What To Do After An Accident: A Guide

No one plans for an accident, but being prepared for the unexpected can be absolutely crucial. At Ashley Insurance, we understand the stress that follows a car accident. Here’s your comprehensive guide on what to do after a car accident to ensure your safety and protect your interests.

1. Prioritize Safety First:

In the event of a motor vehicle accident, the situation can be overwhelming. Begin by prioritizing the safety of everyone involved, attempting to move your vehicle to a secure location if possible. Activate your hazard lights and deploy warning triangles, if accessible. In cases of severe injuries, promptly dial emergency services for immediate assistance.

2. Report the Accident:

Contact local law enforcement to report the accident. Having an official record is crucial for insurance claims. Provide accurate details to the police, and obtain a copy of the accident report for your records.

3. Document the Scene:

If possible, capture photos and videos of the accident scene. Document vehicle damage, license plates, street signs, and any contributing factors. This visual evidence can be invaluable during the claims process.

4. Exchange Insurance Information:

All involved should exchange contact and insurance information. Collect names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance company names, and policy numbers. Share your details as well, ensuring transparency for all parties.

5. Be Mindful of What You Say:

In the event of an accident, avoid admitting guilt or fault. Stick to factual information when interacting with other parties, witnesses, or law enforcement. Anything said at the scene may impact the claims process.

6. Seek Medical Attention:

Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not manifest immediately. Keep records of medical visits, prescriptions, and any recommended follow-up care.

7. Notify Your Insurance Company:

Get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Make sure you provide them with accurate details and cooperate fully with their investigation. Prompt reporting helps expedite the claims process.

8. Consult with Ashley Insurance:

Your next call should be to Ashley Insurance. Our experienced insurance agents will attentively guide you through the claims process. We’ll answer any questions you may have, and ensure you receive the support you need.

9. Follow-Up on Your Claim:

Stay up-to-date on the progress of your claim. Provide any requested documentation promptly and follow up with your insurance adjuster. Open communication ensures a smoother resolution.

10. Know Your Rights If Injured:

If you’ve sustained injuries, consult with legal professionals to understand your rights. Personal injury claims may be necessary to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Navigating the Aftermath with Confidence

No one anticipates a car accident, but knowing what to do after a car accident empowers you to navigate the aftermath with confidence. Ashley Insurance is here to provide support, ensuring you receive the care and coverage you deserve. Remember, in times of uncertainty, Ashley Insurance is your trusted partner. Get a quote today!

Winter Driving Safety: Navigating Cold Weather

Winter Driving Tips

Winter brings with it a set of challenges, especially when it comes to hitting the road. At Ashley Insurance, we understand the importance of Winter driving safety, ensuring you stay safe and secure during cold weather journeys.

Driving on Icy Roads and in Snow

Navigating icy roads and snowy conditions demands extra caution. Slow down, increase your following distance, and avoid sudden movements. Gentle turns and gradual stops can help you maintain control. Ensure your headlights are on to improve visibility, and be mindful of black ice, a common but nearly invisible hazard.

Preparing Your Car for the Cold

1. Tire Check:

Ensure your tires have suitable tread depth for better traction. Consider switching to winter tires designed for cold conditions.

2. Battery Health:

Cold weather can be rough on your vehicle’s battery. Check its health and replace it if needed to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

3. Fluid Levels:

Ensure your car’s fluids, including oil, windshield wiper fluid, and antifreeze, are at the recommended levels for optimal performance in the cold.

4. Wipers and Lights:

Replace worn-out wiper blades and ensure all lights are functional. Proper visibility is crucial during winter driving.

Driving in Sleet: A Unique Challenge

Sleet can be particularly tricky to navigate. Reduce your speed and avoid sudden movements. Use extra caution when braking, as sleet can create slippery conditions. If possible, delay travel until road crews have treated the surfaces.

Driving on Icy Roads

Insurance for Winter Peace of Mind

No matter how prepared you are, winter driving always carries some risk. Having comprehensive auto insurance from Ashley Insurance ensures you have the protection you need. In the event of an accident or unforeseen circumstance, you can drive with confidence knowing you’re covered.

The Benefits of Bundling Home and Auto Insurance

Also known as multi-policy or multi-line insurance, bundling home and auto insurance is when you purchase your home and auto insurance policies under the same provider. At Ashley Insurance, we strive to supply our customers with the best policies for their budget and lifestyle. Discover the benefits of combining your home and auto insurance with our team!

Why Bundle Home and Auto Insurance?

There are many benefits of bundling home and auto insurance. Here are just a few of the perks to the approach:

  1. Cost Savings/Multi-Policy Discounts – One of the primary benefits of bundling home and auto  insurance is the potential for you to save money. Insurance companies often offer various discounts to customers who bundle their policies. These discounts can vary but are generally substantial and can result in significant cost savings over time.
  2. Simplified Management – Managing your insurance becomes more convenient when you bundle policies. Instead of dealing with multiple insurance providers, policies, and billing cycles, you’ll have a single point of contact for both your home and auto insurance needs. This can make the process smoother and more efficient.
  3. Enhanced Coverage Options – Bundling may offer you access to enhanced coverage options that are only available to customers with multiple policies. These options could include higher coverage limits, additional endorsements, or better protection in certain scenarios.
  4. Reduced Coverage Gaps – When you have different policies with different providers, there’s a potential for coverage gaps or overlaps. Bundling multiple policies with a single provider can help minimize these gaps and ensure a more comprehensive coverage strategy.

How Much Does Bundling Home and Auto Insurance Save?

The amount you can save by bundling home and auto insurance policies varies depending on several factors, including the insurance provider, your location, your coverage needs, and your personal circumstances. On average, many insurance companies offer discounts ranging from 10% to 25% as a benefit for bundling home and auto insurance. However, these percentages can differ significantly based on the aforementioned factors.

How Do I Bundle Multiple Insurance Policies?

Get a quote and purchase more than one policy from the same insurance provider. Our agents can help you find the right one so you can start reaping the benefits of bundling home and auto insurance!

What Else Can I Bundle with Home and Auto Insurance?

According to your provider, you can often bundle home, auto, boat, motorcycle, renters, and other types of insurance into one plan. Ask your Ashley Insurance expert to explain all your options.

Get A Quote

Interested in further discussing the benefits of bundling your home and auto insurance? Get in touch with our team to get a free quote today!

How To Choose the Right Car Insurance Plan

How to Choose the Right Car Insurance Plan

At Ashley Insurance, we understand that choosing the right car insurance plan can be a daunting task. With so many policies and plans available, it can be overwhelming to decide which plan is best for you and your vehicle. That’s why we’ve put together a reliable guide on how to select the right car insurance plan. By following this guide, you’ll be able to compare your options, research insurance companies in your state, look for discounts and incentives, and much more. With the right car insurance plan, you can enjoy driving with peace of mind knowing that you’re protected from unexpected financial loss.

Find the Perfect Car Insurance Plan

1. Compare your options:

Before you make any decisions on which car insurance plan to choose, it is important to compare your options. Don’t just settle for the first or cheapest car insurance plan you come across. Instead, take a bit of extra time to research and compare different plans to determine which one best meets your needs.

2. Research the insurance companies that offer car insurance in your state:

When searching for car insurance, it is essential to research the insurance companies that offer car insurance in your state. We work with reputable insurance providers that offer comprehensive coverage at a reasonable price, ensuring that you get the best deal possible. By partnering with multiple insurance companies, we can provide you with a variety of coverage options, allowing you to choose the policy that meets your needs and budget.

3. Look for discounts and incentives:

Most car insurance companies offer discounts and incentives to their customers, which can help you save money on premiums. Look out for discounts for good students and good drivers who maintain a safe driving record. You can also receive discounts by driving a safe car equipped with features such as anti-theft devices, backup cameras, and lane departure warnings. Additionally, bundling your car insurance with home insurance can provide you with significant discounts. You can save even more on your auto insurance by paying your premium in full. Read our guide to buying car insurance for the first time for more tips.

Get the Car Insurance Coverage You Need

4. Get the coverage you need:

When deciding on the right car insurance plan, it’s important to get the coverage you need. This means understanding the different types of coverage available and determining which ones you need. Some common types of coverage include liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage. Our agents can help you figure out which types of coverage best suit your driving style.

5. Read the fine print before you buy:

Before you purchase a car insurance plan, it’s important to read the fine print. Make sure you understand what is covered and what is not covered. Don’t just focus on the premium. Pay attention to exclusions or limitations that may impact your coverage. Keep an eye out for restrictions on coverage, claims, and deductibles. Ask your Ashley Insurance agent if you have any questions about the fine print in your policy.

Get A Quote

At Ashley Insurance, we are committed to helping our customers find the right car insurance plan for their needs. We offer a wide range of auto insurance coverage options and discounts to help you save money on your premiums. Get a free quote on our website or contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find the right car insurance plan for you.

First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Home Insurance

You’re buying your first home? Congrats! Now put the stress ball down, because the experts at Ashley Insurance are here to help with all-things insurance. We have a full-transparency policy, meaning we don’t hide anything from you. Our team created this guide to make buying home insurance for the first time as easy as possible. By the time you’ve finished reading, you’ll have all the information you should know before buying homeowners insurance for the first time, and OUR SECRET TO SAVING YOU MONEY! Let’s jump right in.

What’s Included in Homeowners Insurance?

The majority of first-time homeowners purchase single-family homes. That means your policy will likely be an HO-3. This standard policy protects your home and personal belongings, as well as your liability as a homeowner. An HO-3 policy typically includes:

  • Dwelling coverage – To protect the main structure and attached structures, such as a porch or garage.
  • Other structures coverage – To protect any detached structures, such as a shed or pool.
  • Personal property coverage – To protect your personal items, such as clothing and furniture.
  • Liability coverage – To protect you from legal liability and fees if someone gets injured on your property.
  • Medical payments coverage – To help pay for medical expenses if a guest gets injured on your property.
  • Additional living expenses – To help pay for lodging, food, parking, and other expenses in the event of a covered peril damage.

Open Perils vs. Named Perils

There are two different losses covered by home insurance: open perils and named perils. Your home and structure are both ‘open perils,’ meaning coverage is included for any disaster, unless your policy states otherwise. Named perils include coverage for losses specifically listed in your policy. 

If you have an HO-3, your personal property is on a named-perils basis. Common perils include:

  • Fire damage
  • Water damage
  • Ice & snow damage
  • Wind damage
  • Theft
  • Vandalism
  • Freezing Pipes

There may be some exclusions depending on where you live, but an Ashley Insurance expert will let you know in-advance so there are no surprises. Additional policies, such as flood insurance, may be able to cover some of these exclusions.

Cost of Home Insurance For First-Timers

Everyone’s insurance rates are different. It all depends on your location and risk level. Insurance.com reported the average cost of homeowners insurance in Maryland at $1,694 a year or $141 a month. The national average is $2,777 a year. Get a quote from Ashley Insurance to find out how much it will cost you to buy home insurance for the first time.

When To Buy Homeowners Insurance

Your home insurance should begin immediately after closing on your first home. Your risk begins as soon as the home is in your name. Keep in mind that while your home insurance policy will not be effective before your closing date, it should be put into effect on that date. Provide your mortgagee clause and closing date to your Ashley Insurance agent, and we’ll help you get everything in place.

Get All Your Questions Answered

These are just a few things to keep in mind before you purchase home insurance for the first time. When you work with Ashley Insurance, your agent will ensure that you have everything you need and explain every aspect of your policy in detail. If you have any questions or concerns, just ask your agent. If you are ready to buy homeowners insurance for the first time, click the link below to get a quote!