Kate Betts, Author at Atlanta Insurance

What factors influence Atlanta car insurance rates?

October 4, 2020July 24, 2018 by Kate Betts

There are many factors that go into determining your Atlanta car insurance rates.

When you’re looking at your monthly Atlanta car insurance payment, you might wonder how exactly the insurance company came up with that number. Did they just pick a premium out of the air? We get that it may feel that way, but the truth is that there are many factors that affect the cost of car insurance. These factors can be separated into two categories: details about you and details about your car. We’ll explain how insurance companies set car insurance rates.

What factors affect the cost of Atlanta car insurance?

Insurance companies want to know about you when they’re determining your car insurance rates. They’ll want to know where you live, what kind of driving record you have, your age, and so on. These details matter to your Atlanta car insurance rates because they give the insurance company an impression of how risky you are to insure. For example, they’ll look at the following…

Your age- Young drivers often pay more for car insurance because they have less experience on the road and are at a higher risk of having an accident. Atlanta teen car insurance will probably cost more than car insurance for an adult.
Marital status- Another problem for hopelessly single people to be worried about. Drivers who are single get into more accidents than drivers who are married, so married drivers could see lower rates if they have clean driving records.
Driving record- If you have a history of a series of automobile accidents, you may pay substantially more than someone with a clean record. That’s because you’re seen as being more likely to have another accident and cause another claim. There are many benefits to being a safe driver, and car insurance rates are one of them!
Credit score – Your credit score may be a factor in your car insurance rates. If you have a good credit score, you could see lower car insurance rates.
Location- Where you live can alter how much you pay. A small, quiet town is going to have significant differences in car insurance prices compared to a loud, sleepless city. Living in a busy urban environment comes with certain risks – such as traffic, theft, and potential damage to your vehicle. That is another component that going to influence how much you are going to pay.

While details about yourself, such as your driving record and where you live, play a part in determining your car insurance premium, there is additional information that insurance companies need to calculate your car insurance rates. They also use details about your vehicle to figure out what your rate will be. The following are some of the more car-related factors that influence your Atlanta car insurance rates:

The car itself- The amount of coverage you will want on your car varies greatly depending on the type of car you drive. The size of the vehicle and its engine can also play a part in determining your rates.
Purpose- Why is it exactly that you’re using this car? Is it a secondary luxury car you use on weekends or is it used to fulfill job obligations? Or are you using it to drive to your university campus across town? Insurance companies realize that constant use is going to increase your risk of getting into an accident.
How many miles you drive – The question of how much you drive matters because more mileage each year increases the probability of a wreck.
Safety features- Does your car contain recent vehicle features such as anti-theft protection? Can this vehicle protect you and keep your passengers safe should an accident occur? Your insurance company may inform you that you qualify for certain rewards!

These details are essential to insurance companies when they establish your automobile insurance premium. Details about your driving habits and, well, yourself help them figure out how much a risk you are to insure. And all of these things together factor into your Atlanta car insurance rates. So, no, your car insurance premium isn’t just an arbitrary number the insurance company picks out of thin air. There’s a lot of reasoning that goes into it.

If you’re looking for car insurance in Atlanta, we can help. Our team of insurance professionals can help you shop for the best insurance at the best possible rate. By getting multiple quotes, you can save money on Atlanta car insurance. You can get started with your Atlanta car insurance quotes by filling out our online form or calling us today.

Source:

https://www.moneycrashers.com/factors-affect-car-insurance-rates/

Will home insurance cover a new roof?

August 28, 2019July 19, 2018 by Kate Betts

Home insurance may cover a new roof if your was damaged by a sudden or accidental loss.

There’s a problem: the floor of your Atlanta home has a huge puddle on it. Just as you’re about to yell at the kids for making a mess – drip. A drop falls right on your forehead. It’s the middle of one of the summer storms that Georgia is notorious for, and the roof is leaking. There is water inside the house and you’ve got one question (okay, maybe two.) Does Georgia home insurance cover a new roof? And how can you tell if you have a roof leak? A leak isn’t the only explanation for the water stains on your ceiling. So, here we go – let’s talk about home insurance, leaking roofs, and when a roof might be covered.

Does home insurance cover my roof?

Well…It really depends on your policy. Home insurance may cover the roof if yours is damaged by an act of nature, like a storm. It’s very important for you to read through your policy or reach out to your agent to find out how your particular insurance company handles roof-related claims.

What we can tell you is that a loss caused by something sudden and accidental may be covered, meaning that your insurance company will pay to repair or replace the roof. So, if you have an act of nature like a huge storm and your roof is damaged, you may be covered because that’s a sudden, accidental loss that you couldn’t prevent (unless you have superhero-like powers over the weather.)

(Now, there’s one thing to note: you really have to find out how your insurance company will handle the roof repairs or replacement.)

However:

If your roof has a leak because it has not been properly maintained…that’s a different story. Your insurance company may not pay to repair the roof. The purpose of insurance is to protect the homeowner against unforeseeable losses that are out of their control, and a lack of maintenance and upkeep doesn’t fit the bill.

So. Be sure to take care of your roof and maintain it properly. Have it inspected regularly by a trustworthy roofing professional. Your roof affects your home insurance, after all.

How to tell if your roof is leaking.

A leaky roof may not be the only possible culprit for water winding up inside your home. However, there are several signs that your roof is leaking.

1. There’s algae or mold on your roof.

Dark splotches on your roof could mean algae or mold. It could be problematic or it might not. Just because there’s mold doesn’t mean the lifespan of your shingles is shortened, but it could be a sign that something’s wrong.

2. You’re seeing granules in the downspout or gutter.

You know those little specks on your shingles? Those are granules. If you start seeing a significant amount of them in your gutters or downspouts, it might be time for a new roof. Those granules have a very important job. They prevent your shingles from getting roasted by the sun’s rays – your roof is basking in the sun all day, and Georgia certainly gets plenty of strong sunshine. If the granules have started coming off, it’s possible that the shingles could become (or already are) very fragile.

3. Some shingles are missing.

Well, if you’re missing some shingles on your roof and you’re getting water in the house…yeah, you’re probably looking at a roof leak.

4. You have water spots or stains on the ceiling.

If you’ve noticed dark or discolored spots that are ominously growing larger on your ceilings, you could have a leak somewhere. Likewise if there are drip marks streaking down the wall or if your walls are mysteriously bubbling. Do the spots darken or get worse after a hard rain? That could mean that you’ve got a leaking roof on your hands.

5. There are shingles that are curled at the edges or shingles that have cracked.

Water can slip underneath your shingles if there are gaps caused by the edges of the shingles curling in. And that water could cause your roof to leak. Cracked shingles could also be a sign of trouble.

6. You notice water spots on exterior walls.

If there are water spots on exterior walls of the house – and if they get worse after a hard rain – you could have a roof problem.

Anyways, that’s what you should know about home insurance and leaks. If the leak is caused by damage that’s sudden or accidental, you’re probably covered for a new roof. If the leak is caused by a lack of maintenance, you’re probably not covered. Be sure to have a trustworthy, professional roofing company in mind to do roof inspections. Read through your policy very carefully to see how your roof is covered.

Do you want to save money on your Atlanta home insurance? We can help with that. Our team of insurance professionals can help you shop your rates so you can compare coverages and pricing. Get started with your quotes by filling out our online form or giving us a call today.

Source:

https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/111815/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-roof-replacement.asp

Does my roof affect my Atlanta home insurance rates?

August 28, 2019July 12, 2018 by Kate Betts

Your roof can make a difference to your home insurance rates.

As long as your roof isn’t leaking and turning your home into a swimming pool, you might not give too much thought to it. It protects you from those pop-up Atlanta summer storms, the cold in the winter, and the stifling Georgia summer heat. While the roof on your house may not always be at the forefront of your mind, your home insurance company definitely gives it a lot of thought. Why? We’ll explain. We’ll also explain how your roof affects your home insurance rates and discuss roof-related home insurance discounts.

Question 1: Does my roof affect my home insurance rates?

Roofs are the first line of defense during storms. It takes the brunt of the beating, and its job is to protect your home. The stronger it is, the better it can do that. And your insurance company probably has an interest in any factor that can protect your house and minimize damage to your house.

First, let’s talk about the roofing material. Roofs can be made of many different materials, of course, but certain materials hold up better against wind and hail damage.

Okay, now on to your roof’s age, which can also affect your home insurance. Newer roofs have weathered fewer storms and sustained less damage than older ones. An older roof has most likely been worn down from the weather, and it may not protect your home as effectively as a newer one would.

Question 2: Can I get a home insurance discount because of my roof?

There are many potential home insurance discounts you could qualify for, and some of them are related to roofing. Of course, each of the Georgia insurance companies offers different discounts for different amounts, so you’d have to check with your specific company. However, the following are some possible discounts to look into…

New roof discount:

If you just got a brand-new roof, let your insurance company know. They might throw a discount your way because it’s going to protect your home from storm damage – and it’s still tough and able to hold up against the weather.

Pro tip: If you know you need a new roof, reach out to your insurance agent first to see what you need to know about getting a discount.

Impact-resistant or metal roof:

Certain materials are less likely to be damaged by wind or hail damage – they’re a little tougher. Because of the lower chance of damage, some insurance companies offer a discount for impact-resistant roofs. It might be something worth looking into.

Fire-resistant roof:

Insurance companies really don’t like fire. If you have a fire-resistant roof, your home could experience less damage if you ever have a fire. That’s why some insurance companies might offer a discount for it, although it’s a little less common than a discount for impact-resistant roofs. Still, it could be worth reaching out to your agent if your roof happens to have fire-resisting superpowers.

These are just a few roof-related discounts that could be available to you. Do some research on discounts offered by your insurance company to see what opportunities they have to save money on your Georgia home insurance rates.

So, that’s the deal with roofs and home insurance. Roofs function a little like armor and protect the houses they’re attached to – they’re more than just glorified umbrellas.

Wondering how you can save money on your home insurance? Our team of insurance agents can help you shop your rates and save. Getting multiple quotes will allow you to compare coverages and pricing. And all you have to do to get in touch with us is fill out our quote form or give us a call today.

Source:

https://www.schulteroofing.com/latest-news/top-5-insurance-discounts-roofing

Debunked: The truth about 13 Atlanta car insurance myths

September 17, 2020July 5, 2018 by Kate Betts

There are many car insurance myths that aren't true.

Insurance can get a little complicated. If you’re dealing with your car insurance, you might be operating under certain assumptions that are widely believed to be facts…but that maybe aren’t as true as you think they are. It’s important that you’re equipped with all the facts when you handle any type of insurance, so we’re going to debunk 13 popular car insurance myths. Let the debunking begin!

Car insurance myths: Debunked

1. Myth: Red cars are more expensive to insure.

What’s the truth? This one is a classic myth and widely-held belief, but it’s actually not true. Red cars do not cost more to insure than cars of other colors. The logic behind this myth is that the type of person who wants a red car is more of a risk-taker, meaning they’re more likely to speed and drive recklessly, leading to more tickets. But the insurance company really doesn’t care about the paint job your car has – they care about how safe the vehicle is. They want to know the make, model, year, and so on.

So, don’t let this myth hold you back. If you really want that fire-engine red car, go for it. Don’t let car insurance myths get in the way.

2. Myth: Your car insurance will repair or replace your car if you’re in an accident.

What’s the truth? If your car is damaged, your car insurance will only pay to repair or replace it if you have collision and comprehensive coverage. Collision coverage can repair or replace your car if you’re at-fault in an accident. Comprehensive coverage can pay to repair or replace your car if something other than an accident (fire, animal strike, vandalism, falling objects like trees) damages it.

If you only have liability coverage, your insurance will only pay for your legal obligation to the other driver in the accident – their medical bills, lost wages, car repairs or replacement, and so on. You would be out of luck when it comes to the repairs to your own car.

3. Myth: Comprehensive insurance covers mechanical repairs.

What’s the truth? Unfortunately, this is one of those car insurance myths that is blatantly false. Comprehensive coverage will cover losses such as fire, vandalism, animal strikes, and objects that randomly crash from the sky (like trees.) It even covers theft. But a whacky transmission? Nope. You’re on your own.

4. Myth: Belongings stolen from the car are covered under auto insurance.

What’s the truth? It’s actually your home insurance or renters insurance that might help you out here. But you have to consider your deductible.

5. Myth: It’s less expensive to get insurance online.

What’s the truth? The Internet is useful for a lot of things. Your car insurance? Well, maybe not so much. There are lots of advantages to working with an actual, real-live person. A good, trustworthy insurance agent can help you make sure that you’ve got the coverage you need to fully protect your vehicle and your liability. They can make sure you’re not underinsured, which means that you won’t be diving between the couch cushions for change if you have a claim.

If you buy insurance online but don’t get high enough limits of coverage, you could be facing a huge financial loss if you’re in a bad accident. Besides, that computer can only go so far in understanding your unique insurance situation. Real agents can take the time to get to know you – and another cool trick? They can help you get car insurance discounts. Bonus!

6. Myth: The insurance company only looks at my driving record – my tickets and accidents.

What’s the truth? Insurance companies look at many details about you and your vehicle to determine your car insurance rates. They consider your age, the car you drive, what the car is primarily used for, how many miles you drive, and your credit score. So, as you can see, it’s way more than just your driving record. (Although of course being a safe driver can help you avoid accidents and keep your car insurance rates down.)

7. Myth: Smaller cars are less expensive to insure.

What’s the truth? Well, it depends on the coverage you have on it. If you have collision and comprehensive coverage, it could be a bit pricier because a small vehicle will sustain more damage in an accident than a larger vehicle. Think about what would happen if a two-seater convertible rear-ended an SUV.

Exactly.

8. Myth: If I total my car, insurance will pay the rest of the amount on my loan.

What’s the truth? Not quite. The insurance company will pay the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle at the time of the accident – well, less your deductible, which you have to pay. The problem is that the ACV of your vehicle might not be enough to cover the rest of what’s left on your loan since car values depreciate so quickly. If you owe more on your loan than the vehicle is worth when you have an accident and total the car, you would have to pay the difference. You would need gap coverage to fill this difference.

9. Myth: A car that cannot be driven away from an accident is totaled.

What’s the truth? The insurance company decides if the car is totaled based on the amount of damage it sustained. If the amount for the repairs is above a certain percent of the value of the car, it could be declared a total loss.

10. Myth: An out-of-state ticket can’t follow me back to my state.

What’s the truth? Actually, it can. And it will. Just because you were in Tennessee for the weekend does not mean the ticket you got in Nashville goes away the second you cross the Georgia border. That ticket will be with you.

11. Myth: Newer cars cost more to insure.

What’s the truth? Your insurance rate really depends on the car itself. Your premium depends on the year, make, and model of your new ride.

12. Myth: I shouldn’t worry about my old car getting stolen. No one’s going to take it.

What’s the truth? Actually, old cars are often targets of theft. It seems a bit backward, but car thieves can get more money for car parts coming from older-model vehicles. Who would have thought? And besides, it’s usually easier to steal an older vehicle, and car thieves are looking for the easy take. Your car may have many miles on it and a few scrapes and dings, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take steps towards preventing a car break-in or theft.

13. Myth: The state minimum level of car insurance is fine.

What’s the truth? This is perhaps one of the most dangerous car insurance myths out there. You will probably want to get more than the state minimum level of insurance. Georgia’s minimum limits of auto insurance are $25,000 bodily injury per person, $25,000 property damage liability, and $50,000 of bodily injury per accident (meaning all people in the accident.) Yes, at first glance that seems like a lot of money. But if you’re in a very bad accident and you end up getting sued, that amount suddenly looks much, much smaller. You will probably want more liability coverage than the state minimum to fully protect yourself financially.

(And Georgia does not require collision or comprehensive coverage, which will pay to repair or replace your car if it’s damaged. If you only have the state minimum requirement, that’s just liability coverage. Should something happen to your beloved car, you’d be out of luck.)

As all of the above car insurance myths show us, not everything you hear or assume about car insurance is true. It’s important to get all the facts from a trusted insurance agent and advisor. Our team here at Atlanta Insurance would love the opportunity to become that trusted advisor to you. We can answer your car insurance questions and help you shop for the best insurance at the best rate. We’ll go over your coverage options with you so you know you’re getting good intel (and not just car insurance myths.) And we’ll help you save money on car insurance. Get in touch by filling out our online quote form or giving us a call today.

Source:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/automotive/chi-car-insurance-myths-201112223-story.html

https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2014/10/21/344167.htm

How to avoid poison ivy (and how to treat poison ivy) in Atlanta

July 2, 2018June 28, 2018 by Kate Betts

Avoid poison ivy - it has three leaves and grows in a vine in Georgia.

Now that summer is here, chances are you and the kids will be spending more time outside – going on a road trip, maybe swimming and hanging out at the pool. And outside is great, especially in a place like Atlanta where there are plenty of trees and woods to explore. But Mother Nature has a few interesting tricks up her sleeve – tricks that you need to be aware of and steer clear of. One of those is poison ivy (well, and poison oak and poison sumac.) Wondering how you can avoid the frustration and itchy torment that is poison ivy? We’ll go over how to identify poison ivy, what to do if you accidentally have a run-in with it, and how you can avoid poison ivy.

How to identify poison ivy.

There’s an old and oft-repeated adage that is very helpful: if it has three leaves, let it be. That’s because poison ivy has three leaves with three leaflets each. In the South, it tends to grow as a vine (as it does in the Midwest and East.) In the North, West, and Great Lakes region it grows as a low shrub. In the spring it grows yellow-green flowers. It might also have green berries that go off-white in the fall. Basically, a good rule of thumb is that if it’s green and has three leaves, just steer clear.

How do you get poison ivy?

Poison ivy, poison oak, and sumac all give off an oil called urushiol. The oil is what people are allergic to and what causes the itchy rash. Any contact with urushiol can lead to a poison ivy rash, even if you haven’t directly touched the plant (although, of course, that is one way to get it.) Even if you have indirect contact with the oil you can get a rash – the oil can coat itself on objects, such as gardening tools, sports equipment, and even your pet’s fur. And lastly, you can get poison ivy through the air if you burn it because the particles will fly in your face. Yeah, don’t burn poison ivy. Ever.

What are the symptoms of poison ivy?

There are several signs and symptoms that point to poison ivy:

Itchiness
Redness
Hives
Swelling
Blisters
Crusty skin from where blisters have opened

The tricky thing about poison ivy is that it may take hours, days, or even a week for the rash to appear. Or it could happen very quickly. So, you might have to think back a while to see if you could have come into contact with poison ivy.

How do you treat poison ivy?

If you are 100% sure that you have poison ivy and you don’t have any serious complications or allergic reactions, you can probably treat it at home. Here are some things you can do to treat it yourself, but we’ll also go over when you need to seek medical attention from a professional.

Rinse the area with lukewarm soapy water. You need to rinse the oil off your skin to prevent other areas of your body from coming into contact with it.
Wash your clothes.
Rinse or wash everything that came into contact with the poison ivy (sports equipment, pets, golf clubs, etc.)
Do not scratch. We know it’s so hard not to, but scratching can lead to infection.
Don’t mess with the blisters, even if they open. The layer of skin on top can protect the wound underneath it.
Take short, lukewarm baths with a colloidal oatmeal preparation that you can get at the store. (Or you can add 1 cup of baking soda to your bath as you’re running the water.)
Think about using calamine lotion or hydrocortisone.
Use a cool cloth compress to relieve itching. Wet a clean towel or cloth with cold water, wring the water out, and rest it over the area.

If you start noticing the following symptoms and signs, you should seek professional medical attention:

Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
The rash is all over the body.
An excessive amount of rashes or blisters.
Swelling, especially over the eyes.
The rash is located on the face or the groin.
The itch won’t ease no matter what you do.

How to avoid and prevent poison ivy rash.

It’s important to take care to avoid poison ivy, which is not a pleasant experience. Here are some tips to help you spare yourself from the itching.

Know what it looks like.
- Three leaves.
- Yellowish green flowers in the spring.
- May have green berries that go off-white in fall.
- Grows as a vine in the South.
Do not touch anything that has come in contact with poison ivy. Remember, the oil can stick around on any object.
Be extremely careful when removing it from your yard.
- Use plastic bags to pull each plant and replace the bag with each new plant.
- Use white vinegar to destroy any remaining shoots or seedlings.
- Cover your skin and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants. You can even use heavy shopping bags or plastic bags for extra protection for your arms and legs.
- Rinse your skin and wash clothes ASAP.
Never, ever burn poison ivy.

So, that’s a quick crash course in poison ivy. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a medical professional if you feel that the situation is beyond your powers of treatment. But first and foremost, do your best to avoid poison ivy and, if you have to remove any, take special care to protect your skin. Georgia is a great climate for plants and trees and whatnot, some of which are beautiful and lovely…and some of which are not.

Are you looking for home insurance in the Atlanta area? We would be happy to help. Our team of insurance agents can help you get multiple quotes for your home insurance so you can compare rates and save money. We’ll shop your rates with many different Georgia insurance companies. All you have to do to get in touch with us is fill out our quote form or give us a call today.

Source:

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/itchy-skin/poison-ivy-oak-and-sumac#tips

What to do if your identity is stolen in Atlanta

January 4, 2024June 21, 2018 by Kate Betts

If you're the victim of identity theft, you need to act quickly to minimize the damage.

Have you ever known someone who has been the victim of identity theft or credit card fraud? It can be a highly frustrating experience, and it can take a long time to get the situation resolved. All that aside, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to what to do if your identity is stolen. Being the victim of identity theft or credit card fraud is not fun, but here are a few things you can do to start to set things right.

How to protect your identity and prevent identity theft in Atlanta

January 4, 2024June 14, 2018 by Kate Betts

Protect your personal information and prevent identity theft.

Identity theft is a scary thing. The havoc that one crafty hacker or scammer can wreak is not to be underestimated. You’ve probably known someone who’s had their identity stolen, or perhaps you’ve even been the victim yourself. It can be such a headache. But we’ve got some tips to help you prevent identity theft and protect your personal information.

1. Be on the alert for identity theft.

There are a few signs that you should be aware of that could signify someone has stolen your identity. If this is the case, it’s best to handle the situation as quickly as possible, which means being aware of the problem in the first place.

Look out for the following:

Not getting your bills on time
Receiving credit cards you didn’t apply for
Having a poor credit score that is unexpected or unexplainable
Debt collectors asking (none-too-politely) for money
Accounts you didn’t sign for
Debts that you can’t explain

2. Be wise to phishing scams.

Phishing is when a hacker or scammer pretends to be a reputable institution, such as your bank, so that you’ll give them your personal information. They impersonate someone you trust, ask for your information, and voila – your identity is gone. Whoops. (If you’re wondering, an example of phishing is the Google Docs scam that went around a while back and tricked a lot of people.)

Be aware of any suspicious emails, or emails asking you to “verify your account information” or password. Reputable organizations wouldn’t reach out like that to sort out a problem with your account. Basically, be skeptical when going through emails. If you doubt that it’s a real email, it probably is not.

A general rule of thumb is not to give out personal information unless you were the one to reach out to a business or organization.

3. Step up your password game.

Make your passwords difficult to guess. They need to be strong so that no one can easily crack them. So, you might not want to choose something like “password” or 123456 to serve as your password.

Instead, choose a password that’s at least 8 characters long, has a mix of letters and numbers, and includes symbols (like !@#$&.) That’ll give a hacker a bit more trouble if they’re trying to break into your account.

Also, use a different password for every account. Yes, it’s tempting to use the same one for everything because it’s easier to remember, but that means that a sneaky hacker has a key to all of your accounts and not just one of them if they crack your password.

4. Don’t fall for pop-ups or spam emails.

Don’t click links in pop-up messages online or in spam emails. Those could give a hacker access to your computer and cause an identity theft situation. Not good.

Pro tip: When in doubt, don’t click.

5. Be smart on social media.

It’s important that you don’t overshare on social media. Of course, social media is great and has its perks. But the problem is that identity thieves can use the personal information you post against you. For instance, they can use it to create a scam designed just for you (which is called spear phishing) by impersonating a friend or family member using details you’ve posted to social media.

So, don’t be your own downfall by posting too much information online. Yes, there is such a thing as too much sharing.

Pro tip: Be especially cautious on social media when you’re on vacation. If you post about your plans, a tech-savvy burglar could find out and realize that your home will be unprotected.

6. Keep an eye on your credit card bills and bank statements.

It’s important that you open your credit card bills and bank statements ASAP. Okay, it’s probably not something you particularly want to do and you might do it with one eye closed and the letter held as far away from you as possible, but you need to check that all the charges and numbers look right. Everything should check out. If it doesn’t, you need to handle the situation as quickly as possible.

Also, if your credit card bill is late, call and ask about it immediately. Chances are the people wanting money aren’t going to dilly-dally about asking for it. If the bill doesn’t show up when it’s supposed to, someone could have changed the address to conceal their wrongdoing – a.k.a. fraudulent charges.

7. Be careful when you’re shopping online.

Shopping online is great…except if your identity gets stolen.

When you’re shopping online, be sure to check that the URL of the website you’re on begins with https:// and has a padlock icon next to it. This means that the site is secure and that your personal information (like your credit card number) is being protected from hackers.

You might also want to look at the website’s privacy policy to check how your personal information will be used and how it is protected.

8. Cancel pre-screened credit card offers.

We’ve probably all gotten those thick envelopes containing a pre-screened or approved credit offer. But if a thief were to steal your mail, they could cause a lot of trouble with one of those. It’s best just to opt out of pre-screened credit card offers. And you should remove your name from credit bureau lists.

9. Keep your Social Security Number safe.

You definitely don’t want anyone to get ahold of your Social Security Number (SSN.) So, you need to keep it safe. Don’t carry around your SSN card in your purse or wallet, and don’t carry anything with your Social Security Number written on it. Be careful whenever any institution asks for your SSN – ask why they want it, what it will be used for, and whether it’s truly necessary for you to provide it. Take a moment to really consider if the people asking should have it.

10. Shred any documents with personal information.

Buy yourself an early birthday present and get a paper shredder. Shred any documents that you don’t need to keep if they have personal information on it. It’s kind of fun to watch the paper get turned into teeny tiny pieces, actually.

11. Check your credit report.

You can request a free – that’s right, free! – copy of your credit report from each of the three credit-reporting bureaus every year (meaning Equifax, Experion, and TransUnion.) If there are any strange charges or unexplainable numbers, you need to raise the alarm. It’s important to monitor your credit report – your credit score and your home insurance rates are related.

12. Ask a lot of questions.

Whenever you have to give personal information, be sure to ask a lot of questions before just handing it over. Ask why they need it. Ask how it will be used. Ask how it will be protected and if it will be shared. These are all things you need to know about. It may seem a little paranoid, but you can’t be too careful. Just be polite about it and explain that you’re asking because you’re worried about identity theft.

Having your identity stolen can turn into a real mess, which is why everyone considers the possibility with a certain amount of dread. Take care to protect your identity with the above tips. The best strategy when it comes to identity theft is to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Are you looking for home insurance? Do you want to save money on your home insurance? We would be happy to help you get multiple quotes for your insurance so you can compare rates and save money. All you have to do to get started with Atlanta home insurance quotes is fill out our online quote form or give us a call today.

Additional Resources for Individuals

How should you respond to the theft of your identity and tips to recover

Source:

https://oag.ca.gov/idtheft/facts/top-ten

14 steps to secure your Atlanta home and prevent burglary while you’re on vacation

December 11, 2018June 7, 2018 by Kate Betts

It's important to keep your home safe while you're on vacation.

If you’re planning a family vacation this summer, you’re probably looking forward to getting out of town for a little while. But in all the excitement, don’t forget to take some steps to secure your house before you leave. When you’re not there to keep an eye on things, your home can be susceptible to burglary. That’s why you need to outsmart the burglars and amp up the security around your house. The following tips can help you get your home ready for your vacation and prevent a burglary.

14 tips for home safety while you’re on vacation

1. Consider getting a home security system.

Monitored home security systems can help deter burglars from attempting to break into your house. They can also alert the police to a burglary and send them to your house quickly. If you don’t already have a security system, you may want to consider having one installed. And if you do have one, check that everything’s working properly before you head out on your trip.

The benefits of a home security system don’t stop at the added protection for your home. A home security system can help you save money on your home insurance because many insurance companies offer a discount if you have one. So, you can protect your home and save money on your insurance at the same time – it’s a win-win.

2. Know where all your keys are (and don’t hide a key outside.)

It’s important to know where each key to the house is so that none of them get misplaced or lost. Keep track of all keys.

Also, don’t leave a key hidden outside. Burglars know the best hiding places for house keys. Under the mat? Yep. In the potted plant? Yep. On the eaves? Yep. The burglars think that same way you do. So, if you think you’re outsmarting them…you might just be outsmarting yourself.

3. Lock everything.

Okay, we know this one’s a little “no duh.” But it’s still very important to double check that all windows and doors are securely locked before you leave for your trip. Don’t forget to do one last check that your home is locked up tight. Otherwise, you may as well yell, “Come on in, burglars!”

4. Do what you can to make sure your home looks occupied.

If your house looks dark and empty for a long period of time, it won’t take long for a burglar to figure out you’re not home. And they’re also looking for an easy target, which your home could be if you’re not home. To a burglar, they see a home that they can break into and skedaddle from with no one the wiser, perhaps for quite a while – long enough to make a clean getaway.

One way to make your home look lived-in is to get timers for your lights. The timers can turn the lights on and off at specific times so that it appears that someone’s moving around in the house. It makes it look like someone’s home, so your house becomes less of an easy mark.

5. Get someone to tend to your lawn.

An overgrown, slightly shaggy lawn can be a dead giveaway that no one’s home. Ask a neighbor or friend to mow your lawn and tend to any other landscaping tasks. It may seem like a small detail, but why not? It’s better to play it safe.

6. Ask a neighbor to keep an eye out for any flyers, packages, and so on.

Ask a trusted neighbor to look out for anything suspicious around your home. Advertisements stuck to the mailbox or flyers hanging from the doorknob can indicate that there’s no one home to throw them away. You can stop your paper and your mail, but sometimes people come and leave ads on the mailbox or on the driveway. It’s not a bad idea to have someone looking out for your place.

7. Put a hold on your mail.

You may want to stop your mail while you’re away so that it’s not piling up and doesn’t turn into Mount Mail outside your house. Or if you’ve got someone coming over to check on your house or feed the cat, you can ask them to bring the mail in every day.

8. Stop your newspapers.

Hmm…a pile of newspapers outside your house, dotting the driveway…That house looks like a good one to rob.

Newspapers piling up can be another sign that you’re not home. Either stop your newspaper or have your pet-sitter/house-sitter pick them up and bring them inside.

9. Move your valuables out of sight.

If you can, it’s not a bad plan to move your valuables so they’re out of sight. May as well not leave your expensive electronics in plain sight where potential burglars would be tempted. If you have jewelry and such, you might want to consider getting a hidden safe to keep those things super secure.

10. Be smart when you’re talking about your vacation plans.

It’s not the best plan to go broadcasting your vacation plans and blabbing about when you’re not going to be in town. You never know who could be listening to your conversation. Only tell people who need to know about the details of your travels and be discreet when you do. Tell your kids to be careful about it, too.

And another thing:

Don’t talk about your travel plans on social media, and try to refrain from posting pictures while you’re on your trip. It’s best to not inform the whole world where you are. Wait until you’re back to post your vacation pictures.

11. Consider getting outdoor automatic lights.

Light can be a major deterrent to burglars. You can think about getting exterior lights that run on timers so that they’ll come on every night and flood your yard with light.

12. Get a neighbor to pull your trashcan to the curb on trash pickup day.

Ask a neighbor to take your trashcan and recycling to the curb for pickup day and then put them away. That will help it look like you’re home. And then the trash won’t get too stinky either.

13. Unplug your electronics.

You can save money on your electrical bill by unplugging any electronics that aren’t necessary while you’re away (the fridge, of course, will have to stay on unless you want to come home to spoiled food.) This will also help you prevent an electrical fire while you’re away.

14. Consider getting a pet-sitter or house-sitter to stay at your house while you’re gone.

Asking someone that you trust to stay at your house can help you keep your house safe. Besides, if you have pets, you’ll need someone to check on them anyway. They’ll be able to keep an eye on your home – and check that no pipes have burst, no fires have started, and no disasters have happened. They can also get the mail, pick up the papers, take out the trash, and so on. And if you have cats or dogs, you’ll feel better knowing they have someone to keep them company and look after them.

Going on vacation is great, but you have to take steps to protect your home if you’re going on a road trip or traveling somewhere. Before you leave, take some time to ensure that everything is shipshape at home.

Another way to protect your home is to get home insurance. Our team can help you get Atlanta home insurance quotes from some of the top carriers in the country. We’ll help you get the best coverage at the best rate so you can get the insurance that’s right for you and save money. To get in touch with our team, all you have to do is fill out our online form or give us a call.

8 tips to stay safe with social media when you’re on vacation

April 15, 2020June 5, 2018 by Kate Betts

When you're on vacation, it's important to be smart with social media.

When you’re super excited about a trip or vacation, it’s really easy to get carried away when it comes to posting on social media. But whether your preferred platform is Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, it’s important that you take proper precautions when it comes to your social media habits. If you’re not careful online, you could make your home a target for burglary. Believe it or not, burglars use social media to figure out which houses to burgle. When you post about being away from this date to that date, you’re telling the world that your house will be empty and unprotected. However, with these tips, you can help prevent a home burglary while you’re on vacation.

1. Don’t post about your travel plans.

If you put your travel dates, flight info, or vacation plans online, you’re opening yourself up to a world of trouble.

A tech-savvy burglar trolling Facebook could easily realize that you’re not going to be home, as we said, and what better time to strike than when no one’s home and they can take their time? They can break in, steal your stuff, and be gone before anyone’s the wiser. And they’ll have lots of time to make their getaway since no one’s going to be home to alert the police for a while.

Don’t announce your travel plans to the world. You don’t want to give a thief an invitation to your home.

2. Disable location services on your phone.

Location services on your phone often runs in the background unless you turn it off. Go to your settings and disable your location services so no one can figure out where you are. Usually, it’s as simple as hitting a button.

3. Tighten up your tagging settings.

Change your social media settings so that posts that people tag you in won’t automatically pop up on your page. Your traveling companions might tag you in a photo, and this is another way that thieves can figure out that you’re not home. Unfortunately, burglars are pretty clever. Take some time to check out your social media settings and make sure that posts you’re tagged in won’t appear on your page.

While you’re playing around with your settings, amp up your privacy and make it so that the entire world can’t look at your page. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

4. Don’t check-in at various locations.

You might have the option to “Check-In” on social media when you’re at certain locations. Resist the urge to check-in, as tempting as it might be. Checking-in can also be a dead giveaway if you’re not at home, as you’re essentially telling everyone, “Look at me, in this city that I don’t live in at this place that I’m on vacation in!” Whether you’re going on a road trip or flying, don’t holler about your whereabouts online.

5. Take a break from social media while you’re on vacation.

Just take a break from your social media accounts while you’re vacationing. Vacation is time for relaxing, experiencing new places, and spending time with family or friends. Don’t let the time fly by as you’re too busy looking at your phone to take in your surroundings or enjoy your time with your traveling companions. Yes, you might fear the unpleasant symptoms of social media withdrawal, but you will survive. You are strong. You can put the phone aside for your trip and simply live in the moment, absorbing all there is to see and relaxing.

6. Post about your trip after you’re back.

If you must take to social media to chronicle your escapades, wait until you’re home. This will give you the opportunity to go through all your pictures and choose your favorite ones to share, anyways, and that way you’re not bombarding people with photo and post overload.

7. Use scheduling tools for posts.

If you want, you can even consider using a scheduling software to create posts and set them to post at a later time – after you’ve returned. There are multiple platforms you can use to schedule and manage your posts. That way you can write or compose your post while the experience is still fresh, but your post won’t go live until you’re home.

8. Go over social media safety with your whole family.

Make sure that everyone’s on the same page when it comes to being smart with social media when you’re on vacation. Ask your teenagers to wait to post pictures and so on until you’ve returned from vacation and make sure they understand the importance of not posting details about your family’s travel plans online. Teenagers often seem glued to their phones, so make sure that they’re aware of what not to post while on vacation.

Vacation is meant to be a relaxing, stress-free time for you and your family or friends. Be social media savvy this summer and don’t give away your whereabouts, as cool or envy-inducing those whereabouts might be. Traveling is great and of course, you want to capture the memories with photos. Just be careful on social media and don’t broadcast your location to everyone. Focus on being in the moment instead of flooding the Internet with pictures and posts about your vacation.

Want to save money on home insurance? We would be happy to help you shop your rates and get multiple quotes for your Atlanta homeowners insurance. All you have to do to get in touch with our insurance professionals is fill out our online form or give us a call today.

Swimming safety tips for fun in the Atlanta sun this summer

July 30, 2019May 31, 2018 by Kate Betts

Making sure that kids have the proper supervision is essential to swimming safety.

Swimming is high up on the list of fun things to do during the summer. It’s a great way to cool off and stay refreshed throughout the dog days of the summer months when the Atlanta humidity and high temperatures make it very unpleasant to be outside. Although swimming is tons of fun, it also comes with lots of risks. Whether you’ve got your own pool or you take your kids to the neighborhood pool, it’s important to teach your kids swimming safety and to keep an eye on them. We’ll go over some pool safety tips to help you keep your young charges from getting hurt when they’re swimming.

Check out these swimming safety tips:

1. Have your kids take age-appropriate swim lessons.

Sign your children up for swimming lessons taught by a qualified teacher. If your kids are comfortable in the water, they can become strong swimmers. Plus, you’ll give yourself some peace of mind, too, knowing that your kids know how to swim and that they’ve had plenty of practice.

2. Never leave a child unsupervised around water.

This is a swimming safety essential.

Children should never be unsupervised around water. Make sure that you or a trusted grown-up is keeping an eye on the kids at all times. If you’re responsible for supervising, avoid any distractions and keep your attention on the kids. Stay alert for any signs of trouble. Small children should be kept within arm’s reach.

To help you keep track of the kids, teach them to ask permission to go in the water. They should know that they have to ask you before they get in the pool so that you’re aware. They need to know that they can’t swim unless you say it’s okay.

3. Lay down some ground rules.

If you’re planning a day at the pool, lay down some ground rules ahead of time. The pool itself probably has some posted rules, which your kids need to follow, but you might want to take some time to go over them and set some rules of your own. For example…

No playing around the filters, grates, or drains.
No running.
No breath-holding contests.
No diving in shallow water.
Ask permission before getting in the water.
No roughhousing.

4. Use the buddy system.

Nobody should swim alone. Teach kids to swim together and have a swim buddy. Although children need to be supervised by adults, not other children, you can still establish a buddy system and ask them to look out for each other.

5. Make sure there’s a certified lifeguard.

Swim only where there is a qualified lifeguard. Lifeguards are great. They know a lot of stuff that could come in handy if there’s an emergency.

6. Check that life jackets are US-Coast Guard approved.

If you have young kids who need to wear life jackets or other swim safety accessories, check that the life jackets are US-Coast Guard approved. And remember, don’t rely on only the life jacket – you still have to keep swimming safety in mind. Kids still need appropriate supervision and shouldn’t go in water that’s too deep for them.

7. If a child is missing, check the water first.

Should a child go missing, check the water first. Don’t waste any time. In drowning situations, every bit of time counts.

8. Keep an eye on the weather.

As you can imagine, thunder and lightning and swimming pools don’t mix well. If you hear thunder or see lightning, everyone needs to get out of the water for thirty minutes. If there’s another flash of lightning or another boom of thunder, start the thirty minutes over again. This is a severe thunderstorm safety must.

(Oh, and speaking of weather – well, sunshine – don’t forget to wear sunscreen and protect your family from the sun.)

Safety tips for your home swimming pool…

If you have a swimming pool in your backyard, it’s your responsibility to make it as safe as possible. Keep the following tips in mind.

1. Keep the pool secure.

Make sure that you prevent people (and children) from getting to your pool without your permission. Swimmers should never be unsupervised, so you need to make sure that no one swims without your knowledge.

To lock up your pool…

Have a fence around the entire pool area.
Have gates that are self-closing and self-locking.
Make sure any latches or locks are well out of the reach of kids.
Clear away the area around the fence so there’s nothing anyone could use as stairs to climb over it.
If you have an above-ground pool, be sure to remove the ladder and cover the pool when it’s not being used.

2. Make sure that your fence is sturdy.

If your fence or gate is broken or has a hole in it, that doesn’t exactly make your pool very secure. You have to properly maintain your pool.

3. Learn first-aid and CPR.

To be responsible for the pool, it’s a good idea to get proper training. Consider getting lifeguard certified, first-aid certified, and CPR-certified. Be prepared for emergencies by getting the right training.

4. Clean the pool.

Pools can get icky and germy. Check out the following tips for keeping your pool clean.

Change the filters in the pool when needed.
Treat the pool with the proper chemicals and follow the instructions carefully. Store the chemicals properly.
Don’t allow anyone to drink the water.
Don’t allow pets in the water.
Don’t let people swim if they have wounds or if they’re sick.
Make sure all babies wear appropriate swim diapers.

5. Have swimming safety equipment in an easily-accessible place.

Keep life jackets and floatation devices near the pool. It’s also a good idea to have a phone by the pool so you can call 911 if there’s an injury or if there’s a drowning incident.

6. Get the right insurance coverage for your pool.

If you’ve got a pool, you need to have enough property and liability insurance to fully protect you from the risks that come along with it. You need to let your agent know if you’re thinking of having a pool installed. You may also want to think about getting personal umbrella insurance to add liability insurance to protect yourself from any potential lawsuits.

If you’re planning on swimming this summer, it’s important that you keep everyone safe. Pool safety is a must if you and your family are going to be around the water to beat the Atlanta heat. Minimize the chances of injury or drowning by employing the above swimming safety tips.

Are you looking for home insurance? Are you trying to save money on home insurance? We can help. Our team can shop for the best rate for the best coverage so that you know your home is protected from whatever life can throw at you. Get started with your home insurance quotes by filling out our form or giving us a call today.

Source:

http://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/water-safety/swim-safety

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/water-safety/home-pool-safety.html