5 Ways to Save on Your Car Insurance

Ben Johnson of Bob Johnson Insurance in TN

It can be easier than you think to put the brakes on high auto insurance rates. As an independent agency, Bob Johnson Insurance, Inc. can help! We can review your policy and possibly help you find a variety of illuminating ways to save money. Here are some things you may want to consider.

Ask us to check several companies’ rates.

This is the single most important thing you can do to get the best possible rate, and we can do it for you quickly and easily. The difference between the highest and lowest rate available to you from different companies could vary by hundreds of dollars.

Reduce or drop physical damage coverage on an older car.

Depending on your car’s age and where you live, comprehensive and collision coverage may not be worth keeping. We can give you advice on whether it makes sense to reduce or drop this coverage altogether.

Raise your deductible.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, raising your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision and comprehensive cost by 15 to 30 percent. In addition, because the average driver files a collision claim only once every ten years, odds are that over the lifetime of your car, a higher deductible will save you money. We can show you how raising your deductible will lower your premium.

Look for discounts.

Many insurance companies reduce premiums for certain driver traits or car features. For example: being a homeowner, students with good grades, senior citizens who have taken an approved defensive driving course, people who only drive for pleasure, antilock brakes, antitheft devices, air bags, etc. Ask us to check.

Don’t assume having your car and home insured by the same company is the best option.

Because auto insurance rates vary so much from company to company, it may make sense for you to have your car and home insured by separate companies. Let’s talk about it.

To learn more about all an independent agency can offer you, call Bob Johnson Insurance, Inc. at 865-922-3111 or click here to contact us.

February 28, 2017March 23, 2017

Tips to Ensure Your ATV is Properly Covered

Tips to Ensure Your ATV is Properly Insured

The winter has been very mild in the Southeast this year, so you might be breaking out the “outdoor toys” a little early! Before taking out your all-terrain vehicle (ATV), but sure that it is properly covered.

When it comes to your ATV, it pays to keep your feet on the ground when it comes to insuring it. You may think it’s covered by your home-owners policy, but are you really protected? Your “toy” wasn’t cheap, and lacking the right type of insurance coverage could lead to a sticky financial situation.

“Owners should think of ATVs the same way they think of motorcycles,” said Rick Stern, product manager, The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies. “You’d never consider getting on a motorcycle without the proper insurance, and you shouldn’t ride an ATV without the right coverage either.”

If you’re not sure what to do about your ATV insurance needs, here are a few things to consider.

Your homeowners policy might not be enough.

Most likely, your homeowners policy only covers your ATV if trouble occurs on your property. Anywhere else and you’ll be exposed. Look for an affordable ATV insurance policy that offers coverage no matter where you are. Trail riders should be aware that many states require ATV insurance for vehicles operated on state-owned land.

What about theft?

ATVs are portable and can be easy targets for thieves. You should consider ATV insurance that provides coverage for things such as theft, fire and vandalism just like the kind you can get for a motorcycle. Theft, fire and vandalism are covered by Comprehensive coverage, an optional physical damage coverage.

Consider uninsured and underinsured coverage.

You never know what can happen in the great outdoors. This relatively inexpensive coverage protects you if another rider causes damage to you and he or she lacks adequate coverage.

Keep your rates low.

You can do a number of things to save money on your ATV insurance, including maintaining a clean driving record, staying free of claims or choosing a less “sporty” ATV. In addition, most insurers offer a discount if you insure more than one vehicle on your policy, or have more than one policy with the company. This could mean additional savings on your car, motorcycle, boat or RV insurance.

For more information about ATV insurance or to find an independent agent, call Bob Johnson Insurance, Inc. at 865-922-3111 or click here to contact us.

February 21, 2017May 26, 2017

8 Tips to Gear Up to Motorcycle Season

mechanic tightening the wheel nut on a motorcycle

To steer this riding season in the right direction, you’ll want to make sure your motorcycle — and your motorcycle insurance policy — are in good working order before hitting the open road.

While you should always check your owner’s manual for specific guidelines, here are some general tips for getting ready:

Change the oil and filter.

Many manufacturers recommend changing the oil and filter before storing a bike for any extended period of time and again when you bring it back out for riding season. Be sure to first start up the motorcycle to warm the engine and then shut it off before changing the oil and filter.

Check the belt or chain.

Make sure it is set to the manufacturer’s recommended tension. If you have a chain, lubricate it.

Check nuts and bolts.

Start off the riding season with a solid bike. Make sure everything is tight. “A well-maintained motorcycle not only assures a fun time, it can save you money by avoiding accidents, which helps to keep your insurance rates down,” says Rick Stern, motorcycle product manager, The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies.

Inspect tires.

Look for any damage and also make sure each tire is inflated to the correct pressure. You’ve only got two tires, so for maximum stability it is very important to avoid underinflation as well as overinflation.

Look for fluid leaks.

The easiest way to check for this is to look at the floor under the motorcycle. Leaking oil or brake, radiator or clutch fluid can cause their own special problems. For example, being low on brake fluid could make it hard to stop your motorcycle. You don’t want to find that out after you’re already on the road.

Check all lights.

Make sure headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals are all functioning properly.

Brush up on your riding skills.

Find a safe place to practice riding skills such as fast stops, figure eights, U-turns, etc., so you’re ready for the season. You’ll be glad you did.

Update your policy.

Perhaps one of the most important things you can do at the start of the season is review your insurance coverage to be certain you, and your bike, are covered. Talk to your local independent insurance agent.

Independent agents represent many companies and they can help you to understand the coverages you need. An independent agent can also help you find the combination of price and service that’s right for you. Call Bob Johnson Insurance, Inc. at 865-922-3111 or click here to contact us.

February 15, 2017March 26, 2019

Motorcycle Insurance 101: The Essentials

A motorcycle is a significant investment. Before you get your motor running and head out on the highway this season, you owe it to yourself to make sure your insurance is up-to-date and you’re properly covered.

“Just as riding a motorcycle is much different than driving a car, riders should know that their motorcycle insurance needs are different, too,” said Rick Stern, motorcycle product manager, The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies.

Here are some tips.

Update your policy.

First, verify that all your coverages are still in force. Be aware that some companies have a winter layaway period during which some coverages are restricted. Check with your insurance company to see if you currently have any type of limited coverage. Next, note any changes such as additional riders or a new garaging address. A quick call to your independent agent or insurance company will ensure coverage that reflects your current needs.

Consider additional liability coverage.

If you have significant assets, it may be to your benefit to carry a higher limit just in case you are involved in an accident that causes injury to some-one else or damage to property.

Look into medical payments coverage.

Medical payments coverage pays your medical bills as well as your passenger’s and is available in limits up to $25,000 in most states.

Make sure custom parts and equipment are covered.

Additional parts such as chrome plating, a custom paint job, saddlebags or special rims usually increase the value of your motorcycle and may not be covered. If you’ve added any custom parts or equipment, you’ll want to check your policy or call your independent agent to make sure they’re covered.

Know your options.

Rates can vary, so shop around to see if another company offers you a better rate or if you qualify for any discounts. If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, consider raising your deductibles. Doing so can help to lower the cost of your policy.

Choose a company that specializes in motorcycle insurance.

For example, Progressive is one of America’s largest motorcycle insurers. Progressive agents and brokers understand the special needs of motorcycle owners and offer specialized coverages that are designed for them and their bikes.

As an independent agency, Bob Johnson Insurance, Inc. can help you decide if Progressive or another company is the best fit for you. For more information about motorcycle insurance or to find an agent, call Bob Johnson Insurance, Inc. at 865-922-3111 or click here to contact us.

January 22, 2017March 23, 2017

Protecting Contents of College Students Away From Home

College is expensive enough without finding out too late that an accident or theft isn’t covered under parents’ current policies.

Coverage of personal property

Most homeowners policies provide 10 percent of Coverage C (Personal Property) for property owned by an insured while it is at a residence other than the insured residence. That means if the contents of a policyholder’s home are insured for $100,000, a student’s property up to $10,000 would be covered if living in a dormitory – provided the damage is caused by a covered peril and the student meets the definition of a insured. Certain items, such as jewelry or expensive electronics my require special coverage or insuring it as a “scheduled item”.

Liability coverage

There usually is an exclusion for damage to property rented to an insured, so generally damage to a dorm room or apartment would not be covered.

Renters insurance

If a student’s needs can’t be met under their parents’ current policy, don’t forget about the asking for a Renter’s Insurance quote.

January 9, 2017March 23, 2017

Travelers Enhanced Auto Options

Travelers Has Enhanced Their Auto Options

Deeper Account Discounts Are Available!

Travelers policyholders can receive an account discount by combining Boat, Homeowner, Personal Article Floater or Umbrella policies with their existing Auto policy.

Safe Driver Discount: Customers who are clean — no accidents, violations or major comprehensive claims ($1,000 plus) for five years in their households — could see better rates.

Annual Auto Policy: We offer the convenience of choosing either a 6- or 12-month auto policy.

Checking multiple companies to find the one that offers a feature like this one is a great benefit of having an independent insurance agent. Click here to contact Bob Johnson Insurance, Inc., or call us at 865-922-3111.

December 22, 2016March 23, 2017

Clear up your driving record

Save Money by Clearing Up Your Driving Record

Since 2010, Progressive auto insurance customers can request from their agent to remove accidents or violations that have expired midterm on their policies. This saves Progressive customers money. The requirements are:

The customer must request the review.
Accidents or violations must be more than 35 months old at the time of the request.
Rated drivers on the policy must have no new accidents or violations in the policy term.

November 29, 2016March 23, 2017

Auto Insurance Made Easy

Be prepared with the right coverage before you need it.

Understanding insurance can often be like trying to learn a foreign language. Many find it confusing and intimidating.

Fortunately, there’s help. Here is a quick reference designed to help you understand some of the most common kinds of coverages. The reference was put together by The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies.

Liability

Liability covers bodily injury and property damage (BI/PD). This covers your legal liability, up to the dollar limits you select, for damages caused to others in a covered vehicle accident. In most states today, liability insurance is mandatory.

Under BI/PD, your insurance company pays for damages to an injured person and for property damage that you are legally obligated to pay as a result of an accident. If your policy covers you in the event you’re sued after an accident, your insurance company will pay for a lawyer to defend you.

Liability limits generally appear as three numbers, for example, 25/50/25 or 100/300/100.

The first number refers to the maximum amount, in thousands, that your insurance company is obligated to pay for bodily injury per person.
The second number is the maximum that would be paid out for bodily injury per claim.
The third number represents the maximum amount your insurance company is obligated to pay for property damage you cause.

Collision

When you buy collision coverage, your insurance company pays for damages if your vehicle collides with another vehicle or object. Collision coverage involves a deductible amount you select when you purchase your policy. This amount is what you are required to pay before your insurance company starts picking up the tab. Remember, the deductible amount is the amount you need to pay in the event of a claim.

Comprehensive

Comprehensive covers damage caused by events other than a car collision such as fire, theft, vandalism, hail or flood. It also covers damage caused by your vehicle colliding with an animal. And if your car is stolen, it will cover the cost of a rental, subject to a daily limit. Like collision coverage, a deductible usually applies.

Medical Coverage

Depending on the state in which you live, you may have available to you Medical Payments coverage or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. While these both work differently, they provide coverage for medical care provided to you as a result of a car accident.

November 22, 2016March 22, 2017

Four Questions to Get the Right Auto Insurance

Using the right tool for a job is key to success in any profession. Experts say the same principle applies when selecting an auto insurance policy. Having the right type of policy can help ensure that you, your employees and your business are all protected in the unfortunate event that one of your vehicles is involved in an accident.

If you’re a business owner and you or your employees use a vehicle for business-related deliveries or to carry certain materials to and from a job site, you may need a commercial auto insurance policy that’s tailored to more closely suit the needs — and risks — of a business vehicle operator.

Here are some questions that can help you determine if you might need a commercial auto policy instead of a personal auto policy.

1. Do you need more liability coverage than your personal auto policy provides?

Generally, a commercial auto policy provides higher limits of liability, but less or no coverage in areas that are typically not associated with commercial auto risks.

2. Do you need special coverage for situations associated with con-ducting business?

Commercial auto policies also usually offer certain coverages — such as hired and non-owned auto coverage and coverage for towing a trailer for business use — that are not available with personal auto policies.

3. Do you need to list any employees as drivers?

You can do this with a commercial auto insurance policy.

4. Do you use your vehicle for business purposes?

If you use your vehicle for things like pizza or newspaper delivery, catering, door-to-door consulting service, landscaping or snowplowing service, logging business, day care/church retreat van service and/or farm-to-market delivery, you might need a commercial auto policy.

Bob Johnson Insurance, Inc. is an independent insurance agency — trained, licensed insurance professionals who offer personal service and advice. We can help match you with the type of policy that best suits your needs and those of your company.

Do you have an insurance question or would you like more information about which coverage is right for you? Click here and fill out our contact form or give us a call at 865-922-3111.

November 15, 2016March 22, 2017

Have you considered Safeco as your Insurance Company?

“Safeco Gave Us Everything We Needed”

Hopefully you will never have the same type of experience as the family in the video above.

However, if you do, you definitely want to have an insurance company who is ready, willing and able to help you. Safeco is just such a company.

Who is Safeco?

Safeco has insured drivers and homeowners through its network of independent agents and brokers since 1923. Safeco Insurance is a Liberty Mutual Agency Corporation company and a member of Liberty Mutual Group. In business for more than 95 years, Liberty Mutual Group is a Fortune 100 company and the fifth-largest property and casualty insurance company in the country.

Liberty Mutual is also rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company, an independent firm that rates the financial strength and performance of insurance companies. An A is one of the highest ratings and means you can trust the stability and endurance of Safeco.

Products That Fit Your Life

Safeco offers a wide variety of personal insurance products for you and your entire family, including auto, home, umbrella, watercraft and more. The Safeco Package – which bundles your auto and home coverage together – offers the best combination of savings, convenience and coverage available.

Excellent Customer Service

Safeco offers 24/7 toll-free service for policyholders as well as online policy access at Safeco’s My Account where you can:

pay your bill
track your claims
view policy documents
print new insurance ID cards
update your name, address and more

Would you like to know more about Safeco or any of the other insurance companies represented by Bob Johnson Insurance?

We are happy to provide answers for you! For questions, please give us a call at 865-922-3111 or click here and fill out our contact form. One of our experienced agents will contact you as quickly as possible.

If you would like a quote, please click here. One of our experienced agents will view your information and contact you to make sure you receive a quote for the insurance that best fits you and your situation.