August 25th, 2010
Protect your business in three easy steps
A business is only as safe as the tools it uses. One of the best tools a business can use to protect its assets is commercial auto insurance.
Understanding insurance can be tricky. One of the first steps toward making an informed decision is to understand coverage and service options. Here are three easy steps to help figure out your commercial auto insurance needs:
1. Choose an insurer with the right combination of price and service. Insurance isn’t just about price. It’s about service, too. How are claims handled? How long will it take to get your vehicle back on the road? Can you get questions answered outside of business hours or online? Know the answers to these questions. Your time is money.
2. Research your policy options. Having the right coverage is important. A standard commercial auto policy generally includes coverage for:
•injuries or damage that you cause;
•your driver’s injuries;
•injuries and damages caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers; and
•damage to or theft of your vehicle(s).
When it comes to damage that you cause, you may be required to purchase certain limits based on who you work for. For instance, if you work for certain home builders, you may be required to carry $1 million in liability limits. Consider how much you are willing to pay out of pocket if your liability in an accident is more than your policy limits.
3. Know how the policy is priced. You can control your insurance costs. To get the best rates, run motor vehicle reports on potential drivers. If you let your insurance lapse, you’ll probably pay more for your next policy. Ask about discounts, including paid-in-full and renewal discounts.
Just like your customers rely on your professional skills, call a professional independent insurance agent who will be in your corner, researching and recommending the best options.
“Commercial auto insurance is complicated, but it is vital to protecting your livelihood,” says Bill Kampf with The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, one of the largest commercial auto insurers in the country.
For more information about commercial auto insurance, call LST Insurance Agency.
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June 9th, 2010
Putting Insuracne Companies To Work For You
Car insurance may be one of the last things that comes to mind when you think about saving time, but the insurance company you choose can actually have a big impact on your time should trouble strike.
If you’re in an accident that results in a claim, you could spend days handling the claims/repair process yourself.
That’s one reason its a good idea to check out insurance options that can save you time. For instance, a concierge-level of claims service is a unique claims repair option that takes only 15 minutes to complete. Simply drop off the damaged vehicle at one of the approved facilities offering this service and a claims representative handles the entire claims/repair process for you—from start to finish.
Here’s how the process works:
- You report a claim—anytime of the day or night—and schedule an appointment to bring the vehicle to a nearby facility offering the concierge-level of claims service.
- In about 15 minutes, you’re in a rental car (if included on your policy) with assurance that you’ll receive updates from your claims representative.
- Your claims representative prepares a repair estimate and contacts an auto body shop that has met strict quality requirements. Your insurance company and the shop reach an agreement on the cost of the repairs and the shop transports the vehicle to the facility to begin repairs.
- When work is finished, the vehicle is returned to the insurance facility, where your claims representative and the body shop inspect the repairs.
- After the insurance company is satisfied with the repairs, you are called to pick up your car. You inspect the repairs and, if satisfied, drive off with a guarantee on those repairs for as long as you own the vehicle.
Throughout the process, you receive updates via phone or online. For more information, ask your independent agent
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March 19th, 2010
Car accidents can wreak havoc on an otherwise peaceful day. Even if they’re minor, they can often create confusion, frustration and anxiety. You might ask yourself, how should I react? What should I do?
Leading car insurer Progressive offers these simple steps to follow after an accident:
1. Stay calm. Keeping a calm demeanor helps you stay in control of the situation.
Make sure you and your passengers are OK. Move as far off the roadway as possible but stay at the scene of the accident. Warn oncoming traffic by activating your hazard warning lights and/or setting flares if you have them.
2. Call the police. Call 911 or the appropriate emergency number to report the accident.
3. Contact your insurance company and report the claim. The sooner your insurance company knows about the accident, the sooner it can start working to resolve your claim.
4. Do not admit fault. To protect yourself legally, do not discuss the car accident with anyone other than the police and your insurance company.
5. Exchange vital information with the other driver involved in the car accident.
Write down the name, address, phone number and license numbers of all drivers and witnesses, particularly those who were riding in a vehicle involved in the accident. Ask for the name of the insurer and policy number all drivers involved in the car accident.
6. Keep a journal—write down what happened-as soon as possible after the accident, who done what & when. Write down anything the other driver says to you, keep a summary of notes of conversations with adjusters, claims representatives, other insurance companies, etc.
Before you get into an accident, call LST Insurance to make sure you have the right insurance. Because the last thing you want to do when you’re in a car accident is worry about having to pay for the damage. Also, make sure you have your policy number and claims number in your car at all times.
Tags: Auto, Car accidents, Insurance
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March 11th, 2010
If, like many Americans, your family car is also used for purposes that could be considered commercial use, you may want to steer yourself into a chair and look over your insurance policy.
You’ll need to consider buying a commercial policy or making sure that your existing personal auto policy covers the vehicle for business use. Whether or not you need a commercial policy depends on how you use your vehicle and what company you have it insured with. Every company has different guidelines and may surcharge for business-use coverage on a personal auto policy.
If you’re not sure whether business use is covered on your personal policy, it’s important to call your insurance company or agent. The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies has put together these four questions you may want to ask:
o How do companies determine commercial use? One definition could include “engaging in transporting goods for compensation or a fee,” which includes pizza or newspaper delivery, catering, door-to-door consulting services, landscaping or snowplowing services, logging business, day care/church van services or farm-to-market delivery. People who do these kinds of work should consider purchasing a commercial vehicle policy.
o Do you need more liability coverage than a personal auto policy provides? Generally, a commercial auto policy offers higher limits of liability, but less or no coverage in areas that are typically not associated with commercial auto risks.
o Do you need special coverage for situations encountered while conducting business? Commercial auto policies usually offer these coverage’s, and they’re normally not available with personal auto policies. These include hired and non-owned auto coverage and coverage for towing a trailer for business use.
o Do you need to list any employees as drivers? Commercial auto policies allow you to list anyone that you employ. You don’t have that option with a personal auto policy. In general, you’ll need commercial auto coverage if the vehicle you use is owned by a corporate partnership or driven by employees, or if it’s used to haul tools or equipment weighing more than 500 pounds, make deliveries or heavy enough to require state or federal filings.
For more information about commercial auto insurance, visit progressiveagent.com.
Did You Know?
If, like many Americans, your family car is also used for purposes that could be considered commercial use, you may want to steer yourself into a chair and look over your insurance policy. For more information about commercial auto insurance, visit www.lstins.com.
Tags: Auto, Auto Insurance, business use, Car, family car, INS, Insurance
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February 26th, 2010
Using the right tool for a job is key to success in any profession. Experts say the same principle applies when selecting an auto insurance policy. Having the right type of policy can help ensure that you, your employees and your business are all protected in the unfortunate event that one of your vehicles is involved in an accident.
If you’re a business owner and you or your employees use a vehicle for business-related deliveries or to carry certain materials to and from a job site, you may need a commercial auto insurance policy that’s tailored to more closely suit the needs—and risks—of a business vehicle operator.
Here are some questions that can help you determine if you might need a commercial auto policy instead of a personal auto policy, courtesy of LST Insurance Agency
• Do you need more liability coverage than your personal auto policy provides? Generally, a commercial auto policy provides higher limits of liability, but less or no coverage in areas that are typically not associated with commercial auto risks.
• Do you need special coverage for situations associated with con-ducting business? Commercial auto policies also usually offer certain coverages—such as hired and non-owned auto coverage and coverage for towing a trailer for business use—that are not available with personal auto policies.
• Do you need to list any employees as drivers? You can do this with a commercial auto insurance policy.
• Do you use your vehicle for business purposes? If you use your vehicle for things like pizza or newspaper delivery, catering, door-to-door consulting service, landscaping or snowplowing service, logging business, day care/church retreat van service and/or farm-to-market delivery, you might need a commercial auto policy.
LST Insurance Agency is an independent insurance agency – trained, licensed insurance professionals who offer personal service and advice. We can help match you with the type of policy that best suits your needs and those of your company.
To learn more about all an independent agency offers, visit lstins.com or give us a call.
Tags: Accident, Auto, Auto Insurance, Car, insurnace, policy, quote, TRUCK
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February 1st, 2010
Whether you’re traveling alone, with a buddy or with your spouse and a car full of kids, there are few things more “American” than the long-distance road trip. Countless vacation travelers will drive the highways looking for fun and making memories with every mile. If traveling down the “holiday road” is in your plans, take the time to prepare for your trip. You’ll have a more enjoyable vacation if you plan carefully. Here are a few driving tips, courtesy of LST Insurance agency:
1) Maintain your car. Make sure your vehicle is up to date on its maintenance schedule, and be sure to check the battery and tires.
2) Plan your trip and know where you’re going. Call ahead for proper and safe directions to get you to your destination safely and have maps of the area on hand to help you navigate once you are off the main road. You’re more likely to make good decisions, even in dangerous situations, if you’re clearheaded and know where you’re going.
3) Be alert. Seems obvious, but driver inattention is surely the cause of a lot of accidents. If you stay focused behind the wheel and plan carefully, you will have a wonderful summer road trip.
4) Take precaution with a cell phone. Cell phones can be a lifesaver when you need immediate access to emergency services after an accident. Keep your phone within easy reach and get to know its features. However, use it prudently. Reports suggest that driving while talking on the phone increases accident rates.
5) Wear your seat belt. Whether or not it’s required by law in the state through which you’re driving, always wear your seat belt as a safety precaution.
6) Protect your car against theft. Help deter criminals from taking your car with steering wheel locks, switches that disable fuel or ignition systems, and electronic tracking devices.
7) If you’re in an accident. Taking immediate steps if you’ve been in an accident can protect your family and your car from further damage. Stop immediately and make sure your car is not blocking traffic. Turn off your car to keep it from overheating or catching fire. Warn oncoming cars using road flares or orange triangle reflectors. After you have protected yourself and your family, call your insurance company immediately.
Make sure your auto insurance is up to date. Before you even leave the driveway, you want to be sure you’re protected when you’re on the road and far from home. An independent insurance agent or broker can provide the personal service and advice you need to travel in confidence.
To learn more about what an independent insurance agency offers you, visit or contact LST Insurance Agency.
Tags: Auto, Car, Insurance, long road, long trip, Road trip, travel, traveling
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December 11th, 2009
Auto Insurance Made Easy
(NAPS)—Understanding insurance can often be like trying to learn a foreign language. Many find it confusing and intimidating.
Fortunately, there’s help. Here is a quick reference designed to help you understand some of the most common kinds of coverages. The reference was put together by The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies.
Liability covers bodily injury and property damage (BI/PD). This covers your legal liability, up to the dollar limits you select, for damages caused to others in a covered vehicle accident. In most states today, liability insurance is mandatory.
Under BI/PD, your insurance company pays for damages to an injured person and for property damage that you are legally obligated to pay as a result of an accident. If your policy covers you in the event you’re sued after an accident, your insurance company will pay for a lawyer to defend you.
Liability limits generally appear as three numbers, for example, 25/50/25 or 100/300/100. The first number refers to the maximum amount, in thousands, that your insurance company is obligated to pay for bodily injury per person. The second number is the maxi-mum that would be paid out for bodily injury per claim and the third number represents the maxi-mum amount your insurance company is obligated to pay for property damage you cause.
Collision. When you buy collision coverage, your insurance company pays for damages if your vehicle collides with another vehicle or object. Collision coverage involves a deductible amount you select when you purchase your policy. This amount is what you are required to pay before your insurance company starts picking up the tab. Remember, the deductible amount is the amount you need to pay in the event of a claim.
Comprehensive covers dam-age caused by events other than a car collision—such as fire, theft, vandalism, hail or flood. It also covers damage caused by your vehicle colliding with an animal. And if your car is stolen, it will cover the cost of a rental, subject to a daily limit. Like collision coverage, a deductible usually applies.
Medical Coverage. Depending on the state in which you live, you may have available to you Medical Payments coverage or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. While these both work differently, they provide coverage for medical care provided to you as a result of a car accident.
An independent insurance agent can help you determine the price, coverage and service that best meets your needs.
Did You Know?
Liability insurance is for bodily injury and property damage. This covers your legal liability, up to the dollar limits you select, for damages caused to others in a covered vehicle accident. In most states today, liability insurance is mandatory.
Tags: Auto, Car, HOME, INS, Insurance, TRUCK
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December 4th, 2009
Ask the right questions and minimize frustration
Bob, the owner of a small flower shop, answers the phone prepared to take an order. Instead, he learns his only delivery van was involved in an accident. Questions flood his mind. Is anyone hurt? Is the van damaged? How will I make my deliveries?
Without commercial auto insurance, a business like Bob’s could take a big hit when a crash happens. Standard auto insurance doesn’t always offer the protection most businesses need.
Ask these questions today to avoid insurance headaches tomorrow:
• Do you use your personal vehicle for business? This includes services that you might not think qualify. Pizza and newspaper delivery, catering, door-to-door consulting, and day care/church retreat van service are good examples of uses that are often excluded from personal policies.
• How high are your liability limits? Commercial auto policies offer higher liability limits than personal auto policies. Larger vehicles, like delivery vans, can cause more damage than passenger cars.
• Are you covered in day-to-day business situations? Commercial auto policies usually offer more coverage options than personal auto policies. These include coverage for towing a trailer for business use. Landscapers are ideal candidates for this.
• Do employees drive your vehicles? If the answer is yes, you probably need commercial auto insurance.
To learn more about commercial auto coverage, talk to your local independent insurance agent. LST Insurance Agency 706-277-0971 / www.lstins.com / lst@lstins.com
Posted in Uncategorized | 16 Comments »
November 19th, 2009
Car accidents can wreak havoc on an otherwise peaceful day. Even if they’re minor, they can often create confusion. You might ask yourself, how should I react? What should I do?
Leading car insurer Progressive offers these simple steps to follow after an accident:
- Stay calm. Keeping a calm demeanor helps you stay in control of the situation.
- Make sure you and your passengers are OK. Move as far off the roadway as possible but stay at the scene of the accident. Warn oncoming traffic by activating your hazard warning lights and/or setting flares if you have them.
- Call the police. Call 911 or the appropriate emergency number to report the accident.
- Contact your insurance company and report the claim. The sooner your insurance company knows about the accident, the sooner it can start working to resolve your claim.
- Do not admit fault. To protect yourself legally, do not discuss the car accident with anyone other than the police and your insurance company.
- Exchange vital information with the other driver involved in the car accident.
Write down the name, address, phone number and license numbers of all drivers and witnesses, particularly those who were riding in a vehicle involved in the accident. Ask for the name of the insurer and policy number for all drivers involved in the car accident.
Before you get into an accident, talk to an independent insurance agent to make sure you have the right insurance. Because the last thing you want to do when you’re in a car accident is worry about having to pay for the damage.
Tags: Accident, Auto, Car, Coverage, Insurance
Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments »
November 19th, 2009
This is an example of a WordPress page, you could edit this to put information about yourself or your site so readers know where you are coming from. You can create as many pages like this one or sub-pages as you like and manage all of your content inside of WordPress.
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