I just paid off my car loan. Is full coverage auto insurance still a necessity?

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Although most states require drivers to carry liability insurance, drivers often need to carry more than the state-required minimum auto insurance. Full coverage auto insurance is often recommended if you have an auto loan or a new car. Many people would be ill-prepared to pay out of pocket for damage to their late-model vehicle. Auto insurance has many benefits and protects the driver and other drivers. Our team at Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. is dedicated to educating Nashville, NC, drivers on the benefits of car insurance. 

What are the benefits of auto insurance?

Auto insurance provides a lot of protection for both the driver and other drivers through liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Liability protects other drivers and their property that you may damage. Collision coverage protects you, your car’s damages, and your injuries, while comprehensive coverage covers many kinds of accidents and situations that may not involve a wreck. The coverage type depends on your specific type of auto insurance. 

I just paid off my car loan. Is full coverage auto insurance still a necessity?

Maybe. If you own a late-model car, it may be challenging to pay for damage that your vehicle may sustain due to an auto accident. Auto insurance pays for the repair of your vehicle minus your deductible. This is often a huge savings for most drivers. If you’re a driver with a car loan, your loan company often requires you to carry full coverage auto insurance until your car is paid for in full. However, once you pay your car off, you are no longer required to carry full coverage auto insurance. However, this doesn’t mean reducing your coverage is a wise idea. If the cost of insuring your car exceeds its value, it may be wise to drop full auto insurance coverage. Likely, your insurance company wouldn’t pay for repairing your vehicle if it were critically damaged in an accident because the damage would exceed your car’s value. If you have questions about auto insurance, call us. We’re standing by. 

Protect Work Vehicles With Commercial Insurance

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Owning a business in Nashville, NC, is a daily adventure with plenty to appreciate. If your business is doing well enough to own one or more vehicles, it’s important to ensure you have the right insurance for the job: commercial auto insurance. If you’re unfamiliar, allow us at Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. to break it down for you.

What Is Commercial Vehicle Insurance?

As you might guess from the name, this is auto insurance for vehicles used in the workplace. If the business owns the vehicle or employee vehicles are explicitly used for work purposes, you need this coverage.

Here are a few examples of situations where commercial auto insurance arises:

  • Employees delivering pizzas with their own vehicles
  • Work trucks owned by the company
  • A company truck doled out to employees for work use

You can probably think of other occasions that fit the bill, but you get the idea. One thing to remember is that a commuter vehicle that is owned by an employee and not used while on the clock does not need commercial insurance.

What Does It Need to Cover?

Now that you know where commercial insurance applies, how much do you need, and what does it cover?

Well, commercial auto insurance is a lot like personal auto insurance. It is designed to cover liability, and it can also cover the vehicle itself. To get more than liability, you’ll want to explore "comprehensive" coverage, which would apply to damage to the vehicle in an accident. It could potentially also cover vehicle theft and other issues.

Liability coverage is not optional. North Carolina requires minimum coverage for personal injury and property damage liabilities. You can have more insurance than the minimum, but the amount you need by law is $30,000 per person per accident and $60,000 per person per accident for bodily injury liability. You also need $25,000 per accident for property damage liability.

If your business in Nashville, NC, needs commercial auto insurance, your Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. representative can help.

How does my home insurance deductible work in Nashville, NC?

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When choosing a mortgage to protect your Nashville, SC home, you have many choices. One of the most important choices you have is which deductible you want. Understanding what a deductible is and how it can potentially affect you and your family is important. Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. can answer all your questions and give you the information you need to make an informed decision.

What Is a Deductible?

When you file a claim, you are responsible for paying your part. That part is the deductible. A common deductible might be $500 or $1,000. 

Say, for instance, that you file a claim that a storm damaged your roof, and it will cost $5,000 to repair the damages. If your deductible is $500, you will pay $500 and your insurance company will pay $4,500. 

Choosing a Deductible

When you are already facing a crisis, it can be even more stressful when you have to come up with part of the money to pay for the damages. You want to find a deductible you are comfortable with. However, the lower your deductible, the more your premiums will probably cost.

You will need to pay more per month to have a smaller deductible. You probably shouldn’t file a claim if your damage is less than the deductible.

Choose a Deductible In Nashville, SC That You Can Afford

If anything should happen to your home, you will depend on your insurance to help you recover and get back to normal. If your deductible is too high, you may have trouble making the payment. At the same time, you don’t want to pay more for your premium than necessary. If you have questions or want to compare different policies, please call Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. today.

Protect Your Vintage Gem with Classic Car Insurance in Nashville, NC

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Proud owners of classic cars in Nashville, NC understand the importance of preserving timeless gems. Classic cars aren’t just automobiles. They represent a piece of timeless history, a labor of love, and act as warm symbols of Nostalgia. 

As such, your classic car deserves the best protection possible. You can learn more about protecting your classic auto with traditional car insurance from Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. in Nashville, NC. 

Tailor Your Classic Car Insurance to Meet Your Needs

Many classic car owners aren’t aware that coverage for their classic vehicles and late-model automobiles can drastically differ. Auto insurance coverages for newer model vehicles won’t cover the historical value of classic cars. 

What is Agreed Value Coverage?

Agreed Value Coverage is a special kind of classic car insurance that assigns the actual value to classic cars and agrees to pay out the actual value of your vehicle if it needs repairs or becomes a total loss in an auto accident. 

North Carolina classic car owners sleep well at night knowing their most timeless possessions are protected for their total agreed-upon value should an accident occur. 

Talk to a licensed insurance agent at Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. to learn more about how agreed-value coverage can protect your tried and true investment. 

Learn About the Features of Classic Car Insurance

Agreed value coverage is only one of the protective features offered by today’s classic car insurance policies. Policyholders can also request specialized coverages for towing, spare parts, and even attending classic car events and shows. 

If you want to learn more about the features, contact one of our licensed agents to learn more about what classic car insurance benefits are available to you and get coverage for your most prized possession today!   

Temporary Relocation and Renters Insurance: Coverage During Displacement

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Temporary relocation can happen for various reasons, such as home renovations, natural disasters, or work assignments. When renters in and around Nashville, NC find themselves displaced from their homes, it’s crucial to understand how renters insurance can provide coverage during this period of uncertainty. 

Understanding Temporary Relocation

Temporary relocation is when renters must temporarily leave their primary residence due to circumstances beyond their control. This can include scenarios like fire or water damage, severe storms, or structural repairs that render the property uninhabitable.

Coverage for Temporary Relocation

Renters insurance typically includes coverage for additional living expenses (ALE), which can be invaluable during a temporary relocation. Here’s how this coverage works:

  • ALE Coverage: ALE coverage is designed to reimburse renters for additional temporarily displaced costs. These expenses may include temporary housing, meals, transportation, and other essential living expenses.

Limits and Duration of ALE Coverage

There are some essential considerations concerning limitations and durations:

  • Coverage Limits: Renters should know the coverage limits specified in their policy. This limit represents the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for additional living expenses. 
  • Duration: ALE coverage is typically limited to a specific time frame, often a percentage of the total policy coverage limit (e.g., 20% or 30%). This means it may cover expenses for several months or until the home is deemed habitable again.

Documentation and Claims Process

To claim ALE coverage, renters should keep detailed records of their additional living expenses, including temporary housing, meals, and transportation receipts. They should also promptly inform their insurance provider about the displacement and the need for temporary accommodation.

Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. Can Help You

At Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc., we can answer all your questions concerning renter’s insurance. We assist the Nashville, NC area. Contact us today.

Why do I need to get a RV insurance plan in Nashville?

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For those who are in the Nashville, NC area, having a way to explore the area is an excellent option and investment. One of the ways you can easily explore and see all that this part of North Carolina has to offer is by investing in your RV. When you purchase an RV, you will enjoy having a place to sleep at night and a reliable mode of transportation. When you purchase an RV here, you must also get RV insurance. You will need this type of coverage for various reasons. 

Reduce the Risk of Asset Loss

A reason to have an RV insurance plan here is to reduce the risk of losing an asset. The impact can be significant if your RV is damaged in an accident or stolen. Fortunately, this risk can be reduced if you also get an RV insurance plan, as this type of coverage will provide support if you incur a covered loss. 

Liability Risk Mitigation

Getting an RV insurance plan to reduce your risk of liability. There is always a chance you can be held liable in an accident involving your RV. When you get a full RV insurance plan, it will provide the support necessary to cover the damages you are responsible for.

If you are going to buy an RV in Nashville, NC, you always need to ensure you are adequately covered. A great way that you can do this is by calling our team with Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. When you contact our professionals at Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc., you will receive all the help you need to build a new plan. 

The Ins and Outs of Motorcycle Insurance: Enjoying the Ride with Peace of Mind

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Motorcycles are a great way to enjoy the open road and explore the scenery around Nashville, NC. However, with the freedom and excitement that riding a motorcycle provides comes the potential for accidents and other unforeseen events that can cause financial and emotional stress. Motorcycle insurance can help protect you financially in an accident, theft, or other damage. Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. dives into the ins and outs of motorcycle insurance and provides the information you need to make an informed decision about your coverage.

Types of Motorcycle Insurance 

Regarding insurance coverage for your motorcycle, there are several options. Liability coverage is the most basic type of insurance, and it covers damage you cause to another person or their property. Collision coverage covers damage to your motorcycle if you are at fault in an accident. In contrast, comprehensive coverage covers any damage to your bike that is not caused by an accident, such as theft or vandalism. 

Coverage Limits 

When selecting motorcycle insurance coverage, it’s essential to understand the coverage limits. As with any insurance policy, there are limits to how much the insurer will pay in case of a claim.

Having motorcycle insurance can give you peace of mind while enjoying Nashville, NC. Choosing the right coverage to protect your financial security while considering additional factors that can impact rates, such as discounts and safety features, is important. By understanding the ins and outs of motorcycle insurance, you can make an informed decision about your coverage and enjoy your motorcycle with peace of mind. If you have any more questions, contact Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. We are here to help you get the protection you deserve.

Charting a Course to Peace of Mind: Get Boat Insurance in North Carolina

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Local residents know that one of the best things about living and working in coastal North Carolina is easy access to the gorgeous Atlantic Coast. Boat and watercraft owners look forward to the warmer months when they can take their vessels out to enjoy the soothing Atlantic breezes. 

The insurance experts at Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. in Nashville, NC can help you protect your investment! 

Navigating the Waters of Uncertainty

North Carolina boaters on lakes and coastal waterways can experience mishaps in even the calmest waters, leading to devastating financial losses without insurance coverage. 

Having the right boat insurance policy to cover your vessel can help protect you from the following in North Carolina. 

  • Boating Accidents: You may be able to repair or replace your boat when you’ve been in a boating accident on the water or at a dry dock if you have the right boat insurance policy in place. 
  • Theft: Boat theft happens. Costs to replace a sailboat, yacht, or watercraft can be astronomical. Boat insurance can help absorb some of these costs when the unthinkable happens. 
  • Damage: When unexpected damage happens, comprehensive insurance options can help you cover cosmetic damage to your boat caused by natural disasters like hurricanes and hailstorms. 

When choosing the best boat or watercraft insurance, the waters can seem murky. The best way to learn more about boat insurance is to talk to a North Carolina insurance agent with years of experience.  

North Carolina Boat Insurance Quote

Knowledgeable insurance agents at Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. in Nashville, NC can answer your boating insurance questions and advise on choosing the best policy and add-ons. 

Contact an experienced agent for a free quote today!

Customizing Your Umbrella Insurance Policy

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Umbrella insurance is a vital component of a well-rounded insurance plan, providing an extra layer of protection beyond the limits of your primary policies. Customizing your umbrella insurance policy ensures you have the right coverage to meet your unique needs and lifestyle. Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. is dedicated to helping Nashville, NC residents tailor their umbrella insurance policies for optimal protection.

Factors Affecting Your Umbrella Insurance Needs

Several factors can influence your umbrella insurance requirements, including:

  1. Net Worth: Your net worth significantly determines the appropriate coverage limits for your umbrella policy. Generally, the higher your net worth, the more coverage you may need to protect your assets from potential liability claims.

  2. Risks Associated with Activities: Certain activities, such as owning a swimming pool or frequently hosting large gatherings, can increase your risk of liability claims. It’s essential to consider these factors when customizing your policy.

  3. Professional Risks: If you own a business or are involved in high-risk professions, you may require additional coverage to protect yourself from potential lawsuits related to your work.

Determining Coverage Limits, Deductibles, and Additional Coverage Options

To customize your umbrella insurance policy, it’s crucial to consider the following aspects:

  1. Coverage Limits: Assess your assets, risks, and potential liability exposures to determine the appropriate coverage limits for your umbrella policy. This may involve consulting with a professional to ensure you have adequate protection.

  2. Deductibles: Choosing the right deductible is a balancing act between affordability and financial protection. Higher deductibles can lead to lower premiums but may result in higher out-of-pocket costs in case of a claim.

  3. Additional Coverage Options: Depending on your specific needs, you may want to consider other coverage options, such as coverage for libel, slander, or invasion of privacy claims.

Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc.: Your Partner in Customized Umbrella Insurance

We understand the importance of tailored insurance solutions. Our team of experts is committed to providing personalized service and guidance to help you create an umbrella insurance policy that meets your unique needs. Contact us today to discover how we can help you customize a policy that provides the comprehensive protection you require in Nashville, NC.

Five Fun Facts about Flood Insurance

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Flood insurance is one of those policies that people either don’t know much about or have misconceptions about. Here are some fun facts about flood insurance that you need to know.

Flooding is not covered by home insurance.

When people buy a house and insurance for that house, some think that their home insurance will cover everything. Unfortunately, there are some things that home insurance doesn’t cover, and that includes flooding. If you want to be protected against flooding, you need to buy separate insurance.

Flood damage is expensive.

Statistics say that even as little as an inch of water can cost several thousands of dollars worth of damage. If you are stuck without flood insurance, the damage could eat up your savings in a matter of minutes.

Flood insurance can be affordable.

Many people think that adding extra insurance is expensive, and they won’t be able to afford it. However, flood insurance only adds a few extra dollars per month to your insurance costs. It is better to have insurance and not need it than to have unexpected flood damage to pay for.

Flood insurance is available to everyone.

Contrary to popular belief, flood insurance is not just for people who live in flood zones. Even if you don’t live in an area prone to flooding, you might benefit from flood insurance. Flood insurance is recommended for anyone who has stuff that would be costly to replace in a flood.

Flood insurance takes 30 days to kick in.

It is advisable not to wait until a flood happens to get flood insurance. If you wait until the last minute, it will not cover you. Most insurance companies won’t cover flooding until 30 days have passed from when you purchased flood insurance to when the flooding occurred.

Contact Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc.

Please visit or contact us at Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc. in Nashville, NC for your flood insurance quote today.