raymond nelson Archives | Raymond Nelson Insurance

Driving After Dark: Stay Safe as the Days Get Shorter

As the days grow shorter and daylight fades earlier, more of us will find ourselves driving in the dark — whether it’s the commute home, errands after work, or evening activities. With Daylight Saving Time over, it’s important to remember that night driving can be just as risky as distracted or impaired driving. Reduced visibility, glare, and driver fatigue can all contribute to making nighttime roads more hazardous.

Here are a few simple ways to stay safe when the sun goes down.

The Eyes Have It

The more birthdays we have, the more important it is to get our eyes examined. Get routine checkups and schedule additional appointments if you notice changes in your vision. All in favor say, “eye”!

Clean and Check Your Headlights

Dirty or misaligned headlights can cut visibility in half. Give them a thorough cleaning, replace any burned-out bulbs, and ensure they’re aimed correctly so you can see clearly without blinding oncoming drivers.

Keep Your Windshield and Mirrors Clean

Even a thin film on the inside of your windshield can cause glare from headlights and streetlights. Use glass cleaner regularly and make sure wiper blades are in good shape.

Watch Out for Fatigue

Driving tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. If you feel drowsy, pull over safely to rest or grab a cup of coffee before getting back on the road.

Slow Down and Stay Alert

Depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision all decrease at night. Lower your speed and give yourself extra time to react to other vehicles, pedestrians, and wildlife.

Minimize Distractions

Even a quick glance at your phone can be risky, especially in the dark. Keep your focus on the road, and use hands-free technology only when absolutely necessary.

Adjust for Weather Conditions

Fog, rain, or early frost can make night driving even trickier. Use your low beams in fog, slow down in wet conditions, and be extra cautious on cold mornings and evenings when roads may be slick.

The bottom line: With less daylight ahead, now’s the perfect time to refresh your night driving habits. A little extra caution can go a long way toward keeping you and everyone else safe on the road.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we’re here to protect what matters most. From safeguarding your home to ensuring your family’s future, we’re your partner in preparation and peace of mind. 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.

Celebrating 60: Raymond Nelson’s Story

This year marks an incredible milestone of 60 years in the insurance industry for Mr. Raymond Nelson. What began as a young man’s first job has grown into a lifelong career built on hard work, honesty, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Raymond’s journey is not just the story of a business, it’s the story of a man who turned determination into a legacy.

Raymond Nelson’s Story

Raymond Nelson is known throughout our community as a hardworking, determined man. At the age of 36, he took a leap of faith and began the journey that would define his career. He built the business that still bears his name today.

After graduating from Muhlenberg Central High School in 1962, Raymond left his hometown for the first time to attend Western Kentucky University. College, however, wasn’t where his path was meant to be. He completed just one class, Chapel, before deciding to return home.

Once back, his father insisted he find a job, so Raymond began working in construction before eventually discovering his calling in the insurance industry. On October 11, 1965, he joined Life and Casualty Insurance Company of Tennessee, earning just $75 a week. For ten years, he knocked on doors, selling insurance across the region from Monday through Friday. This experience that would build both his resilience and his reputation.

In August of 1975, he entered a partnership and co-founded Nelson-Hale Insurance Agency. When his partner later bought out his share in December 1980, Raymond struck out on his own. Just two months later, in February 1981, he opened Raymond Nelson Insurance on Country Club Lane. On that very first day, he had no customers, but with determination and a phone book in hand, he started calling everyone he knew. Slowly but surely, his business began to grow.

By 1984, he found his niche in trucking insurance, serving as the agency’s only salesperson for nine years. At that time, his small but mighty team included a receptionist, a bookkeeper, and one customer service representative. Growth continued steadily, and in 1993, he welcomed another producer to the team.

In April 2011, Raymond expanded again by acquiring J.G. Keown Insurance Agency, merging it with his own and returning to a full-line agency.

Today, Raymond Nelson Insurance proudly serves clients across 23 states with a team of 20 dedicated employees. Just ten years ago, those numbers were 14 states and 10 employees — a testament to his ongoing vision and hard work.

Who would have imagined that a small-town boy from Muhlenberg County, Kentucky — who once dropped out of college — would go on to build one of the region’s most successful insurance agencies? His story is proof that when you find what you love to do, success will follow.

A Legacy Still Growing

As Raymond celebrates six decades in the insurance industry, his story continues to inspire those around him. What started with one man has become a thriving agency built on integrity, service, and heart.

Here’s to 60 years of dedication and a legacy that will continue to grow for generations to come.

Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover Wind Damage to My Roof?

When strong winds roll through, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your homeowners’ insurance will cover the damage. If you’re dealing with missing shingles, dented siding, or worse after a storm, it’s important to understand what your policy actually protects.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we’re here to help you feel confident in your coverage. Let’s break down what homeowners’ insurance typically covers when it comes to wind damage, especially for your roof and siding.

Wind Damage Is Usually Covered

Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies do cover wind damage. Wind is considered a “named peril,” which means it’s one of the specific risks typically listed in your policy.

If a storm causes:

Shingles to blow off your roof
Pieces of your siding to detach or crack
Debris to damage your home’s exterior

…you’re likely covered—as long as the damage was sudden and accidental.

Roof Damage: What’s Covered?

Insurance will typically help pay to repair or replace your roof if:

Wind tears off shingles or parts of the roof
A fallen tree (caused by wind) damages the roof
Wind-driven rain enters your home because the wind compromised the roof

However, there are limits:

If your roof is older or already in poor condition, your claim may be reduced or denied
Coverage may be based on actual cash value rather than full replacement, depending on your policy and roof age

Pro Tip: Keep your roof well-maintained and document its condition with photos—this helps if you ever need to file a claim.

What About Siding?

Siding damage from wind—such as cracks, holes, or pieces blown off—is also typically covered. But there’s a common issue: matching siding.

Insurance will cover the damaged portion, but it may not cover:

Replacing all the siding if the original material is no longer available
Full siding replacement just to maintain a uniform look

Some policies offer matching siding coverage—be sure to ask us if yours includes this.

How to Make Sure You’re Covered

Review your policy—especially the sections about wind and roof coverage
Ask about exclusions or limitations related to roof age or siding replacement
Consider endorsements or optional add-ons, such as:
- Roof replacement cost coverage
- Matching siding endorsement
- Wind/hail deductible options

Storm Season Is Here—Be Prepared

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we don’t just sell policies—we make sure you understand them. If you’ve recently experienced wind damage or just want peace of mind about your current coverage, we’re here to help.

Let’s review your policy together so you can face the next storm with confidence.

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.

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!

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.

Homeowners Insurance and Halloween Mishaps

Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year, especially for children. With more people walking around your property, the chances of accidents—like someone tripping on a decoration or falling on your porch—can increase. Does your homeowners insurance cover a Halloween mishap?

Fortunately, if you’re a homeowner, your insurance policy may provide important protection during this spooky season. Here’s what you need to know:

Personal Liability Coverage

The personal liability coverage in your homeowners’ insurance policy is designed to protect you financially if someone gets injured on your property and holds you responsible. If a trick-or-treater trips over a pumpkin on your porch or slips on your walkway, they could suffer injuries that require medical attention. In this case, personal liability coverage would help pay for their medical expenses, and even legal fees if the family decides to sue you for negligence.

Medical Payments Coverage

In addition to liability coverage, homeowners insurance policies typically include medical payments coverage, which can help cover minor injuries for guests on your property. Unlike liability coverage, medical payments coverage is a no-fault benefit, meaning it can help pay for medical costs (such as a quick visit to the doctor or emergency room) regardless of who was at fault for the injury.

Preventing Accidents

While homeowners insurance can help protect you financially, it’s still best to avoid accidents altogether. Here are some safety tips to keep trick-or-treaters safe while they visit your home:
- Clear Walkways – Make sure your sidewalks, stairs, and driveways are free from obstructions like garden hoses, fallen branches, or debris.
- Secure Decorations – Ensure that any Halloween decorations you set up are securely fastened and not creating tripping hazards. Watch out for low-hanging or dangling items that could obstruct vision or cause falls.
- Light It Up – Keep your property well-lit so trick-or-treaters can see where they’re going.
- Keep Pets Indoors – Even the friendliest pets can become anxious with a constant stream of visitors. To prevent accidents or scares, keep pets away from the front door.

By ensuring your property is safe and knowing your policy’s details, you can enjoy the holiday knowing that both you and your Halloween visitors are protected.

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Insurance Coverage for College-Bound Children

Does my child need insurance in college? Here are some tips for ensuring your college-bound children have the right insurance coverage:

Health Insurance

Stay on Parent’s Plan:
- Under the Affordable Care Act, children can stay on their parent’s health insurance plan until they turn 26.
Student Health Plans:
- Many colleges offer student health insurance plans but check with your provider to see if they are of value.

Auto Insurance

Notify Your Insurer:
- Inform your auto insurance company that your child is moving to college. This can affect rates based on the new location and mileage usage.
Good Student Discounts:
- Many insurers offer discounts for students who maintain good grades.
Resident Student Discounts:
- Some companies offer discounts if the student is attending school more than 100 miles away and doesn’t have regular access to a car.

Renters Insurance

Coverage for Personal Belongings:
- Renters insurance can protect your child’s belongings in case of theft, fire, or other damages.
  - Check if your homeowner’s insurance covers your child’s dorm room or if separate renters insurance is needed.
Liability Coverage:
- Renters insurance also provides liability coverage, which can protect your child if someone is injured in their dorm or apartment.
Roommate Considerations:
- If your child has roommates, suggest they get their own renters insurance policy, as one policy typically does not cover multiple people.

Additional Tips

Identity Theft Protection:
- Consider adding identity theft protection to your insurance plan. College students can be particularly vulnerable to identity theft.
Umbrella Insurance:
- An umbrella policy can provide additional liability coverage beyond your auto and homeowners insurance limits, offering extra protection.
Review Policies Regularly:
- As your child progresses through college, review your insurance policies annually to ensure they continue to meet your needs and take advantage of any available discounts or adjustments.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your college-bound child is well-protected, giving you peace of mind while they focus on their education.

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.

Protect Your Property From Frozen Pipes

During these winter months, we want to bring to your attention the increased risk of frozen pipes in residential properties. Frozen pipes can lead to significant damage and result in costly repairs, which may only be covered if preventive measures are taken.

To ensure the safety of your property and the preservation of your coverage, we recommend the following precautions:

Insulation:

Adequately insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
To learn more about insulation, click here.

Seal Gaps:

Identify and seal any gaps or cracks in walls, floors, and around windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering.

Heating:

Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, especially during extreme cold spells. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (12°C) when you are away.
Think about a programmable thermostat.

Drip Faucets:

Allow faucets to drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent freezing.

Open Cabinet Doors:

Keep cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Leave Interior Doors Open:

Allow warm air to flow freely throughout your home by keeping interior doors open.

Exterior Faucets:

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and shut off exterior faucets if possible.

Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes and potential water damage to your property. Please remember that your insurance policy may not cover damages resulting from neglecting these preventive measures.

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