Raising Questions About Rising Water

Recent weather conditions across the U.S. have inspired us to write a blog about what YOU should do in the event of flooding in our area. With all of this heavy rainfall lately, the threat of flood in our area is rising as well as the water! We would like to share some tips with you on what you can do to help ease your circumstances in the event of a flood.

When you know flooding is a possibility, take the following steps to reduce your risk of loss:

• Protect your property from rising water damage:
      Use sandbags to protect openings such as exterior doors
      Park vehicles in high areas
      Raise the valuables you can not remove from your home setting them on higher items such as blocks and
      Remove any valuables you are able to

• Evacuate low lying areas and take your pets if able

• Always carry all of your important documents with you when evacuating, especially your insurance policies. We also recommend you keep additional copies in a safety deposit box or a copy on your computer

• Stay tuned to TV & radio stations reporting on conditions in your area, and do not return to your area until you have verified there are no hazardous threats remaining

Never assume that a water-damaged house is safe. Going into a building that has been flooded, even after the water is gone, can present a wide variety of hazards that can cause injury, illness or even death. Do not allow children in the home after the flood or while it is being cleaned, inspected or repaired.

When you are facing flood damage to your property, take the following steps to reduce hazardous risks to your health and property:
• Do not enter a flooded or wet building if the power is on. If any electrical circuits have gotten wet, get the power turned off at the main breaker or fuse box and leave it off until the electrical wiring or equipment has been inspected and repaired by a licensed electrician and approved by your local building inspector.

• Do not enter a building if the framing or foundation is damaged. Look carefully before you enter. Leave immediately if shifting or unusual noises signal a possible collapse of the building. Contact your local building inspector for a safety inspection.

• Remember, dangerous materials that might be found in flooded homes include pesticides, fuel oil, gasoline, chemicals and other substances that might have been brought in or spilled by the flood. If possible, wear Personal Protective Equipment such as gloves, boots and a mask when entering a flooded home.

• Also remember, dangerous materials are not the only health threat in a flooded home. Bacteria, viruses, molds and mildew can cause illness when you breathe them in or take them into your body through your mouth or through a cut in the skin. Bacteria or viruses may be left indoors by floodwater, while mold and mildew may grow indoors after the floodwater has receded. This is another reason you should wear Personal Protective Equipment when entering a flooded home.

• Move & act slowly in a flood damaged home. Assess each area you move to very carefully. Falling objects, broken or damaged building components and slick surfaces can cause injuries, broken bones, and cuts.

When making a flood insurance claim, after alerting your insurance agent -take the following steps to help ease the process:

 

 

*Take necessary steps to prevent your property from further damage, such as temporary repairs like boarding windows or doors and cutting off electricity (until you can have a profession come to properly repair damage)

• Set aside damaged property for further inspection by your insurance adjuster, making sure to not dispose of anything unless required by law.

• Thoroughly document any property that must be disposed of and take as many photos as possible

• Take pictures of the loss and all property damaged.

• Compile a list of all areas of structure damage and all items damaged.

• Track all claim-related expenses and keep copies of all receipts

Most importantly, as your Trusted Choice Insurance Agent, SouthGroup Insurance Gulf Coast wants you to know you can call on us with your questions or concerns seeking more helpful advice or answers to your pressing insurance questions. A full insurance review is always your best bet to make sure you have all of the adequate coverage for your personal insurance needs. Remember, we offer a personalized insurance review to anyone who is interested at no charge – just visit any one of our 3 convenient coastal locations!

We are your LOCAL Trusted Choice Advisors, SouthGroup-Gulf Coast http://www.southgroupgulfcoast.com / ,
SALES AND SERVICE AGENTS: Angelyn Treutel Zeringue, Tammy Garfield, Tammy Hogue, Brittany Jones, Denise Russell, Melissa Moran, Alex Treutel, Susan Monti, Anne Gillam, Ashlie Moody, Michael Reso, Mark Strickland, and Whitney Zimmerman at SouthGroup Gulf Coast. You can reach us by snail-mail or in person: 412 Hwy 90, Suite 6, Bay St Louis MS 39520, email: atreutel@southgroup.net , phone: 228-466-4498 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 228-466-4498 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting , fax:888-415-8922, FaceBook www.facebook.com/southgroup.gulfcoast, or Twitter www.twitter.com/atreutel !

We have 3 Gulf Coast locations to serve you - 2505 Pass Road - Biloxi, 5400 Indian Hill-Diamondhead, and 412 Hwy 90 Ste 6-Bay Saint Louis, MS. We write coverage in 40 different states and can assist you with Mississippi insurance, Louisiana insurance, and Alabama insurance and many other states. Insurance is stressful, but we make saving easy.  We help you save money on insurance!

Thanks to Susan Monti for her words of wisdom!

 

 

Home Sweet Home Maintenance - aka Ways to Save Money on Insurance

One of the most important things you can do as a homeowner is often overlooked.  We watch our insurance bills, tax bills and everything that keeps the house running financially - but are we actually giving enough attention to the home itself? Experts say that a little home maintenance goes a long way and saves you money long term.  For example, trimming away tree branches near or touching your roof can extend the life of your shingles.  This example and many other items also happen to be the minor issues that can make or break your insurance contract.  In some cases, poor home maintenance signifies lack of pride in ownership which is a breach of your insurance contract.   Seasonally your check list could vary, but while we move from a very rainy spring into our usual humid summertime here on the gulf here is a checklist you can use that may help save you a lot of money long term. 

> Check your roof for leaks or damage such as peeling shingles or holes.  Be sure to check around vents, skylights and chimneys carefully to be sure there are no gaps or leaks.  If you discover any issues, resolve them as quickly as possible.  If you can't resolve immediately, patch the area to protect from further damage while you await repairs.  Also, if you discover damage, be sure to check the interior of your home in the same area for ceiling damage.

> Keeping the air moving in your attic is a must! If you don't have a ridge vent, be sure you keep your gable vents open year round for proper ventilation.  Living in a humid area like this, ventilation is key in preventing issues such as mold.

> Keep your gutters clean! Clogged gutters and drain pipes can also result in damage to your home. Make sure downspouts drain away from your foundation and are clear of debris.  

> Replace your Air Conditioning filters! Filtering the air is only a small part of the necessary filtering for home maintenance.  Not only should you replace your Air Conditioning filters once a month but also check your dryer ventilation and stove ventilation to make sure passageways are clear without obstruction and working properly.  Check these both internally and externally.  Speaking from experience, have you ever considered a maintenance check on your air conditioning unit? Most of us don't think about this until a problem occurs, but with light maintenance you can extend the life of your unit and avoid possible home damage from flooding units.

> Detectors are critical!  Not only do we want you to stay safe, but in many cases keeping your safety equipment active offers additional insurance discounts. Ensure that all your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers are in good working order.  Replace batteries as needed.

> Regularly check your plumbing by feeling the pipes for leaks and looking underneath.  If you find a leak, do your best to prevent damage and repair.  Often times pipes spread or loosen over time or as your home shifts and most of us don't think to check this on a regular basis.  You will be surprised at the minor leaks you can discover under a sink.  And, though a leak can be minor, the damage can be major over time.  While checking your plumbing, be sure to check the hose connections for your washing machine and dishwasher and the tubing connections for your ice maker.

> Check for Mold! In the bathrooms, be sure to check shower and tub surrounds for any signs of damage or mold as well as your toilet supply/shut-off valve.

> Window Seals Needed! Regardless of the season, drafty doors and windows cost money! A large enough draft invites damaging rodents or rainwater into your home, but even a small draft can suck away energy costing you hundreds! Replace seals as needed.

> No Holes Allowed! Check the exterior of your home for cracks or holes in your siding or paint.  Replace caulk immediately if you see areas where it has cracked or fallen away leaving a gap without a seal.  Also, when you discover any damage - verify that it is caused by wear and tear instead of rodents.

> Know Your Water Heater Condition! Check your water heater thoroughly to verify that it is in proper running condition without leaks.  At least once a year you should drain the water heater and remove sediment from the bottom of the tank.  This will also extend the life of this very expensive appliance.

> Look up! Check your ceilings whenever you think of it for water damage.  What's not in view today could be tomorrow.  This is especially important after heavy rainfall.

> No Pesky Pests! Check your home for termites and other rodents by doing a full walk around inspection of the exterior of your home and also checking your attic if able.  Signs would include droppings, heavy dust piles, and holes. Remember, never store firewood within 2 feet of your home and always store at least 18" above ground to prevent termites.

> Check the Sockets! Electrical fires remain one of the main reasons for total home losses due to house fires.  Prevention is key and takes little effort.  Walk around your home to check all of your outlets for proper hot, neutral and ground.  Check all electrical cords to ensure there is no damage.  Remove outdated electric air fresheners from outlets and do not leave active air fresheners in outlets when not in use. 

> Remove Tripping Hazards! Keeping your property safe not only protects you and your loved ones, but also protects your assets in the event someone could be injured.  For instance, check your property for safety hazards that could result in persons tripping and falling for any reason.  Check your property for low areas.  After such heavy rainfall this spring, low areas can create trip hazards or foundation issues as well as pool water causing dangerous insect breeding grounds.

> Lock the Gate! Always be sure the fence around your swimming pool is in tact, has a working lock and will keep unwanted visitors away from the area. 

Staying on top of regular home maintenance helps you avoid costly repairs or worse! Scheduling seasonal inspections is a great way to start doing what you can to prevent hazards and expenses that you don't need while also making your home a better place to live.  After this extensive winter, the summer sun is soon to shine on your leaf infested gutters, dead plants and cracked driveways.  Now is the time to get your home back to 100% so you can relax and enjoy the summertime!

Do you have maintenance tips to share? Post them in the comments below.  Remember, a free insurance review is always in season.  We can review your policies with you to be sure you have the proper, personalized coverage you need.  We know, just like home maintenance, your insurance also needs regular reviews to verify you have the best coverage available to you at the best rates.  Call our office today to arrange your visit with one of our trusted choice agents at any of our 3 convenient coastal locations.


We are your LOCAL Trusted Choice Advisors, SouthGroup-Gulf Coast http://www.southgroupgulfcoast.com / ,
SALES AND SERVICE AGENTS: Angelyn Treutel Zeringue, Tammy Garfield, Tammy Hogue, Brittany Jones, Denise Russell, Melissa Moran, Alex Treutel, Susan Monti, Anne Gillam, Ashlie Moody, Michael Reso, Mark Strickland, and Whitney Zimmerman at SouthGroup Gulf Coast. You can reach us by snail-mail or in person: 412 Hwy 90, Suite 6, Bay St Louis MS 39520, email: atreutel@southgroup.net , phone: 228-466-4498 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 228-466-4498 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting , fax:888-415-8922, FaceBook www.facebook.com/southgroup.gulfcoast, or Twitter www.twitter.com/atreutel !

We have 3 Gulf Coast locations to serve you - 2505 Pass Road - Biloxi, 5400 Indian Hill-Diamondhead, and 412 Hwy 90 Ste 6-Bay Saint Louis, MS. We write coverage in 40 different states and can assist you with Mississippi insurance, Louisiana insurance, and Alabama insurance and many other states. Insurance is stressful, but we make saving easy.  We help you save money on insurance!

Thanks to Susan Monti for her words of wisdom!

Help! Someone has stolen my identity!!

For decades, identity theft has been an issue. In the past, your mail was stolen from your mailbox or from your garbage. People would steal things like credit card offers sent to you, complete them, and then have YOUR new credit card sent to THEIR address instead. Today, due to the boom in technology, identity theft is more prevalent than ever - and much more common.

As we recognize the seriousness of this threat, SouthGroup Gulf Coast is hosting a Free Shred Drop April 14-30, 2014. As part of our commitment to community service, we invite you to deliver your old personal documents to one of our 3 convenient coastal locations (Bay St Louis, Biloxi, or Diamondhead). We will protect and have these documents shredded at no expense to you. Anyone with an identity to protect is welcome to participate!

Millions of dollars have been stolen from individuals through stolen identity credit card purchases loans and more. Millions upon millions of dollars have been spent trying to prevent the theft and capture the perpetrators. The damaging effects of identity theft are huge. Many peoples' credit and reputation have been destroyed because of the misuse of their identity. Also, unfortunately, once identity theft has occurred it is a timely and costly process to get it resolved.

Fear of identity theft has spawned a huge industry of protection-related products. But you can do a lot of the same things on your own without paying a fee. For instance, putting a fraud alert on your account entitles you to a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus every 90 days. Add in the free annual crediet reports you can get from each bureau at www.annualcreditreport.com, and you're entitled to 15 free credit reports every year. Some banks automatically provide ID-theft insurance to checking-account holders and some insurers include ID-theft coverage in their homeowners insurance policies for a very low cost. And you can get free help from the http://www.idtheftcenter.org/ and the attorney general's office in some states.

Here are some ways to identify if you have been a victim of identity theft:
-Unusual withdrawals from your bank account
-You are no longer receiving your mail
-Merchants refuse your checks or credit cards
-Debt collectors call you about debts you didn’t incur
-You find unfamiliar accounts, loans or charges on your credit report
-Medical providers bill you for services you did not receive, or your health insurance rejects your claim because records indicate you have reached your benefit limit
-You can’t get health insurance because your medical records show a condition you do not have
-The IRS notifies you that multiple tax returns were filed in your name

A very common type of identity theft is tricking a victim into giving out personal information such as a social security identification or a credit card number. Phishing is one of the preferred method of fraudsters. Phishing works by obtaining your personal information through the use of misleading e-mails or pop-up messages from what appears to be a legitimate companies such as your bank or internet service providers. In some cases, this is also done by phone.

Protecting your personal information can help reduce your risk of identity theft. The best ways to do so are: be careful with whom you share your information, store and dispose of your personal information securely, and maintain appropriate security on your computers and other electronic devices.

Identity theft continues to be one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States. It is important for consumers to recognize that identity theft is not just a financial crime. This crime varies widely, and can include financial identity theft (checking and/or credit card fraud), criminal identity theft, governmental identity theft and even medical identity theft. It can be a difficult crime for a victim. Your life has been altered. You are faced with tasks that may be confusing and situations you don't know how to handle. Unfortunately, in the case of identity theft the burden of proving innocence rests on the shoulders of the victim.

Many insurance companies offer Identity Theft insurance as an endorsement to home insurance policies and some offer separate policies just for this coverage. Unfortunately, insurance can not prevent the incident from happening. You must be proactive to prevent identity theft. But insurance can help you if you become a victim with reimbursement for expenses incurred during the legal recovery process, as well as personal help. SouthGroup Gulf Coast, your Trusted Choice Advisor, is here to locally aid you with this type of coverage and, while we hope you never become a victim, we will be here to help you through the recovery process.

Again, as we recognize the seriousness of this threat, SouthGroup Gulf Coast is hosting a Free Shred Drop April 14-30, 2014. As part of our commitment to community service, we invite you to deliver your old personal documents to one of our 3 convenient coastal locations. We will protect and have these documents shredded at no expense to you. Anyone with an identity to protect is welcome to participate!

We are your LOCAL Trusted Choice Advisors, SouthGroup-Gulf Coast http://www.southgroupgulfcoast.com / ,
SALES AND SERVICE AGENTS: Angelyn Treutel Zeringue, Tammy Garfield, Tammy Hogue, Brittany Jones, Denise Russell, Melissa Moran, Alex Treutel, Susan Monti, Anne Gillam, Ashlie Moody, Michael Reso and Whitney Zimmerman at SouthGroup Gulf Coast. You can reach us by snail-mail or in person: 412 Hwy 90, Suite 6, Bay St Louis MS 39520, email: atreutel@southgroup.net , phone: 228-466-4498 , fax:888-415-8922, FaceBook www.facebook.com/southgroup.gulfcoast, or Twitter www.twitter.com/atreutel !
We have 3 Gulf Coast locations to serve you - 2505 Pass Road - Biloxi, 5400 Indian Hill-Diamondhead, and 412 Hwy 90 Ste 6-Bay Saint Louis, MS. We write coverage in 40 different states and can assist you with Mississippi insurance, Louisiana insurance, and Alabama insurance and many other states. Insurance is stressful, but we make saving easy.  We help you save money on insurance!

Thanks to Susan Monti for her words of wisdom!

Happy Healthy Easter Holiday - How to avoid the post-feasting blues

Though Easter is overshadowed in the feasting department compared to Christmas or Thanksgiving, it is still traditionally a time when families get together to socialize and eat! Eat! Eat! But, the hardest part of eating like it's Christmas in spring is dealing with the aftermath of bikini weather. Not only that, but do you really want to lay around like you ate a whole turkey on a gorgeous, sunny, Easter afternoon? Us neither! Here are's some important tips regarding what to eat, how to eat it, and what to do, to make Easter healthier for you and the ones you love:

First, let's review some basic eating habits you should incorporate into your daily routine and not just for holidays. Having a steady metabolism is key to how many calories you are able to burn. Eating a small breakfast every day can increase your metabolism by 10%, in turn, enabling you to better burn that big lunch later in the day. Did you know that protein generally requires about 25% more energy to digest? Because protein takes longer to break down than fat and carbohydrate, the body uses more energy to digest protein, and this helps you burn more calories as well. Also, diets rich in fiber help keep you full longer which is important for weight management.

Let's discuss some simple tricks you can use to help you defend yourself in the battle of over indulgence. Bringing your own healthy dish to contribute to the feast will ensure you have something healthy to eat. Filling up on soups and salads prior to the main course (always avoid cream based soups and heavy salad dressing) is a great way to help you manage how much of the less healthy items you will be able to eat. Concentrate on your meal while you're eating it. Focus on chewing your food well and enjoying the smell, taste, and texture of each item. Be fully aware of each item you are consuming. If the meal will be served near your usual meal time, try to eat the same amount of carbohydrates that you normally would for a meal. If you plan to have a portion of dessert, cut back on another carbohydrate food during the main course. Make sure your portions are reasonable and resist going back for second helpings. Whether it’s a glass of red wine or a beer, holiday drinking can add a significant amount of calories to your intake. Avoid drinks that have high calorie mixers like regular soda, tonic, juice or margarita mix that are all packed with carbohydrate and calories.

Try healthier versions of your favorite foods and get your family and friends on board with you. Will the casserole taste just as good with fat free or light sour cream? Can you steam green beans instead of sautéing in butter? Use a little less sugar in your fruit pie. The natural sweet of the fruit doesn’t require a lot of added sugar. Many traditional holiday foods are high in carbohydrates: mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, dinner rolls, and an assortment of desserts. Don't feel like you have to sample everything on the table. Have a reasonable portion of your favorites and pass on the rest. Because high carbohydrate foods are plentiful at most family feasts, watch your portion sizes. If you can't decide on one or two carbohydrate foods to eat, take in very small portions of each.

Holidays are an opportunity to catch up with friends and family, but the focus on food and eating can be very tough. Have no fear, there are ways to control your carb intake and to eat healthy on this holiday. Remember, the focus is getting together with loved ones - not what's for dinner. Play games, volunteer, or spend time outdoors enjoying the weather together. One reason that we have problems managing weight during the holidays is our lack of physical activity. Sure, the holidays are busy, but plan time into each day for exercise and don’t break your routine. Make the holidays an active time! And don't forget to offer to help clean up after the meal to get you moving around!

If you eat more carbs or food than you planned for, don’t think you have failed. Stop eating and focus on spending the rest of your time with the people around you. Include extra exercise and get back on track with your usual eating habits the next day. The best way to compensate for eating a little more than usual is to be active. Start a new tradition that involves taking a walk with the whole family or playing outdoor sports like volley ball or frisbee.

And don't forget your veggies! Vegetables are important for everyone! Unfortunately, the vegetable selection on holiday menus is usually limited. We all want to dress up the table with tempting treats. Why not add some colorful vegetable dishes? Veggies come in all colors and are very nutritious. Offer to bring a green salad or a side of steamed veggies that have been seasoned. Non-starchy veggies are low in carbs and calories. They will help fill you up and keep you from overeating other high-calorie and high-fat foods on the table.

We are your LOCAL Trusted Choice Advisors, SouthGroup-Gulf Coast http://www.southgroupgulfcoast.com / ,
SALES AND SERVICE AGENTS: Angelyn Treutel Zeringue, Tammy Garfield, Tammy Hogue, Brittany Jones, Denise Russell, Melissa Moran, Alex Treutel, Susan Monti, Anne Gillam, Ashlie Moody, Michael Reso and Whitney Zimmerman at SouthGroup Gulf Coast. You can reach us by snail-mail or in person: 412 Hwy 90, Suite 6, Bay St Louis MS 39520, email: atreutel@southgroup.net , phone: 228-466-4498 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 228-466-4498 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting , fax:888-415-8922, FaceBook www.facebook.com/southgroup.gulfcoast, or Twitter www.twitter.com/atreutel !
 

We have 3 Gulf Coast locations to serve you - 2505 Pass Road - Biloxi, 5400 Indian Hill-Diamondhead, and 412 Hwy 90 Ste 6-Bay Saint Louis, MS. We write coverage in 40 different states and can assist you with Mississippi insurance, Louisiana insurance, and Alabama insurance and many other states. Insurance is stressful, but we make saving easy.  We help you save money on insurance!

Thanks to Susan Monti for her words of wisdom!

Singing in the Rain - and Driving Safely Too !!

As April showers continue to plummet us, SouthGroup wanted to review some driving safety tips for the rainy weather we have been dealing with and will be continuing to deal with until we see May flowers.

Driving in the rain is always dangerous and even more so at night. Once the roads are wet, the odds have worsened regardless of the amount of rain dumped onto the streets. Of course, in areas of the road that hold water, the odds of danger increase significantly. The most important thing to do while driving any time, but especially in dangerous conditions, is pay attention!

Distractions are one of the leading causes of auto accidents today. Today we have more distractions than we have had in the past, such as cell phones buzzing that we want to check immediately. We recommend, in dangerous conditions, you turn off anything that may distract you (your cell phone, stereo, etc ) from focusing on the road ahead. While you focus on the road ahead, do be sure to check all of your mirrors regularly to keep a clear view of what is happening around you. In severe weather, you could be in danger of falling electrical wires or poles, trees, or other cars who have lost control and are heading in your direction.

While keeping focused and paying close attention, also remember you want others to be able to focus on you too! Everyone should have their headlights on in rainy weather conditions, regardless of how bright it may be out. Not only is your visibility important, but being visible to others also increases your safety. In heavy rain, your headlights will also assist you in seeing what is in front of you. Some things are easy to miss, such as obstacles in the road, in heavy rain.

Distancing your vehicle from those in front of you is a safety practice we should all use whenever we are behind the wheel, but even more so in rainy weather. Driver safety training recommends allowing 1 second of following distance per 10 miles per hour of speed. And remember not to rush in rainy weather, even if you are in a hurry. Drive at or below the speed limit to the point that you can see far enough in front of you to appropriately make driving decisions. Last second choices are far too dangerous on wet roads.

Know your tires and what they can handle! The maximum speed at which you can drive at all times is directly related to your tires. Keep an eye on the condition of your tires. With use, tires lose their ability to grip wet pavement and channel water out as the tread wears out. A penny can be substituted for a tire tread depth gauge as tires wear to the critical final few 32nds of an inch of their remaining tread depth. Place a penny into several tread grooves across the tire. If part of Lincoln's head is always covered by the tread, you have more than 2/32" of tread depth remaining.

The largest threat to driving on wet roads (even when it is not currently raining) is hydroplaning. Hydroplaning is where your vehicle travels on top of the water and has no or very little contact with the ground. Your traction is reduced significantly. To safely get out of a hydroplaning situation let off the gas and steer straight or slightly in the direction you must go. Do not make sudden motions, and remain calm. Never engage cruise control driving on wet roads. Using your cruise control feature during wet conditions increases your risk of hydroplaning. When you see standing water or flooded roads and you are not sure of the depth, do not attempt to drive through. Flooding the engine of your car can cause the engine to stall, and deep water can actually float your car and take it off the roadway. Watch for splashing from potholes and pools of water that accumulate at clogged storm drain pipes and low areas of the pavement. Highways also develop "ruts" where the heaviest traffic tracks, and you may be able to position your vehicle while remaining in your lane to avoid these. Also, be aware that brakes can be affected by water. Wet drum type brakes are especially prone to decreased stopping power after driving through deep water.

Visibility in heavy rain is another major threat. We recommend pulling over until you are able to see clearly enough to drive safely. If you must drive through without stopping, increase your visibility by turning on the defroster if the windshield begins to fog. In hot, muggy weather, air conditioned air (which cannot contain as much moisture) will usually clear the inside of the windshield faster than non air conditioned. To prepare in advance, use a rain repellent product on side windows and mirrors to clear standing raindrops. Beware of driving in the rain, especially at night. Motorcycles or even other dark-colored cars can be camouflaged amongst glistening raindrops on side windows and mirrors.

Remember to always check your vehicle before taking long trips - especially if you expect dangerous weather conditions in your travels. Check not only your tires, but your brakes and brake fluid, power steering fluid levels, windshield wipers (for wear), defroster is properly functioning, and lights are properly functioning. Always avoid driving in severe weather conditions if you are able.

Did you know that some auto insurance companies discount your policy premiums for safe driving records and good driving history? Call our office today to find out if your insurance policy is providing you the proper discounts, or visit one of our 3 convenient coastal locations for a free insurance review of all your policies. SouthGroup Insurance strives to provide the best coverage to each of our clients on a personal level at the best rates available.

We are your LOCAL Trusted Choice Advisors, SouthGroup-Gulf Coast http://www.southgroupgulfcoast.com / ,
SALES AND SERVICE AGENTS: Angelyn Treutel Zeringue, Tammy Garfield, Tammy Hogue, Brittany Jones, Denise Russell, Melissa Moran, Alex Treutel, Susan Monti, Anne Gillam, Ashlie Moody, Michael Reso and Whitney Zimmerman at SouthGroup Gulf Coast. You can reach us by snail-mail or in person: 412 Hwy 90, Suite 6, Bay St Louis MS 39520, email: atreutel@southgroup.net , phone: 228-466-4498 , fax:888-415-8922, FaceBook www.facebook.com/southgroup.gulfcoast, or Twitter www.twitter.com/atreutel !

 

We have 3 Gulf Coast locations to serve you - 2505 Pass Road - Biloxi, 5400 Indian Hill-Diamondhead, and 412 Hwy 90 Ste 6-Bay Saint Louis, MS. We write coverage in 40 different states and can assist you with Mississippi insurance, Louisiana insurance, and Alabama insurance and many other states. Insurance is stressful, but we make saving easy.  We help you save money on insurance!

Thanks to Susan Monti for her words of wisdom!

 

Help! I'm confused about Auto Insurance! ANSWER:Here's How to Ready Your Policy Contract

We all need to have insurance coverage for the vehicles we drive, not only because of law enforcement, but also because it's smart! Regrettably, some people only obtain coverage for what the law requires – which results in being under-insured when you need it for something other than the legal obligation. Others only want what their lienholder requires, which overlooks additional options that could be very useful. None of us like to think about the moments when we may need to actually use the coverage, but unfortunately things happen.

Let's break down the basics of auto insurance, starting with what is required by law and why:

In short, Auto Insurance is a policy purchased by vehicle owners to mitigate the costs associated with getting into an auto accident. Auto insurance premiums vary depending on: vehicle year/make/model, driver age/driving history, and other minor factors such as vehicle safety reports and repair costs. Most states mandate that all vehicles must be covered by the minimum amount of insurance.

Mississippi law requires that all drivers maintain liability insurance and carry proof of that insurance in their vehicles at all times showing that coverage is in place with minimum limits of 25/50/25. To many, "25/50/25" looks foreign. Here is the secret code breaker on how to read the average auto insurance policy: $25,000 maximum will be paid by the policy per person (limited to a single accident), $50,000 maximum paid per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 maximum paid per accident for property damage. When you are responsible for an accident, liability coverage pays for the damage you cause to other people's health and their property, and it protects your assets from seizure and litigation.

Remember, if you are at fault in an accident, liability coverage will only pay up to your limits of insurance. You will be responsible for any damages over that amount. In todayʼs era of ever-rising medical costs and auto repair bills, the state-mandated minimum requirements of 25/50/25 are not sufficient. It is a good idea to consider purchasing liability coverage with higher limits. Consider the total value of your assets and income, and speak with your Trusted Choice insurance agent to discuss what liability limits of coverage are best suited for you personally.

　

All other coverages are optional, unless you have a loan on your vehicle. If you have a loan, your bank will require that you have Comprehensive (Comp) and Collision (Coll) coverage to protect their interest in the vehicle until your loan is paid off. If your insured vehicle is damaged due to an event other than a collision, Comprehensive coverage will pay for the damage. This includes damages from fire, theft, windstorm, flood and vandalism. Comprehensive coverage is also the coverage used for glass claims, such as when a rock hits your windsheild and causes spider like cracks. When your insured vehicle overturns or collides with another object, Collision coverage pays for the damage to repair or replace your vehicle. Both of these coverages include a deductible. A deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of your pocket for the damage which results from an at-fault accident. You can reduce your premiums by agreeing to take on more risk, which is accomplished by increasing your deductible. If you do not have a loan on your vehicle, it is still recommended to carry these coverages so that you are fully protected in the event your vehicle is damaged or totaled in an incident. However, the current market value of your vehicle will impact the amount of payment you would receive in the event of an accident.

Again, we recommend you review the current value of your vehicle based on age, mileage and wear, and discuss this information with your Trusted Choice insurance agent to decide if these coverages are reasonable options for your vehicle.

Coverage to protect you in the event that you are struck by an uninsured motorist (UM) or under-insured motorist (UIM) are listed on your policy in the same way as your own liability coverage, such as 25/50/25. If a driver or owner of a vehicle does not have insurance and is legally liable for an accident with you, you can use your UM coverage for injuries, including death, that you, your resident relatives, and any occupants of your insured vehicle sustain, up to the limits you selected for your policy. Or, if a driver or owner of a vehicle is legally liable for an accident but does not have enough insurance, you can use your UIM coverage. So, in other words, the UM/UIM coverage protects YOU, and the coverage needs to be sufficient for your protection. $25,000 is just too low, and probably won’t even cover the cost to repair/replace your vehicle. When purchasing these coverages, consider the value of your vehicle as well as how much coverage you have in health insurance and your deductible options to help you decide what limits of coverage are best suited for you.

Medical Payments (MedPay) is an optional insurance coverage that pays for reasonable and necessary medical and funeral expenses for you and any occupants of your vehicle or the other guy’s vehicle. These expenses must be incurred as a result of an auto accident, but in most cases does not mean you or the injured party have to be in your insured vehicle to use this coverage. Many policies also extend MedPay coverage to claims where insured pedestrians are struck by vehicles as well. This is a very valuable and low cost coverage, and many people match the deductible on their health insurance with the amount MedPay coverages, so that both polices may be used to cover the cost of a hospital visit. Review your MedPay coverage with your Trusted Choice Agent to verify what limits are included on your policy.

Roadside Assistance Coverage provides services such as towing, flat tire change, locksmith service and battery jump-start to customers, who can elect the service for an additional premium. Depending on the insurance provider, in some cases you contact your insurance company when in need of assistance while other companies require you acquire the service, pay and then supply the receipt for reimbursement.

Rental Reimbursement Coverage provides rental car coverage if you have a claim that is covered under Comprehensive or Collision coverage. Daily rental amounts are subject to the limit purchased on your policy. Many people mistake this coverage as being available for any time a rental car is used by the insured, but this coverage is actually only used in the event of a claim.

Most Auto Insurance companies offer Gap Insurance. If your insured car is totaled in an accident, or stolen and unrecovered, your auto insurance company may give you a settlement based on the car’s actual cash value (ACV) at that time, and not what you actually paid for it. Since cars depreciate in value quickly, your settlement may not cover what you still owe on your auto loan or lease. Gap insurance covers the difference between what the car is worth and what you owe on the car. One of the biggest mistakes consumers make in buying car gap insurance is to buy it at the dealership where it costs more. When purchasing a new vehicle, contact your Trusted Choice Agent to see if this option is available to you.

This information covers the basics of Auto Insurance, but does not break down other rules and regulations. To learn more, contact SouthGroup Insurance today by calling or visiting one of our 3 convenient coastal locations. We recommend an annual insurance review to all of our clients and welcome new visitors to let us review your coverage with you also and make sure you have the best coverage for your personal needs at the best rates available.

Still sound like a foreign language? Call SouthGroup Insurance and speak with one of our licensed agents to learn more. We offer full insurance reviews of all your policies at no charge, helping you better understand what coverage is best suited for you personally and why. No appointment is necessary to visit one of our 3 convenient coastal locations in Bay St. Louis, Diamondhead and Biloxi.

We are your LOCAL Trusted Choice Advisors, SouthGroup-Gulf Coast http://www.southgroupgulfcoast.com / ,
SALES AND SERVICE AGENTS: Angelyn Treutel Zeringue, Tammy Garfield, Tammy Hogue, Brittany Jones, Denise Russell, Melissa Moran, Alex Treutel, Susan Monti, Anne Gillam, Ashlie Moody, Michael Reso and Whitney Zimmerman at SouthGroup Gulf Coast. You can reach us by snail-mail or in person: 412 Hwy 90, Suite 6, Bay St Louis MS 39520, email: atreutel@southgroup.net , phone: 228-466-4498 , fax:888-415-8922, FaceBook www.facebook.com/southgroup.gulfcoast, or Twitter www.twitter.com/atreutel !

 

We have 3 Gulf Coast locations to serve you - 2505 Pass Road - Biloxi, 5400 Indian Hill-Diamondhead, and 412 Hwy 90 Ste 6-Bay Saint Louis, MS. We write coverage in 40 different states and can assist you with Mississippi insurance, Louisiana insurance, and Alabama insurance and many other states. Insurance is stressful, but we make saving easy.  We help you save money on insurance!

Thanks to Susan Monti for her words of wisdom!