Texas auto insurance: what you need to know

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San Antonio, TX drivers can rely on Versatile Insurance Planners for their insurance needs. If you’re getting ready to buy a car or want to take a look at the available options, we can help. Reach out to our team today and set up an appointment to find out more.

Auto insurance information for Texas drivers

Finding the right insurance for your unique needs can be a challenge. But, once you get a better feel for what your needs are and how insurance can help meet them, the process becomes a lot less stressful. The main considerations that you will need to make are:

  • Amount of coverage – the value of your car determines this, how much medical expense coverage you want to have, and how much liability protection you want to carry.
  • Deductible – typically, the higher your deductible, the lower your premiums, and vice versa. Budgetary concerns can often drive these decisions.
  • Features and add-ons – if you want to include features like roadside assistance or car rental reimbursement, you will want to know how that will affect your premiums. 

Once you have narrowed down your needs, it becomes easier to review the policy options that are right for you. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it can help to talk to a local agent who can help guide you through the process. It’s worth the time to find the right policy!

Find out more today!

Versatile Insurance Planners is here to help the greater San Antonio, TX area with all of its insurance needs. If you have questions about auto insurance, we are here to answer them! Give us a call today and find out more!

What are the Minimum Automobile Insurance Requirements in Texas?

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In Texas, drivers must carry auto insurance with property damage and bodily injury protection. Drivers who cause an accident must bear financial responsibility for any damages in the event of a car accident. In most cases, insurance providers pay for the cost of damages caused by the holder of the policy.

To learn more about the minimum coverage requirements in San Antonio, TX, contact our team at Versatile Insurance Planners today.

Texas Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements

The minimum amount of insurance drivers must carry in Texas is $30,000 for bodily injury, $60,000 for bodily injury for two or more people, and $25,000 for property damage for each accident. "At fault" drivers must have these coverage limits to operate a motor vehicle on Texas roadways.

Additionally, drivers must carry proof of insurance in their vehicles. Law enforcement will verify that all drivers have adequate insurance during a traffic stop. If drivers don’t carry their proof of insurance, they’re subject to penalties and fines (especially if an automobile accident occurs).

Drivers can also choose the coverage that offers personal injury protection for a liability insurance policy. However, this coverage is not a requirement. Since liability policies only cover damage and medical expenses of those other than at-fault drivers, a personal injury protection policy would cover some of the at-fault driver’s expenses. Additionally, drivers can add collision coverage to help pay for vehicle damages.

Contact us today at Versatile Insurance Planners in San Antonio, TX, so we can help you learn more about your minimum liability insurance coverage options and the legal requirements for "at fault" drivers.

Do businesses in San Antonio need commercial insurance?

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The San Antonio, TX area continues to experience growth and improvements in the local economy. This can make it a great community to invest in and start a business. While a lot of value comes with business ownership here, you will need to have the right insurance to mitigate various risks that come with owning a business. There are multiple reasons that a business will need to have this coverage for your business. 

Comply with Requirements

Businesses in this area of Texas will need to have coverage because they will have various insurance requirements. Many who choose to start a business will take out loans, raise capital, and sign other agreements that will mandate they maintain certain types and levels of coverage. If you get the right insurance in place, it can ensure you remain appropriately covered. 

Ensure Business is Covered

Another reason that a business owner should get a commercial insurance plan is to ensure their company is appropriately covered. There are various forms of coverage included with a commercial insurance plan. This includes offering liability insurance and giving coverage to protect all of your core assets. Ultimately, if there is a challenging situation that results in a loss, this coverage can help protect your business’s solvency.

A business that operates in the San Antonio, TX area will always find that having proper commercial insurance is a good idea. When you are looking to get insurance for your business, calling the team with Versatile Insurance Planners is a great option. The professionals with Versatile Insurance Planners understand the value of this coverage, and they can provide the guidance you need to build your next plan and policy. 

What is the value of having home insurance in Texas?

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People that live in the San Antonio, TX area will find that it is a great place to purchase a home. While there are a lot of advantages to property owners in this area, there are also risks that need to be considered. One way to mitigate various risks is by getting a home insurance plan. A home insurance plan can prove to be valuable in several ways. 

Coverage Protects Your Assets

One of the main reasons that you should get home insurance is that it will protect your important assets. A home insurance plan will offer you support for your dwelling and any of your personal assets, up to the limits set by your policy. This will ensure you have financial support if your home is damaged by bad weather, a fire, vandalism, or another situation that results in a loss. 

Coverage Will Protect Against Liability Claims

You also should aim to get a home insurance plan as it will help protect against your liability risk. There is always a chance that an accident can occur in your home that will result in damages. If this is the case, you could be found responsible for damages incurred. With a home insurance plan, you will get the support that you need to help mitigate this risk and concern. 

There are clearly various benefits that will come with property ownership in San Antonio, TX. As you are looking to purchase a property in this region, it would be a good idea to call Versatile Insurance Planners. With so many choices to make when looking for an insurance plan, calling Versatile Insurance Planners can help as they will help you build a plan that will meet your needs and ensure you are properly covered. 

Is it time to upgrade your motorcycle insurance policy?

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San Antonio, TX area motorcycle riders can rely on Versatile Insurance Planners for all of their insurance needs, including motorcycle policies. We want to ensure that our friends and neighbors have the protection they need when they’re out riding their bikes! We provide comprehensive policies, primary policies, and just about everything in between!

Benefits of a comprehensive motorcycle insurance policy

Basic motorcycle policies typically offer the bare minimum of coverage. Motorcycle riders who have recently upgraded their bikes may also want to look into upgrading their motorcycle insurance policy. One of the main benefits of a comprehensive motorcycle policy is the additional protection and coverage for injuries that require medical attention.

Additionally, it’s important to cover your bike from loss, theft, or damage. There is also protection available for coverage in the event of an accident that involves an uninsured driver. Oftentimes, it is much better to be over rather than underinsured. These are just a few of the many great benefits that a more comprehensive motorcycle insurance policy can provide.

Your local agent can go over the available options with you as you determine what type and level of coverage are appropriate for your needs. It is also a great idea to have your bike policy reviewed on a regular basis to make sure that your coverage keeps pace with your needs. 

Let us help with all your motorcycle insurance needs!

Versatile Insurance Planners San Antonio, TX is here to provide you with the information necessary to inform your insurance decisions. There are many benefits to comprehensive motorcycle insurance policies. Call or stop by our office to find out more!

4 things you should always ask your auto insurance agent

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Most people let the premium rates influence their decision when choosing an auto insurance policy. This is, however, not advisable as it could lead to you being underinsured thus prone to dangers and accidents on the road just to cut costs. At Versatile Insurance Planners serving San Antonio, TX, insurance agents guide you on balancing adequate coverage and an affordable policy for your car.

Things to ask your auto insurance agent

The following are some of the questions you should ask your auto insurance representative.

Is it the ideal coverage?

Depending on the state, your agent will guide you on the suitable coverages for your car. You’ll need minimum liability coverage for any accident-related issues and to cover the legal fee. If need be, your agent should recommend ideal additional coverage plans depending on your personal needs.

What is covered In case of an accident?

You need the right coverage to get all the benefits of auto insurance after an accident. Ask your insurance representative which policy covers what. Ask about optional coverages like rental reimbursement and roadside assistance and if they are necessary for you. 

Am I eligible for discounts?

Ask your auto insurance agent whether you qualify for a multi-policy discount and whether you have options to minimize the premiums. Find out about your premiums and deductibles so that if you ever file for a claim, the out-of-pocket costs will be within your budget.

Do I need an umbrella policy?

Depending on your assets and personal preferences, you may require protection above and beyond your regular policy coverage. Ask your insurance agent for comprehensive coverage, uninsured and underinsured motorist protection, and collision coverage. There is an option for excess liability coverage for people with valuable personal assets.

An insurance agent is an indispensable resource, so ensure you have the best one to help answer some of your questions regarding the policy. Consult Versatile Insurance Planners serving San Antonio, TX for all your auto insurance needs.

Do I Need to Carry Motorcycle Insurance All Year?

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Winters have been chilly down in San Antonio, TX, so you may not be riding your motorcycle as much during the colder months. Versatile Insurance Planners know that everybody could use an extra dollar or two, so you might be considering how to lower your insurance bill for a vehicle you’re using less.

Don’t Drop Your Insurance

Always keep your motorcycle insured. First, your motorcycle is still vulnerable to theft, fire, and other damage while in storage. Getting into a new policy can take time once riding season comes around again, and you might forget that you canceled it with the intent of renewing it later. Saving a small amount is not worth it compared to the potential damage from a stolen bike or riding without insurance.

Options for Variable Coverage

Although you shouldn’t drop motorcycle coverage, your insurance provider will likely have options to reduce your coverage based on your usage. That way, you can keep coverage like theft and fire while avoiding the costs of active usage.

Depending on the provider, the lessened coverage may be something that you discuss with them as needed, or they could have lay-up policies with a preset time period where your bike is expected to be in storage. Some versions might allow you a limited amount of collision and other on-the-road coverage in case you need to use the bike on occasion. The versatility of insurance makes it difficult to tell you all your options without more details, but you can expect a demonstration of lower risk to have some sort of benefit.

Ask an Agent for Help

Insurance agents like us at Versatile Insurance Planners help consumers understand their choices and find a provider with the insurance options that suit their needs. Residents of San Antonio, TX and surrounding Bexar county can contact us at any time.

Auto Insurance Coverage Options in Texas

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The Versatile Insurance Planners in the San Antonio, TX area want people to know all about the auto insurance options that are available in Texas as well as the auto insurance requirements set forth by the state.

In Texas, each driver must have at least an auto liability insurance policy in place that will cover a minimum amount of bodily injury and property damage claims if you are involved in an accident that is determined to be your fault.

It is also a great idea to have underinsured and uninsured coverage in place in the event you are involved in a crash that is deemed to be the fault of the other driver and that person either has no insurance at all or very little and cannot cover the damages to your vehicle or the medical bills for you and your passengers for injuries sustained in the crash.

Other Auto Insurance Coverage Options

There are several other types of auto insurance you can choose from, including comprehensive insurance. This type of insurance will pay for any damage to your auto if it is damaged or destroyed a fire, vandalism, or a natural disaster. It will also replace your vehicle if it is stolen. If you have an active loan for your vehicle, your lender or bank may require you to have this type of coverage in place to protect the investment that has been made in your vehicle when they loaned you the money to purchase it.

Collision insurance is another type of coverage you can obtain. This type of coverage will help pay for damages that occur if you are involved in a collision with another vehicle or an object. For example, if you back your vehicle into someone’s garage door and damage it, this type of coverage will help pay for any damage to the garage door as well as the damage to your vehicle.

Call For a Quote Today!

To create the best auto insurance coverage for you and your situation, you should enlist the help of an experienced auto insurance agent to secure your auto insurance policy. The agents at the Versatile Insurance Planners in San Antonio, TX are ready to assist you with all of your auto insurance needs. Call for a quote and appointment today to get your policy started.

How commercial insurance can save my small business

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Texas has more than 2.6 million small businesses. In fact, 99.8 percent of all businesses in Texas are small businesses. Each year, thousands of new businesses open, and many of them struggle to stay open. Multiple challenges and hazards face small businesses and, with the right commercial insurance, you have a better chance to save your small business. In San Antonio, TX,  Versatile Insurance Planners has an experienced team that will work with you to customize your commercial insurance for your business. 

Protect your business

If your location suffers damage, think burst pipe, fire, or theft it could put you out of business. If you have commercial insurance, you may still have to close down for a couple of days while repairs are done and supplies are replaced, but you will still be able to do business. If you don’t have insurance, unless you have a lot of cash or credit, you will be out of business potentially forever. 

Surviving a legal suit

If your small business gets sued, how would you get the legal advice that you need to fight the action against you? You can be sued by a client, a vendor, a customer, or even an employee. How would you pay a judgment against you? If you have commercial liability insurance, it will help you to survive the worst-case scenario.  

Business interruption insurance

When a covered peril happens to your business, you may not be able to conduct business for a period of time. When you aren’t doing business, your income flow stops but, unfortunately, your expenses do not. With business interruption insurance, you will be able to pay your bills and to give your employees and yourself a salary. It definitely can save your business.

Contact Versatile Insurance Planners in San Antonio, TX when you are ready to protect your small business. 

4 Auto Insurance Add-ons To Consider

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When you buy auto insurance from Versatile Insurance Planners of San Antonio, TX, you hope that it covers every aspect of risks facing your car. Unfortunately, car insurance is broad. As such, it has numerous coverages to consider depending on your situation and budget. For this reason, if you want to boost your auto insurance coverage, here are four add-ons to put your money on. 

Zero depreciation add-on

If your car were involved in an accident today, you would receive compensation less the depreciation factor. This means you have to fork out the depreciation amount from your pocket. However, you can buy zero depreciation coverage to cushion you from depreciation. 

Roadside assistance coverage

Assume your car has broken down far away from home. What would you do? Call friends and relatives? You might do that, but they may not be in a position to help. For these situations, you need roadside assistance coverage to bail you out when your car stalls miles away from home. This coverage provides services like towing, gas delivery, jumpstarting, and other minor repairs.

Engine protect add-on

If you live in an area prone to flooding or waterlogging, this endorsement is suitable for you. While collision or comprehensive coverages may cover your engine against perils like accidents and falling objects, these coverages may not help for calamities like flooding, which fall under consequential loss. And that’s when you need an engine to protect the rider to save the day.

Consumables add-on

Your car uses several consumables, including oils, bolts, pipes, filters, and so on. Unfortunately, these consumables are not covered by the standard auto insurance policy during repairs. Luckily, if you have consumables coverage, your insurance pays for the consumable costs.

Car insurance in San Antonio, TX

Standard car insurance is good, but it’s not enough. That you said, you need to strengthen your car insurance policy with add-ons depending on your situation. If you are in San Antonio, TX and its environs, contact Versatile Insurance Planners for an affordable quote.