Raymond Nelson Insurance Archives | Raymond Nelson Insurance

How to Create a Family Emergency Plan

September is National Preparedness Month—a reminder that life can change in an instant. Whether it’s a severe storm, power outage, or unexpected emergency, being prepared can make all the difference in keeping your family safe and secure. At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we believe peace of mind starts with preparation. Here’s how you can create a family emergency plan and take simple but important steps to get ready.

Create a Family Emergency Plan

Emergencies are stressful, but knowing what to do ahead of time can save precious moments. Sit down with your family and:

Choose a meeting place inside and outside your neighborhood.
Assign responsibilities (who grabs the pets, medications, or important documents).
Share emergency contacts with every family member.
Practice your plan regularly, just like a fire drill.

This ensures that when the unexpected happens, everyone knows where to go and what to do. Consult the Red Cross Emergency Resource Library for tips on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from specific disasters.

Build a Disaster Supply Kit

A well-stocked kit helps you weather an emergency until help arrives. Consider including:

Bottled water (at least one gallon per person, per day for three days)
Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
Flashlights and extra batteries
First aid supplies and medications
Important documents (ID, insurance policies) in a waterproof container
Blankets, extra clothing, and personal hygiene items
Cell phone chargers (including portable power banks)
For a more comprehensive list of Red Cross supplies, click here.

Store your kit in an easily accessible location and check it twice a year to refresh supplies.

Stay Informed

Sign up for local weather alerts and know how to tune into emergency broadcasts. Having a battery-powered radio can be a lifesaver when the power goes out.

Preparedness Brings Peace of Mind

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to take action. By creating a plan, building a supply kit, and staying informed, you’re giving your family the tools to stay safe during the unexpected.

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.

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.

Why Making Left Turns May Be Riskier Than You Think

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we’re always looking for ways to help our clients stay safer on the road. That’s why we’re bringing attention to a surprising statistic: over 60% of intersection crashes involve a left turn. It’s a number that’s causing some traffic experts—and even major companies like UPS—to rethink how we navigate our roads.

So why are left turns so dangerous? And could avoiding them really make that much of a difference? Let’s take a closer look.

The Hidden Risks of a Left Turn

Left turns might seem like an ordinary part of driving, but they’re actually one of the riskiest maneuvers you can make—especially at busy intersections. Here’s why:

Multiple points of conflict: When turning left, you often have to cross oncoming traffic, watch for pedestrians, and navigate around cyclists. That’s a lot of potential hazards in one move.
Limited visibility: Oncoming vehicles, parked cars, or even other turning vehicles can obstruct your view, making it hard to judge distance or speed accurately.
Pressure to make a decision quickly: At intersections without a dedicated left turn arrow, drivers often feel pressured to “go for it” when they see a gap in traffic, which increases the risk of a collision.

What the Experts Say

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), left-turn crashes are far more likely to result in serious injury than right-turn crashes. That’s one reason traffic engineers in some cities are designing road systems that reduce or eliminate left turns altogether—including more roundabouts, dedicated U-turn lanes, and restricted intersection designs.

Why Some Companies Are Skipping Left Turns

One of the best-known examples of avoiding left turns comes from UPS. Their routing system is designed to minimize or eliminate left turns on delivery routes. The results?

Improved safety for their drivers and the public.
Significant time savings by avoiding delays waiting to turn.
Lower fuel consumption and emissions from reduced idling.
This is especially true for trucking companies.

If a global delivery company can save millions by avoiding left turns, imagine the impact it could have on your daily commute.

Safety Is Always Worth It

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, your safety is our priority. Whether it’s helping you choose the right auto coverage or sharing tips to avoid common risks, we’re here to help you drive smarter and safer.

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.

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!

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.

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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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.