Is a Dead Battery Covered by Auto Insurance?

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Car batteries tend to die when you least expect it, sometimes leaving you scratching your head wondering how you can afford to fix it in Lynnwood, WA. A dead battery often brings up the question, “Does my auto insurance policy cover a dead battery?” The answer to the question is “No.” Unfortunately, auto insurance policies do not cover car batteries that die from wear and tear. 

Though your auto insurance does not cover your dead battery, call our agents at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc to learn what is covered. 

Car Battery Costs

Depending upon the vehicle and brand of battery purchased, it can cost between $50 and $200 to replace a dead battery. This amount is typically far less than most deductibles, which means that it would not be worth filing a claim even if your auto insurance policy covered it. 

Roadside Assistance

If you have roadside assistance with your car insurance company, should your battery die, you do have coverage for help jump-starting your vehicle or towing it to a repair shop. However, there may be a mileage limit to your roadside assistance towing coverage, which means you may have a bill to cover any additional mileage. 

In addition to helping jump your battery or tow your car, roadside assistance also covers fuel deliveries, lockout services, and changing a flat tire. Purchasing roadside assistance with your insurance plan can range from $20 to $40 or more per year, with prices varying by car insurance plan and company. 

Though you cannot buy car insurance to cover a dead battery in Lynnwood, WA, the experts at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc can help you find the best car insurance available for your vehicle.

What to Look For in a Great Home Insurance Policy

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Owning a good home in Lynnwood, WA is a dream of every person — after all, it’s a gateway to short-term and long-term financial success. Short-term, it unburdens you from incurring monthly rents, and long-term, it creates an “equity nest egg.” 

Since your home is a significant investment, it’s advisable to guard it against unpredicted perils by purchasing a home insurance policy. Whereas Washington does not require home insurance, this coverage gives you peace of mind knowing that your assets are as safe as you are. 

With this in mind, you may wonder what it takes to find the best home insurance policy. If this is your case, here is a brief guide by Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. 

Thinks About Your Home Contents

Before seeking a home insurance policy, you should evaluate the value of the contents of your new home. Avoid underestimating the value, as this can cause you to suffer financially when making claims. 

Check Claim History

You want to be 100% sure that the insurance company in question will settle your claims in case of perils. The best way to confirm this is by checking their claims history – it will give you a clue of what to expect.

Financial Strength of the Insuring Company

Don’t forget to consider the financial background of the insurance company in question. A company that’s likely to face financial constraints will probably cause you more suffering when making claims. 

Be Sure of the Details you Provide

Most insurance companies will require you to provide the correct details regarding the various aspects of your home when looking for insurance cover. Be sure to answer every question correctly, as wrong answers may see your claims being dishonored.

Buy home insurance in Lynnwood, WA today!

Unpredicted disasters like fire, hurricanes, lightning, and many others can cause extensive damages to your newly owned properties. However, with an excellent home insurance policy, you will get compensation for such damages. Don’t wait until it’s late — seek your home insurance policy by contacting Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. while you still have time. 

4 Things You Should Know About Washington Commercial Insurance

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At Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc., it’s our dream to see every Lynnwood, WA business thrive while being protected from the inherent risks lurking in the business environment. For this reason, we provide various commercial insurance options to ensure that businesses can get off the ground even when the unthinkable happens. But because commercial insurance can be a challenging topic to many small business owners, we have prepared insights to help you understand this coverage better.

Here are things you need to know about commercial insurance to help you get the most out of this insurance plan.

Some commercial insurance coverages are mandatory

Washington State requires business owners to maintain commercial auto insurance and workers’ comp insurance if they have employees. Failure to carry the state-required commercial insurance minimums could result in possible civil and criminal penalties.

Commercial insurance is more than liability coverage

Though every business is susceptible to suits and third-party claims, there is more to commercial insurance than liability coverage. Below are some additional business insurance options to consider for your business for optimal coverage:

  • Commercial property insurance
  • Cyber insurance
  • Professional liability insurance
  • Business income insurance
  • Business umbrella insurance

Whereas many commercial insurance options exist, please talk to your agent to help you choose those options that meet your needs.

Commercial insurance has exclusions

While business insurance covers you against several perils, not every incidence is covered. For instance, flood damage may not be covered by typical commercial insurance. Additionally, when you use a personal car for business reasons, it may not be covered in case of an accident. 

Rates differ from one business to another

Insurance companies consider different factors when computing your commercial insurance rate. Some factors include:

  • Size of your business
  • Claim history
  • Location of business
  • Number of coverages
  • Nature and risk profile of your business

Would you like to purchase commercial insurance in Lynnwood, WA? Whether renewing or shopping for new business insurance, you can’t wrong with Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. Contact us today! 

Does Home Insurance Cover Sinkholes?

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In some states, home insurance providers may be required to cover "catastrophic ground collapse." But this isn’t the case in Lynnwood, WA.

In Washington, insurance companies generally will not cover your home in the event of sinkhole damage because the policy is written to cover the cost of rebuilding the home. With no land on which to build, that’s easier said than done.

You can have sinkhole protection added to your home insurance policy in any state. But it is worth considering whether that’s worth the effort and the cost.

If you live in a beach home, sinkhole protection might make sense. In Lynnwood WA, we do see sinkholes from time to time, but chances are they’re not a major threat on your property. We did see a rash of sinkholes opening up across Seattle some years ago, but for Washington residents, sinkholes simply aren’t as prevalent a problem as they are in, say, Florida or Texas.

Even so, if it’s a concern, it’s worth talking to your insurer about. We don’t exactly expect anything that’s covered to happen. We don’t expect riots, we don’t expect fires. But we have to be prepared. And that’s why we buy home insurance, to make sure that we’re protected against likely and unlikely events.

If you have any questions or if you’re looking to get covered in Lynnwood, WA, get in touch with Sound Choice Insurance Inc. Whether you’re looking for complete and total coverage against all sorts of hazards, or you just want something basic in case of burglary and fire damage, Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc is the sound choice when you want a good deal on a great policy.

What Lynnwood Area Business Owners Need to Know About Commercial Coverage

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Lynnwood, WA area business owners that are just starting out may find the task of obtaining the correct commercial coverage for their needs rather daunting. That’s where Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc comes in. We are proud to serve the insurance needs of the local business community and look forward to guiding our clients through the often confusing process of selecting an appropriate commercial policy. 

Not all commercial policies offer the same protection 

Every business is different, and those differences are often reflected in their insurance needs. If you carry a lot of inventory or utilize a lot of technical equipment, your policy needs will vary from a business that is more service-oriented, such as a delivery service. However, no matter what type of business you may have, it is important to select a commercial policy that protects as many aspects of your company as possible.

There are basic policies as well as more robust and comprehensive options. Working with a registered agent is the most effective way to ensure that the commercial policy that your company chooses provides appropriate coverage at the right level of protection. There is no reason to not take advantage of all the available features to give your company the protection it needs. From vehicle fleet protection to business interruption coverage there is likely a policy that can serve your needs very well, no matter what they may be. 

Let us help you review your commercial coverage options

If you are a new business owner in the greater Lynnwood, WA area, contact Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc today. We can help you review your business needs and help you find the policy that provides the protection you need. Call and schedule a consultation today!

Do I need auto insurance in Lynwood?

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People that live in the Lynnwood, WA area will find that it is easier and more efficient to live in the area if you are a vehicle owner. While there is a lot of conveniences that come with owning a car, there is a responsibility as well. Those that are going to buy a vehicle in this area of the state need to get auto insurance for a few different reasons. 

You Need Coverage to Protect Car

A reason that you may need to have an auto insurance plan here is to ensure you are able to protect your vehicle. A car is a very important investment that you need to protect as well as you can. When you get an auto insurance plan, it can come with collision and comprehensive coverage. When you do receive this protection, it will provide you with coverage so you can repair or replace it following an accident, theft, or other incidents.

Having Coverage is Required

You will also need to get an auto insurance plan because it could be a requirement for you. When you own and drive a car, you are legally required by state law to have liability insurance. Further, if you have taken out a bank loan to buy the car you may be required to have a full collision and comprehensive policy. Having auto insurance will help to keep you in compliance. 

Having an auto insurance plan in the Lynnwood WA area is needed for most people. If you are looking for a new insurance plan here, it would be wise for you to call Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. The team with Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc understands how important it is that you have this coverage. They can help you build a plan that protects you appropriately. 

First Time Homeowners Guide to Home Insurance

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Purchasing your first home is one of the most pivotal moments in anyone’s life, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. From having to pick a mortgage lender, to do an inspection and appraisal, to the actual closing home buying is both exciting and nerve-wracking. Luckily for you, we can make that process a little bit easier by continuing to read our first-time homeowners guide to home insurance. 

Although home insurance isn’t mandated by states, it is going to be required by your lender if you are financing the house purchase with a mortgage. If you are purchasing your home in cash, homeowners insurance is not required, but it is highly recommended to protect your investment. When comparing policies, it is important to pay attention to your deductibles. When choosing a policy, keep in mind that whatever deductible amount you select for coverages like the personal property you must pay that first before your insurance kicks in. 

Additionally, you want to select a policy that has adequate liability and personal property coverage. Liability coverage protects you if another person is injured while on your property and you are found to be liable. You’ll want to have a liability limit that covers your total assets. Conversely, if you own expensive artwork or furniture than having higher coverage for personal property will help protect these items from loss. 

At Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. in Lynnwood, WA our talented and friendly team of insurance experts are ready and willing to assist in helping you find the perfect homeowners insurance policy for your needs. Give us a call today to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our team members. 

Is It Time to Shop for New Home Insurance?

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Your home is likely one of your largest investments financially, and it is definitely one of your most important investments emotionally. Your house is where you and your family spend time and make precious memories. You want to do everything you can to protect your home. One of the most important ways you can protect your home is by having sufficient home insurance. At Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc serving Lynnwood, WA we love helping our clients make sound insurance choices. Keep reading to learn more about shopping for new home insurance. 

Why Should I Shop For New Insurance?

Most people think that if they have an insurance policy in place, then why should they ever shop around for a new one? The truth is circumstances change over time, and your insurance policy may not be reflecting those changes. When your policy is not updated periodically it can cause you to be spending money on things you may no longer require, or you may find yourself underinsured. Either way, this can put your home in a vulnerable position. 

When to Shop for New Home Insurance 

Home insurance needs will change along with your home. If you have made any major improvements to your home, this will increase the value of the home. When the value of the home is increased, the amount of insurance coverage must increase as well. If changes have been made to your home or property which would increase your risks of liability, your insurance policy should be updated to reflect this as well. In order to understand all of the ways your insurance needs may have changed, it is best to sit down with an insurance representative to discuss such changes. 

If you would like to learn more about home insurance, please call our staff today at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc, serving Lynnwood, WA. 

Why would I need commercial insurance?

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The Lynnwood, WA area continues to be a very popular place for people to live and visit. This has led to a consistent level of population in the area and demand for new businesses, which makes it a great place to start a new company. When you are going to start a business in this area of Washington, you should spend time carefully assessing all of your insurance needs. There are several reasons why a business here would need a commercial insurance policy.

Insurance Protects Business

The primary reasons a business will need commercial insurance is that it will protect the business. With a full commercial insurance policy, you will receive coverage for your business assets and liability protection. Both of these types of coverage will prove to be extremely valuable if you ever suffer from a covered loss.

Insurance is Often Required

You may also need to get commercial insurance because it could be a requirement for your business. Many business owners today have different insurance obligations that need to be met. Some situations when they will need insurance is if they have raised money from outside investors or have taken out a business loan. These stakeholders typically have specific requirements, which will protect your company and its investment. 

Picking the right commercial insurance policy for your Lynnwood, WA business is a big decision. As you are looking for a new insurance policy here, it is very important that you speak with someone that you can trust. The team at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc can offer you sound guidance that will help you build a policy that is right for your business. Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc is able to do this by working hard to understand your business and risks and building a policy that mitigates them as well as possible. 

What is Covered in Auto Insurance?

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When it comes to obtaining auto insurance, it is important that you know details about auto insurance. Whether you want the minimum auto insurance legally required by your state or you want full coverage that will cover as much as possible, it will behoove you to know what all is covered in auto insurance. It is also important to know what is covered in your state for every state has its own regulations concerning different types of auto insurance coverage. Thus, the following are various types of auto insurance and what each one covers: 

  • Bodily injury liability- this applies to someone’s injuries caused by the designated driver, you.  When driving another person’s vehicle with their permission, you and your loved ones are covered. 
  • Medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP)- the policyholder’s vehicle covers passengers and the driver’s injuries. 
  • Property damage liability- covers the other person’s property damages from a car accident caused by you or a driver who you permitted to drive your car. 
  • Collision-whether you are at-fault or not, your damages, you and your passengers’ injuries,  and the other party’s injuries and damages are covered. This coverage is also for damage caused by potholes.  Also, if the accident was not your fault, your insurance company can fight for you in getting reimbursed from the other party who is at fault.
  • Comprehensive- you will get reimbursed for losses due to accidents caused by an object or another vehicle, acts of nature, such as a windstorm, earthquake, or hail,  and other derivatives of damages, such as fire, or vandalism. 
  • Underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage- this covers you, your family, and someone you permitted to drive your car when an accident is caused by a driver with no or not enough insurance. 

Conclusion

If you live in the Lynnwood, WA, or any area in Washington and you need assistance with auto insurance, contact Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc has been serving Lynnwood, WA and surrounding areas for decades. Thus, they will steer you in the right direction with auto insurance. Contact them now!