the property against catastrophic loss. Unfortunately, home insurance premiums can vary wildly, surprising homeowners everywhere. What are some of the factors that home insurance companies consider when calculating the rate?

First, many people don’t realize that pets can impact a home insurance rate. While dogs are a man’s best friend, insurance companies don’t look kindly on all dog breeds. Some dog breeds, such as Dobermans and Rottweilers, are aggressive dog breeds by nature. This leads to an increased chance that these dogs will potentially bite a family member of neighbor. This can lead to insurance claims that the company needs to pay out. To leverage this risk, home insurance companies will increase premiums.

Next, the potential for fire damage plays a major role when insurance companies decide premiums. If a home is close to a fire station, the owner will be rewarded with a lower premium. Furthermore, if a fire hydrant is nearby, this could also lead to a lower home insurance rate. This is because fire damage can lead to an insurance company paying substantial financial claims to replace lost or damaged property. If a fire station or fire hydrant is close to the property, the fire will be handled sooner and result in a lower financial cost to the owner and the insurance company.

Finally, home maintenance costs are a major factor in home insurance costs. Out of date water heaters, pipes that drip, inadequate water seals, and leaking roofs are all aspects that insurance companies frown upon. This is because poor maintenance can lead to major home damage that can cause insurance companies to pay out substantial claims. Keep homes in good repair to minimize home insurance premiums.

There are common factors that insurance companies in Huntington, TX take into account when deciding on home insurance premiums. Rely on the tips above to keep home insurance costs to a minimum.

 

 

What Happens When You Are In An Accident With Someone Without Auto Insurance?

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Even if you have the legally required amount of auto insurance in Texas, there is no guarantee that you will not get into an accident with someone who does not. Accidents happen but if you are in one with an uninsured or underinsured driver who is at fault, you may be covered with certain policies and you do have options. These tips from Integra Insurance Services serving Huntington, TX to better protect yourself before an accident. 

Collision Insurance May Pay for Repairs

Collision coverage is something you can add to your existing auto policy. It will pay for the repairs to your vehicle if you are hit by someone without insurance. It will only apply to the repairs and not any injury, though. 

Consider Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist insurance is an addition to your auto policy that can help pay for damages in an accident with another driver at fault and no insurance. The coverage can only be as much as your liability coverage in the policy. Underinsured motorist insurance can help pay for damages, injuries, and more if you are in an accident with someone who does have insurance but not enough to pay for your damages and injuries. Both policies are only able to be used when the other driver is found to be at fault.

File a Lawsuit

If you have already been in an accident with someone who does not have insurance or enough insurance and you do not have these types of coverage, there is still something you can do. You can file a lawsuit against them and get a judgment. One thing to keep in mind is that you may not ever get any money from the other driver but you can try with this method. 

Integra Insurance Services serving Huntington, TX, is here to help you in these types of situations as well as ensure you are properly insured. 

Huntington, TX Residents Warned That Teen Car Crashes on the Rise

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Parents in Huntington, TX should be advised that the number of teens in car crashes is on the rise. This is especially the case when parents allow teens to partake in risky driving behaviors like taking night-time trips or carpooling. Shockingly enough, only 24 percent of parents report car accidents in children between the ages of 15 and 19 as their biggest safety concern, as noted by the National Safety Council. Drugs, alcohol, pregnancy, shootings and bullying ranked higher on the list than car crashes. 

The non-profit organization, the National Safety Council, directs research and education toward lowering dangers on the road, in homes and the workplace. The safety council proposes to enlighten parents on the dangers and misconceptions regarding teen driving. In June 2015, the council released statistics that denoted car accidents and overdoses from prescription painkillers as the incidents most likely to kill Americans. Unfortunately, a teen’s first year on the road should be a worrisome one for parents. 

Parents are still allowing teens to drive until 10 p.m. or later, despite 40 percent of fatal crashes happening at 10 or later. Some parents aren’t setting good examples and driving dangerously with teens as passengers. This is because some parents talk on the phone while transporting their teens.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed statistics that indicate more than 6,600 deaths of those between the ages of 15 and 24 are due to motor-vehicle accidents. This statistic proves that automobile accidents are more common than all nontransportation-related put together.

Because teen driving is such an issue, parents need to look at getting an insurance policy that caters to teen driving. Nobody wants to think about their child getting into a serious accident, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Protecting your home’s foundation

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Huntington, Texas is a beautiful rural area that welcomes quiet living. With such a small population, the residents are close-knit and enjoy a variety of activities. Hiking is a big pastime, with the McKinney Falls State Park, Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve and Summit Trail all nearby.

With Huntington, Texas being such a rural area, flooding or other inclement weather conditions may occur. This causes the earth to change underneath your housing foundation, causing you to experience a sinking feeling. While many people consider this the “settling” of your home, it may be something that requires your attention. If your porch is sinking, or other parts of your home, checking your homeowners insurance policy to make sure you have coverage is important. You don’t want to put your home or family in jeopardy.

A good agent will be able to help you understand or acquire a policy that has provisions for these types of unexpected emergencies. Anything can happen, and you want to make sure you and your family are prepared. Your agent will give you options that will help you stay within your budget while making sure your home is within compliance and safety requirements.

Being proactive in checking your policy before you need it will help you avoid any headaches. With the help of your agent, you will be able to avoid the unwanted time and expense of having to pay for repairs out-of-pocket. Take the time to protect your home’s foundation. Every homeowners insurance policy is not equipped to handle foundation repairs. Don’t put yourself in this position! Consult with our agents today to make sure you have the best coverage you can obtain to keep you ready for any unexpected situation.

New Drivers and Insurance: The Basics, the Benefits and the Options

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Huntington Texas is home to a wide array of restaurants and local hotpots, and both residents and visitors often relish in the area’s accommodating spots. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or annual activities centered around the “Gateway to Lake Sam Rayburn”, Huntington offers a wealth of opportunities within its city and northwest areas.

New Drivers and Auto Insurance

While growing areas leave little to the imagination due to its spiraling city-streets and active lifestyle, new drivers will likely explore a location’s benefits upon receiving a learners permit. New drivers, while guided by parents, require protection, and obtaining car insurance is a vital step towards independence and vehicle ownership.

Running insurance rates, maintaining connections with agents and beginning a viable path may seem overwhelming, but obtaining adequate coverage is important. Whether you’re new to driving or have a fledgling vehicle owner in your household, understanding automotive insurance “basics” benefits both the owner and those around them.

Understanding Rates

New drivers should run insurance tab rates annually. If you’re diligent about checking policy requirements and options, you can obtain affordable premiums, save on current insurers and locate expansive coverage.

When deciding upon insurance options, remember to consider the following, important, factors for new drivers:

•Towing options

•Raised deductible options for low long-term costs

•Repair coverage

Understanding Coverage and Premiums

Often, new drivers selecting coverage options need to consider overall costs. If you’re a new driver, or, if you’re assisting one of your children through college, overall costs should be reduced for ease of accessibility. Different vehicles carry different premiums, and different agents cover different vehicle models. When armed with information, obtaining a great deal is easy. To obtain the best “bang for your buck”, opt towards the following options:

•No monthly payments

•Divided premium payments

•External company processing fees

•Automatic payment setup

Automotive insurance is available for all drivers, and our expansive database encompasses quotes, data and logistics pertinent to affordable, feasible insurance coverage. Our expert service providers are capable of offering custom-tailored results, so new drivers have high accessibility with low overall costs.

Protect Your Boat Like It’s A Car

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Huntington, Texas is a rural area where residents have a number of activities to keep them busy. A small town, you can enjoy the simple life while being close enough to the big city. Outdoor recreation is big in this area, and you will find a number of boats, RVs and other vehicles that will keep residents and visitors occupied.

When having a boat, it is important to have adequate bot insurance and other equipment to ensure your watercraft is covered. A boat has its own type of policy, but is still a motor vehicle that has to be licensed for operation. Staying in compliance with the law is key. If you have a boat ramp attached to your property, or you travel with a boat ramp, it is imperative to have these insured as well. It is not uncommon for boats to hit unseen objects in the water, or to have water accidents. Being proactive can save you time and money.

Speaking with a knowledgeable agent to assess your needs is important. They will be able to explain all the coverage options available to make sure you find solutions that work within your budget and provide the protection you need for yourself, your family and any guests you may have on your boat.

Boat insurance is a specialized policy with premiums usually based on certain criteria such as size, amenities and other factors. An agent will be able to provide quotes based on your needs, alleviating the purchase of a policy that does not fit your requirements. For the best options in boat insurance, contact an insurance agent to have at least the state required minimum. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Do Small Businesses Need Commercial Insurance?

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Renowned for Collis Potter's Southern Pacific Railroad, Huntington Texas, called “the Gateway to Lake Sam Rayburn” by locals, passes through over two miles of unforgettable destinations. Visitors enjoy family-friendly experiences while booking hotel packages, and many locals have enjoyed the area’s temperate environment near West Maple Street—one of the area’s thriving social hubs.

 

The Small Business Boom

 

In recent years, small businesses have thrived, and many aspiring entrepreneurs have consolidated assets while becoming increasingly maneuverable. While expansion is important, protection is necessary, and small business owners often raise a question when establishing a company: “Do small businesses need commercial insurance?”

 

Legal Requirements and Coverage

 

In short: Yes, small businesses require commercial insurance coverage. While coverage options differ based upon geo-centric factors, business legally require coverage to maintain operations. Commercial insurance’s basic form ensures protection from pitfalls, legal liabilities and damages. Fortunately, selecting a viable insurance plan is relatively easy, and different protection levels are available.

 

Employer’s Liability

 

Employer’s liability refers to a small business owner’s responsibility to both their establishment and employees. Small businesses, regardless of size, maintain commercial insurance coverage to support:

 

  • Employee illness and injury

  • City legislation requirements

  • Health regulations and standardization

  • Compensation distribution and difference

 

Important Policy Information

 

When searching our database for insurance quotes, our agent will assist searches for commercial insurance. While obtaining a quote is simple, understanding policy dynamics should be a priority. Small businesses are legally required to keep relevant documents, so don’t forget to maintain records.

 

Additionally, if your business maintains distant employees, you’ll need information pertaining to extended policies and other state regulations. Often, businesses operating vehicles require “fleet coverage” to protect employees. While assisted by our industry expert, remember to research regulations pertaining to accountants, lawyers and financial advisors. Often, small businesses rely heavily upon a consolidated inner network, and several benefits may be applicable to these leading positions.

Do I Need Commercial Insurance for My Texas Home Based Business?

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One of the most common questions Huntington policyholders ask insurance agents is whether owning a home based business requires a full commercial insurance policy. This is a difficult question to answer and there are many variables that whether this type of policy is actually warranted. Usually, it depends on the type of business you are operating and how much commercial activity actually goes on inside your residence. Here are a few things to know.

Homeowners Policies Usually Exclude Small Business Endeavors

In Texas, most homeowners policies exclude small business endeavors. This means that, in certain scenarios, you would not have coverage should a claim occur. For example, keeping a room filled with inventory for your business and your home burns to the ground. You may not have coverage for reimbursement for the damaged items because they were part of your home based business.

Home Based Business Riders Are Often Available

Usually, small businesses where you are selling another company’s product do not need a specific commercial policy. This includes personal care products (vitamins, cosmetics, and wellness), houseware items, children’s products, etc. In this case, a home based business rider added onto your existing homeowners policy would be your best bet. This covers any inventory inside your home, including things in the garage and your vehicle.

Commercial Insurance Policies May Be Needed in Certain Cases

In certain cases, talking to commercial insurance agents might be necessary. You will want to contact a Huntington agent directly if you are in an industry that requires:

  • Professional liability insurance (such as contractors, doctors, and lawyers)
  • Product insurance (such as manufacturers of consumer products)

Of course, every situation requires in-depth review the ensure you have adequate coverage—both personally and professionally. Speaking with your local agent is always the best way to determine the correct path to take.

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