Author Archives: AgentInsure

Does My Home Insurance Policy Cover Pet Damage?

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If you share your home with a dog, cat, or any furry companion, it’s only natural to wonder how much your insurance has your back when things get a little chaotic. Pets bring joy—but also the occasional scratched wall, chewed furniture, or even an unfortunate bite incident. So what exactly does your Arizona home insurance policy cover when it comes to pet-related damage?

Damage to Your Own Property Usually Isn’t Covered

Most standard homeowners insurance policies exclude coverage for damage your pet causes to your own belongings. That means if your dog rips up the carpet or your cat topples and breaks a pricey lamp, those repairs or replacements typically come out of pocket. Home insurance with your insurance agent at Insurance Center of Green Valley, serving Green Valley AZ, is designed to protect against sudden, accidental events—not gradual wear or predictable incidents caused by pets.

Liability Coverage Might Apply If Others Are Affected

Where your policy does step in is with liability coverage. If your dog bites a guest or damages someone else’s property while visiting your home, your personal liability portion of the policy may help cover medical bills, legal fees, or repair costs. Keep in mind that some breeds are excluded by certain insurers, so it’s worth confirming those details in advance.

What You Can Do

If you’re worried about potential pet damage, consider talking with your insurance agent about policy options or endorsements that offer extra protection. You can also reduce risk by creating pet-safe areas and keeping high-value items out of reach.

In Arizona, pets are part of the family—but insurance companies see them a little differently. Knowing what’s covered and what isn’t can help you avoid surprises and protect both your home and your peace of mind. Contact your helpful home insurance agent at Insurance Center of Green Valley, serving Green Valley AZ, today.

Non-Drivable Vehicles

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When you drive a car in Arizona, you are required by law to have auto insurance. Many drivers have questions about their auto insurance policies. If you live in the Green Valley, AZ area, our team at Insurance Center of Green Valley invites you to visit our office to discuss your questions. We’ve been serving clients in your area since 1989.

What to Do with Non-Drivable Vehicles

If you own a temporarily non-drivable vehicle, you can remove it from your auto insurance policy for an extended period. This also applies to vehicles placed in storage, according to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division. To remove a car from your insurance policy, you must notify the Arizona DMV.

You can notify the DMV by visiting the Arizona DMV website and logging into your account. Once the vehicle becomes operational again or is removed from storage, you must reinstate your insurance for that vehicle. After paying the premium, your insurance company will notify the DMV, allowing you to resume driving with valid insurance. Please note that your insurance coverage will not be considered active until your insurance company confirms the reinstatement with the DMV.

Contact Us Today for Assistance

Don’t risk driving without auto insurance. Our team at Insurance Center of Green Valley offers a wide range of auto insurance options to fit your budget and coverage needs. Drivers in the Green Valley, AZ area trust us for professional insurance advice and exceptional service. Call us today to schedule an appointment, and let us help you find the right auto insurance solution.

Does Commercial Insurance Cover Workplace Injuries?

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Commercial insurance is often considered an optional business expense, but most business owners deem it essential protection. Insurance can safeguard your company in the event of a natural disaster that destroys your inventory or an expensive lawsuit. But does commercial insurance cover workplace injuries in Green Valley, AZ?

Understanding Commercial Insurance

Commercial insurance is typically not mandated by law. Business owners who opt for a commercial insurance policy usually have a range of options, similar to choosing an auto insurance policy.

General Liability Insurance

General liability insurance can shield businesses from claims made against them for injuries. This applies to individuals outside the business, such as customers. It usually doesn’t provide coverage if the claimant is an employee. General liability can also protect you from property damage. An agent at the Insurance Center of Green Valley can help you understand what your policy covers.

Property Insurance

Property insurance protects your building and potentially vehicles or machinery you use from damage. It typically covers damage from fire, theft, vandalism, and minor weather damage. Most policies specify what weather damage is included. Business owners can usually purchase additional coverage for natural disasters, like floods, hurricanes, wildfires, etc.

Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance can provide protection if your other insurance reaches its limit but doesn’t cover expenses. It may step in to cover the cost of a legal team if you have to go to court. It can also cover settlement amounts if your existing coverage is insufficient.

Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation in Green Valley, AZ, is not covered by other types of insurance. Many policies, such as general liability and umbrella insurance, specifically exclude employee workplace injuries. Most states legally require businesses to carry this type of insurance to protect employees.

Workers’ compensation is considered commercial insurance because many businesses carry it. However, it is separate from things like liability and property insurance. Speak with an agent at the Insurance Center of Green Valley to ensure you meet legal requirements.

Does my insurance cover single-vehicle accidents?

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Single-vehicle accidents account for nearly half of all motor vehicle fatalities nationwide. While most single-vehicle accidents are not severe, they are quite common. Given their frequency, Arizona drivers must understand how insurance companies handle single-vehicle accidents and what steps to take if they are involved in one. If you have auto insurance requirements and reside in or near Green Valley, AZ, reach out to the Insurance Center of Green Valley to secure the coverage that fits your needs.

Assigning Fault in Single-Vehicle Accidents

Arizona employs the at-fault method to determine responsibility for both single- and multi-vehicle accidents. Drivers involved in single-vehicle accidents are not always deemed at fault. Depending on the circumstances, the driver may be found not at fault (0%), partially at fault (1-99%), or entirely at fault (100%).

Apart from the driver, several other factors can contribute to a single-vehicle accident, including:

  • Obstacles or animals on the road
  • Poor road conditions, such as potholes
  • Adverse weather conditions like rain, fog, ice, snow, and wind
  • Obstructed or hidden street signs
  • Other vehicles negligently entering your lane or path, causing you to swerve or lose control
  • Vehicle issues due to errors by service technicians or vehicle manufacturers

Typically, each at-fault party is assigned a percentage of responsibility for the accident. As Arizona operates under the pure comparative negligence system, each at-fault party pays for the liabilities in proportion to their percentage of liability.

If you are involved in a single-vehicle accident, it’s important to obtain a police report and safely capture pictures or videos that document the factors leading to the accident.

The Insurance Center of Green Valley Advantage for Arizona

If you reside in or near Green Valley, AZ, our team at the Insurance Center of Green Valley will assist you in obtaining the auto insurance you need. Call us at (520) 648-1150 to schedule an appointment.

Understanding Vehicle Fires and Insurance Coverage

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Vehicle fires seem to be more common than in the past. Sometimes, the cause is the car’s design, but poor maintenance can also become a fire hazard. Your auto insurance covers vehicle fires that may occur. At Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ, we help vehicle owners acquire the insurance coverage they need to avoid expensive losses.

Common Causes of Vehicle Fires

Mechanical or electrical failures cause most vehicle fires. Fuel leaks and frayed wires are often at fault. Electric batteries and overheating catalytic converters can cause fires. Spilled fluids in the engine can sometimes ignite. A vehicle crash can start a fire. In some cases, a design flaw in the vehicle itself can lead to a fire.

Steps You Should Take When A Vehicle Fire Occurs

If your vehicle suddenly ignites, you should get out of traffic as quickly and safely as possible. Turn off the engine, and get everyone out of the vehicle. Move everyone at least 100 feet away from the vehicle. Call 9-1-1. If you suspect the fire is in the trunk or under the hood, do not open it. Do not try to fight the fire yourself. Contact your insurance agent to file a claim when the fire is under control.

Choose Insurance Center of Green Valley for Your Auto Coverage

If you have questions about your car or truck coverage, our agents can provide detailed information to help you make the best decisions for your needs. We offer many insurance products for our clients, including home, auto, and business insurance. Contact Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ, for a no-obligation quote on vehicle coverage that can help defray costs when a fire occurs.

Protect Your Company and Help Your Business with the Right Commercial Insurance Solutions

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Understanding Vehicle Fires and Insurance Coverage

Vehicle fires seem to be more common than in the past. Sometimes, the cause is the car’s design, but poor maintenance can also become a fire hazard. Your auto insurance covers vehicle fires that may occur. At Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ, we help vehicle owners acquire the insurance coverage they need to avoid expensive losses.

Common Causes of Vehicle Fires

Mechanical or electrical failures cause most vehicle fires. Fuel leaks and frayed wires are often at fault. Electric batteries and overheating catalytic converters can cause fires. Spilled fluids in the engine can sometimes ignite. A vehicle crash can start a fire. In some cases, a design flaw in the vehicle itself can lead to a fire.

Steps You Should Take When A Vehicle Fire Occurs

If your vehicle suddenly ignites, you should get out of traffic as quickly and safely as possible. Turn off the engine, and get everyone out of the vehicle. Move everyone at least 100 feet away from the vehicle. Call 9-1-1. If you suspect the fire is in the trunk or under the hood, do not open it. Do not try to fight the fire yourself. Contact your insurance agent to file a claim when the fire is under control.

Choose Insurance Center of Green Valley for Your Auto Coverage

If you have questions about your car or truck coverage, our agents can provide detailed information to help you make the best decisions for your needs. We offer many insurance products for our clients, including home, auto, and business insurance. Contact Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ, for a no-obligation quote on vehicle coverage that can help defray costs when a fire occurs.

When I’m Injured in an Auto Accident, Who Pays My Medical Expenses?

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In Arizona, when you have been injured in a car accident, the responsibility for your medical bills falls on the at-fault party in the accident. The police will investigate the accident, take photographs, interview witnesses or anyone involved, and prepare a report on what happened and who caused the wreck. From there, insurance companies use the information in the report to determine how to proceed with an insurance claim. At the Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ, we are dedicated to helping you through the process and submitting the documents needed to resolve your situation as quickly as possible.

If you’re injured, you can file a claim against the at-fault party to ask for compensation for your medical bills and lost wages (if you had to miss work due to injuries). Then, their liability coverage will compensate you for your injuries. You may receive reduced compensation if you share the blame for the accident (partially at fault).

If the at-fault party doesn’t have auto insurance, your uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage will help you pay for your medical expenses after the accident. Med pay is an optional coverage you can add to your auto policy to cover you and your passengers when you’re injured in an auto accident. It is limited to hospital bills. However, whether you’re driving or a pedestrian, it will also kick in.

Steps to Take After an Auto Accident

After an auto accident, seek immediate medical attention. Get checked out by a medical professional for any injuries, even if they are minor.

Additionally, after an accident, you should report the accident to insurance, including the other driver’s information. Then, gather as much information as possible to have as evidence. You can take pictures of the scene, damage to the vehicles involved, and pictures of your injuries.

We’re Here to Assist

At the Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ, we are here to answer any questions you may have about auto insurance. Whether you are new to insurance or have had an auto policy for years, we are dedicated to providing you with the necessary protection when traveling on the roadways. Call us today at (520) 648-1150.

Do I Need a Separate Policy For My Second Vacation Home?

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If you’re fortunate enough to own a second vacation home, you might wonder if you need a separate policy or if you can add it to your existing homeowner’s insurance policy. This is one of the most frequently asked questions at the Insurance Center of Green Valley, serving Green Valley, AZ. We’re here to clarify this important issue so an unpleasant result doesn’t catch you off guard if you ever need to make a claim on your vacation home.

The Necessity of a Separate Policy

Did you know? Home insurance policies are tailored to specific properties based on risk factors such as location, occupancy, and maintenance. Vacation homes often face higher risks due to:

  • Extended Vacancies – Homes left unoccupied for long periods are more vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and unnoticed damage.
  • Location-Based Risks – Waterfront properties may face higher flood risks, while mountain cabins may have increased wildfire exposure.
  • Different Usage Patterns – If a second home is rented out to guests, it may require landlord or short-term rental insurance instead of standard homeowners coverage.

Coverage Options for a Vacation Home

Don’t be daunted by the prospect of a second policy. A separate policy for a second home typically includes:

  • Dwelling and Property Protection – Covers the structure and belongings inside.
  • Liability Coverage – Protects against injuries or property damage occurring on the property.
  • Additional Coverage for Specific Risks – Depending on location, flood, hurricane, or wildfire insurance may be necessary.

Consult with your insurance representative at the Insurance Center of Green Valley, serving Green Valley, AZ, for assistance. A second home requires its own insurance policy, as primary homeowners insurance does not fully cover vacation properties. Since risks vary based on location and usage, working with an insurance provider can help determine the right coverage to protect against potential losses.

The Role of Smart Home Technology in Home Insurance

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How we protect our homes is evolving, and smart home technology plays a significant role in that transformation. At the Insurance Center of Green Valley, which provides coverage in Green Valley, AZ, we’ve seen how home security advancements can provide peace of mind and impact home insurance. But how exactly do these devices influence coverage, and can they help reduce insurance costs? Let’s explore.

Enhancing Home Security with Smart Technology

Smart home devices, such as security cameras, motion sensors, and smart locks, give homeowners greater control over their property’s safety. These technologies allow real-time monitoring, alerting homeowners to potential threats before they escalate into costly damages or theft. Smoke detectors and water leak sensors can also prevent disasters by detecting issues early, potentially saving thousands in repair costs.

Insurance providers take these proactive measures into account. A home equipped with innovative security features is considered lower risk, which could lead to potential discounts on your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Preventing Claims and Lowering Premiums

One of the biggest advantages of smart technology is its ability to prevent insurance claims. Homes with security cameras and alarm systems are less likely to experience break-ins, while smart thermostats and fire alarms help reduce the risk of fire damage. Fewer claims often translate to lower premiums over time.

Protect Your Home and Your Investment

Investing in smart home technology cannot only make your home safer but also more affordable to insure. If you’re curious about how these devices could impact your policy, the Insurance Center of Green Valley, serving the area in and around Green Valley, AZ, is here to help. Contact us today to explore your options and find the best coverage for your home.

Should My Small Business Have Commercial Insurance and Commercial Vehicle Insurance?

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Small business owners often rely on commercial insurance to cover their contractual and legal obligations and other risks. While most business owners acquire the appropriate commercial insurance policies for their business, some take unnecessary risks by relying on their personal auto insurance policy to cover business vehicle use. This can be a mistake that could potentially threaten your business and personal assets. Contact the Insurance Center of Green Valley, serving Green Valley, AZ, to ensure you have the commercial coverage for your needs.

Commercial and Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Small businesses vary by industry, the number of employees (if any), and motor vehicle use. While many think commercial vehicle insurance is for companies with delivery vans, work trucks, or similar "business" vehicles, more businesses need commercial vehicle insurance than those. As a small business owner, you should have commercial vehicle insurance if you:

  • Have vehicles owned or leased by the business
  • Transport work products, tools, or other goods in a vehicle or use one to make deliveries
  • Drive clients or employees to lunch or other activities paid for by the business.

Each of the above is a business activity not covered by your personal auto policy. Business owners sometimes make business-related claims against individual policies that their insurance company unknowingly covers. However, if an investigation reveals the accident was business-related, the insurer will rightfully reject the claim. Therefore, it is best to protect yourself and your business by discussing your commercial vehicle use with your agent.

Working with the Insurance Center of Green Valley

The Insurance Center of Green Valley serves the individual and business communities in and around Green Valley, AZ. Call (520) 468-1150 today to discuss your insurance options and obtain the policies that suit your needs.