Navigating Claims: What to Expect When Using Your Umbrella Policy

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When life throws unexpected challenges your way, an umbrella policy can be your safety net. At Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency in Lansing, IA, we understand the importance of knowing what to expect when making a claim. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

Understanding Your Umbrella Coverage

The first step is to familiarize yourself with your umbrella policy. This type of insurance provides extra liability coverage beyond your standard policies’ limits. Whether it’s a major accident or a significant legal claim, your umbrella policy steps in when your primary coverage maxes out.

How to File a Claim

When you need to file a claim, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible. They will guide you through the necessary steps and documentation. Be prepared to provide details about the incident, including any reports or evidence. Clear communication with your agent can streamline the process and help resolve your claim efficiently.

Understanding the Claims Process

Once your claim is filed, it will be reviewed to determine the extent of coverage. This evaluation involves assessing the incident and verifying the details provided. It’s important to stay patient during this phase, as it ensures a thorough and fair assessment.

Receiving Compensation

If your claim is approved, your umbrella policy will cover the costs that exceed your primary policy’s limits. This can include legal fees, medical expenses, and more. Rest assured, Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency is committed to guiding you through every step.

Contact Us Today for More Information on Umbrella Insurance Policies

For personalized assistance and to learn more about how an umbrella policy can benefit you, contact Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency in Lansing, IA. We’re here to provide the support and expertise you need.

What can occur if I do not have flood insurance in the state of Iowa?

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Owning a property in Lansing, IA, represents both an ideal housing opportunity and a noteworthy investment. Despite the advantages of property ownership, there are inherent risks, including flood damage. Consequently, all residents are urged to consider flood insurance, as the repercussions of lacking coverage can be severe.

Lack of Financial Protection for Flood Damage

One of the most significant risks you’ll face without flood insurance is a lack of financial coverage for flood-induced damages. If your property falls victim to flooding, the remediation cost can quickly rise, becoming substantial. A standard home insurance policy typically doesn’t cover flood damage, leaving you without the necessary financial assistance in the absence of a dedicated flood insurance policy.

Potential Violation of Legal Agreements

In some cases, not having a flood insurance can mean violating certain agreements. Due to the significant protection flood insurance offers to homeowners, it’s often mandatory for property owners residing in designated flood zones to carry it, as per the requirements of lenders and homeowner associations. If you’re required to have this coverage and fail to do so, it can result in penalties.

In the Lansing, IA area, flood insurance is often obligatory. If you’re interested in securing this type of coverage, contact our Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency team. Our experts are prepared to guide you in assessing your flood insurance needs and developing an effective plan.

The Benefits of a Non-Owner Auto Insurance Policy

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One of the major determinants of insurance rates is whether a person maintains continuous coverage without lapsing their policy. When coverage lapses, you may be required to pay significantly more than if you had continuous coverage. At Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency in Lansing, IA, we believe it’s crucial for customers to comprehend the perks of keeping continuous auto insurance coverage, even if they don’t personally own a vehicle.

Unfortunately, many let their auto policies lapse when they find themselves without a vehicle. The big misconception is that a person doesn’t require auto insurance if they don’t have a car. However, in the state of Iowa, drivers have the option of acquiring a non-owner insurance policy.

What is a Non-Owner Policy?

A non-owner insurance policy caters to drivers who do not personally own or have access to a vehicle at their residence. It’s a flexible solution that allows you to buy liability coverage to protect yourself financially if you cause an accident while driving a vehicle you’ve received permission to use. This flexibility can give you a sense of liberation, knowing you’re covered regardless of your vehicle.

Drivers with non-owner policies often drive borrowed cars. Additionally, non-owner auto insurance policy drivers benefit from coverage when utilizing a car-sharing service. Lastly, if you rent cars frequently, you would greatly benefit from a non-owner policy. Typically, having non-owner insurance is significantly less expensive than purchasing liability insurance from a rental car company.

A non-owner policy is usually less expensive than traditional liability coverage when insuring a vehicle, making it incredibly affordable to obtain a policy even when you don’t own a vehicle. This affordability can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you’re not breaking the bank to stay protected on the road.

Get in Touch With Us Today!

At Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency in Lansing, IA, we understand that saving money is your top priority when obtaining auto insurance, and we’re here to help. Call us today at (563) 538-4207.

Should I Buy Life Insurance for My Child? Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency

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As parents, we continuously strive to protect and assure the well-being of our children, aiming to provide for them in every possible manner. One topic that often sparks debates among families is the need and justification for purchasing life insurance for children. At the Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency in Lansing, IA, we understand the severity of this decision. Although the idea of insuring a child’s life may seem unusual, there are compelling reasons why this financial planning strategy could be advantageous in the long run.

Should I Purchase Life Insurance for My Child?

When considering whether to buy life insurance for your child, it’s crucial to look beyond the immediate benefits and ponder the long-term advantages. While it may seem needless to insure a young child who is unlikely to pass away, life insurance can offer financial protection in the event of unexpected circumstances. Additionally, investing in a policy early in your child’s life could secure lower premiums as they grow older and potentially develop health issues that could affect their insurability.

Furthermore, purchasing life insurance for your child can also serve as an investment for their future. Some policies have cash value components that accumulate over time and can be used for various purposes, such as college tuition or a down payment for a house. By viewing life insurance as a safety net and a financial growth tool, you’re setting your child up for stability and security from an early age.

Contact Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency in Lansing, IA for a Life Insurance Policy

At Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of securing life insurance for all ages. Contact us today to begin your life insurance policy. 

Other Structures Coverage – What It Is and How It Protects

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Your home insurance policy can encompass coverage for your garage, shed, fence, and other structures on your property. To use these benefits effectively, we recommend familiarizing yourself with this ‘other structures’ coverage and understanding how it offers protection to homeowners.

Other Structures Coverage

‘Other structures’ coverage is an insurance add-on that can be integrated into an existing home insurance policy. Alternatively, it can also be included while drafting a new home insurance policy. This coverage pertains to any structure erected on your property, providing the same level of protection as granted by a standard home insurance policy.

Repairs and Replacements

An ‘other structures’ insurance add-on covers the cost of repair or replacement in case a structure incurs damage. For instance, if inclement weather damages your property’s fence, this coverage from your home insurance policy will reimburse the costs incurred in its repair or replacement. The insurance covers both: damaged materials that can be repaired and those irreparably destroyed. The coverage will bear the cost of new materials required to fix the fence.

Assessment

Before purchasing the ‘other structures’ coverage, it’s recommended you thoroughly assess the structures on your property. Determine their condition and value, whether fencing, sheds, or other additional structures.

Contact Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency

Contact us at the Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency. Serving the Lansing, IA region, our agents are here to guide you through the details of ‘other structures’ coverage. They can answer any queries you may have and offer advice to ensure that your insurance coverage is sufficiently robust for your property.

Motorized Toys – How to Insure Them

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Insurance for Motorized Toys 

If you enjoy the fun and adventure of driving a four-wheeler, jet ski, or motorcycle, you know how thrilling it can be. You may also wonder if you need “toy insurance”—insurance for these vehicles. If you live in the Lansing, IA, area and you need insurance for a power toy such as that, we encourage you to visit us at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency.

Motorized toys can include water sports devices like boats or jet skis, as well as land vehicles like motorcycles or ATVs. Although their owners buy these “toys” to provide opportunities for adventure and exploration, those activities can also increase the risk of damage.

Customized Coverage for Power Toys 

Our agents can answer all your questions and will work with you to find the right customized power toy insurance for your needs. 
Insurance policies for these motorized “toys” are much like auto insurance. The policies for these motorized toys include liability coverage, which would protect you if you are declared at fault for damages to someone else’s motorized toy. 

If you or one of your passengers is injured in an accident, your policy would cover medical expenses. If you are responsible for the accident, damage to your power toy is reimbursed by the collision coverage on your policy. If the device caused non-vehicle damage, your comprehensive coverage is used. 

Call Us Today for an Appointment 

Protect your time with these vehicles by purchasing the right insurance policy. Residents of the Lansing, IA, area looking for insurance for their power toys are invited to talk with any of our experienced agents at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency. Call us for an appointment today so we can help you protect your next adventure. 

Where you store your classic car can affect your insurance needs

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A classic car is a great investment. Not only will it provide you with hours of enjoyment, but it’s also a valuable asset. The team at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency is here to help classic car enthusiasts in the greater Lansing, IA, area with all their classic car insurance needs. Give us a call or stop by our office today to find out more.

A classic car is more than a hobby; it’s an investment

There are many different reasons why people choose to purchase a classic car. These hobby items are also valuable investments that need the right protection. When it comes to insuring your vehicle, there are a few factors that will affect your decision. The right policy often depends on how often and how far you drive the car, as well as where it’s stored. 

Whether you store your car at home in a garage, outside, or in a dedicated storage space will affect your choice of policy. Many insurance carriers prefer to work with owners who keep their classic cars in indoor, temperature-controlled storage units. Other providers cover vehicles in all types of storage locations. Our team is here to review your situation and help you find the right policy.

Let us help you protect your classic car.

Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency understands the unique insurance needs of owning a classic car. If you’re in the greater Lansing, IA, area, you can count on us to help you find the right policy for your needs. Call our office today to learn more about the classic car policy options available in our area.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

New Place? You May Need Renters Insurance

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Moving into a new living space can be an exhilarating experience. However, it often comes with a degree of stress and a plethora of questions. One pressing question might revolve around renters insurance – do you need it? Should you get it even when not legally required to? If you’re based in Lansing, IA, the astute agents at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency are here to help you find the apt answers and secure the most suitable policy.

What Does a Renters Insurance Policy Cover?

Contrary to homeowners insurance, renters insurance does not protect the physical building you reside in – be it an apartment, single-family house, or any other structure. Instead, it’s explicitly designed to shield your personal belongings within the leased space. Your landlord’s insurance policy covers the building but doesn’t extend to your belongings.

Why Opt for a Renters Insurance Policy?

The aftermath of a loss can be an arduous journey. It proves even more complicated when your valuable items are involved without insurance coverage. A renters insurance policy helps replace lost items, thus significantly reducing potential hardship. Opting for this coverage lets you enjoy peace of mind and fully appreciate your new leased environment.

Connect with Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency Today

Whether you’re just unpacking your moving boxes or have been nestled in your rental for some time, securing a suitable insurance policy remains an excellent idea. If you’re in the Lansing, IA region and contemplating renters insurance, contact us at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency. Committed to the welfare of our clients, we’re here to assist in pinpointing the perfect coverage plan that prioritizes your needs.

Four of the best features of your RV insurance policy

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The Importance of RV Insurance Coverage

As an RV owner, it is crucial to understand the range of benefits you can enjoy when you have proper RV insurance. Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency is committed to providing superior RV insurance to Lansing, IA RV owners.

Key Features of RV Insurance

Here are four vital features you can expect from an RV insurance policy.

Roadside Assistance

A vital feature of motorhome coverage is roadside assistance, which can be significantly helpful when your RV breaks down on the road. It includes access to a tow truck, reducing the stress of being stranded away from home.

Storage Discounts

Many RV owners do not use their vehicles throughout the year. If this is true for you, you’ll appreciate storage discounts available with RV insurance. These can effectively reduce the coverage cost during periods when your RV isn’t on the road.

Comprehensive Coverage

Collision insurance alone doesn’t cover several potential damage causes, such as theft or vandalism. It is where comprehensive coverage comes in handy, ensuring cover for various damages, including fire and theft.

Total Loss Replacement

Should your RV get totaled in an accident, a replacement coverage policy will ensure you’re adequately compensated to replace your RV with a new one.

Contact Us

Are you looking for comprehensive RV insurance coverage in Lansing, IA? Connect with us today at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency for more information on our customizable insurance coverage options and a quote on your desired policy.

Motorcycle Stats and Facts Everyone Should Understand

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Motorcycles offer a great way to get around town and can be a lot of fun. That said, it’s important to operate your motorcycle safely and defensively. Driving a motorcycle can increase some risks. Let’s look at some crucial to understand facts about motorcycles. If you have any questions or are looking at motorcycle insurance options, feel free to get in touch. Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency serves Lansing, IA and other communities nearby.

Motorcycle Use is Increasing

The number of motorcycles on the road has risen over the years. In 2018, there were about 8.35 million motorcycles on the road, according to Statista. By 2023, this had risen to nearly 8.8 million. Quite likely, we’ll see more motorcyclists hitting the road in the years ahead.

Motorcycle Accidents are Common and Deadly

Unfortunately, some motorcyclists end up in accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 6,000 motorcyclists were killed in 2021. This marked an increase of about 8 percent from a year prior. Further, motorcyclists make up about 14% of all traffic deaths, and the fatality rate per mile is roughly 24 times greater than that of passenger cars.

Common Factors of Motorcycle Accidents

More than 40 percent of motorcyclists killed in single-vehicle accidents were found to be alcohol-impaired in 2021. Further, 28% of motorcycle operators involved in accidents were found to be alcohol-impaired, according to the NHTSA. Impaired drivers are especially common at night.

Ultimately, many people safely operate motorcycles and avoid serious accidents. However, there are risks when it comes to operating a motorcycle. Every motorcyclist should be cautious and avoid operating vehicles while impaired.

If you have questions about motorcycle insurance plans, feel free to contact Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, which serves Lansing, IA and other areas nearby.