Allen Insurance Blog

What to Check Before Letting Your Teen Drive the Family Car

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 23:32:49 GMT

Handing over the keys to your teenager is a big moment—for them and for you. While it marks a new level of independence, it also comes with serious responsibilities, including making sure your insurance coverage is ready for this milestone. Before your teen hits the road, here are a few important things to review to help protect your family, your finances, and your peace of mind.

Understand Who Owns the Vehicle

If your teen will be driving a family vehicle, they can likely be covered under your existing policy. If you plan to buy a separate vehicle for them, ownership matters. A car titled in your teen’s name may require a separate policy, depending on your insurer. Before making any purchases or policy changes, speak with your insurance agent to determine the best setup for coverage, cost, and flexibility.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Most auto insurance policies require you to inform the insurer when a new driver is added to your household. If your teen is licensed and living at home, your insurer likely needs to include them on your policy, even if they’re just an occasional driver. Failing to report a teen driver could result in denied claims or gaps in coverage.

Adding a teen to your auto policy may increase your premium, but some insurers may offer discounts for good grades, safe driving courses, or driving vehicles with strong safety ratings. Our insurance agents can check for insurance discounts that might be available to you.

Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. That’s why it’s important to make sure your liability limits are high enough to protect your assets if your teen causes an accident. You may also want to consider collision coverage if your teen will be driving a newer or more valuable vehicle. This can help cover the cost of repairs if the vehicle is damaged, regardless of who is at fault.

If you’re concerned about the potential financial impact of a major accident, an umbrella insurance policy can provide extra liability protection beyond your auto policy limits. This added layer of coverage is often affordable and can offer peace of mind, especially with a new driver in the household.

Set Expectations for Safe Driving

Insurance is important, but avoiding accidents is even better. Talk to your teen about distracted driving, speeding, seatbelt use, and safe driving habits. Consider creating a parent-teen driving agreement that outlines expectations and consequences.

Some families also choose to use driving apps or telematics programs that track speed, braking, and phone use. These tools can promote accountability and may even help lower premiums over time.

It may seem obvious, but make sure your teen has the correct type of driver’s license or permit before getting behind the wheel. Many states have graduated licensing systems that include restrictions for new drivers, such as curfews, passenger limits, or supervision requirements. Knowing and following these rules is essential for staying safe and legal.

Protect Your Teen and Your Family with the Right Coverage

Getting your teen on the road safely starts with smart preparation. From updating your insurance policy to setting clear rules, taking the right steps can help you avoid surprises and stay protected. If you're unsure how to update your policy or what level of coverage makes sense, contact us today. We’ll help you review your options and find a solution that balances safety, coverage, and cost.

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Utility Shutoffs

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 19:20:27 GMT

Owning a home means taking on a wide range of responsibilities, from mortgage payments to seasonal maintenance. One of the most critical, and commonly overlooked, areas of home safety is knowing how and when to shut off your utilities. In a moment of crisis, like a burst pipe or suspected gas leak, acting fast can limit damage, reduce repair costs, and keep you and your family safe.

Yet many homeowners don’t know where their shutoffs are located, or how to use them properly. This basic knowledge can make all the difference during emergencies, and even support a smoother insurance claims process if damage does occur.

Water Shutoff Valve

Your home’s main water shutoff valve is one of the most important things to locate after moving in. In the event of a burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or leaking appliance, shutting off the water quickly can help prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Most main shutoff valves are located where the water line enters your home, typically in the basement, garage, or a utility closet.

Make sure the valve turns easily and isn’t rusted or stuck. In addition to the main valve, many sinks, toilets, and appliances have their own smaller shutoff valves that let you isolate a single fixture. This can come in handy for minor repairs or localized issues, without disrupting water access to the entire house. It’s a good idea to test your valves once or twice a year so you're confident they work when it counts.

Gas Shutoff Valve

If you ever smell gas in your home (a scent often described as rotten eggs) it’s important to leave the area immediately. Don’t turn lights on or off, don't use your phone indoors, and don't operate any electrical switches. Once you’re safely outside, keep a safe distance from the home and call your gas provider or 911 to report the leak. Time is critical when it comes to gas leaks, as they can lead to fires or explosions if ignited.

Electrical Panel

The main circuit breaker panel controls the flow of electricity from your provider to every part of your home. Knowing how to use it is important for safety and for troubleshooting problems like tripped breakers or flickering lights. The panel is usually found in a garage, basement, hallway, or utility room, and contains labeled switches for different areas and appliances in your house.

In an emergency, especially if water is involved, it’s critical not to touch the panel. In less hazardous situations, such as when an outlet stops working or a breaker trips, you can restore power by flipping the appropriate switch. The panel also has a main shutoff switch that cuts power to the entire house. Label your circuits clearly and keep a flashlight nearby so you can access the panel even in the dark.

If you plan to do any electrical work or need to confirm that a circuit is no longer live, always use a multimeter or voltage tester. These tools let you safely verify that electricity is no longer flowing to an outlet, switch, or appliance before you begin repairs. Even if you’ve flipped the correct breaker, using a multimeter adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

Why This Matters for Home Safety and Insurance

Acting quickly in the face of a utility emergency can help keep you safe, while helping to minimize damage. Taking a proactive approach, like learning how your shutoffs work, is a small step that can help avoid major headaches later. It’s the kind of knowledge every homeowner should have, but often overlooks. Contact us today for a homeowner insurance policy review to make sure your coverage is up to date and ready for whatever comes your way.

Beach Safety Tips

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 15:35:28 GMT

Liz and Anna have been able to start their summer off right and have spent a week at the beach!! Are you headed to the beach this summer? Keep these safety tips in mind before heading to the beach!

Swim Safety

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 05:00:00 GMT

Pools are SO much fun and are the perfect way to cool down from these HOT summer days ahead! Be sure to watch this video below for tips on POOL SAFETY!

Home Maintenance Checklist

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 05:00:00 GMT

Below is a helpful link to a proper monthly and annual home checklist!

https://www.diynetwork.com/how...

What to Do After a Car Accident in Winter

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 17:43:37 GMT

Freezing temperatures, gusts of wind, patches of ice – winter can be a horrible time to be on the road, especially if you’re on vacation and aren’t used to driving in winter conditions. And, it’s an even worse time to get into a car accident.

But, with reduced visibility, slick roads and maybe even a reckless driver or two, accidents are bound to happen. So, what should you do if you experience one? Follow these five guidelines to help you stay safe while you wait for help to arrive after a car accident in winter:

Respond calmly. Your first instinct following any car accident may be to jump out of the car and give the other driver(s) a piece of your mind. But, given traffic and road conditions, it may not be safe for you to get out of your vehicle at all (and, it’s never safe to act aggressively toward others). So, stay in your car, take a deep breath, turn on your hazard lights and check yourself and others for injuries. Keep in mind that, if you’re in shock, you may not notice your own injuries at first. If needed, call 911 to request medical and traffic assistance.
Get off the road. If a minor accident leaves your car operable and no one involved requires emergency first aid, make clearing the roadway your next priority. Have all vehicles pull well off the road to reduce the chances of causing another accident. Just proceed with caution, especially if visibility is low. Other drivers on the road need extra time to react to slow-moving vehicles.
If you can’t get off the road, stay in your car. Walking around the roadway is extremely dangerous if other cars are around, particularly with stormy weather and slick roads making it difficult for drivers to respond to unexpected hazards. So, stay in your car and fasten your seatbelt, in case another collision occurs. Wait there for assistance and instructions from emergency personnel. Or, if your car isn’t safe to be in, seek other protection.
Stay visible, stay warm, stay put. Put up warning triangles and road flares, if you have them. Otherwise, tie a bright piece of cloth on your antenna or door handle so your vehicle is visible to others. If you’re running the engine to stay warm (make sure your tailpipe isn’t clogged with mud or snow or you risk being exposed to carbon monoxide), also turn on your running lights. Your vehicle emergency kit, stocked with blankets, extra clothing and more, will come in handy until emergency responders arrive. Staying put is typically safer than heading out to seek help – if you leave, you risk getting lost. Plus, leaving the scene of a serious accident can result in monetary fines.
Collect pertinent details and report the accident. After any accident, it’s important to exchange insurance information with the other driver(s), jot down notes about what happened and even snap a few photos – just be sure not to put yourself in harm’s way in order to do so. Then contact your insurance carrier to file a claim and your roadside assistance service to request help.

What if you come across an accident involving others? As long as they aren’t in immediate danger, your best bet is likely to call 911 and let the appropriate local authorities respond. Pulling over to help could cause additional problems, such as distracting other drivers and causing an accident yourself.

Remember, winter driving can be as unpredictable as the weather. So, keep your phone charged and your gas tank full, and slow down so you have extra time to respond – you need it when the roads are slick!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

The Right Tires for Winter Driving

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 16:05:02 GMT

It's easy to forget about your tires when it comes to vehicle safety. But with winter weather already in many parts of the country, tires are an important aspect you should keep in mind.

Your tires can be the difference between a safe trip and a disastrous one, whether you're driving a routine daily route or are headed to the mountains for some fun on the slopes. This winter tire guide will help you choose the best style of tires for your needs – and help you maintain them properly.

Are winter tires for you?
Winter tires are specially designed to provide the best traction and handling in ice, snow and cold-weather conditions. If you live in an area where temperatures regularly drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, it's a good idea to get a set. And note that we said "a set" – using only two winter tires instead of four can create handling issues caused by mismatched traction between the front and rear.

How are they different from all-season tires?
Winter tires have greater tread depth and use siping (slits in the tread) to increase the number of edges that are in contact with the road. They are also made using rubber compounds that stay soft when the weather gets cold, which helps to provide better traction.

What kind of winter tires is best?
There are two main categories: performance winter tires, for light snow and ice, and studless snow and ice tires, which are for severe weather conditions. The latter is the best tire for deep snow and heavy ice, says auto site Edmunds.com, unless studded tires are allowed in your area. But, while studded tires provide excellent traction on ice, you can likely get the same benefits by using chains, when necessary. And, your chains won't cause damage to the roadway like studs do, either.

How do I maintain them?
At any time of the year, tires require regular monitoring and maintenance for the best performance. But, when you're counting on them to get you through snow and ice, tire maintenance is even more important. Here are two important things to check regularly:

Pressure: Your tire pressure should be checked once a week to insure you aren't under- or over-inflated. In winter conditions, under-inflated tires increase your risk of having a blowout, and over-inflated tires can result in your car having virtually no traction.
Tread: Check your tread regularly using the "Lincoln test." Insert a penny into the groove of the tire, with the top of Lincoln's head going in first. Can you see only some of his hair? The tire has enough tread. If you see all of his hair, however, you need new tires immediately. Of course, if you're iffy on whether your tires are up for winter weather, you might just consider replacing them now – after all, the bare minimum isn't a good option unless the roads are bare, too.

As the old Michelin advertising slogan goes, "So much is riding on your tires." Take that to heart this winter, and you won't be left out in the cold.

Contact Us!
We can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

What to do in the case of an accident

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 20:39:38 GMT

After having two different auto accidents in our family that happened within a week of one another, we learned that there are so many questions that people have about what they need to do in the case of an accident and what information to gather in the case of an accident. Below are some helpful tips to help you in the case of an accident.

What information do you need to get...

Be sure to get names of all parties involved. Make note of any passengers in the other vehicle.

It's important to get the phone number of all parties involved.
Make note of the year, make, model of all other vehicle(s) involved.
Make note of the area you are in and what is around. It's important to take note of what lead to the accident and any details of the accident **WRITE IT DOWN**so you don’t forget later.

What Pictures do you need to take...

If you can, take a picture of the Driver’s License and Insurance ID card (or at least take down the info) of all other parties involved in the accident.

Be sure to get pictures of the accident site and any damage to yours AND the other parties vehicle.

When do you need to call the Police...

It is a good idea to call the police regardless of what the other person says. Depending on the amount of damages and where it occurred there may or may not be an official police report.
If the Police are called it is important to get the Police report number.

When do you need to contact you Insurance agent...

If it is your fault then file the claim with your insurance company -that information should be on the insurance card- If you don’t know, call your agent.

If it is the fault of the other party then file the claim with their insurance - that information should be on the insurance card.

When filing the claim they will need to know information on all the vehicles of the accident, location, information on the other party (they need to get ahold of them to get a statement etc.), any injuries and a brief description of what happened and where it happened. From there, an adjuster will be assigned and they will take things further and make all the decisions.

It is up to the insurance claims adjusters to determine fault, so if there is any issue with who is at-fault it may be best to file with your insurance company and let the two companies sort it out.

You can let your agent know what’s going on, but understand that we will direct you to file the claim since you have all the details and it is best they hear it all first hand.

What to Consider When Choosing Auto Insurance

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 15:42:05 GMT

Carrying a minimum amount of auto insurance is required by state laws, so you can’t legally drive without it. Yet while the minimum amount keeps your premiums lower, it can also put you at great risk if you have an accident. And after an accident is not the time to find out you’re underinsured.

When considering the amount and type of coverage you need, remember that numbers can be deceiving. For instance, carrying $100,000 of liability coverage may sound like a lot, and it is. But even that much likely won’t cover medical costs if you’re involved in an accident that causes serious injury, especially if multiple people are involved. When you consider medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, emotional distress, and residual pain and scarring, $100,000 doesn’t go very far. And without enough insurance, you would be required to pay the difference between your liability limits and actual costs of an accident.

The following are some important things to consider when shopping for auto insurance.

Cost isn’t everything. Don’t approach auto coverage like a commodity in which cost is the only factor. The amount you carry should be based on your lifestyle, earnings, how much and where you drive, your overall risk exposure, and other factors.
Personalize your search. We strongly suggest talking with an independent insurance agent about your personal risk exposure. This helps ensure you get the most appropriate coverage for your life and your budget, and it gives you a chance to ask an agent specific questions.
Physical damage vs. liability. Physical damage coverage helps pay for repairs to your car following an accident or loss. Comprehensive physical damage coverage goes even further by covering damage to your vehicle that does not result from a car accident, such as if a tree falls on it. Liability coverage pays medical bills and property damage you may be held responsible for if you cause an accident that injures another person or damages their property.

When deciding which option is best for you, consider your budget, financial assets, and risk exposure and select the highest limits you can afford. This helps reduce your risk of having to pay for any costs above your limits in case of accident or liability.
Uninsured and underinsured coverage. Some states require drivers to have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to pay damages you are entitled to if damages exceed the at-fault driver’s limits. Even if it is not required where you live, adding it to your policy can maximize your protection for a relatively low cost.

Coverage Options

Understanding different policy options can help you get the best combination of coverage, value, and cost. The following are a few common, and valuable, options to consider.

Loan/lease gap coverage. With this optional coverage, if the unpaid loan or lease amount exceeds the value of your car after an accident, your insurance policy will help cover the unpaid amount on the loan or lease minus what your car is actually worth today. If you were in an accident without this coverage, you would be responsible for the difference between the actual cash value and the unpaid loan balance.
New car replacement. If you have a new car, you may not have enough coverage to get an equivalent vehicle if your new car is totaled. New car replacement coverage will pay either the purchase price to replace the vehicle, the cost of a similar new vehicle, or the market value of the vehicle.
Roadside assistance and emergency expenses. Having roadside assistance and emergency expense coverages ensures you can get a tow truck, battery jump-start, tire changes, or even labor should your car break down. Emergency assistance can cover transportation, lodging, and personal property coverage. Much better than being stuck on the side of the road!
Pet coverage. We understand that pets are family, too. Pet coverage will help pay for the veterinary expenses if your dog or cat is injured or killed in a collision.

Ask About Discounts

When talking with an independent agent or comparing insurance companies, be sure to ask about discounts. Some ways to save on your premiums include:

Maintain a safe driving record. Installing a device or app that tracks your miles, driving behavior, and the time of day you drive can all demonstrate that you are a safe driver and could result in a noticeable discount.
Own a home. You’ll save on premiums if you own your house.
Package your policies. You can get a discount when you bundle your home, auto, boat, motorcycle, or other policies with a single insurance company. Having just one bill is more convenient too.
Paid in full billing. By paying your bill at the start or renewal of the policy rather than monthly, you can reduce your premiums.

To learn more about getting the right coverage for your needs, give us a call today!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Summer Driving Tips

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 18:55:51 GMT

Summer’s here. The sun has come out of hiding, and people have, too.

As crowds swell at the beaches, in parks, and even on roadways, it all makes for some challenging driving conditions. More people are out and about, whether on foot, bike, or skateboard, or by car, motorcycle, or RV, increasing the risk of an accident. And, the summer heat isn’t exactly kind to your vehicle.

Still, there’s no stopping the allure of a summer drive. To help keep yours safe, keep your attention on the road and on your surroundings, as well as on these safety tips.

Summertime Safety Behind the Wheel

Just like winter, summer has its own set of seasonal hazards that require your complete attention as a driver. Here are some to be particularly mindful of:

People: In your neighborhood, on city streets, in parking lots, and especially around parks, beaches, or any popular summer attraction, people are outdoors and often more focused on their enjoyment than on personal safety. Children are out of school and they might be playing in the street in a quiet neighborhood or chasing a basketball bouncing away from a driveway hoop. In summer, there is simply more human activity everywhere, and it’s up to you to slow down and stay alert.
Bikes and motorcycles: Bicyclists and motorcyclists are also more active in good weather. Pay attention and take extra care in areas that attract cyclists.
Glare: The sun’s glare is bright in summer, and even harsher when the sun is low and in your face. Have your sunglasses handy if you’re not already wearing them, and be ready to flip down the visor so you don’t spend even a second driving while blinded by the glare.
Roadway obstacles: A busy roadway is no place for a sofa. But, with scores of people completing summer moves, you might just encounter one. Keep an eye out for roadway obstacles and plan as far ahead as possible on how to safely maneuver around them. Thunderstorms and tropical storms can further clutter the roads with debris, tree limbs, or even downed power lines.
Heatstroke: Finally, don’t forget the dangers of summer parking. Children and pets left in parked cars are vulnerable to injury or even death from heatstroke. At an outside air temperature of 60 degrees, a car’s interior temperature can reach 110 degrees, which is a lethal level for children, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Rolling down car windows does not provide sufficient cooling, so don’t be tempted to leave children or pets for even a minute. It can be lethal—and in many states illegal—to leave children and pets alone. To help keep your car cool for when you return, park in the shade or place a removable sunshade in the windshield.

Road Trip Safety

A road trip with family and friends can make a memorable summer for both the right and the wrong reasons. Make it the right reasons with some careful planning and driving. There will be plenty of time for fun once you reach the campground, resort, or cabin.

Inspect your ride: Have a mechanic give your car, bike, or RV a full inspection before you go. Be especially mindful of coolant and oil levels to help protect your engine, and remember that tires often deflate with significant temperature changes, such as during the transition from spring to summer. If you have a bike carrier, car carrier, or trailer attached to your vehicle, be sure everything’s secure before taking off.
Pack your emergency supplies: We know space is at a premium when packing for a summer road trip, but don’t neglect to include some important necessities in case of emergency. This includes water, food, maps, first aid supplies, a tire pressure gauge and tire change kit, a flashlight, towels, and jumper cables. Be sure to keep your phone charged and gas tank full in case of trouble. And, don’t forget plenty of games, books, snacks, and activities to keep the passengers distracted—and to keep them from distracting you.
Plan your route: Map out how to reach your destination and how much time it will take to get there, and be sure to leave plenty of room for unexpected delays. Minimize those unexpected delays by checking the Department of Transportation websites of the states where you’ll be traveling for planned road work before you go.
Check your insurance coverage: Is your insurance ready to help out if you injure a pedestrian on your summer drive? What if you crash into a tree or run out of gas? If you’re not sure for what types of scenarios you’re covered, check in with us before heading out on your trip.
Take your time: Don’t get frustrated when unexpected delays—or fascinating roadside attractions—put you behind schedule. Keep to the speed limit, and don’t risk shortcuts that aren’t clearly marked. Take plenty of breaks to stretch your legs and rest your eyes while kids run off excess energy, and switch drivers when you’re drowsy.

There’s no better time to be on the road than when the sky’s clear and the sun’s shining. We wish you safe travels and a wonderful summer!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.