Page 11 - AAA Schuylkill County – AAA Now! – January/February 2017

INSURANCE SERVICES
Insurance Myths
Don’t believe everything you hear about insurance coverage. For example, driving a red
car does not raise your insurance rates. And your landlord’s insurance will not cover your belongings if they’re stolen. It’s crucial to separate fact from fiction to be sure you can have the right insurance coverage.
Here are some common insurance myths and the facts from AAA insurance experts.
I have a home insurance policy,
so I have sufficient coverage if
I need to rebuild .................................... FALSE
Some policies may not provide enough coverage to rebuild to your preferred specifications in case of destruction by fire or other disaster. And building materials and construction are often in great demand after a disaster, pushing rebuilding costs even higher. Talk with your agent to make sure you have adequate coverage.
My home insurance covers all disasters
likely to happen in my area .................. FALSE
Standard home insurance covers disasters such as fire, lightning, theft, vandalism and damage from smoke, water and wind. It does NOT cover damage caused by flood or earthquake.
Protect Your Pipes
Continued from page 10
Drops in temperature, which are more common
overnight, could freeze your pipes.
• Open cabinet doors. This will allow heat to reach
uninsulated pipes located under sinks.
RECOVERING FROM FROZEN PIPES:
• If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, your pipes are likely frozen.
• You may be able to use a hair dryer to thaw a frozen pipe. Begin by warming the section of pipe closest to the faucet, then work your way out toward the coldest part of the pipe.
• Never use a hair dryer or any electrical appliances in areas of standing water. You could be electrocuted.
• Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. It could cause a fire.
• If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house, leave the water faucets turned on, and call a plumber.
All of my valuables will be covered by homeowners insurance in the event of
a burglary ............................................... FALSE
There are limits on coverage for valuables such as jewelry, antiques, business property and art, but you can purchase endorsements to add extra protection.
The color of my car affects my
auto insurance rate ............................... FALSE
Many factors – including a vehicle’s model, make, year, and the driver’s experience and age – may impact your auto insurance rate, but the color of a vehicle is not one of them.
A stay-at-home spouse does
not need life insurance.......................... FALSE
A spouse who stays at home may take care of children, chores and transportation. In the event of death, these expenses could be offset by the proceeds from a life insurance policy.
I don’t need renters insurance
because my landlord is covered ........... FALSE
Your landlord’s insurance typically covers the building; it does not cover your personal property. Renters insurance also covers your liability in case a guest in your rented home or apartment is injured.
“Prevention is the key to protecting your home this winter, and a few simple steps can help you avoid a frozen pipes nightmare,” said Smyrl. “For added peace of mind, it’s a good idea to make sure you have adequate homeowners insurance.”
Call your AAA agent to see what discounts you may be eligible for and what type of additional coverage you might need. Call 570-622-4991
or 570-668-1003 speak to a AAA insurance representative.
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