Top Things To Do Before Summer Ends

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It’s hard to believe that the summer of 2018 is coming to an end.

Now that we are in the rainy season (September is the ‘wettest’ month of the year of us here in Naples, Florida) we’ve created a summer ‘bucket’ list of sorts. This will help narrow down those final experiences you want during these last days of summer!

 

  • Spend the day on the beach.
    • From Wiggins Pass in Naples to Loudermilk Park we have some of the best beaches in Florida. Don’t forget Lover’s Key State park in Bonita Springs.
  • Have a BBQ at your house.
    • With the rainy season upon us in Naples, this may have to be spontaneous event or done between storms. Consider a BBQ lunch to avoid the late afternoon rains.
  • Go to the Naples Zoo.
    • Its close by, affordable and always interesting. Go early and be mindful of the intense sun. Bring hats, sunglasses and sun blocker. Oh, and don’t forget your umbrellas.
  • Visit your favorite restaurants in Naples.
    • The snow birds are coming the snow birds are coming! This month is your last opportunity to hit up your favorite local restaurants before they are swarmed with northerners escaping the ice and snow.

 

Before you know it, the colder weather will be here and so will the northern ‘snow birds’. If you have some ideas you want to include in our list, feel free to comment below!

Not Worth the Risk!

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The purpose of this article is to help you take pause and preemptively take note to never risk leaving your children or pets unattended in a motor vehicle.

We are all very busy and sometimes we multi-task to get more done. We urge you to skip multi-tasking when the safety of your children or pets is involved. Leaving your children or pets in your car while running in to grab something from a store may be a time-saver, but is it worth the risk of their lives? Haven’t you ever had something which should have take only 1 minute to complete take more than 10 to 15 minutes or longer? You say, “but the car is on and the Air Conditioner is on full blast!” What if it fails? Are you really willing to risk the lives of your children and pets on this “assumption”?

Death from heat isn’t the only threat that faces your children and pets. The news is full of stories of child and pet abductions which are all too horrific to imagine let alone read about on a constant basis. Again, is saving a few minutes really worth the risk, the gamble, you are taking? Are you willing to let those few saved minutes be the biggest regret of your life?

The simple take-away, Never leave your children or pets unattended in your car – EVER!

 

Be Prepared for Severe Weather Events

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Severe weather can occur anywhere. If your area is effected you may not have access to food, water or electricity for days or even weeks. Recall hurricane Irma which left many places here in Naples, Florida without electricity for weeks. True, some “pockets” of electricity existed but unless you had welcoming friends or family members in those areas you were not privileged to benefit from the luxury that electricity can provide.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of adults in the U.S. do not have the resources or plans in place for any emergency. That means if you have friends or family members that live near you chances are they may come knocking at your door for help. Would you be prepared to either turn them away or provide them with aid? There is no such thing as being “too prepared,” and it’s better to start preparing now than later when the store shelves are empty!

 

Here are some tips for preparing for severe weather.

  • Staying hydrated. It is recommended to have enough water to supply one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
  • Prescription medicines. Not a cheap preparation, but talk to your doctor to schedule to have at least a three-day supply on hand.
  • Personal hygiene. Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste and toilet paper. You’ll want to avoid getting sick during this time. Don’t skip on hygiene.
  • Get a first-aid kit and most importantly know how to use everything inside or have someone around who does.
  • Electronics. Be sure to have battery-powered or solar flashlights handy. A cell phone with a portable charger will come in handy as well.
  • Important papers. Copies of drivers’ licenses, special medical information, social security cards, etc. Keep them in a waterproof, air tight bag.
  • Cash. Without power, stores may not be able to process credit cards and ATMs may either be non-operational or out of cash. Keep an amount that you would feel comfortable with in small bills stored somewhere in your home.
  • Basic hand tools. A wrench, screw driver or set of pliers can be handy for repairs and more.
  • Pet food. Your furry friends will also need a 3-day supply of food and water.

 

We don’t sell food insurance at American Accord, but we do offer insurance products which will help protect you from financial loss.

Talk to one of our insurance representatives today to discuss your level of insurance to make sure you are adequately covered. We will shop around for the best rates for your needs.

 

Protect your Condo from Burglary

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We can only imagine a few things worse than coming home to the discovery of a break-in and burglary at your residence. The subsequent questions that run through your mind and the realization that you life just needs to be put on ‘pause‘ is overwhelming to say the least.

This article isn’t meant to scare you into fortifying your Naples condo, rather just to let you know of a few safety and security tips that you can implement to help not become a statistic. In fact, we have good news. According to FBI statistics, Burglary and Property crime have been on the decline between 2013 and 2016 (the periods we currently have statistics for).

We have no evidence of this, but we believe that this reduction in burglary is due, in part, to the increasing number of affordable security and home automation products available in today’s marketplace. For instance, you’ve probably read or recall news articles describing how a door bell helped nab a suspected package thief (in case you haven’t, here is a recent article about a case in Orlando, Florida). Door bell camera’s come in all shapes and sizes and the features that they provide as well as the ease of installation make the highly attractive. A quick Google search brought up a few available from our local Naples Costco.

Our first tip, look into getting a Door Bell security camera installed. If you think like a burglar, this sends them a message; “this home has a security device as their door bell which means they probably have many other security devices within and that I should find and easier target.”

Our second tip, install a Condo-friendly security system. There are security systems made specifically for Condos and apartments! These wireless security cameras and motion detectors do not require drilling holes, so you’ll be able to get your security deposit back. Like most security systems, you can control them on your smart phone or computer to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior when you are not home.

Other, non-tech based ways of protecting your Naples condo include getting to know ‘who’ your neighbors are and what they look like. This way you’ll be able to identify someone who shouldn’t be near your property or that of your neighbors. If your neighbor gets robbed, the thief suspecting easy targets, will return and you may be next. Let your neighbors know you’ll be watching out for them and they, in turn, may help you.

And last but not least, get renter’s insurance from American Accord for your Naples Condo or Apartment. If you do have the misfortune of experiencing a burglary, a renter’s insurance policy may help cover the cost of replacing your stolen possessions.

We hope we’ve inspired you to implement at least one of the tips we mentioned to help protect your Condo in Naples from a break-in. Our next article will be about security tips to help keep your Naples home safe from break-ins.

Let us know if we can help you answer any insurance related questions you may have.

Before Signing a Lease, ask these Questions

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Finally settling into your new lease, whether it is an apartment, condo or home, can bring so much joy. However, don’t let this enthusiasm get the best of you. Before signing your lease, make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into.

Here are a few important questions to ask your landlord or leasing office before signing your lease agreement.

  • How long is the lease term and what is the termination procedure for either party?
  • What, if any, utilities are included in the monthly payment?
  • Are pets allowed? Remember, you may want a pet in the future.
  • What is the parking arrangement?
  • When is the rent due and how is rent payment to be submitted?
  • Is the security deposit refundable and in what ways can I personalize the property?
  • In what ways can I personalize the property?
  • Last, but not least, what insurance coverage if any is provided?

Talk to your American Accord Insurance Agent today to learn more about what renters insurance has to offer. Stop by any of our convenient insurance office locations in Naples, Florida or give us a call at 800.464.8586. You may also send us an email anytime.

 

Buying a used car? Here are some tips.

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So you are in the market for a “new”, yet used car. Well, we at American Accord want to help protect you from a potentially costly mistake. We have compiled a brief list of tips to take into account before agreeing and handing over your hard earned money.

  1. The first tip when buying a used car is to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your choices making you less susceptible to promotions and “deals”. This will also help you calculate your monthly payments, if financing. If you do plan on financing, consider getting a loan from your local bank. You may find that they may have lower interest rates when compared to the car dealership or manufacturer.
  2. Ask the right questions. When you meet with the owner, inquire about the car’s ownership history, maintenance and the current condition of the car. You may be surprised, but humans lie. We know you knew that but hopefully that sarcastic sentence will help remind you to double check someone’s claim. The owner may be gifted with a silver tongue turning a lemon of a car into lemon-aid. Write down the VIN number (usually located on the driver’s side door or dash) and you can get a report online for a small fee.
  3. Whether you are purchasing from a dealer or private owner, ALWAYS take the car for a test drive! During the drive, listen closely for any noises of potential trouble. It is a good idea to drive on hills (we know it is hard to do in Naples), highways and in stop-and-go traffic. You’ll get a better feel for how it drives and decide if you feel comfortable driving it.
  4. After negotiating a price, it’s time to close the deal. Before you negotiate (see tip 5 below), make sure the car is priced fairly. You can find out what it is worth on a vehicle valuation website such as Kelly Blue Book. After a price is set, you should never pay a private seller with cash. If something goes wrong and there’s no paper trail, it may be tough to get your money back. Along with the car, the previous owner should provide the title, a dated receipt for the sale signed by you and the seller and a spare key if available. Also make sure to research the rules in your state regarding how the seller should transfer the title for the vehicle to you.
  5. Call your American Accord insurance agent prior to committing to purchase and or taking possession of the car. What if making this purchase increases your insurance rate blowing your budget out of proportion? Don’t get caught off guard, know how much this new/used car will actually cost you each month. Once this suggestion is met, then it is time to inquire about the process to insure the new car.

From everyone here at American Accord – good luck and happy shopping!

Looking for a New Motorcycle? Don’t forget about Insurance Coverage!

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Since you’re in the market for a new bike, here are a few tips to help you when making a decision on your new ride.

The first and most important question to ask yourself is to get you grounded in reality thus from making an expensive mistake. What type of riding are you looking to do? A sport bike may get you excited, but there is a good chance you’ll never need that kind of power commuting to and from work.

Get the Bike’s Service History

The seller may not have that, but request it just in case. This will help you understand what kind of service has been recently done on the bike and what yet may need to be done. Also ask for an owner’s manual and factory toolkit if available. Alternatively request one directly from the manufacture or locate one online. The Devil is in the details.

Prepare your Documents

You can’t legally ride a motorcycle without a bike license. Take the motorcycle safety course in your area if you’ve never owned a motorcycle and purchase a DOT-approved helmet before your first ride.

Test Drive

Pick a day with dry roads to test the bike. Don’t forget your bike license and helmet! If at a dealership, be prepared to sign an insurance waiver; if private, be ready to leave your license with the seller as security. Start slowly on the bike to get used to how it feels and responds.

Insure the bike with American Accord Insurance

If you buy a bike, don’t ride naked! Protect your ‘tail-pipe’ with reputable insurance from American Accord. Call or visit one of our local agencies near you to learn more!

Proposed Changes to Florida’s Auto Insurance Requirements

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Recently the Florida House voted 88 – 15 to repeal Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) system.

Under House Bill (HB19) drivers would be required to purchase bodily-injury liability coverage at $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.

The Senate proposal (SB 150) would replace the PIP system in 2019 requiring all drivers to carry bodily injury coverage of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident as well as mandatory medical payment coverage (MedPay), of $5,000. Coverage would increase to $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident after three years.

What does this mean for you? A likely increase in your premium depending upon on the area in which you live. Give us a call or schedule a meeting with one of our insurance agents to review your current auto insurance policy.

Do you have adequate coverage for the new year ahead?

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With each passing year, life brings changes. For your financial protection it is important to have an insurance policy that reflects your lifestyle and needs. Insurance policies should be reviewed annually to guarantee you and your family has suitable coverage. Pop by our offices to say hello and let us know what is new in your life. A review with one of our insurance agents may help you determine if you are overpaying for insurance, having coverage you do not need, or are under-insured risking your savings in the event of a disaster.

Talk to your American Accord Insurance agent to see if you are a member of an affiliation that may qualify you for a discount on your insurance policy. These can be through a university, firefighting or as a member of AARP.

 

From our family to yours,

we wish you a happy, safe and prosperous 2018!

 

Helpful Holiday Insurance Tips

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American Accord would like to wish you and yours a very happy and safe holiday season. To help with the latter, we’ve compiled a few helpful holiday decorating safety tips for you.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Christmas trees are responsible for an estimated $16.2 million in direct property damage annually.  A 2015 study by the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), found more than 86% of Americans decorate their homes during the winter holidays. They estimate that over 1,000 fires are attributed to Christmas trees and holiday decorations every year.

Holiday Insurance Tip #1: Christmas Trees & Lights

  1. When purchasing an artificial tree look for the “fire resistant” label. While fire risks are lowered with an artificial tree, chemicals and dust on the tree can still pose a fire hazard.
  2. When purchasing a live tree, pick one with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
    1. Before placing the tree in a stand, cut off 2 inches from the base of the trunk for better water absorption.
    2. Be sure to add water daily and keep your tree hydrated.
    3. Keep your Christmas tree a minimum of 3 feet from any heat or spark source.
  3. Inspect your lights and discard any that are damaged or frayed and worn out.
  4. Turn off lights and decorations when you are going to bed or leaving the house for an extended length of time. Using a timer helps.
  5. Make sure cords are not pinched in doors, windows or under heavy furniture, which could damage the cord’s insulation.
  6. Secure inflatable décor properly.
  7. Use lights approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL). You will find a holographic sticker marked “UL” on the tag.
    1. RED UL stickers indicate indoor/outdoor use.
    2. GREEN UL stickers indicate indoor use only.
  8. Avoid hammering tacks or nails into the electrical cord when hanging lights, use clips instead to safely attach lights to the house.
  9. Don’t overload extension cords by using no more than three sets of standard lights per cord.
  10. Plug outdoor lights and décor into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) to prevent shock.
  11. Do not use inflatable decorations on windy days. You may damage the inflatable, motor and more.
  12. Periodically check lights and decorations during the holiday season to make sure they are functioning properly and safely.

Holiday Insurance Tip #2: Fall Prevention

Using ladders, stools and other furniture to hang lights, ornaments and other decorations increase their risk of injuries and falls, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

  • If using a ladder;
    • make sure it is secure and level
    • make sure it extends at least three feet over the roof line or work area.
  • Try using a step stool instead of furniture when hanging decorations.
  • Place cords in non-trafficked areas to prevent tripping.