tcg_admin, Author at Raymond Nelson Insurance

Bad Driving Habits? Here’s How to Break Them.

Let’s be honest — we’ve all developed some not-so-great driving habits over time. Whether it’s rolling through stop signs, glancing at your phone at a red light, or treating speed limits more like suggestions than rules, these small lapses can add up to big risks.

The good news? Bad driving habits can be broken — and this National Safety Month is the perfect time to refocus on the road and make a few simple changes that could save lives.

Common Bad Driving Habits (and How to Break Them)

- Distracted Driving – Texting, eating, adjusting the GPS — these distractions take your attention away from what matters most. Try putting your phone on “Do Not Disturb” before driving and handling adjustments before you hit the road.

- Speeding – Running late doesn’t justify putting yourself or others at risk. Obeying speed limits isn’t just about avoiding tickets — it gives you more time to react and avoid accidents.

- Rolling Stops – A “California roll” might save a few seconds, but it can cost you dearly in a collision. Always come to a complete stop and check for cross-traffic and pedestrians.

- Tailgating – Following too closely is a major cause of rear-end accidents. The rule of thumb? Stay at least four seconds behind the vehicle in front of you — more if the weather is bad.

- Ignoring Turn Signals – It might seem small, but failing to signal can lead to confusion and crashes. Always use your turn signal to communicate with other drivers.

Why It Matters — Beyond Safety

Aside from protecting your life and the lives of others, driving responsibly can have other benefits:

Lower Insurance Rates: Safe drivers often qualify for lower premiums.
Fewer Repairs: Avoiding accidents means fewer trips to the auto shop.
Peace of Mind: When you’re driving safely, you’re reducing stress for yourself and others.

Refocus. Reset. Drive Safely.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we believe small changes can lead to big results. As we observe National Safety Month, we encourage all drivers to take a moment to check in with their habits behind the wheel. A little extra caution can go a long way — and might even save a life.

Stay safe, drive smart, and contact Raymond Nelson Insurance for personalized coverage that keeps you protected no matter where the road takes you.

#NationalSafetyMonth #SafeDriving #RaymondNelsonInsurance

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most: the business you’ve built and the people you love. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800, or contact us online for more information.

Getting Your Boat or RV Ready for Summer Fun?

Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to dust off the boat or RV and get ready for some well-deserved fun in the sun. Whether you’re hitting the open water or heading out on a cross-country adventure, a little prep work now can save you time, money, and stress down the road. Here are some essential tips to help you get your boat or RV summer-ready—and make sure your insurance coverage is up to speed, too.

For Boat Owners:

Inspect the Hull and Propeller
Test the Battery
Review Safety Equipment
Check the Fuel System

For RV Owners:

Examine Tires and Brakes
Look Over the Exterior
Flush and Sanitize Water System.
Check Appliances and Power Systems

Don’t Forget About Insurance!

A lot can change in a few months—especially if you’ve made upgrades or added new gear. Take a moment to review your current insurance policy to ensure you have the right coverage for your needs, including:

Collision and comprehensive coverage
Liability protection
Coverage for personal belongings
Roadside or towing assistance
Boating or RV trip interruption coverage

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we specialize in helping clients protect their recreational vehicles and watercraft, so you can focus on having fun without surprises.

Need a Coverage Review?

Before you hit the road or water, contact us to review your policy or get a custom quote. We’re here to help make sure your summer adventures are safe, secure, and fully covered.

Kentucky Storm Season is Here: Beware of Storm-Chasing Contractors!

April and May bring the peak of severe weather to Kentucky, with high winds, hail, and heavy rains putting homes and businesses at risk. Unfortunately, this is also the time when storm-chasing contractors appear, promising quick and cheap repairs. While some contractors are reputable, many take advantage of storm victims—doing shoddy work or disappearing after taking your money.

How to Spot a Storm Chaser

Storm-chasing contractors move from town to town, targeting storm-damaged areas. Here’s how to recognize them:

Unsolicited Offers – They knock on your door, claiming to notice damage you weren’t aware of.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics – They push you to sign a contract immediately, often claiming it’s a “limited-time offer.”
Lack of Local Reputation – They may have an out-of-state license plate, a temporary phone number, or no local references.
Upfront Payment Demands – Reputable contractors don’t ask for full payment before work begins.
No Written Estimates or Contracts – They avoid providing paperwork, making it difficult to hold them accountable.

How to Protect Yourself

Verify Licensing & Insurance – Always check for a valid Kentucky contractor’s license and proof of insurance.
Read Reviews & Ask for References – Look up their business on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and read online reviews.
Get Multiple Quotes – Compare bids from at least three local contractors before making a decision.
Avoid Paying in Full Upfront – A reasonable down payment is standard, but never pay the full amount before work begins.
Check with Your Insurance Provider – Consult your insurance company before signing anything to ensure your claim is handled properly.

Trustworthy Storm Recovery Starts with Local Experts

When storms hit, you need a contractor you can trust. At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we help policyholders navigate the claims process and connect with reliable local professionals. If you need assistance after a storm, reach out to us first—we’re here to help!

Maximize Your Insurance Tax Savings

Tax season is here, and while it might not be the most exciting time of year, it presents a valuable opportunity to assess how your insurance policies could help lower your tax bill. Many people don’t realize that certain insurance premiums and expenses may be tax-deductible or provide financial benefits. By understanding the tax implications of your coverage, you can make informed decisions that benefit your bottom line.

Health Insurance Deductions

If you’re self-employed, you may be able to deduct your health insurance premiums, including those for medical, dental, and long-term care coverage. Even if you’re not self-employed, out-of-pocket medical expenses that exceed a certain percentage of your adjusted gross income (AGI) may be deductible. Be sure to keep track of your medical insurance payments and expenses to see if you qualify.

Life Insurance and Estate Planning

While life insurance premiums are generally not tax-deductible, there are still tax advantages associated with these policies. For example, the death benefit paid to beneficiaries is typically tax-free. Additionally, some permanent life insurance policies build cash value that grows tax-deferred, providing a potential financial planning advantage.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care (LTC) insurance can be a smart investment in your future while offering tax benefits. Premiums for qualified LTC policies may be partially deductible, depending on your age and tax situation. These deductions are subject to IRS limits, so check the latest guidelines to determine how much you can claim.

Business Insurance Deductions

If you own a business, various insurance policies may be deductible as business expenses. These can include:

Business liability insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance
Property insurance
Malpractice insurance

By deducting these costs, you can reduce your taxable income and improve your business’s financial health.

Homeowners and Renters Insurance

While homeowners and renters insurance premiums are generally not tax-deductible, there are exceptions. If you use part of your home exclusively for business, you may be able to deduct a portion of your homeowners insurance as part of the home office deduction. Additionally, if you suffer a loss due to a federally declared disaster and insurance does not fully cover it, you may be able to claim a casualty loss deduction.

Maximizing Your Tax Benefits

To make the most of these potential tax advantages, keep detailed records of your insurance premiums and expenses throughout the year. Work with a tax professional to ensure you’re claiming all eligible deductions and making strategic decisions about your insurance coverage.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we’re here to help you navigate your insurance needs and find policies that offer the best financial protection and benefits. If you have questions about how your insurance coverage could impact your taxes, contact us today!

Personal Lines Account Executive Representative

PERSONAL LINES Account Executive Representative for Hopkinsville, KY Office

The Account Executive is responsible for the marketing of existing Personal Lines accounts and for handling new business to the agency via phone and walk-ins. The Account Executive is also responsible for inside assistance (occasionally outside) to the Agency and Agency’s Principal in providing continuous service to clients through servicing, developing a thorough knowledge of the accounts, and by becoming a liaison between the client and the other departments within the agency. The Account Executive is also responsible for the service including computer input and update of Personal Lines accounts to customers. Salary compensatory upon experience and skills.

Job Duties:

Quoting and New Business Processing
Prospecting
Answering phones
Product Knowledge
Agency Management System Knowledge – Applied TAM
Relationship Building
Billing/Payments
Paperless Filing
Preparing Proposals
Servicing Existing Business

Forward resume to:
Raymond Nelson Insurance Agency Inc
PO Box 178
Hopkinsville, KY 42241
Email: wanda@rnelsoninsurance.com

Personal Lines Representative

PERSONAL LINES Account Executive Representative for Hopkinsville, KY Office

Job Duties:

Quoting and New Business Processing
Prospecting
Answering phones
Product Knowledge
Agency Management System Knowledge – Applied TAM
Relationship Building
Billing/Payments
Paperless Filing
Preparing Proposals
Servicing Existing Business

Forward resume to:
Raymond Nelson Insurance Agency Inc
PO Box 178
Hopkinsville, KY 42241
Email: wanda@rnelsoninsurance.com

Why Winter is the Best Time to get Flood Insurance

When people think about flooding, they often picture spring rains or summer hurricanes. But did you know that winter is one of the most overlooked times for flood risks?

Melting snow, ice jams, and heavy seasonal storms can cause unexpected flooding, leaving homeowners unprepared. That’s why getting flood insurance during the winter months is a smart move—and Raymond Nelson Insurance is here to help you stay protected.

Winter Flood Risks:

Many homeowners assume that if they don’t live in a high-risk flood zone, they don’t need flood insurance. But according to FEMA, about 25% of all flood claims come from low-to-moderate risk areas. Here’s how winter can put your home at risk:

Snowmelt Flooding – A heavy snowfall followed by a sudden warm spell can cause rapid snowmelt. This can overwhelm drainage systems and lead to flooding.
Ice Dams and Blockages – Ice formations on rivers and streams can create natural dams. This can cause water to back up and flood nearby areas.
Winter Storm Surges – Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to winter storms, which can bring strong winds and high tides. This can lead to flooding.
Frozen Ground Runoff – When the ground is frozen, it can’t absorb rain or melted snow. This increases the risk of surface flooding.

Don’t Wait to get Flood Insurance

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that flood insurance policies usually have a 30-day waiting period before they take effect. If you wait until spring rains start, it may be too late to get covered in time. By securing flood insurance in the winter, you ensure that your home is protected before the risk increases.

Now’s the Time to Review Your Health & Life Insurance, Too

While you’re taking steps to protect your home, don’t forget about your personal well-being. Winter is a great time to review your health and life insurance policies to make sure they meet your needs.

Health Insurance Check-Up – The colder months often bring flu, seasonal illnesses, and unexpected medical expenses. Winter is a great time to check for coverage gaps or better options.
Life Insurance Protection – Life is unpredictable, and ensuring your family’s financial security should always be a priority. Whether you need term life insurance for income protection or a whole life policy for long-term security, we can help. Reviewing your policy now can give you peace of mind for the future.

Whether it’s flood, health, or life insurance, being proactive is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your assets. We offer personalized guidance to help you find the best coverage for your needs—before the unexpected happens.

Contact us today to discuss your flood, health, and life insurance options and ensure a safer, more secure future.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Setting Insurance Goals for the New Year

The new year is an excellent time to review and refine your insurance plans to align with your current needs and future goals. Here are practical steps to help you set insurance goals for 2025:

Assess Your Current Coverage

Review Policies: Look at your health, auto, home, life, and other insurance policies.
Check Coverage Limits: Ensure your coverage aligns with your assets and liabilities.
Identify Gaps: Evaluate if there are areas where you’re underinsured, such as disability or long-term care insurance.

Update Beneficiary Information

Life Changes: Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or other major events may require updates.
Correct Errors: Double-check the spelling of names and other personal details.
Consider Contingents: Ensure you’ve designated secondary (contingent) beneficiaries.

Plan for Milestones

Buying a Home: Consider homeowners or renters insurance upgrades.
New Family Members: Evaluate the need for increased life or health insurance coverage.
Retirement: Adjust coverage based on reduced income and new health needs.

Prepare for Emergencies

Review Riders: Look into optional add-ons like flood, earthquake, or umbrella insurance.
Create a Claims Plan: Know how to file a claim and have key documents easily accessible.
Build Reserves: Ensure you have savings to cover deductibles or uninsured incidents.

Understand Policy Details

Learn Terms: Familiarize yourself with deductibles, exclusions, and policy limits.
Read the Fine Print: Ensure you’re aware of renewal terms and rate increase clauses.

Tips for Goal Setting

Be Specific: Define clear goals, such as “increase life insurance coverage by 20%” or “review all policies by March.”
Set Deadlines: Assign a timeframe to complete each task.
Track Progress: Use a checklist or calendar reminders to stay on track.

Starting the new year with a solid plan for your insurance needs can bring peace of mind and financial security. Take proactive steps now to ensure you’re protected in the year ahead. For more information, contact your Raymond Nelson Insurance agent.

Safe Gift-Giving Guide

December is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month, a campaign aimed at raising awareness about choosing safe and age-appropriate toys to prevent accidents and injuries.

Safe Gift-Giving Guidelines

Follow these tips to prioritize safety when selecting toys:

Check Age Recommendations: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended age range on toy packaging. Toys intended for older children may have small parts or other features that pose risks to younger ones.

Inspect for Hazards: Avoid toys with sharp edges, small detachable parts, and strings longer than 7 inches, too. These strings could pose strangulation risks.

Choose Non-Toxic Materials: First verify that the toy is made from non-toxic, lead-free materials. This is especially important for younger children who are likely to put objects in their mouths.

Look for Quality Certifications: Check for labels like “ASTM” or “CE” that indicate compliance with safety standards.

Despite best efforts, accidents can still happen. This is where liability insurance becomes crucial. If a child is injured by a defective toy or due to negligence, liability insurance can cover medical expenses, legal fees, and other costs associated with the incident, as well.

The Role of Liability Insurance in Toy-Related Accidents

For Manufacturers and Retailers:

Product liability insurance protects businesses from claims related to defective or unsafe products. This coverage ensures financial stability and while safeguarding their reputation in the event of a lawsuit.

For Parents and Gift Givers:

Personal liability coverage is often included in homeowners or renters insurance policies. It can offer protection if you’re ever held liable for an injury involving a toy you gifted.

In short, be sure to follow these safe toy-giving guidelines. We want to ensure that the holidays remain a time of joy, not accidents.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we always go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most to you. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Are You Protected Against Common Thanksgiving Accidents?

Thanksgiving brings people together, but it can also bring some unexpected mishaps! Fortunately, many insurance policies cover common Thanksgiving accidents. Here’s a rundown of what types of incidents might be covered:

Kitchen Fires and Cooking Accidents

Homeowners Insurance: If a kitchen fire or cooking accident damages your home, your homeowner’s policy typically covers fire damage, smoke damage, and repairs. This includes damage to the structure of your home and often extends to damaged appliances or countertops.
Personal Property Coverage: If a fire damages items in the kitchen (e.g., furniture, electronics nearby), these can also be covered under your personal property protection.

Injury to Guests

Liability Coverage (Homeowners Insurance): If a guest is injured in your home (e.g., they slip on a spill or hurt themselves while helping in the kitchen), your homeowner’s liability coverage can help with their medical expenses and protect you from potential lawsuits.
Medical Payments to Others: homeowners policies also have a “medical payments to others” section, which may cover smaller medical expenses regardless of fault.

Car Accidents

Auto Insurance (Comprehensive and Collision): Thanksgiving often means more traffic, road trips, and the potential for accidents. Collision coverage can help with repairs if you’re in a car accident. Comprehensive coverage can cover damages caused by animals (like deer, which are more active in late fall) or other non-collision events.
Liability Coverage: What happens if you’re found at fault for an accident? Your liability insurance will cover damages to others, including their vehicle and medical expenses.

Food Poisoning

Homeowners Liability Insurance: What happens if you serve food that accidentally causes food poisoning or an allergic reaction? Liability coverage may cover the medical expenses for affected guests, depending on the circumstances.

Thanksgiving accidents can be a hassle, but the right coverage helps protect against major financial setbacks.