Three frequently asked questions about auto insurance in Washington

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Choosing the right auto insurance policy is important to protect yourself financially as a motorist in Washington State. At Western Insurance Associates, we offer auto insurance policies to drivers in Spokane, WA.

The following are three frequently asked questions about auto insurance in Washington.

How do I purchase auto insurance?

Nowadays, the easiest way to purchase auto insurance is on the Internet. You can get quotes on the Internet for various policies. You can also select your policy online and purchase your policy through the website of the insurance provider you choose to purchase auto coverage from.

It’s also possible to purchase auto insurance over the phone. You can call up an insurance provider in your area and get a quote over the phone. Then, you can make your first payment on the policy in question over the phone.

Do I have to purchase auto insurance?

In Washington and in most states, acquiring auto insurance coverage is legally required if you want to drive. You need to purchase an auto insurance policy that meets some basic liability requirements.

What does auto insurance cover?

A basic auto insurance policy will cover liability expenses. This means that basic coverage pays for the costs of any damage you cause to the property of other parties.

You can choose to purchase collision and comprehensive coverage additionally if you so desire. Collision coverage covers the costs of damages to your own vehicle in an accident. Comprehensive coverage covers the costs of damages from fire, vandalism, and more.

Do you have more questions about auto insurance? Let us help you find the answers you’re looking for regarding auto insurance in Spokane, WA. Contact us at Western Insurance Associates today.

How umbrella insurance can help protect your WA business

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Do you own or manage a business in the greater Spokane, WA area? The team at Western Insurance Associates is proud to work with our business community and share our knowledge of commercial insurance options. As a business grows, its insurance needs can also grow. They can also become more complex, and adding an umbrella policy to existing coverage can create an insurance portfolio with robust coverage. Umbrella insurance is key when primary policies are exhausted due to major covered events. 

Understanding commercial policy limits and how umbrella insurance can cover those gaps

It is typical for commercial policies to have upper limits to their payouts. This means that once the limit is reached, any financial obligation due to an excessive loss is the responsibility of the policyholder. That’s where umbrella coverage comes into play. Once your primary liability protection is reached, the umbrella policy works as a stopgap. It will provide the needed additional coverage up to its limits. This type of protection can be pivotal to a thriving business.

Liability claims and excessive lawsuits can quickly extinguish the protection provided by a primary policy. Because of this, many businesses rely on their umbrella coverage as a way to protect their assets. Experienced, registered agents are able to provide in-depth information about the benefits and limitations of such policies. It is important for business owners to understand their current insurance policy and recognize any limitations therein. 

Find out more about how an umbrella policy can help protect your company

Western Insurance Associates is proud to serve the business community located in the greater Spokane, WA area. Now is a perfect time to meet with one of our knowledgeable agents to find out more. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.

What does recreational insurance cover?

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Life as an off-road lover comes with many benefits. Not only do you have the opportunity to enjoy nature, but you can also engage in adventures city life does not provide in Spokane, WA. Taking life by the horns means having the right insurance that lets you confidently explore the wild. Western Insurance Associates can help you understand the importance of recreational insurance and how a policy can enhance your off-road experience. 

What does recreational insurance cover?

Recreational insurance covers off-road vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), and dirt bikes. A standard auto insurance policy does not typically provide coverage for these types of vehicles because of their design and use. Recreational insurance closes the gap so you do not have to pay for damages out-of-pocket when an incident occurs in Spokane, WA. 

How does recreational insurance work?

Recreational insurance works much like a standard auto indemnity plan. You receive protection based on your preferences and policy limits. 

Those who pay more in monthly premiums may find their indemnity plans cover more incidents. Meanwhile, those who pay less in monthly premiums may experience more out-of-pocket expenses. 

How much recreational insurance do you need?

The amount of recreational insurance you may need depends on a number of factors, which include:

  • How often you operate your off-road vehicle;
  • Whether or not you plan to have passengers;
  • Whether or not you need coverage that provides total replacement in the instance that your off-road vehicle is completely destroyed. 

Western Insurance Associates can help you build the recreational insurance policy that best suits your lifestyle. Call them today to get started with a quote for coverage!

When to Shop Around For New Auto Insurance

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Like many insurance products, auto insurance needs can change with time. Understanding when these needs change and adjusting your auto insurance accordingly is a great way to save yourself money and make sure you are always sufficiently covered. At Western Insurance Associates, serving Spokane, WA we take pride in educating our clients and future clients concerning their insurance needs. Keep reading to find out how you can know when it’s time to shop around for new auto insurance.

How to Know Your Insurance Needs Have Changed

Usually, your insurance needs will change along with big life changes. For instance, when changes in your marital status take place it will affect your insurance needs. When a child comes of age for driving, that can also have an effect on your insurance coverage and needs. Purchasing new vehicles and even just aging will all have an effect on your insurance coverage. The best way to know if your insurance needs have changed is to sit down with an insurance representative and discuss your current situation. This way you can be sure you are sufficiently covered while also making sure you are not paying for products or services you do not need. 

Dangers of Being Improperly Insured

It is very important that you evaluate your insurance needs periodically so that you can avoid being improperly insured. Being improperly insured will put you and your family at risk. Not only will there be an increased risk of financial liability should you have an accident, but there could also be legal risks involved if your auto insurance is not in order. 

If you would like to learn more about auto insurance, please contact our friendly staff today at Western Insurance Associates, serving Spokane, WA. We will be happy to answer your questions and help you make the best insurance choices possible. 

Most Common Myths About Commercial Insurance

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As a business owner, you have to wear many hats to make sure that your business runs efficiently and smoothly. And that includes protecting your business and your employees against damages and losses. However, when you are shopping for commercial insurance, it is important to be aware of the misconceptions about it that can cloud your judgment when making an important decision. Western Insurance Associates serving Spokane, WA has prepared the list of myths about commercial insurance that need to be debunked: 

It Is Not Necessary To Have Commercial Insurance For A Home-Based Business 

Many people mistakenly believe that if they have a home office, their business and its contents will be covered by standard home insurance. However, the truth is that anything pertaining to your business requires additional coverage. 

General Liability Will Cover All Possible Risks

Unfortunately, general liability insurance is not a one-size-fits-all solution for all risks related to business operations. Even though it provides comprehensive coverage, it cannot protect your business from every single claim. 

Commercial Insurance Will Cover Damages Caused By Flooding

Another common misconception is that commercial insurance protects businesses against damages due to flooding. However, in reality, business insurance does not always cover this type of damages, and you may have to get a separate flood insurance policy. 

Commercial insurance is more than just another type of insurance – it is a guarantee that your business, employees, and you, as a business owner, are protected against different risks, including cyberattacks, fires, lawsuits, and others. If you are currently shopping for commercial insurance and looking for a trustworthy insurance agency, Western Insurance Associates serving the clients from Spokane, WA, and other surrounding areas is ready to help you. Do not hesitate to give us a call and talk to one of our agents. 

What is umbrella insurance and why should I have it

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If you are looking for a locally owned and operated independent insurance agency in Spokane, WA,  Western Insurance Associates fits the bill. Our company has been through many changes since it began in 1939 as Fairfield Waverly Insurance. We have changed with the times and today we have an experienced team that is dedicated to helping our customers find the right coverage for all their insurance needs. Umbrella is just one of the types of insurance we are happy to discuss with you. 

Umbrella insurance is often misunderstood. What is it and what it can do for you is not at all mysterious. Umbrella insurance is a type of excess liability insurance. It is not a policy that you buy unless you already own a policy that has liability coverage such as home or auto insurance. You don’t have to be a homeowner, however, to benefit from its coverage. It can be added to a renter or boat policy as well. 

Liability insurance is one of the most important types of insurance that you have. It protects you from legal action that may happen as a result of an accident that you or a family member is involved in. Medical bills for injuries can be very high. When these are combined with legal action against you, they can be devastating to your finances. Many things can result in a suit against you, from a car accident to someone injured while swimming in your pool. You may find out the hard way that the liability limit on your home or auto insurance is inadequate. 

Umbrella insurance usually adds between one and ten million dollars to your liability protection. If you live in or near Spokane, WA, Western Insurance Associates would love to sit down with you and discuss why umbrella insurance is something you need to have.

A Guide To Help Washington Residents Find The Right Condo Insurance

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Western Insurance Associates assists the Spokane, WA community, as well as the surrounding areas through offering multiple insurance policies. We strive to help all of our clients find the insurance coverage that they need to enjoy their lifestyle. It’s important to use that you are protected whenever something happens that you did not plan for.

Condo Insurance

Several stunning condo projects have been built throughout the Pacific Northwest, especially in Spokane, WA. If you are preparing to move into one of these luxurious new condos, it’s important that you have protection. Condo insurance allows you to move into your unit with the comfort that everything is secure.

The policy helps cover you in the event that your unit is damaged due to a natural disaster. You will have security in the event that you have to replace your cabinets or flooring. You can also amend your policy to include liability coverage so that you will be protected in the event that someone is injured while visiting your condo unit.

All of your personal possessions are covered in the event that they are stolen or vandalized. The policy will help alleviate some of the stress that you may feel as you think about how you are going to replace some of your valuables. In the event that your unit suffers severe damage, you’ll be covered if you are obligated to seek lodging elsewhere while your unit is repaired. While you are researching different condo insurance policies, consider taking inventory of your possessions and having them appraised. This will help you determine the true value of your belongings.

Western Insurance Associates Will Guide You Through The Process

Visit our website today to learn more information about how we can assist you.

What Legal Fees Can Auto Insurance Pay?

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In Spokane, WA, your auto insurance provider will provide coverage for some basic legal fees, but this coverage is restricted to specific circumstances.

Essentially, your insurance provider will pay the legal fees and hire a lawyer on your behalf if you’re being sued, and by that we mean if you’re being sued over something that is not excluded, and if you’ve paid your premiums on time. If you’re being sued over a car accident for personal injuries, then that’s a personal injury lawsuit, and that’s what your insurance is there to protect you against in the first place. If you want to sue someone, on the other hand, you’re on your own.

And you might not be defended by your insurer if:

  • You didn’t let your insurer know about the accident in a timely manner.
  • You caused a car accident on purpose.
  • The damages exceed your policy limits.

Most lawsuits you’re going to face as a result of a car accident fall well within the boundaries of what your insurance company is willing to pay for. They’re not here for criminal defense or to wield as your litigation financiers for suing people, and they can’t offer you much help if you haven’t paid your premiums. But if you are being sued over a car accident and your policy is still active, your insurer probably has your back.

If you are still looking to get covered in Spokane, WA, get in touch with us at Western Insurance Associates by email, call us, or stop by the offices. At Western Insurance Associates, we will compare several providers to provide you with quotes and get you a good deal on an excellent policy so that you can drive safely.

Determining How Much Umbrella Insurance You Need

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Umbrella coverage may not be required in Spokane, WA, but it’s recommended if you have assets. Policies are sold in $1 million increments, and the more assets you have, the more coverage you want. 

Look At Your Risk

A car accident can be a common scenario, which results in a significant judgment and would trigger the need for umbrella insurance. Your risk will be higher the more you drive and if you have elderly or teen drivers. Other things in your life can also increase your risk. For example, if you have a condo, then you could be held responsible if you damage other units. You are more at risk if you have a swimming pool, trampoline, boat, RV, or dog. You could be more likely to get sued if you serve on your homeowner’s association board or are active on social media. If you have several responsibilities, then you could be at a higher risk, which means you need more coverage. 

Look At Your Assets

The typical $1 million policy is usually enough for most people. However, if you have more assets, an agent at Western Insurance Associates may be able to help you determine how much more you need. A simple way to get an estimate of your net worth is to add up your belongings, which means your properties, house, retirement, bank accounts, and any investments you have and then subtract your liabilities or debts you currently have. Also, keep in mind your current income, as well as your expected future income. As your income grows and you get more net worth, you may want to increase your coverage. Keep in mind you will also need to meet the minimums required for auto insurance in Spokane, WA and the minimum homeowner’s insurance your lender requires you to have before getting umbrella insurance. 

Contact Western Insurance Associates to get a quote on umbrella insurance. 

When is recreational insurance required in Spokane?

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Those that live in the Spokane, WA area will likely love the amazing outdoor recreation opportunities that are all around. No matter what time of the year it is, there is always an opportunity to enjoy fresh air and nature. One way that you can have even more fun and enjoyment by getting a recreational vehicle. When you own a recreational toy, it is important to get insurance for it. There are several situations when this could be a requirement for you. 

Local Requirement for Liability

One situation when you will need to get insurance for your recreational toy is when it is a local requirement. Depending on where you want to use your recreational toy, you may need to meet local liability requirements. Certain areas in the Spokane area will require that you have insurance to ensure you can cover damages if you cause an accident when using your recreational toy. You may need to provide evidence of insurance before using it in these locations.

Provides Coverage for Asset

Another reason to get recreational toy insurance is that it will provide you with coverage for your asset. Buying a recreational toy is always a big purchase and one that needs to be covered by insurance. When you do get insurance coverage, you will receive protection against many risks, including the risk of accident damage, theft, or even damage related to bad weather. 

When you own a recreational toy in the Spokane, WA area, it is crucial to consider your insurance needs. When you are looking for insurance, you should contact Western Insurance Associates. The team at Western Insurance Associates will be able to provide you with a variety of services to ensure you select a policy that is right for your situation.