Hopkinsville Archives | Raymond Nelson Insurance

Homeowners Insurance and Halloween Mishaps

Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year, especially for children. With more people walking around your property, the chances of accidents—like someone tripping on a decoration or falling on your porch—can increase. Does your homeowners insurance cover a Halloween mishap?

Fortunately, if you’re a homeowner, your insurance policy may provide important protection during this spooky season. Here’s what you need to know:

Personal Liability Coverage

The personal liability coverage in your homeowners’ insurance policy is designed to protect you financially if someone gets injured on your property and holds you responsible. If a trick-or-treater trips over a pumpkin on your porch or slips on your walkway, they could suffer injuries that require medical attention. In this case, personal liability coverage would help pay for their medical expenses, and even legal fees if the family decides to sue you for negligence.

Medical Payments Coverage

In addition to liability coverage, homeowners insurance policies typically include medical payments coverage, which can help cover minor injuries for guests on your property. Unlike liability coverage, medical payments coverage is a no-fault benefit, meaning it can help pay for medical costs (such as a quick visit to the doctor or emergency room) regardless of who was at fault for the injury.

Preventing Accidents

While homeowners insurance can help protect you financially, it’s still best to avoid accidents altogether. Here are some safety tips to keep trick-or-treaters safe while they visit your home:
- Clear Walkways – Make sure your sidewalks, stairs, and driveways are free from obstructions like garden hoses, fallen branches, or debris.
- Secure Decorations – Ensure that any Halloween decorations you set up are securely fastened and not creating tripping hazards. Watch out for low-hanging or dangling items that could obstruct vision or cause falls.
- Light It Up – Keep your property well-lit so trick-or-treaters can see where they’re going.
- Keep Pets Indoors – Even the friendliest pets can become anxious with a constant stream of visitors. To prevent accidents or scares, keep pets away from the front door.

By ensuring your property is safe and knowing your policy’s details, you can enjoy the holiday knowing that both you and your Halloween visitors are protected.

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At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most: the business you’ve built and the people you love. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

How Often Should You Review Your Insurance?

A good rule of thumb is to review your insurance at least once a year. Now is a great time to review insurance before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Benefits of Regularly Reviewing Your Insurance:

Avoid Gaps in Coverage: Life is unpredictable, and failing to review your insurance regularly could leave you underinsured. For example, if you fail to update your life insurance after having children, your family might not be adequately protected.
Potential Savings: If your risk factors have decreased—such as quitting smoking or installing security systems—you might qualify for lower premiums.
Update Beneficiaries: Life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child should always lead to an update of beneficiaries in your policies.

When is the Best Time to Review Your Insurance?

While annual reviews can occur at any point in the year, certain times might be more convenient or advantageous:

- Before the Holiday Season
  - You’re more likely to forget during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
- Tax Season
  - As you gather your financial information for tax preparation, it’s a natural time to take stock of your overall financial health, including your insurance policies.
- During Major Life Changes
  - As mentioned earlier, any major life event, such as marriage, buying a home, or having a child, should prompt an immediate review of your policies.

Here’s a List of Life Events or Milestones that should Prompt Immediate Review:

Change in Employment

- - If you’ve changed jobs, lost your job, or started your own business, your insurance needs might shift. Employer-provided health or life insurance may no longer apply, so it’s essential to ensure you have the coverage you need.

Marriage or Divorce

- - These significant life changes affect all aspects of your finances, including your insurance. After getting married, you may want to combine policies or increase your coverage. After a divorce, updating beneficiaries and removing your ex-spouse from policies is essential.

Home Purchase or Rental

- - Whether you buy a new home or move into a rental, you’ll need to ensure your homeowners or renters insurance aligns with your new living situation.

Having a Child

- - Expanding your family means more responsibility. Reviewing your life and health insurance policies can ensure that your loved ones are protected should anything happen to you.

Major Purchases

- Acquiring high-value assets like a new car, jewelry, or electronics should prompt a review of your auto or home insurance to ensure they’re adequately covered.

Reviewing your insurance policies isn’t something you should only do once. Whether it’s an annual review or triggered by a major life change, regularly assessing your coverage ensures you’re protected and potentially saves you money. By aligning your insurance with your current life stage and needs, you guarantee peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.

The History of Our Agency

Do you know how Raymond Nelson Insurance Agency first got our start? Read about the history of our agency in our latest blog.

1971 – Door-to-Door Insurance

In 1971, Mr. Raymond Nelson was living in Hopkinsville, KY, selling life insurance door-to-door. His dedication and commitment to helping people protect their futures saw him build strong relationships within the community over the next decade.

However, after ten years of hard work in this demanding role, Raymond sought a more effective and impactful way to assist his clients. Raymond envisioned a brick and mortar business where personal relationships and reliability formed the foundation of every interaction, marking a significant shift from the traditional door-to-door sales approach he had known.

1981 – Brick & Mortar Building

This aspiration led to the founding of Raymond Nelson Insurance, Inc. in 1981. Driven by a passion for providing exceptional service, he established the agency with the core principle of always going above and beyond for clients. His dedication to this mission set a new standard in the insurance industry, while ensuring that Raymond Nelson Insurance would be a trusted partner for clients in their times of need.

Today – Licensed in 22 States

Initially focused on the trucking and transportation industry, we have since expanded both our regional footprint and our insurance offerings. From our beginnings in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, we now operate as a full-service agency licensed in over 22 states. We are proud to provide comprehensive coverage across the United States and Canada as well. Whether for personal or commercial insurance needs, we are always committed to securing the best protection for your business and loved ones.

Today we offer a comprehensive range of insurance solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of their clients. Our personal lines agents manage policies that cover home, auto, and other personal assets, ensuring individuals and families are well-protected. For businesses, our commercial agents provide tailored coverage options for various industries, safeguarding companies against potential risks. Our transportation agents offer policies that cater to the unique requirements of the logistics and transportation sectors.

Additionally, we are proud to continue our founder’s legacy by providing life insurance policies, helping clients secure their loved ones’ financial future.

Over 100 Years of Combined Experience

With over 100 years of combined experience, our agents specialize in safeguarding businesses, homes, and families too. We offer a wide range of coverage options, leveraging our expertise to provide insurance solutions that are both affordable and thorough.

Personalized, compassionate service is our hallmark. We prioritize our clients’ needs above all, taking the time to understand and serve their best interests. We ensure they receive the coverage they truly need.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most: the business you’ve built and the people you love. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests as well. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover My Yard?

Homeowners insurance typically covers the structure of your home, personal belongings, and liability, but is there insurance for your yard? Your policy may have limited coverage for landscaping. Basic policies usually cover landscaping only to a certain extent and it may be conditional to covered perils.

What does homeowners insurance cover?

Yard

Your yard may be covered depending on the type of damage that occurs. If the damage results from a peril such as fire, lightning, or theft, it will typically be covered.
Coverage may include damage caused by a vehicle that isn’t owned by a resident of the house.
- Keep in mind that coverage may only help with the removal, not the replacement of the damaged landscaping.

Fallen trees

If a tree falls on your property due to a storm or strong winds and damages an insured structure, the removal costs will likely be covered.
- However, if your tree falling was a result of the homeowner’s negligence or a maintenance-related issue, the removal costs likely won’t be covered.

Trees, Plants, and Shrubs

Trees, plants, and shrubs are typically covered by homeowners insurance. For other landscaping features, damages may be covered if they’re due to perils such as fire, explosions, lightning, theft, and vehicles.

If you have expensive landscaping or want more comprehensive coverage, then you may need to purchase additional coverage or a rider to your policy.

If you have any additional questions about insurance for your yard, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help ensure you have the information and protection you need throughout your remodeling journey.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most to you. We always take the time to get to know each client and also serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Why & When You Should Review Your Coverage

It is critical to review your insurance coverage regularly to help ensure that your property, your possessions, and your loved ones are well protected.

Here are a few reasons why and how often you should review your insurance coverage:

Life Changes:

Significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, purchasing a home, changing jobs, or retirement can impact your insurance needs.
- It’s crucial to review your coverage whenever these life changes occur to make necessary adjustments.

Policy Changes:

Insurance companies periodically update their policies, terms, and rates.
- Reviewing your coverage allows you to stay informed about any changes that may affect your coverage or premiums.

Coverage Gaps:

Over time, your insurance needs may evolve and you may find that your current coverage no longer adequately protects you against potential risks.
- Regular reviews help identify any coverage gaps and ensure you have the appropriate level of protection.

New Risks:

With advancements in technology and changes in society, new risks may emerge that you weren’t previously aware of.
- Reviewing your coverage allows you to assess whether you need additional coverage to protect against emerging risks.

As for how often you should review your insurance coverage, it’s generally recommended to do so at least once a year, However, certain life events may prompt the need for more frequent reviews. Check with your Raymond Nelson Insurance agent about when you should review yours.

By staying proactive and regularly assessing your insurance needs, you can ensure that you have the right coverage in place to protect yourself and your asset

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Protect Your Property From Frozen Pipes

During these winter months, we want to bring to your attention the increased risk of frozen pipes in residential properties. Frozen pipes can lead to significant damage and result in costly repairs, which may only be covered if preventive measures are taken.

To ensure the safety of your property and the preservation of your coverage, we recommend the following precautions:

Insulation:

Adequately insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
To learn more about insulation, click here.

Seal Gaps:

Identify and seal any gaps or cracks in walls, floors, and around windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering.

Heating:

Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, especially during extreme cold spells. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (12°C) when you are away.
Think about a programmable thermostat.

Drip Faucets:

Allow faucets to drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent freezing.

Open Cabinet Doors:

Keep cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Leave Interior Doors Open:

Allow warm air to flow freely throughout your home by keeping interior doors open.

Exterior Faucets:

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and shut off exterior faucets if possible.

Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes and potential water damage to your property. Please remember that your insurance policy may not cover damages resulting from neglecting these preventive measures.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Car Theft is on the Rise, Especially on New Year’s Eve

Multiple reasons for increased car theft include strained financial resources, social media pressures, and the rising value of vehicles and vehicle parts. Catalytic converters are particularly popular because of the precious metals they are made of—platinum, palladium, or rhodium.

Preventing car theft involves a combination of awareness, precautionary measures, and security measures. Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of car theft:

Lock Your Car

Always lock your car doors and close your windows when you leave your vehicle, even if it’s just for a short time. Thieves often look for easy opportunities.

Park in a Well-lit Area

Park your car in well-lit areas, especially at night. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in well-lit locations where their activities are more easily noticed.

Store Valuables Out of Sight

Avoid leaving valuable items in plain sight in your car. Thieves are more likely to break in if they see something of value inside.

Keep Spare Keys Secure

Don’t leave spare keys inside your car, and be cautious about who has access to your spare keys. Thieves sometimes look for spare keys in common hiding spots.

Remember that no method is foolproof, but combining these measures can significantly reduce the risk of car theft. Adapt your strategies based on your specific circumstances and location.

The Most Stolen Cars in the U.S. Is yours on the list?

Does Auto Insurance cover Car Theft?

Car theft may be covered under comprehensive coverage, which is sometimes called other-than-collision coverage. If coverage applies, then you would be responsible for paying the deductible. If you need clarification on whether your auto insurance policy covers theft, contact Raymond Nelson Insurance.

Holiday Insurance Travel

Travel insurance helps protect you when unexpected things happen before or during trips. Getting travel insurance for the holidays can be a wise decision for several reasons. While the specific coverage may vary depending on the policy and provider, here are some common reasons to consider purchasing travel insurance:

Trip Cancellation

Travel plans can be disrupted due to unexpected events such as illness, injury, or death of a family member. Travel insurance can help cover the costs if you cancel or interrupt your trip.

Medical Emergencies

Medical expenses can be high if you fall ill or get injured during your holiday, especially in a foreign country. Travel insurance often includes coverage for emergency medical expenses, including hospital stays and evacuation.

Vehicle Issues

If you have an accident or other problem with a rental car while traveling, rental car coverage helps pay certain expenses. It’s important to note that this doesn’t include liability coverage, which pays for damage to other vehicles or medical treatment of others if you’re found responsible for an accident.

Travel Assistance Services

Many travel insurance policies offer 24/7 assistance services, providing support in emergencies, helping you find medical facilities, or assisting with travel arrangements.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that you have financial protection in unforeseen circumstances can give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your holiday without worrying about potential risks.
How much does it cost? This insurance typically costs 5-6% of your trip expenses. For a $5,000 trip, this averages around $228, with rates ranging from $154 for basic coverage to $437 for comprehensive protection. Learn more about the average cost of travel insurance.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile. We find the coverage that best protects what matters most – the business you’ve built and the people you love. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Don’t Become a House Fire Statistic!

Local US fire departments respond to over 1.3 million fires every year and cause over $16 Billion in damages. Everyone should be aware of several common house fire hazards and take precautions to prevent them.

Electrical Issues:

Overloaded electrical outlets or power strips.
Frayed or damaged electrical cords and wires.
Faulty wiring or outdated electrical systems.

Cooking:

Unattended cooking appliances.
Grease buildup on cooking surfaces or in the oven.
Flammable items left too close to heating sources.

Heating:

Portable heaters placed too close to flammable materials.
Malfunctioning or poorly maintained furnaces, boilers, or space heaters.
Blocked or dirty chimneys and vents.

Candles:

Leaving candles unattended.
Placing candles near flammable materials.
People may fall asleep using candles in bedrooms or other areas.

Faulty smoke alarms:

Failing to install or maintain smoke detectors.
Not testing smoke alarms regularly.
Check HERE for how often to check your smoke alarms.

Lint in dryer vents:

Failure to clean dryer vents regularly can lead to lint buildup and potential house fires.
Click HERE for data on home fires caused by clothes dryers and washing machines.

Keep Children and Pets Safe:

Children playing with matches or lighters.
Pets knocking over candles or other heat sources.

Practice fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors, having fire extinguishers on hand, practicing a fire escape plan, and being vigilant about potential fire hazards.

Check with your insurance company to ensure you have enough fire coverage for your home. Hopefully you will never experience a house fire, but Raymond Nelson Insurance wants you to be prepared for any potential hazards.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most, the business you’ve built and the people you love. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Back To School Safety Tips

We want to remind you to be extra cautious when driving near schools. Here are a few school safety tips to ensure the safety of our kids:

1. Slow down and remain alert

There’s going to be a lot more kids on the sidewalks and streets when school starts, so take it slow and always be aware of your surroundings.
Leave yourself extra time to make it to your destination.
Be especially careful in school parking lots and loading zones.

2. Obey posted speed limits

3. Remember to follow school-bus rules

Do not pass the bus on either side of the road when red lights are flashing.
Even after lights stop, make sure the coast is clear before moving on.
Kids move quickly and erratically.
2 or 3 Lane Road: Remember, when you encounter a school bus with its stop arm out and red lights flashing, it is crucial to come to a complete stop, regardless of your lane or direction on a two to three-lane road, including the turning lane.
4+ Lane Road: If you find yourself on a highway or road with a median or more than four lanes, you are not required to stop for a bus traveling in the opposite direction.

4. Avoid using your cell phone while driving

It’s not only illegal to drive while using your cell phone, it can distract you.
When stopping at a crosswalk, give kids a visual signal you’ve seen them: smile, wave, or give a thumbs-up!

Parents – Teach kids to be safe while walking:

Always use marked crosswalks and look both ways.
Try to make contact with drivers to make sure they see you.
Never move into the street from behind a car or other obstacle.
If there is not sidewalk or path, walk facing traffic and as far to the left as possible.
Never let young children cross the street alone.

Safety is our top priority, so let’s all stay informed and ensure the safety of our students and community during this school season.