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All of us will rent a vehicle at one time or another, whether for vacation, business or while your personal vehicle is in for repairs.  While renting a vehicle can be convenient, some aspects can be confusing and overwhelming.  Here are five tips you may wish to share with your valued customers to help them obtain the best rental rate and avoid additional charges:

1.  Rental Insurance – Rental Car companies often push their “insurance coverage,” collision damage waiver, and liability coverage, but it can be costly.  If you have your own auto insurance policy, it may cover liability and collision damage for temporary use of a rental vehicle.  Be sure to ask you agent before you rent.  If you are using a credit card to reserve and pay for your rental car, it may provide secondary collision coverage.  Often the credit card coverage will cover what your personal auto policy doesn’t, and you may not even have to pay your deductible.  Before renting a vehicle, contact your agent and your credit card company to check if you’re already covered.  If you don’t have your own policy, rental vehicles aren’t covered.  If you’re concerned about a potential premium increase if you need to file a claim on your policy, the car rental company’s insurance may be the better option.

2.  Rates – Car rental rates can vary based on the company, location, and when you’re booking a rental.  It’s always a good idea to comparison shop among companies and look for deals.  Many websites let you compare rental car rates.  If you’re renting a vehicle at an airport, be prepared to pay a higher cost due to airport surcharges.  Many off-site rental car companies provide transportation to and from the airport, which may be more cost effective.

3.  Gas – When you return your rental vehicle, you should always top off the gas.  If you return the rental with less than a full tank, the rental car company will charge an inflated price for gas.

4.  Inspection – You have the right to inspect the vehicle before you sign the rental contract.  This is important because the contract often states you’ll be responsible for any damage found on the rental vehicle when your return it.  Before you drive it, thoroughly inspect your rental car with a rental car employee.  Before you sign the contract, be sure the employee notes any prior damage, including scratches, dings, and dents.  It’s also always a good idea to take photos of any damage at the time of the inspection.  Never assume any damage is too small to document or you may end up paying for it.  It’s equally important to make sure the rental car staff inspects the car in your presence when you return the rental so you can agree on any possible damage.

5.  Returning Rental – Returning your car early may cost your money.  The rental car company may charge an early-return fee or your rate structure might change, leaving you responsible for the difference.  For example, if you rented a vehicle at a weekly rate but return it after only six days, you may lose the discount you got for the weekly rate and pay a more expensive daily rate.  Returning your vehicle late could also cost you.  Many rental car companies only give you a 30-minute grace period before adding late fees.  Before leaving the vehicle, be sure to check that your didn’t leave any personal belongings.  Examine your rental agreement for all charges and make sure the agent credits any deposit while you wait.

Next time you rent a vehicle, keep these tips in mind to help keep your rental cost to a minimum and to avoid any surprising charges.

SOURCE:  West Bend, Tess Frost, Claims Representative II, West Bend, The Trend, May-June 2018 Issue

 

 

Recently, my wife and I celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary. Every year we look at our photo album together and chuckle about how young everybody was. It’s amazing how fast time goes!

As I continued to page through the album, I was struck by sudden panic. Someday we may be planning and paying for our daughters’ weddings. Today in the U.S., the average wedding costs $33,391. Keep in mind, the location of the wedding can affect the cost. Couples getting married in big cities may spend more and some destination weddings can cost less.

Because wedding insurance wasn’t a consideration when we got married, I started thinking more about it. Some of the questions I had were:

• What is wedding insurance?
• What does it cover?
• How much does it cost?
• When should it be purchased?
• How do you choose a reputable insurance company?

Here’s some information that may help you determine if wedding insurance is right for you.

What is wedding insurance? Wedding insurance is a type of special event insurance with a one-time payment. Like other types of insurance, wedding insurance protects you from things you can’t control. Occasionally, you may read or hear a story about a local couple whose reception hall goes out of business or burns down weeks or days before their big day. Wedding insurance can provide protection against this unfortunate situation by providing reimbursement for the couple’s loss. Two types of policies to consider are liability and cancellation insurance.

What does it cover? Depending on the policy you purchase, it may provide protection from financial loss as it relates to:

• Venue cancelling or rescheduling;
• Vendor bankruptcy;
• Weather events;
• Lost rings or tuxedos;
• Illness or injury to key people; and
• Bodily injury or property damage caused by a vendor or guest.

How much does it cost? Planning a wedding can be time consuming, stressful, and extremely expensive. However, buying insurance may be a reasonable way to put your mind at ease. A basic policy can range from $155-$550. Remember, this is a one-time payment and the cost will depend on what coverage you select.

When should it be purchased? For event cancellation insurance, I recommend purchasing it before you start making deposits to your vendors. If they go out of business or don’t meet the terms of the contract, your deposits will be lost without coverage. Liability insurance can be purchased closer to the event. However, it may be easier to purchase both at the same time. Venues such as hotels or reception halls may require liability insurance at the time of contract signing.

How do you choose a reputable insurance company? Buying insurance that offers you the right protection can be challenging. Understanding how an insurance agent and insurance company work together to serve you can be confusing. To make sure your insurance policy is backed by a reputable insurance company, check out my blog “Eight tips for choosing the right insurance company.”

While West Bend doesn’t offer wedding insurance, your independent insurance agent should be able to find coverage.

Do you have any tips or information you’d like to share? I’d love to hear them; please share them in the box below.

Sources:
https://www.consumersadvocate.org/wedding-insurance/best-wedding-insurance#markel-wedding-insurance-0
https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-insurance-101
https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost-2017

SOURCE:  West Bend, Posted by Scott Stueber on Jun 12, 2018 11:52:30 AM

The unofficial start of summer is here! This means many families are making plans or final arrangements for this year’s summer road trip.

According to researchers, summer road trips are still very popular among families. The two main reasons are flexibility and packing ease.

If you’re planning a summer road trip with your family, here are some things to consider.

1. Give your car a tune up. Before hitting the road, it’s important to make sure your car is working properly. Consider visiting your local mechanic or check the following items yourself.

• Motor oil. Depending on the number of miles you’ll be driving, it may be a good idea to get an oil change before you leave. At the very minimum, read your dipstick to determine the current oil level. If the oil is below the add line, consider adding the oil recommended for your car.
• Tires. Driving a car is one of the most dangerous things you do on a regular basis. Tires play a key role in keeping you safe. Before going on a long road trip, check your tire pressure and inspect your tires for cracks, bulges, or objects stuck in them. In addition, make sure you have adequate tire tread. Tire tread is important for pushing water out from underneath you so that you can maintain control of your car. Poor tire tread can lead to hydroplaning.
• Windshield wipers. Windshield wipers are often neglected when it comes to routine maintenance. Yet, like tires, they’re very important to keep you safe. Windshield wipers take a beating from the elements. The last thing you need is to be caught in a torrential downpour with poorly working wipers. Consider replacing them every six months.
• Brakes. If your feet experience an unusual pulsating when you press the brake pedal, or you hear squealing or squeaking, it may be time to change them. Depending on how your drive and other conditions brakes may last 20,000 to 50,000 miles.

2. Review your vehicle warning lights. If one of your vehicle warning lights turns on, will you understand what it means? The complexity of cars is increasing. Make sure to refer to your owner’s manual for a complete explanation or check out my blog Vehicle warning lights and their meanings [Infographic].

3. Pack important information. Make sure to pack important documents, such as your:

• License and registration;
• Car warranty information; and
• Insurance policy. If you have any questions regarding your insurance coverage, contact your agent.

4. Pack an emergency kit. If you’re stranded on your trip, there’s not much you can do other than wait for help to arrive. Here are some items to keep in your summer emergency car kit.

• Water and snacks, such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit;
• Reflective vest(s), flares, or roadside hazard triangles;
• First aid kit;
• External battery packs for your smart devices;
• Flashlights;
• Whistle;
• Rain ponchos;
• Jumper cables or a portable jump starter; and
• Small gas can.

5. Pack a personal care kit. Rather than digging through your suitcase, consider packing a personal care kit that is easily accessible. Items to include:

• Sunscreen;
• Insect repellent;
• Hand sanitizer;
• Lip balm;
• Tissues;
• Body wipes; and
• Medications.

6. Consider purchasing roadside assistance. If you do a lot of traveling and don’t want to be left stranded, roadside assistance may be a good investment. Roadside assistance programs can help with small items, including an empty gas tank, flat tire, lockout, dead battery, or towing.

7. Secure your pets. Pets roaming around freely in your car can be distracting and lead to a serious accident. Depending on where you travel, allowing your dog to sit on your lap may be illegal. Make sure you have an adequate size crate or carrier for your pet or consider alternative restraint options.

8. Remain calm. During summer months, drivers face many different road conditions and driving situations. There are more cars on the road and construction zones can be confusing and frustrating. The best piece of advice is to remain calm. Driving erratically or showing your emotion can lead to dangerous situations.

9. Pass the time. We’ve all been involved in car ride squabbles. Make sure your family has plenty of activities to help pass the time in the car. DVDs, smart devices, and the license plate game are just a few ideas. Don’t forget extra batteries.

10. Share your itinerary. Make sure you share your itinerary with family or friends. This way they’re familiar with your travel plans if you need help.

11. Have fun. Don’t forget, the purpose of your road trip is to enjoy quality time and make memories with your family.

Additional blogs

No more mistakes when replacing windshield wipers

Roadside Assistance: Do you really need it?

Vehicle warning lights and their meanings [Infographic]

Eleven tips to avoid or handle hydroplaning

Don’t get stranded: Tips for jumpstarting your car

Sources

https://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/eco-tourism/sponsorstory/30-tips-get-your-car-ready-summer-road-trip
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/16/travel/road-trips-in-the-united-states.html

Source:  West Bend, Posted by Scott Stueber on May 29, 2018 9:15:25 AM

Is learning to ride a motorcycle on your bucket list? Now that the weather is getting nicer, you’re closer to making this dream a reality. Growing up riding dirt bikes with my friends, I know how fun and exhilarating riding can be. It offers a new perspective to seeing the world!

If you don’t own a motorcycle, you can still learn to ride. Some basic rider classes provide instruction and the motorcycle for your use. With patience, practice, and some helpful information, it won’t be long before you can cross this off your bucket list. If you’re a new rider or considering becoming one, here are some tips for you.

1. Do your research. Before beginning to ride, it’s important to do your research. If you don’t have a motorcycle, figure out which one may be the best one for you. Like cars, motorcycles come in all shapes and sizes. Visit your local motorcycle dealership(s) to learn what motorcycles they have and which ones are good for beginners. Make sure you ask a lot questions. If you feel pressured to buy, find another dealership. To learn more about the different types of motorcycles available, checkout “Six Types of Motorcycles for New Riders.”

Buying a motorcycle strictly based on price or looks can lead to dangerous situations.

2. Review your state’s motorcycle handbook. Many states have a supplementary handbook that explains:

• Requirements for motorcycle operation;
• Steps for getting your license;
• Motorcycle laws;
• Gear needed to ride; and
• Handling dangerous road situations and mechanical problems.

3. Buy the proper gear. As with any new sport or activity, having the essential gear can help keep you safe. As a new rider, you’re more prone to tipping over and accidents. Riding in shorts and flip-flops aren’t the best choices. Here’s a list of gear to consider.

• Helmet
• Eye protection
• Leather jacket and pants
• Boots
• Gloves

In some states, wearing a helmet is the law. To see what your state requires click here.

4. Enroll in a class. Once you have made the decision to ride, consider enrolling in a class. Basic rider classes, such as the one offered at Road America, teach basic riding skills in a safe, controlled environment. They even provide the motorcycles!

By taking a class that provides the motorcycles, you’ll be able to decide if riding is right for you without making a financial investment in a new motorcycle. To find a list of classes near you, visit the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

5. Become familiar with your motorcycle. Operating a motorcycle relies on a lot of eye, hand, and foot coordination. If you take a class, you’ll learn the different controls. It’s essential to know these to obtain your learner’s permit through the DMV. Here’s a brief rundown of some of the motorcycle controls.

• Throttle grip. This is similar to the foot petal accelerator in your car. It’s on the right side of the handle bar and is controlled by twisting it with your right hand.
• Front brake. This is also on the right side of the handle bar and should be squeezed gently with your right hand to apply pressure to your brake.
• Rear brake. This is located on the lower right side of the motorcycle. Use your right foot to press down gently to apply brake pressure.
• Gearshift lever. This pedal is on the lower left side of the motorcycle. It’s used to change the gears as you drive. The gear pattern is usually first gear down with the remaining gears up.
• Clutch lever. This is usually found on the left side of the handlebar. It’s used when changing gears.

6. Practice makes perfect. Once you earn your temporary cycle instruction permit, you can start driving on the road. If possible, practice in an area that has low traffic volume and few pedestrians. This will help you get acquainted with operating your motorcycle. After you become more comfortable, you can start venturing out to more congested areas.

7. Contact your insurance agent. Talk to your agent to find out what insurance coverage is needed for your new ride.

As a motorist, it’s crucial to be alert and on the lookout for motorcyclists. Check out my blog “Essential safety tips for sharing the road with motorcycles.”

Source:
https://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/riding-motorcycle.php

SOURCE:  West Bend, Posted by Scott Stueber on May 15, 2018 9:30:00 AM

Running a business is no easy task, even in great health.  Whether you’re the owner of a small business or a large company, an injury or illness rendering you unable to work can be detrimental to your business.

A disability income policy is the perfect way to protect your greatest asset:  your ability to earn an income.  But did you know it can also protect your business as well?  May is Disability Awareness Month, so what better time to evaluate your disability income needs?

One way to protect yourself from an unexpected injury or illness resulting in a loss of income is with workers compensation:  however, that coverage is applicable only to work-related injuries and illnesses.  A disability income policy will generally provide worldwide, 24-hours-a-day coverage either on or off the job.  With this broadened coverage, you will have peace of mind in knowing you’re covered for a wider spectrum of disabilities.

So how does a disability income policy protect your business?  One way is adding endorsements such as a Business Overhead Expense rider.  With riders such as this, coverage can be extended to fixed business expenses such as the mortgage interest or rent, utilities and employees’ salaries.  Other endorsements can extend a portion of your monthly benefit payout while you’re in the process of returning to work.  Endorsements such as these are essential to a business owner’s individual disability income policy.

Purchasing a disability income policy is the best way to protect your income, and with additional endorsements designed specifically for business owners, you can protect yourself and your business with a single policy.  Call our office to evaluate the disability income needs for you and your business!

Get the facts at www.disabilitycanhappen.org

SOURCE:  Auto-Owners flyer

Depending on where you live, spring may have sprung. For some of us in the Midwest, we’re still waiting.

No matter where you live, weather can cause damage to your home. Bonnie Pesch, senior personal lines underwriter shares areas to examine on your home after a long, cold winter.

Windows: In the winter, windows ideally keep the cold air out and the warm air in, and in summer, they should do just the opposite. If your windows don’t do this, you’re probably wasting money on your heating/air conditioning bills.

To make sure your windows are doing their job, check that the caulking and weather stripping are still in good condition. If not, replace them. If there’s condensation on your window, either the glass or the window should be replaced. Faulty windows, as well as window trim that’s not maintained properly, can allow moisture into your home. That moisture can lead to mold and damaged dry wall.

Gutters: Gutters should direct water away from your home and help keep it out of your basement. It’s important, however, that the water NOT be directed over a walkway or driveway. If it freezes, it could create a liability exposure for you if someone slips or falls. Gutters expand and contract, depending on the temperature; they should be flush with the roof and not sag or dip.

Roof: Check for loose, missing, or cracked shingles. Are the shingles curling? What about nail-pops? These issues should be addressed to ensure water doesn’t get into your home. An aging roof can be a concern as shingles lose the ability to shed water as they age. Older shingles are also more prone to hail damage. If your roof is getting old, or you see even a small amount of deterioration, don’t wait too long! Over just one summer, sun exposure can increase the rate of the roof’s deterioration, and then before you know it winter in here. Don’t let that aging roof sit in the snow, ice, and rain, hoping no water gets into your home. What a mess it could be!

Foundations: Be sure to examine the foundation for any cracks that can allow water in. Sometimes just caulking cracks isn’t sufficient. Consider contacting a foundation specialist to assess your home.

Exterior Walls: Do you have water stains on your exterior walls? If so, this may be an indication that your gutters aren’t adequately containing rain water. Perhaps the gutters need to be cleaned or straightened. If you have wood siding, check for holes or openings that can allow ants, woodpeckers, or other critters to nest or burrow through. If the paint on your wood siding is peeling, you should properly scrape and re-paint the wood to protect it from the weather elements.

Chimneys: Mortar deterioration can lead to moisture. Repairing the mortar and replacing deteriorated bricks can be a DIY project, but if you’re not comfortable on the roof, call a professional. Also check the cap and screen to be sure they keep water from entering the flue inside the chimney. You should have your chimney/flue inspected and cleaned every year to make sure there are no cracks, deterioration, or debris blocking the hot air/smoke to escape. During the winter, we see a large number of home fires associated with chimneys.

Decks: You should check your deck periodically to be sure the posts are still solid, the deck boards haven’t rotted, and the railings aren’t wobbly. All of these create a liability exposure on your premises. What if someone would fall down the steps because the post or railing wasn’t maintained properly?

When everything is finished and in good condition, I suggest you plant some beautiful flowers, sit back on the deck, and watch your neighbors figure out what repairs they may need.

Source:
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/2355-spring-home-maintenance-checklist/

WEST BEND, Posted by Scott Stueber on Apr 24, 2018 9:00:00 AM