June 2018
Six Things Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance
You’re confident your home is covered for burglaries, tornadoes, and fires.
If any of these disasters occur, you know to contact your agent right away. You might be surprised to discover that the following situations also warrant a call to your insurance provider.
These unusual costs might be covered under your homeowner’s policy.
When Fido gets feisty: Did you know dog bites account for about a third of homeowner’s insurance claims? Most policies offer liability and medical coverage for any damages your dog causes to an injured party.
When vandals attack: Are you the caretaker of a family headstone? If your loved one’s memorial is vandalized, your homeowner’s policy may provide for repairs. Even though the headstone isn’t on your property, it’s still your property.
When dorm living goes south: Is your child moving into a dorm this fall? If his or her property is stolen from the dorm room, you can file a claim. Your homeowner’s policy may consider your child’s belongings “off-premises personal property,” so that they will be covered by your insurance.
When groceries go bad: Have you ever experienced an extended power outage? If a lack of power causes your food to spoil, you may be able to recoup the cost of the extra grocery bill. Contact your agent to see if this falls under your homeowner’s policy.
When firemen call: Did you call the fire department to save your home? You might receive a bill for their services. If so, your homeowner’s policy may cover this fee. Coverage may depend on the reason for the call.
When the cows come home: Do you live near a ranch? Most people don’t, but it’s comforting to know that any damage caused to your property by a stampeding herd of cows is covered under your homeowner’s policy. Just in case.
Six Ways to Save on Gas Mileage This Summer
Don’t let fluctuating gas prices crash your road-trip plans. Use the following tips to spend less on gas and have more cash for that summer journey.
- Drive at the right time. Cooler air can increase your car’s power.
- Pack light. Heavier cars require more power, and that requires more gas.
- Drive safely and carefully. Conserve energy by driving the speed limit and stopping gradually. Stop-and-go driving isn’t good for you or your fellow travelers.
- Crank the air conditioner. Driving with the windows down causes more drag on the engine.
- Consider renting an energy-efficient vehicle for long trips.
- Incorporate cycling or public transit in your vacation plans. You’ll save money, get exercise, and see more of your destination.
Cast-Iron Skillet Pizza
Try this new skillet spin on an old favorite. Serves 4
Preheat oven to 500 degrees (or as high as it will go).
1 tablespoon each flour and cornmeal, or as needed
1 pound store – bought or premade pizza dough
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/3 cup marinara sauce, or more to taste
2 cups grated fresh mozzarella
2 tablespoons honey
Handful fresh basil leaves
Directions
Preheat 10-12″ cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat (the bigger the skillet, the thinner the crust).
Stretch dough out on a lightly floured surface to flatten. Sprinkle heated skillet with cornmeal and carefully set dough inside, pulling it evenly up the sides. Brush dough with olive oil and cook on burner until it starts to bubble. Spread marinara sauce on top, sprinkle cheese and seasonal toppings of your choice. Place in oven for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Combine honey with a little water – set aside. Remove skillet from oven, brush crust with honey mixture, and sprinkle pizza with torn basil leaves. Cool slightly before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Things You Never Knew Were Covered by Auto Insurance
When you’re involved in a fender bender, you know you should call your insurance agent.
If your car gets keyed or a stray rock cracks your windshield, you are pretty sure your auto insurance policy has you covered.
What about other, more unusual circumstances? Did you know the following situations are often covered by auto insurance?
When the sky is falling: It’s rare, but it happens. If a piece of satellite, airplane, or meteorite hits your vehicle, your comprehensive auto insurance probably covers the cost of repairs. Look for a “falling objects” clause.
When you need rodent repairs: When mice, squirrels, or rabbits decide to take up residence under your hood, they can be quite destructive. Keep this in mind if your vehicle will be parked for long periods of time. If mice munch your wires,check with your carrier to see if your policy includes an “other than collision” clause that will cover this damage.
When Spot needs stitches: Does your dog ever go for a joyride in your car? If you’re in an accident that results in pet injury, your auto insurance policy may cover the vet bills.
When the seat’s not safe: Even if it looks OK, a child’s car seat might be damaged after an accident. It’s a good idea to go ahead and replace it. They aren’t cheap, but your insurance may cover this cost.
When potholes cause pitfalls: Many auto insurance policies categorize pothole accidents as collisions. If so, the damage caused by your run-in with one of these road pits will be covered.