Insurance is all the same, right? It doesn’t matter where you buy it. But, here’s the thing - where you buy it determines your future with that policy.
You buy a house, you get a homeowner’s policy. You obviously want one at the best price, with the right coverages, and a great agent who is always there when you need help.
Direct vs. independent insurance agents sounds pretty simple. But is it?
Your entire experience is going to be determined by the type of insurance agent you purchase your policy through.

Let’s break it down into two categories: Direct vs Independent Insurance Agents. 

What is a "Direct Agent"?
Direct agents, otherwise known as captive agents, are the everyday agents that often advertise on TV with a catchy jingle. Most of them specialize in auto and home insurance.  These agents can be located in a retail office or in a call center with 100’s of other agents.
  
Captive agents make their services sound helpful and easy through one simple interaction. You give them some information, and they come back with a price. Easy as pie. The part they never seem to mention is that when you get involved with a captive agent, they write the policy on their terms, not yours.

As a former manager from the direct side of insurance I will tell you they manage agents to have low talk times per call.  What does this mean for you?  The agents don’t have time to properly educate you on the coverage's you should carry.  These agents are also measured on how many sales they make so they may be offering you minimum coverage without explanation to make the sale.  Quite often you are under-insured and won’t even realize this until after an accident.

Why choose an "Independent agent"?
An Independent Agent is an agent who partners with many insurance carriers. This allows the independent agent to provide you the best price with the best coverage.  The independent agent is also not restricted to talk times and will spend extra time to help you.  You have a single point of contact and they will grow with you as your insurance needs change. 

The independent agent is also local so you can stop by their office and talk to them in person.  Many direct or captive agents work in a call center and are not allowed to have client visits.  In most cases they may not be in your city or your state. 
 
Conclusion:
Most people don’t realize that it is free to talk with an independent agent.  Our agency focuses on delivering excellent customer service and are willing to work with you in our office, over the phone or we can even visit you.  The choice is up to you.  The next time you are reviewing your insurance needs please give us a call.  You will see the difference an independent agent makes in helping you with your insurance needs.  Feel free to give us a call at 602-412-3366.

• Motorcycle riders are far more likely than people in cars to be seriously injured or killed in a crash — but keeping safety in mind can reduce your risk.

There are many benefits to motorcycles — they get great gas mileage, they can make your commute easier, and it’s almost never a problem finding a parking space. As anyone who rides will tell you, they’re also a lot of fun.
But riders assume a lot of risk to get those benefits — according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, they’re 30 times more likely to die in a crash than drivers and passengers in cars. Whether you’re an experienced motorcyclist or you’re just getting started, these tips from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and Consumer Reports can help keep you on the road, and out of danger.

Choose the right bike — and know how to use it. Riding a more powerful motorcycle than you can truly handle can get you into trouble. According to Consumer Reports, a model with a 250-cc to 300-cc engine is great for a starter or commuter motorcycle, while those with 500-cc to 750-cc engines are good for extended highway riding. Whatever size bike you choose, though, taking a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) riding course will ensure you know how to operate it properly.
Make sure you’re visible. Even when drivers are alert, it can be hard for them to see motorcyclists (and it’s even worse if they’re distracted). That means you need to help as much as possible. Try to stay out of the blind spots of cars and trucks, and make sure your headlight is always on, even when riding in the daytime. It’s also a good idea to wear bright-colored clothing or add reflective strips to your bike.
Use the right safety gear. Whether your state has a helmet law or not, we strongly recommend that you protect your head — studies show riders without helmets are three times more likely to have a brain injury in a crash. You should also wear leather or other thick clothing. As the MSF puts it, “The only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.”
Be safety-minded at all times. This can mean any number of things, from keeping your bike well-maintained to deciding not to ride when the weather is bad. Both of those things are good ideas, of course. Perhaps most important is driving defensively, because at least one study shows that in the majority of car-motorcycle accidents, car drivers are at fault. You need to be hyper-alert and prepared for sudden lane changes, being cut off and more.
“Born to be wild” may be a phrase forever associated with motorcycles, but don’t take that to heart when it comes to safety. Let your hair down and enjoy the ride — just use some common sense to make sure you’re around for the next ride, too.

Feel free to give us a call in regards to your motorcycle insurance.  We would be happy to discuss all the options that are available to you.  Keep in mind we represent some of the best motorcycle carriers in the country and work hard to get you great rates.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance®.

Your home is your most valuable asset, and you want to be sure you’re covered financially if it’s damaged or destroyed. When shopping for homeowners insurance, make sure your policy’s coverages and limits are adequate and appropriate for your situation. We’ve noticed that some agents cut corners on coverage just to sell you a policy, without regard for what you really need.

When you call for a homeowners quote, here are six questions you should ask:

Will my home and belongings be covered for replacement cost or actual cash value?
Actual cash value is the cost to repair your home or replace your belongings, less a deduction for a decrease in value due to age, wear and tear, and other factors. Replacement cost is the actual cost to repair or replace your property with items of equivalent quality and kind at current market value. For example, if you have a kitchen fire that destroys your appliances, with replacement cost, you’ll receive enough money to buy new appliances. If you have actual cash value, you’ll receive a lesser amount due to the depreciation of your destroyed items. Replacement cost usually costs a little more than actual cash value, but we think it’s well worth the investment.

Does this policy cover water back up?
A standard homeowners policy usually covers damage from overflow of water from plumbing, heating, or air conditioning as long as it originates on your property. However, if the back up damage comes from outside of your property, such as if heavy rains cause a sewer back up into your home, you may not be covered. This is a scenario all too common in our hurricane-prone state. (Please note: water back up coverage is NOT the same as flood insurance.)

How much is my home insured for?
Make sure the policy you’re being quoted is for the full replacement cost of your home—not the property’s market value or the amount you paid for the property. We’re seeing quotes from other agents where the home’s structure is severely under insured, which could lead to future claims only being partially paid, or if you have a total loss, leaving you without enough to rebuild.

What are the liability limits of this policy?
Liability protects you from lawsuits for injury or property damage you do to someone else. Most homeowners policies carry a minimum of $100,000 worth of liability insurance, but many insurance experts feel this is inadequate, and recommend coverage of at least $300,000 to $500,000. The price difference of raising your limits can be as low as $20 a year.

How much coverage is there for my home’s contents?
Most homeowners policies cover your personal belongings at a percentage (usually 50-70%) of the amount your dwelling is insured for. So if your home is insured for $200,000, and your policy covers contents at 50%, your contents are insured for $100,000 if there is a total loss. Some agents may try quoting 25% coverage or even no contents coverage at all to bring the policy’s price down, but you don’t want to risk this.

Does this policy have a wind/hail deductible and how much is it?
Make sure to ask your agent if the deductible for wind/hail is different from your standard deductible.
Homeowners insurance in Arizona is not cheap, and while you don’t want to pay too much for a policy, don’t make the mistake of underinsuring your most valuable asset. Beware of agents who quote you a low rate just to get your business rather than watching out for your best interests. At Copper Mountain Insurance, we have the experience to properly educate you on the options that are available.  Please contact us today for a free quote, or if you have any questions about your homeowners policy. 

The following are questions you should always ask your insurance agent about motorcycle insurance.  There are so many options in Motorcycle Insurance today it's important to know what is covered and what isn't. 

1.) What Type and Amount of Coverage Does My State Require?
Just like with autos, most states require motorcycle operators to carry at least minimum liability coverage. However, you will probably want additional coverage beyond your state’s minimum requirements.

2.) Does Liability Coverage Include My Passenger?
In short, your liability coverage will not cover your passenger who is injured while riding on the back of your bike, but you can add Guest Passenger Liability coverage to your policy to ensure that your passenger is covered for hospital bills and medical expenses.  Some companies offer this automatically with your liability coverage. 

3.) What Coverage Do I Need In Addition to Liability?
The answer to this question depends on how well you want to be protected while driving your bike. You can get Comprehensive and Collision coverage that will repair or replace your motorcycle in the event of an accident, fire, vandalism or theft. You can also get Uninsured and Under-Insured Motorist coverage in case you are in an accident with an uninsured or under-insured driver.

4.) Can I Get Replacement Cost Coverage?
The answer to this question depends on your insurance carrier and your policy. Most Comprehensive and Collision coverage will pay actual cash value for your bike if it is damaged, but your insurance company may offer replacement cost coverage for some makes and models if the motorcycle is less than one year old.

5.) Will Custom Accessories and Parts Be Covered?
Most policies do not automatically cover custom parts and accessories, however, you may be able to purchase optional coverage for these items. Your safety gear, such as helmets, gloves, jackets and boots, may be covered under certain policies. Check with your insurance carrier regarding these items.

6.) Can I Get Roadside Assistance Along With My Insurance?
You may be able to get Roadside Assistance coverage with your motorcycle policy. This type of coverage will pay to have your bike towed to the nearest repair shop. Sometimes, this type of coverage will include other benefits, such as trip interruption.

7.) Do I Need Medical Payment Coverage?
If you opt for Medical Payment Coverage, your policy will pay for medical care you receive as the result of an accident within the limits of your policy, regardless of who is at fault.
Other factors will determine your motorcycle insurance rates, too, like how much coverage you need and the amount of the deductible for your policy. Additionally, your insurance carrier will consider how many years of experience you have with driving a motorcycle. Check with your insurance carrier to find out if you qualify for additional discounts to further reduce your rates

It's important to talk with a licensed agent who understands motorcycles.  Our agency has the experience you need when shopping for insurance. The best part is motorcycle insurance is usually inexpensive.  Give us a call today.  Our direct number is 602-412-3366.  We are also open extended hours to help answer your questions.

These days, the more time you spend on the road, the greater the odds you'll witness a car accident. Whether you're driving behind a fender-bender, or walking along as a crash takes place nearby, here's how you can be a good citizen and help.

Safety first! If you're driving and an accident takes place in front of you, make sure you pull over to a safe area. Try to be far enough away from the accident to leave room for emergency vehicles, and to ensure that you're not in any danger. Next, put on your hazard lights. Only exit your car if it's safe. If you're on a busy highway, for example, it's probably best if you remain in your vehicle. And, if the cars involved are smoking, definitely keep your distance.

Call for backup. Every second counts in an emergency, so it's best to call 911 ASAP just in case someone is injured. Be prepared to describe the scene, and give your location. Again, make sure your car is in park before you use your cell phone.

Cautiously help out. If you feel it's safe to get closer to the scene of the accident, head over to see how you might be able to help, perhaps by offering your phone so the victims can call relatives or friends, or by setting up road flares to block off the accident area. If you see someone hurt, do not attempt to move them, since that could make their injuries worse. To ensure that those injured receive proper first aid treatment, wait for the authorities to arrive.

Stick around until the police arrive. You can help the authorities and those involved by giving an account of what you witnessed. Or, if someone is hurt or scared, you can act as a source of comfort until someone else arrives.

Tread carefully. In more tense situations, especially if someone was driving inappropriately or recklessly and caused the accident, the victim will benefit from you giving a statement to the police as a witness. Your presence might also help to defuse a possible argument between the drivers, or prevent someone from trying to leave the scene or take advantage of the other party. Just be mindful of your own safety, and try to stay calm.
How you act in those pivotal first few minutes after a car accident can have a meaningful impact on both the victims and the emergency response team. You can make big difference.

We often get calls from clients that would like to know what coverage's they need to put on their RV.  At Copper Mountain Insurance Solutions we take the time to discuss the clients needs and put together a package of coverage's. 

RV insurance covers many of the similar risks that auto insurance does, including collision, comprehensive and liability coverage. You can also get additional protection for your personal belongings on board, equipment and attached accessories such as awnings and satellite dishes. Depending on the insurance company you choose, your additional coverage options may include:

• Total loss replacement coverage
• Campsite and vacation coverage
  
• Emergency expenses
• Towing and roadside coverage
• Full-timer coverage if your RV is your full time residence
• Uninsured and under-insured motorists coverage
  

We work with several top rated RV carriers and would love to help you with your insurance needs.  Give us a call at 602-412-3366 and speak with one of our licensed agents. 

Whether you've gotten into a fender bender or totaled your car, accidents are scary. No matter the cause – weather and road conditions, irresponsible driving behavior, or something unforeseen – you should be prepared for any possibility. Even the most careful drivers can be involved in an accident, which is why we've provided these nine tips to help you get through an accident safely:


If you doubt the well-being of yourself or someone else involved, be sure to alert emergency officials and follow their advice if it's to leave them there! Moving someone while they're in a fragile state can cause even more harm.

1. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries.If you don't know whether a particular injury is serious, call 911 just in case.
2. Remain calm.This one is easier said than done, but try to remain calm and take deep breaths to keep a clear head during this experience – there may be details you'll need to remember later you'll only recall if you were calm. If the accident was caused by another party, try to keep your cool and be polite.
3. Get moving.If the accident was minor, move all cars involved to a safe place out of traffic. If the accident was more serious but you seem well enough to move, bring yourself and any other people involved to the side of the road, away from oncoming traffic. However, if you doubt the well-being of yourself or someone else involved, LEAVE THEM THERE. It may sound counter-intuitive, but moving someone while they're in a fragile state can cause even more harm – let the professionals handle the situation as they see fit.
4. Take proper safety precautions.Turn on your hazard lights and, if you have them, use cones to mark off the area. Carrying emergency flares in your trunk is a great idea to ensure that people can see you in the event of an accident.
5. Call the police.Once everyone involved is as safe as they can be, call the police and inform them of the accident. For accidents like a fender bender, you're probably better off calling the non-emergency line in your area. If any kind of serious collision occurred, call 911 as soon as you can to make a full report and get the help you need.
6. Take a picture.If you can, snap a few photos of each of the cars involved, including the license plate. This will protect you against fraudulent claims from the other people affected.
7. Exchange information.Collect as much information as you can about the other parties involved, including the driver's name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver's license number and license plate number. If you feel that you caused the accident, do not claim fault with the other party - it makes things more difficult for you later!
8. Stay put.No one should leave the scene of the accident until the police have arrived and you have filed a report. In most states, it's actually illegal to leave the scene of an accident, so stay where you are and wait for further instruction from the authorities.
9. Notify your insurance provider
   

Feel free to give us a call at any time 602-412-3366 if you have any questions in regards to vehicle safety or how to file a claim. 

If you’re one of the millions of Americans that rents a home, condo or apartment its important to understand Renter's Insurance.  .If you don’t have a policy, you’ll want to really pay close attention to this post.
In its most basic form, renters insurance helps cover your personal belongings from fire, theft, vandalism and other losses as well as provides you with some basic liability coverage in the event you’re found liable for bodily injury or property damages.


There are also different types of renters insurance policies. A replacement cost policy will help pay for replacement of your items as if they were new. A nice thing considering that depreciated jeans, furniture and computers won’t help you become whole again.
A recent article from the Insurance Information Institute states that less than one-third of all renters (31%) have a renter’s insurance policy. Why is that? Do people assume that since they pay rent, their items are covered by that rent cost? Do they assume their landlord has insurance and it would cover this loss? Do they think maybe their auto insurance covers some items? The answer to this is that none of these items will likely cover any of your items. Only a renter’s insurance policy will.
There are 2 basic types of renters insurance:

1. Actual cost value: Pays to replace your damaged or stolen items up to your policy limits, less depreciation.
2. Replacement cost: Pays to replace your damaged or stolen items up to your policy limits with new ones, no depreciation.

Some additional things to consider is if you have expensive jewelry, musical equipment or collectibles that you want to insure. This may require a “floater” to be added to your policy.
One last item to ponder is how much liability you want to be covered for. You can get up to $500,000 in liability coverage. This will protect you from lawsuit. If you want even more coverage, you should consider a personal umbrella insurance policy. This goes above and beyond your renter’s limits to provide even more coverage.

Renters Insurance is very inexpensive and in most cases it will cost less than 50 cents per day.

If you’d like to learn more about renters insurance feel free to send us an e-mail or give us a quick call.  We can typically quote a renters policy in less than 5 minutes. 

We all pay for insurance and most of us just expect that claims will be paid when we file them. However, insurance is a legal contract and payments will be made according to the contract. Here are some common reasons claims might be denied:

1. The coverage was not accepted. If an agent offers coverage but the client declines it then that claim will be declined. Make sure to ask your agent about different coverage options being offered. Understand any coverage you want to decline thoroughly so that there are no surprises. This happens most often with things like Uninsured and Under-Insured Protection, Medical Payments, and things that might not seem important but raise the cost of insurance. Sometimes these options won’t show up on a quote or declaration page and it requires an agent to explain the details.
   
2. The policy is written that way. The declaration page or the quote does not tell the whole story. That’s why insurance policies are 30 – 50 pages long. A named perils policy will not cover things that an open perils policy will cover. The quote page looks the same, but the coverage is vastly different. Sometimes auto insurance is cheaper because a company puts in a “step down” provision that reduces coverage if a driver is not listed on the policy, like a friend or neighbor who borrows your car.
3. The limits are too low. If you bought your home 10 years ago and have never reviewed your policy it is likely that there is an “inflation protection” provision of 2%-4% to try to keep the limits high enough. However, these automatic increases are rarely correct after several years. A home that could be built for $150K ten years ago might have been upgraded over time so that now it might be $250K today to rebuild it. With a 2% inflation protector that policy will only pay $183K. Similarly, with car insurance, the greatest insurance company in the world is not going to pay more than the limits on the policy. If you buy state minimums, that is what you will get.
4. Business use on a personal policy. Things like delivering pizza or storing a backhoe in your detached garage might seem pretty minor. They are things that will invalidate your insurance and cause claims to be denied. Any business use of a separate structure makes that separate structure a business use exclusion to your personal home policy. Delivery is excluded on a personal auto policy. These are things you need to disclose to your agent to see if there is coverage available in some other way.

The lesson here is to find a knowledgeable agent who explains the coverages, not just the price and the deductible.

Did you know Copper Mountain Insurance Solutions can offer Life Insurance products through one of our local agents.  We have established a great program that offers inexpensive products that can fit your needs. Feel free to give us a call and we will provide you all the details.