Although Hershey, PA, residents know our insurance agency well because we locate our main offices in that metropolitan area, we serve five states, including New Jersey. Like the other 49 states, New Jersey passed auto insurance requirements for its drivers. Unlike other states, New Jersey offers two coverage options: basic and standard.

Basic vs. Standard Coverage

At Options Insurance Agency, we want our New Jersey customers to understand their options when it comes to New Jersey requirements. Let’s consider what you get when you buy a basic auto policy in New Jersey.

Basic Auto Insurance

A basic policy allows you to drive on New Jersey roads legally, but it limits your rights to sue the at-fault party in an accident. Let’s consider the basic coverage minimums first. A basic policy only provides $5,000 of property damage liability coverage per accident and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage of $15,000 per person per accident. If desired, a policyholder can add bodily injury liability coverage of $10,000 per accident.

Standard Auto Insurance

The minimum limits of a standard policy probably remind you of insurance minimums in other states. They include:

• Bodily injury liability coverage of $25,000 per person per accident
• Bodily injury liability coverage of $50,000 for all persons per accident
• Property damage liability coverage of $5,000 per accident
• PIP coverage of $15,000 per person per accident.

Unlike a basic policy, a policyholder can add uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. All insurers let you add collision and comprehensive coverage, too.

Contact Options Insurance Agency Today

Don’t let our Hershey, PA, service area fool you. Options Insurance Agency serves five states, including New Jersey. Let us help you obtain the auto insurance you need to drive on New Jersey roads legally.

Pennsylvania has a unique system for determining fault in case of an accident. Most states have variations on a system that is either "fault" or "no-fault," but Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative fault rule. Hershey, PA drivers can learn about this unique system from the agents at the Options Insurance Agency.

What Is Modified Comparative Fault?

There may be any number of parties who are involved in an accident. Not only may drivers be at fault, but there may be fault attributable to other parties, such as a government agency in charge of maintaining roads and signs. With a modified comparative fault, all those parties may be involved in a single claim.

Within this already complicated claim, individual parties may have more or less responsibility for the accident. There could be an accident where one party is 50% at fault, one party is 30% at fault, and another party is 20% at fault.

How Does This System Affect Drivers?

This kind of system sounds complicated, and it may be challenging to figure out quickly who is the most responsible for an accident. Insurance companies also know that if they can blame someone else, they will have to pay less. 

The most important thing for drivers is to protect themselves with a comprehensive insurance policy. Also, if anyone is involved in an accident, it is important to document the circumstances of the crash and make an official report right away. Call your agent immediately.

Driving in Hershey, PA carries risks, and accidents can happen no matter how careful you are. If you would like to discuss your auto insurance options, or if you have any questions about auto insurance, please call Options Insurance Agency today.

In Hershey, PA, and surrounding areas, determining your auto insurance coverage needs is crucial for financial protection and peace of mind. Assessing your auto insurance needs involves considering factors such as the value of your vehicle, personal circumstances, desired coverage limits, and potential risks. 

Determining the Vehicle’s Value 

Begin by assessing the value of your vehicle. Consider its make, model, age, and condition. Newer or high-value vehicles often require comprehensive coverage to protect against theft, vandalism, or accident damage. Older or lower-value vehicles may need less coverage, but liability insurance remains essential.

Assessing Your Circumstances 

Evaluate your circumstances, such as your driving habits, daily commute, and the number of drivers in your household. A longer commute or frequent highway driving may call for higher liability limits. You may need higher coverage to mitigate potential risks if you have a new or inexperienced driver in your household.

Knowing Your Desired Coverage Limits 

Determine your desired coverage limits based on your risk tolerance and financial situation. Liability coverage is required by law and covers damage to other parties in an accident. Consider higher limits to protect your assets in a severe accident. Comprehensive and collision coverage may be appropriate if you want additional protection for your vehicle or if it is financed. 

Being Aware of the Potential Risks Factors

Assess potential risks specific to your area and driving conditions. High crime rates, severe weather, or heavy traffic can increase the likelihood of accidents or vehicle damage. Understanding these risks allows you to select appropriate coverage options to mitigate potential losses.

How Options Insurance Agency Can Help You

Here at Options Insurance Agency, we can guide you about getting the right amount of auto insurance coverage. We support all areas around the Hershey, PA, region. Contact us today. 

As your parents begin to age, so many different factors need to be considered. One important factor is driving safety. Our staff at Options Insurance Agency, serving Hershey, PA, and the surrounding areas, are here to help you navigate important questions like this. Keep reading to learn more. 

Should I Address My Elderly Parents About Driving?

This can be a very uncomfortable topic for adult children who are concerned about their elderly parents. Not only can this topic be uncomfortable, but it can also be a very sensitive topic. The reason for this is that, in most cases, elderly parents are not aware that there is a problem with their driving. It is often the responsibility of adult children to address this issue. 

There are a few telling signs that will alert you to the fact that your parents may need to stop driving. Let’s look at a few. 

Failing Eye Sight 

If your parent’s eyesight is failing rapidly, and eyeglasses do not correct it enough for safe driving, it might be time that they hand driving responsibilities over to someone else. You will be able to tell if this is a problem by listening to their complaints or even by talking with their eye doctor. 

Confusion or Dementia 

It is pretty common for people to deal with memory or cognition issues as they grow older. If your parent is suffering from severe confusion or dementia, though, you should consider discussing driving safety. Confusion or dementia could put your parents at extreme risk while driving. 

Loss of Hand-Eye Coordination 

The loss of hand-eye coordination is another common ailment for the elderly. Although it is considered normal to deal with this as you age, it is still considered a huge obstacle for safe driving. 

If you want to learn about car insurance, please get in touch with us at Options Insurance Agency, serving Hershey, PA, and the surrounding areas. 

It is daunting to face your child’s first attempts at driving, but there are ways to make the transition safe. Be sure to contact your Options Insurance Agency when your child obtains their learner’s permit to ensure they are covered from day one. 

Hershey, PA drivers must have bodily injury liability, uninsured and underinsured insurance, first-party benefits, and property damage coverage. Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, and motorists can opt into limited tort, which curtails their ability to sue, or full tort. 

 A lack of experience is the primary issue that new drivers face, and the longer they can spend being supervised, the better the outcome tends to be. They learn from your suggestions even if they resist this wisdom. 

Part of this practice should include taking them out during different weather conditions and various times of the day. They need to navigate traffic situations as well as the open road. A driver safety course will teach them defensive driving and provide oversight while practicing. 

Maintaining a curfew while your driver is still young is vital, limiting them to a cap of 9 or 10 o’clock at night for at least the first six months after they obtain their license. Do not allow them to ride with other teens. 

A seatbelt remains one of the easiest ways to avoid serious injury in a crash, and it’s good to set a good example for them in this regard. Make sure your safety features are fully functional in your teen’s vehicle. 

Options Insurance Agency in Hershey, PA

We help create insurance packages to meet your needs and work hard to insure every eligible family member. We invite you to reach out to us today so we can further discuss your situation. 

Maintaining your car is vital if you want it to run smoothly. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

1. Change your oil regularly. Oil is the lifeblood of your car, and it needs to be replaced every few thousand miles for it to run correctly. Be sure to consult your vehicle’s manual for recommended oil change intervals.
2. Check the air pressure in your tires regularly. Low tire pressure can cause uneven wear and unnecessary strain on your tires, leading to costly repairs down the road. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month and add air as needed.
3. Get a tune-up every six months. Regular tune-ups are key to keeping your car running smoothly year after year. Make sure you take your car in for tune-ups at the recommended intervals and ask your mechanic to check a range of parameters, including engine performance, emissions, and fluid levels.
4. Keep your gas tank at least half full. When you allow your gas tank to get too low, condensation can build up in the fuel line, leading to rust and corrosion. Keeping your tank at least half full will help prevent this from happening while also helping you avoid having to stop in the middle of a long journey to fill up.
5. Replace windshield wipers and brake pads when necessary. Worn-out windshield wipers and brake pads put you at risk for accidents and can increase fuel consumption.

Following these tips can keep your car running smoothly for many years. If you have any questions about your car insurance, please give us at Options Insurance Agency a call today. We proudly serve the Hershey, PA area.

In Hershey, PA, you can count on Options Insurance Agency to offer you the customer service you deserve. It is crucial to be protected with reliable auto insurance, but sometimes you need some minor help on the side of the road or in an emergency.

Here are some things we suggest to have in your car:

In the trunk

On the practical side, you always need to have a spare tire and a jack in your trunk. No one has full-size spare tires anymore, but the donut will get you 50 miles. A can of Fix a Flat can come in very handy if it isn’t a significant burst. Make sure you know how to operate your jack or, if you don’t, have a roadside service you can call. 

Having a charger unit of some sort, like a Halo, can make all the difference when your vehicle decides it doesn’t want to start. At the very least, you need to carry jumper cables. 

Be prepared for the weather with a blanket, sweatshirt, hat, and other things to keep you warm if the weather is cold. Always carry some water in the trunk as well. Having something to drink is vital for your comfort. You may want to include snacks, choose something that won’t go bad in a short time, and check the dates from time to time. 

A first aid kit and an emergency kit are easy to store and come in very handy if something goes wrong. 

In the glove box

You should have your vehicle registration and insurance card in the glove box. It is also the place to keep a tool that cuts a seatbelt and breaks a window if you are ever in an accident involving water-submersion. 

In the vehicle

Like most people, you need to carry a charging cord for your phone or tablet. You also may need a phone holder so you can go hands-free. An easy pass is important if you travel on roads that have tolls and a bottle of water. 

Contact Options Insurance Agency in Hershey, PA for all your auto insurance needs. Our team will be happy to work with you and help you get a quote.

 

Hershey, PA area residents can rely on the team at Options Insurance Agency for all of their insurance needs. If you want to make sure that you have the protection you need, give us a call today.

Let’s review your auto policy today.

Having the right auto insurance is an integral part of responsible vehicle ownership. If you want to ensure that you have the protection you need, then it’s a great idea to give your policy a close review at least once a year. This can help you recognize and fix any gaps you may have in coverage. An inspection can also help you keep up with any changes in coverage that may occur over time. 

Without the right auto insurance, you can be left with financial liability that can be easily avoided. When reviewing your policy, make sure that you have adequate collision, liability, and medical expense coverage. Even having gaps in just one area can create problems down the road. 

Auto insurance can help you get your car repaired or replaced and provide protection from liability. And, if you are ever involved in an accident that causes injuries, you will want to have adequate medical expense coverage in place. Ensuring that you have the right coverage is easy to do when you sit down with a local agent. This allows them to understand your insurance needs better.

Give us a call to find out more.

Options Insurance Agency is here for the Hershey, PA community. We are here to help you with all of your insurance questions and concerns. If you want to find out more about your auto insurance policy options, give us a call or stop by today.

Options Insurance Agency serves the insurance needs of the entire Hershey, PA area. If you are interested in learning more about the features and benefits that are available with an upgraded auto policy, call or stop by our office today. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Auto insurance features are currently available in our area.

There are four primary features to look for when choosing an auto insurance policy. If it’s time to choose a policy, focus on these coverage types: property damage, bodily injury, collision, personal injury, and comprehensive protection. Your agent can help you determine which policy levels are right for your needs to get the protection you need.

After you’ve taken care of the necessities, you may want to consider add-on features that can provide more benefits:

• Declining premium benefit – the longer you drive without a claim, the lower your premium payments go. In fact, you may even get to a point where you don’t have a premium at all!
• Car rental reimbursement – if your vehicle is totaled or damaged due to a covered event, you may be without a car while it is repaired or replaced. Many people need reliable transportation to get through their daily lives and will need to rent an alternative vehicle. This benefit can reimburse you for those costs.
• Roadside assistance – be prepared in the event of a breakdown!

When it comes to insurance, you can count on us!

Hershey, PA area residents rely on the folks at Options Insurance Agency for all of their insurance needs. If you need help with your auto policy, or any other type of insurance, reach out to our team. Feel free to stop by our office or give us a call today!

Are you thinking about getting your car insured? Auto insurance is coverage that helps cover the damages and costs incurred in an accident, collision, or non-collision related. It also helps in claims when you are involved in an accident that causes physical injury to others. The following are some of the commonly asked questions about auto insurance. If you have any other questions or want to purchase an auto insurance policy in Hershey, PA, you can trust Options Insurance Agency for sound advice.

What coverage do I need?

In most states, car owners are required to have minimum liability coverage, but this may not be enough to cover the losses in case of an accident. As such, you need additional insurance coverage in case you have valuable personal assets and comprehensive cover for non- collision-related damages.

Can I minimize my car insurance costs?

Different factors affect the premium costs of a car insurance policy. However, you can reduce these premiums by installing safety features in your automobile and paying a higher deductible fee.

Do I qualify for insurance discounts?

Depending on your occupational group and your state of residence, you may be qualified for car insurance discounts. You also qualify for discounts if you have a low credit score and a clean driving record. Consult with your insurance provider to determine which discounts you are eligible for. 

What does car insurance cover?

Different categories of car insurance cover unique risk aspects. Liability coverage is for damages related to at-fault accidents and pays for property damage, repairs, and medical costs from injuries sustained as well as legal fees. There are additional optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, uninsured, and underinsured motorist coverages.

Is auto insurance mandatory?

Every state in the United States has a legal requirement that all car owners insure their cars with minimum liability coverage. However, insurance laws and regulations vary from state to state, so visit your local insurer for an auto liability policy.

If you have questions about auto insurance, Options Insurance Agency serving Hershey, PA, can help give some clarity and guide on choosing the most suitable coverage for you.