Hopkinsville KY Archives | Raymond Nelson Insurance

How Often Should You Review Your Insurance?

A good rule of thumb is to review your insurance at least once a year. Now is a great time to review insurance before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Benefits of Regularly Reviewing Your Insurance:

Avoid Gaps in Coverage: Life is unpredictable, and failing to review your insurance regularly could leave you underinsured. For example, if you fail to update your life insurance after having children, your family might not be adequately protected.
Potential Savings: If your risk factors have decreased—such as quitting smoking or installing security systems—you might qualify for lower premiums.
Update Beneficiaries: Life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child should always lead to an update of beneficiaries in your policies.

When is the Best Time to Review Your Insurance?

While annual reviews can occur at any point in the year, certain times might be more convenient or advantageous:

- Before the Holiday Season
  - You’re more likely to forget during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
- Tax Season
  - As you gather your financial information for tax preparation, it’s a natural time to take stock of your overall financial health, including your insurance policies.
- During Major Life Changes
  - As mentioned earlier, any major life event, such as marriage, buying a home, or having a child, should prompt an immediate review of your policies.

Here’s a List of Life Events or Milestones that should Prompt Immediate Review:

Change in Employment

- - If you’ve changed jobs, lost your job, or started your own business, your insurance needs might shift. Employer-provided health or life insurance may no longer apply, so it’s essential to ensure you have the coverage you need.

Marriage or Divorce

- - These significant life changes affect all aspects of your finances, including your insurance. After getting married, you may want to combine policies or increase your coverage. After a divorce, updating beneficiaries and removing your ex-spouse from policies is essential.

Home Purchase or Rental

- - Whether you buy a new home or move into a rental, you’ll need to ensure your homeowners or renters insurance aligns with your new living situation.

Having a Child

- - Expanding your family means more responsibility. Reviewing your life and health insurance policies can ensure that your loved ones are protected should anything happen to you.

Major Purchases

- Acquiring high-value assets like a new car, jewelry, or electronics should prompt a review of your auto or home insurance to ensure they’re adequately covered.

Reviewing your insurance policies isn’t something you should only do once. Whether it’s an annual review or triggered by a major life change, regularly assessing your coverage ensures you’re protected and potentially saves you money. By aligning your insurance with your current life stage and needs, you guarantee peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.

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.

The History of Our Agency

Do you know how Raymond Nelson Insurance Agency first got our start? Read about the history of our agency in our latest blog.

1971 – Door-to-Door Insurance

In 1971, Mr. Raymond Nelson was living in Hopkinsville, KY, selling life insurance door-to-door. His dedication and commitment to helping people protect their futures saw him build strong relationships within the community over the next decade.

However, after ten years of hard work in this demanding role, Raymond sought a more effective and impactful way to assist his clients. Raymond envisioned a brick and mortar business where personal relationships and reliability formed the foundation of every interaction, marking a significant shift from the traditional door-to-door sales approach he had known.

1981 – Brick & Mortar Building

This aspiration led to the founding of Raymond Nelson Insurance, Inc. in 1981. Driven by a passion for providing exceptional service, he established the agency with the core principle of always going above and beyond for clients. His dedication to this mission set a new standard in the insurance industry, while ensuring that Raymond Nelson Insurance would be a trusted partner for clients in their times of need.

Today – Licensed in 22 States

Initially focused on the trucking and transportation industry, we have since expanded both our regional footprint and our insurance offerings. From our beginnings in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, we now operate as a full-service agency licensed in over 22 states. We are proud to provide comprehensive coverage across the United States and Canada as well. Whether for personal or commercial insurance needs, we are always committed to securing the best protection for your business and loved ones.

Today we offer a comprehensive range of insurance solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of their clients. Our personal lines agents manage policies that cover home, auto, and other personal assets, ensuring individuals and families are well-protected. For businesses, our commercial agents provide tailored coverage options for various industries, safeguarding companies against potential risks. Our transportation agents offer policies that cater to the unique requirements of the logistics and transportation sectors.

Additionally, we are proud to continue our founder’s legacy by providing life insurance policies, helping clients secure their loved ones’ financial future.

Over 100 Years of Combined Experience

With over 100 years of combined experience, our agents specialize in safeguarding businesses, homes, and families too. We offer a wide range of coverage options, leveraging our expertise to provide insurance solutions that are both affordable and thorough.

Personalized, compassionate service is our hallmark. We prioritize our clients’ needs above all, taking the time to understand and serve their best interests. We ensure they receive the coverage they truly need.

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 as well. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover My Yard?

Homeowners insurance typically covers the structure of your home, personal belongings, and liability, but is there insurance for your yard? Your policy may have limited coverage for landscaping. Basic policies usually cover landscaping only to a certain extent and it may be conditional to covered perils.

What does homeowners insurance cover?

Yard

Your yard may be covered depending on the type of damage that occurs. If the damage results from a peril such as fire, lightning, or theft, it will typically be covered.
Coverage may include damage caused by a vehicle that isn’t owned by a resident of the house.
- Keep in mind that coverage may only help with the removal, not the replacement of the damaged landscaping.

Fallen trees

If a tree falls on your property due to a storm or strong winds and damages an insured structure, the removal costs will likely be covered.
- However, if your tree falling was a result of the homeowner’s negligence or a maintenance-related issue, the removal costs likely won’t be covered.

Trees, Plants, and Shrubs

Trees, plants, and shrubs are typically covered by homeowners insurance. For other landscaping features, damages may be covered if they’re due to perils such as fire, explosions, lightning, theft, and vehicles.

If you have expensive landscaping or want more comprehensive coverage, then you may need to purchase additional coverage or a rider to your policy.

If you have any additional questions about insurance for your yard, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help ensure you have the information and protection you need throughout your remodeling journey.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we 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 also serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Why & When You Should Review Your Coverage

It is critical to review your insurance coverage regularly to help ensure that your property, your possessions, and your loved ones are well protected.

Here are a few reasons why and how often you should review your insurance coverage:

Life Changes:

Significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, purchasing a home, changing jobs, or retirement can impact your insurance needs.
- It’s crucial to review your coverage whenever these life changes occur to make necessary adjustments.

Policy Changes:

Insurance companies periodically update their policies, terms, and rates.
- Reviewing your coverage allows you to stay informed about any changes that may affect your coverage or premiums.

Coverage Gaps:

Over time, your insurance needs may evolve and you may find that your current coverage no longer adequately protects you against potential risks.
- Regular reviews help identify any coverage gaps and ensure you have the appropriate level of protection.

New Risks:

With advancements in technology and changes in society, new risks may emerge that you weren’t previously aware of.
- Reviewing your coverage allows you to assess whether you need additional coverage to protect against emerging risks.

As for how often you should review your insurance coverage, it’s generally recommended to do so at least once a year, However, certain life events may prompt the need for more frequent reviews. Check with your Raymond Nelson Insurance agent about when you should review yours.

By staying proactive and regularly assessing your insurance needs, you can ensure that you have the right coverage in place to protect yourself and your asset

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Are You Winter Weather Prepared?

This time of year, it’s crucial to ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared for the challenges that winter weather can bring. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe and comfortable during the winter months:

Bundle Up:

Dress in layers to trap body heat and protect yourself from the cold.
Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to cover exposed skin.

Winterize your vehicle:

If you drive, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready.
- Check the tires, brakes, and antifreeze levels, and keep an emergency kit in your car.
Winter Car Kit checklist
- Windshield scraper
- Small broom
- Flashlight
- Blanket
- Spare radio batteries
- Snacks or energy type food
- Water
- Flares and matches
- Shovel
- Hats, socks and mittens
- First aid kit
- Fluorescent distress flag

Practice Safe Driving:

If you must drive in snowy or icy conditions, drive slowly, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and use snow tires if possible.
Be cautious of black ice on the roads.
Travel with a fully charged cell phone.
If you know you’ll be driving during a snowstorm, let others know about your route, destination, and estimated time of arrival.
If you become stranded in deep snow and are idling the engine to keep warm, keep the area around the tailpipe clear to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning inside the vehicle.
- Also, open a window slightly to let in fresh air.

Take Care of Your Health:

Cold weather can strain your health, so get enough rest, eat well-balanced meals, and keep yourself physically active to boost your immune system.
Stay hydrated! Even in colder weather, it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to help your body regulate temperature and stay healthy.

Remember, being winter-ready is more than just having the right gear; it’s also about being informed and proactive. You can enjoy the winter season safely and comfortably by taking these steps.

Car Theft is on the Rise, Especially on New Year’s Eve

Multiple reasons for increased car theft include strained financial resources, social media pressures, and the rising value of vehicles and vehicle parts. Catalytic converters are particularly popular because of the precious metals they are made of—platinum, palladium, or rhodium.

Preventing car theft involves a combination of awareness, precautionary measures, and security measures. Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of car theft:

Lock Your Car

Always lock your car doors and close your windows when you leave your vehicle, even if it’s just for a short time. Thieves often look for easy opportunities.

Park in a Well-lit Area

Park your car in well-lit areas, especially at night. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in well-lit locations where their activities are more easily noticed.

Store Valuables Out of Sight

Avoid leaving valuable items in plain sight in your car. Thieves are more likely to break in if they see something of value inside.

Keep Spare Keys Secure

Don’t leave spare keys inside your car, and be cautious about who has access to your spare keys. Thieves sometimes look for spare keys in common hiding spots.

Remember that no method is foolproof, but combining these measures can significantly reduce the risk of car theft. Adapt your strategies based on your specific circumstances and location.

The Most Stolen Cars in the U.S. Is yours on the list?

Does Auto Insurance cover Car Theft?

Car theft may be covered under comprehensive coverage, which is sometimes called other-than-collision coverage. If coverage applies, then you would be responsible for paying the deductible. If you need clarification on whether your auto insurance policy covers theft, contact Raymond Nelson Insurance.

Don’t Become a House Fire Statistic!

Local US fire departments respond to over 1.3 million fires every year and cause over $16 Billion in damages. Everyone should be aware of several common house fire hazards and take precautions to prevent them.

Electrical Issues:

Overloaded electrical outlets or power strips.
Frayed or damaged electrical cords and wires.
Faulty wiring or outdated electrical systems.

Cooking:

Unattended cooking appliances.
Grease buildup on cooking surfaces or in the oven.
Flammable items left too close to heating sources.

Heating:

Portable heaters placed too close to flammable materials.
Malfunctioning or poorly maintained furnaces, boilers, or space heaters.
Blocked or dirty chimneys and vents.

Candles:

Leaving candles unattended.
Placing candles near flammable materials.
People may fall asleep using candles in bedrooms or other areas.

Faulty smoke alarms:

Failing to install or maintain smoke detectors.
Not testing smoke alarms regularly.
Check HERE for how often to check your smoke alarms.

Lint in dryer vents:

Failure to clean dryer vents regularly can lead to lint buildup and potential house fires.
Click HERE for data on home fires caused by clothes dryers and washing machines.

Keep Children and Pets Safe:

Children playing with matches or lighters.
Pets knocking over candles or other heat sources.

Practice fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors, having fire extinguishers on hand, practicing a fire escape plan, and being vigilant about potential fire hazards.

Check with your insurance company to ensure you have enough fire coverage for your home. Hopefully you will never experience a house fire, but Raymond Nelson Insurance wants you to be prepared for any potential hazards.

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.

Does a Speeding Ticket Affect Your Car Insurance?

Auto insurance rates are predicated on the fact that someone is going to file a claim because of an accident. Rates are adjusted to your driving record and a speeding ticket can have an impact on your rates since speeding would be more likely to cause an accident.

Insurance agencies will check your motor vehicle record (MVR) which would include any driving infractions including speeding and adjust your rates accordingly.

If you’ve gotten a speeding ticket recently, you’ll likely pay more for car insurance.

How much you’ll pay can vary based on your driving history, location, and other factors.
Compared rates across the country for a hypothetical 35-year-old driver ticketed for going 16 mph over the speed limit, your car insurance typically goes up about 25% after the speeding ticket.
On average, a driver convicted of speeding will pay $2,043 a year – $413 more than a driver with a clean record.

Minimum vs. full coverage after a speeding ticket

If your insurance goes up after getting a ticket, you might consider going with minimum coverage rather than full coverage.

Average rate for full coverage is $2,043
Average rate for minimum coverage is $710.

BUT think carefully about this option since minimum coverage won’t have comprehensive and collision coverage.

How long does a ticket affect your insurance?

Your MVR might keep a permanent record of your ticket.
Many insurance companies only look back three to five years for minor violations, including speeding tickets.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best fits our clients. 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.

How to Protect Yourself from Car Theft

With car theft on the rise, it’s important to protect your car and valuables. Raymond Nelson Insurance has some tips on preventing your car or car parts from being stolen.

Car theft and car parts theft is on the rise.

According to Claims Journal, car theft is on the rise.
- This is partially due to the rising costs of automobiles plus the fact that so many parts, such as the catalytic converters, are in demand.

Here are some tips to keep your car and belongings safe:

- Lock your vehicle. This may seem obvious, but many people forget to lock their car doors. Always lock all doors and windows before leaving your car, even if you’ll only be gone for a few minutes.

- Park in a safe area. When choosing a parking spot, find a well-lit area with plenty of foot traffic. If you must park on the street, avoid parking next to alleys or other secluded areas.

- Don’t leave valuables in your car. If you must leave something valuable, ensure it’s out of sight. Don’t leave items like laptops, phones, or purses on the seat or dashboard where they can be easily seen.

- Install an anti-theft device. Many anti-theft devices are on the market, from steering wheel locks to GPS tracking systems. Consider installing one to deter thieves.

Following these simple tips can help protect your car and belongings from theft. Remember, prevention is the best defense against theft. Stay safe out there!

Staying Safe During Spring Severe Weather

Spring weather in Hopkinsville can be unpredictable. Raymond Nelson Insurance wants to prepare you for sudden weather changes with these severe weather tips:

Getting your home ready

Ensure your gutters and downspouts are cleaned. Heavy rains should flow freely off your roof and drain well away from your home.
Prune tree limbs and branches.
- In high winds, these branches can snap off and damage your home or power lines.
- Tree Trimming Tips
Secure patio furniture and other yard items that could become projectiles in heavy winds.
- Outdoor trampolines can be blown several yards away and cause damage to property and people.
Keep blinds and curtains closed to help protect against broken glass.
Protect your vehicle from hail damage by tying down heavy blankets over it.

Emergency kits:

A basic kit should include the following:
- Flashlight with fresh batteries
- Battery powered weather radio
- First aid kit*
- Sanitizing wipes
- At least a 3-day supply of canned or dried food and water.
- *The Federal Emergency Management Agency has a list of emergency supplies.

Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage and damage from hail and wind-driven rain that gets inside your home.
Make sure you’re covered before these spring storms hit.
Speak with your Raymond Nelson Insurance agent to ensure you have the proper coverage for all your insurance needs.

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.

Our agents have over 100 years of combined experience helping people protect their businesses, homes and families. We provide all lines of coverage and pledge to use our expertise to find you insurance that is both affordable and gives you the complete coverage you need. Our top priority is compassionate, personalized service.

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.