Tips For New Drivers

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One of the major milestones in any young adult’s life is getting their driver’s license. Although it’s an exciting time, driving for the first time does come with new responsibilities. This helpful guide can help the newest drivers in Hershey, PA stay safe on the road, along with making sure they have the answers needed for auto insurance coverage from our experts at Options Insurance Agency. 

How New Drivers Should Prepare 

One of the first things you need to do as a  new driver is to get ready for the road test. It takes a while for younger drivers to become comfortable behind the wheel, so much practice is necessary.  It’s always recommended to practice with a responsible adult or to take a driving course for safety. The most important thing as parents is to allow them to get the confidence they need and take things slow and steady. Modern vehicles are also equipped with driver-assisted technology and include plenty of safety features. You’ll also want to spend time explaining to your teen driver how this assistive tech can help promote good driving habits. Here are a few other things to always remind new drivers while on the road.

  • Obey traffic rules and slow down
  • Always buckle up
  • Avoid all distractions ( texting and driving, eating, or loud music)
  • Don’t drive in bad weather conditions. 

Getting An Auto Insurance Policy 

Options Insurance Agency can help the newest drivers get the right insurance policy. We understand that getting the proper coverage can be a source of concern, and our experts have your best interest in mind. If you have a new driver in Hershey, PA, our agency serves the area with the highest level of integrity. So give us a call today to find out more information about an auto insurance policy.

Why you need commercial insurance for your home business

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In Hershey, PA, like many other places in the United States, home businesses are a popular option. 50% of small businesses are home-based and if you consider those with no employees, that rises to 60%. The reason is obvious, not having to pay for a business location is a big saving. At Options Insurance Agency, we have been serving local customers since 2006 and as independent agents, we can offer more choices and better rates. We focus on educating our clients about the insurance options available to them. 

Property insurance

Home property insurance is designed to cover your home and contents. It is not designed to cover business equipment, raw materials and inventory for a home business. While you might get very limited coverage from your home insurance, it is not the amount of coverage that your home business needs and deserves. 

Liability coverage

Your home has liability coverage as part of your home insurance policy. This is personal liability and will not extend to your business customers or to vendors or employees who might decide to sue you. Without commercial liability insurance, you run the risk of losing your business. Your home liability insurance is not going to extend to your business. 

Commercial auto insurance

When you are using your personal vehicle for business, it is most likely that your auto insurance won’t cover you if you have an accident. Commercial auto insurance is what you need and it is always a good idea to keep your business finances separate from your personal finances. 

Workers compensation

In Pennsylvania, if you have one or more employees, full or part-time, including family members, you must have workers’ compensation insurance. Home businesses are not exempt from having this important coverage. 

For more information about commercial insurance in Hershey, PA contact Options Insurance Agency. 

Supplemental Insurance Policies for Your Home

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As a homeowner, you want to maintain and protect your investment. A general homeowner’s insurance plan offers a wide range of coverage, from the structure of your home to personal belongings. However, there are some common exclusions to what your insurance policy may cover; exclusions that could ultimately have a negative financial impact should something happen to your home. 

There are countless supplemental insurance policies you can purchase that will offer additional protection for your home. Not only will these take effect in certain circumstances, but when difficulties arise, the homeowner won’t have to bear the financial weight alone. Knowing a policy in place gives homeowners peace of mind. Let the experts at Options Insurance Agency in Hershey, PA help you find the right supplemental policy!

Supplemental Insurance Policies to Consider for Your Home (H2)

Flood Insurance (H3)

One element that is excluded from all homeowner’s insurance policies is flood insurance. If you live in an area prone to flooding, this type of policy is a must. For those in low-lying coastal regions, hurricane insurance is an additional option. 

Most flood insurance policies cover a wide range of home flood situations. For instance, if a pipe bursts in your home, a flood insurance policy can offer coverage where your regular policy would not. Water damage takes a heavy toll on the home and the wallet. A flood insurance policy will bear the brunt of that impact.

Underground Service Line Coverage (H3)

Beneath your home and yard, there are numerous pipes and underground cables that transport water, waste, internet, and cable to your home. As the home and property owner, you are responsible for any damage done to these lines. Outside of your property line, it is the city’s responsibility.

Many homeowners find themselves in a bind after digging in the yard and breaking a pipe or cable. An underground service line supplement policy will help you bear the weight of the financial responsibility.

Avoiding Driving Distractions

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We live in a busy world where everyone is hustling and bustling to get through the day. With everyone so preoccupied with so many things, it is easy to become distracted when driving, especially when you add the added distraction that comes with staying connected via online apps and other communication methods. 

With so many distractions while behind the wheel, drivers in Hershey, PA, need to take extra precautions when hitting the road. Our experts at Options Insurance Agency can help get you the coverage you need to keep you protected while driving. 

Hands-Free Calls

Using the Bluetooth technology in your vehicle, connect your cell phone, so you can accept and make calls without needing to pick up your phone. 

Dictate Texts

Some devices allow you to dictate who you send a text message to and what you want to say. Additionally, some devices recite text messages, so you do not have to look at your phone. 

Social Media

Do not be tempted to look at any of your social media apps while driving. Whatever you want to read can wait until you are somewhere else besides driving in the car. 

Navigation Guides

When needing assistance finding a location, it is best to input the address before leaving or pull over to do it. Additionally, some apps offer traffic updates, gas prices notifications, and more. Use the audio for these options and limit the number of glances you make to look at the phone. 

Though we cannot help you with the driving distractions in Hershey, PA, we can help get you the insurance coverage you need to stay protected while on the road. Call our agents at Options Insurance Agency to learn more about the different auto insurance options available. 

Will commercial insurance protect people in Pennsylvania?

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As you are looking for a place to grow and run a business, Hershey, PA is a good spot to consider. There are a lot of benefits that come with being a business owner in this community including local support for small businesses and having access to a strong local economy. Those that would run a business in this part of the state need to get insurance for their company. Commercial insurance can protect business owners in several ways.

Liability Protection

One way you can be protected with a commercial insurance plan is by receiving liability protection. Accidents can always happen that could result in damages to another party. If your business happens to cause an accident that results in damages, you can be held liable. As these costs can be significant based on the situation, having commercial insurance is always helpful. This coverage will offer quality liability protection that can continue to support your organization. 

Protect Business Investments

Your commercial insurance plan can also protect investments made by your business. A business will need to continue to invest in itself to acquire assets and fuel future growth. As you and your business will rely on the assets it acquires, you will want to know that you are keeping proper insurance in place. A commercial insurance plan will protect these assets for your company. 

A commercial insurance plan will always offer valuable coverage that makes it well worth the investment. As you are shopping for a new plan in Hershey, PA, consulting with the professionals with the Options Insurance Agency will be helpful. The team with Options Insurance Agency can help you assess all of your options and understand the value of this coverage. This can help ensure you pick a plan that provides great coverage for your business. 

When is someone required to have home insurance?

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The Hershey, PA area continues to be a good place to own a home. Those that are in this area will benefit from a strong economy and local amenities that keep demand for housing high. If you are going to purchase real estate when you are here, you will need to have insurance for your home. There are some situations when having home insurance is a requirement.

When Located in an Association

A common situation when someone will be required to have a home insurance plan is when they are located in a home association. If you have bought a home in an association, the organization will likely have home insurance standards that all owners need to meet. Most associations will even require you to provide evidence of coverage on an annual basis. 

When Taking Out a Mortgage

You should also get home insurance to comply with mortgage lender requirements. A mortgage lender will provide a loan that is used to purchase a home and will take your property as collateral until the loan is paid off. Due to this, a mortgage lender will want you to have the proper insurance to ensure the home is covered and protected. They will often require that you escrow payments for insurance as it will ensure there is not a coverage lapse. 

There continue to be plenty of situations when having home insurance is a requirement. When you are looking to properly insure your home in the Hershey, PA area, speaking with Options Insurance Agency is a good idea. There are many factors to consider as you are looking for home insurance and Options Insurance Agency can make the decision-making process easier for you. This can help ensure you remain appropriately covered and in compliance with requirements. 

Add-ons to consider for your auto insurance

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When you are shopping for auto insurance in Pennsylvania, you may want to understand the different auto insurance options available for better coverage. When you partner with an agent like Options Insurance Agency located in Hershey, PA, we recommend the minimum coverage and introduce you to add-ons you can consider for your auto insurance for optimal coverage. 

Want to find out add-ons you can consider for your auto insurance? Please keep on scrolling.

Road assistance

While car ownership introduces you to a limitless world of possibilities, mishaps are bound to happen. For instance, breakdowns are part and parcel of car ownership. And boy, you don’t want it to happen when you don’t have road assistance coverage.

This add-on provides the below services whenever your car stalls on the highway or any other location.

  • Jump-starting
  • Gas delivery
  • Puncture repair
  • Roadside mechanical repair
  • Towing

Zero depreciation cover

When you have this cover, and your car needs replacement or part replacement, your insurance will cover full costs without considering the depreciation factor.

Engine protection

The engine serves a pivotal role in powering your vehicle. Without it, your car is rendered useless. In light of this, you can safeguard your engine with this protection rider, especially if you live in areas susceptible to waterlogging. 

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Regardless of how carefully you drive, accidents do happen even when you are not at fault. In such instances, PIP comes in handy, especially for drivers with little or no health insurance. In case of an accident, PIP covers medical costs, including surgery costs and ambulance fees, regardless of who was at fault. 

Auto insurance in Hershey, PA

Your car is a precious asset to you. As such, you need to purchase add-ons that suit your unique circumstances. For Pennsylvania residents, you can relax knowing that your auto insurance needs are well-taken care of by Options Insurance Agency situated in Hershey, PA. Contact us today whether renewing or shopping for new auto insurance.

Commercial insurance options for small businesses

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Commercial insurance options for small businesses

You have already risked more than enough starting a small business. That means you need to protect it at all costs. As a small business owner in Hershey, PA, the best way to protect your investment is by buying insurance. You also need to know which coverages are more important for your business and which ones to ignore. Here are a few options to choose from.

Business liability insurance

Every business requires liability coverage. You are likely to get sued by third parties whether you deal with clients directly or indirectly. From unsatisfied customers to accidents you’re not in control of, there are thousands of reasons why another party may file a lawsuit against you. This insurance helps cover the legal fees and what you are found liable for.

Property insurance

You will need property insurance to protect your business environment and its contents. Think about fire, theft, and other accidents that could lead to financial losses. At Options Insurance Agency, we recommend choosing a comprehensive plan to cover the property used in the business up to specific limits. This may include computers, furniture, technology, and inventory.

Workers’ compensation

Whether you have one employee or a hundred, you need workers’ compensation to protect your employees. It is a mandatory policy in Pennsylvania that pays for medical bills and income benefits for employees who get injured while working at your company.

Commercial umbrella insurance

If you run a business that is at risk of getting involved in lawsuits, you may need commercial umbrella insurance to protect you from accidents that go beyond the liability covered in other policies. Major cases can harm your business financially and even lead to a close down.

There exist many insurance coverages for businesses, and you don’t need all of them. If you are in Hershey, PA, our insurance professionals at Options Insurance Agency can work with you and determine which coverages match your business needs.

Understanding Home Insurance Personal Property Coverage

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There’s nothing like the excitement of purchasing your first home. Part of homeownership is protecting your property. Home insurance from Options Insurance Agency offers coverage for both your Hershey, PA home and belongings to protect what’s important to you. Here’s what you should know about personal property coverage.

Understanding Personal Property Coverage

Personal property coverage protects your belongings. This includes your clothes, jewelry, furniture, appliances, electronics, artwork, gym equipment, and other personal items. Most policies cover perils like fire, theft, vandalism, storm damage, tornadoes, and other disasters. If these goods are damaged or lost in a covered peril, your property coverage will compensate you financially for your loss.

Actual Cash Value vs Replacement Cost Coverage

As a homeowner, you have a choice as to what kind of coverage to buy for your belongings. If you choose actual cash value coverage, you will be reimbursed for the cost of damaged goods after taking off for depreciation. Replacement cost coverage is a bit more expensive. However, it covers the cost of replacing your goods at current market value, without taking off for depreciation. If your goods are pricey, you may prefer replacement cost coverage to save you money on replacing lost or damaged items.

Protection of Posh Items

Standard home policies have limits on personal property coverage. These limits may be insufficient to fully protect posh items. If you own costly jewelry, original artwork, or other expensive goods, you may need extra insurance on top of your property coverage to fully protect these items. We recommend you get an appraisal for posh goods and purchase an endorsement to cover the cost of these valuables.

To learn more about personal property coverage or to purchase this coverage for your valuables, contact Options Insurance Agency. We serve residents in Hershey, PA, and surrounding communities.

What’s PA’s State Minimum for Auto Insurance?

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Pennsylvania drivers are required to carry auto insurance that meets certain minimum coverage levels. These areas include bodily injury liability coverage, property damage liability coverage, and uninsured motorist coverage. Pennsylvania drivers can carry more than the minimum coverage amounts. However, they must carry at least the minimum in order to legally drive in the state. 

Pennsylvania Law

Pennsylvania drivers will face strong consequences if they don’t adhere to the auto insurance requirements in the state of Pennsylvania. Liability auto insurance is a requirement in the state. If you don’t carry liability auto insurance you face the possibility of a $300 fine and the suspension of your driver’s license for driving uninsured. Your vehicle registration can also be suspended for three months and a three-month suspension of your driver’s license. These are the penalties that you face if Penn DOT discovers that you drove without the required insurance. 

Pennsylvania State Minimums for Auto Insurance

Our team at the Options Insurance Agency is committed to helping Hershey, PA residents understand what’s required to legally drive in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania residents must purchase $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident for bodily injury liability coverage. State residents must also carry $5,000 in property damage liability coverage. Residents must also carry $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident in uninsured motorist coverage. Our team at the Options Insurance Agency wants PA drivers to understand what is required to legally operate a car within the state. We take the time to explain everything that’s required by state law to drive.

Liability auto insurance is required by law. However, liability insurance coverage levels must meet the state minimums. We’re here to answer any questions drivers may have about what’s required and what’s not required. GIve us a call. We’re here to guide you through understanding state laws and liability coverage minimums.