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Winterizing your vehicle: Where to start

Going outside during the winter months can be a production. You may need gloves, a hat, a heavy coat, boots and maybe more depending on the weather. Your car, the vehicle you rely on to get you to and from home and work, needs some winter prep as well. While you can’t put a coat on your car, you can do some simple winterizing to help ensure that your vehicle will run smoothly and help keep you safe in the cold and inclement weather.

Winterizing your vehicle in Washington:

  • The Basics: There are a few things that your car should have during the winter: an emergency kit that contains: bottled water, energy bars or other non-perishable food, first aid supplies, gloves, a blanket, road flares, a “Help” sign and a flashlight are just a few things that make up a great emergency kit. Should your vehicle stop working and you are stranded, this kit could keep you safe and comfortable.
  • Sight and Traction: It is crucial to be able to see where you are going at all times while on the road. If your line of sight is blocked due to rain, snow or debris, you could be in danger of an accident. Before the weather turns poor, replace your windshield wipers and check to make sure that your defroster is in working order. Snow tires and chains are an option for areas that see snowfall. Plan ahead and make an appointment early to get your snow tires on (once snow tire use is permitted by law) because once the first snow falls, tire centers tend to get much busier.
  • Under the hood: Before your car is truly ready for winter, there are a few more things you should consider. When was the last time you changed your battery? Typically, batteries have a three to five year lifespan, however the winter months can be quite hard on them. The pull of defrosters and heaters may cause an older battery to fail, leaving you stranded. Replacing your battery in the fall before the weather turns is a safe bet. Check all fluids, like oil, anti-freeze/coolant. Anything that is low, should be topped off and/or changed. This is also a great time to do a visual check for leaks. Speaking of topping off, it is best practice to keep a full to mostly full gas tank during the cold months.  Due to the daily temperature fluctuations in the winter time, condensation can form on the inside of a gas tank. If that happens, water can get into the fuel lines, potentially freezing, blocking the line and causing damage.

Help keep yourself and others safe on the road this season by winterizing your vehicle. A few extra tasks could help save you from an accident, auto damage and a costly insurance claim. A change of season is also a great time to look at your insurance coverage. If you need to update or change your auto insurance policy, let the experts at Trucordia in Olympia, WA know! They can also assist you with other types of coverage like year-round motorcycle insurance and more. Visit their insurance website 24/7 for more information about the insurance products they offer.

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Fall Dangers: Be alert!

Fall is one of our favorite seasons! The leaves, the cooler, shorter days and of course, pumpkin spice everything. There are some seasonal dangers associated with fall that can be quite hazardous if one is not prepared. Knowing what these dangers are and how to anticipate them can mean the difference between a lovely, relaxing fall and having to file a potentially costly insurance claim.

Seasonal Fall Dangers in Washington:

  • The Road: A drive to see the fall colors can be relaxing and enjoyable for all. You should be aware of changing weather conditions. Fall brings rain, wind and fog. Standing water on the roadways can create a slick, ice-like surface making it difficult to control the vehicle or hydroplane. If you happen to be in an area where leaves are falling, the leaves have a similar ice-like effect on the car. Another potential danger while in the car is fog. Fog can seemingly roll in from nowhere and impede your ability to see road hazards like traffic, debris, etc. For all these dangers, the best course of action is attentive driving. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance and stay alert to changing conditions.
  • The Wind: The winds returns, sometimes with a vengeance, during the fall. The wind can blow cars around the road and debris into the road, so during an episode of high winds, be alert to debris that may be entering the roadways. Trees and tree branches can also be a hazard. Trees that are diseased or branches that are low-hanging can become dislodged and cause massive amounts of damage to homes, garages and cars. The best way to try and stave off falling trees and branches is to trim all low-hanging branches that reside over dwellings. If your neighbors have tree branches that sit over your dwellings, work with them to get the branches removed. Also, if you suspect your trees to be diseased, have them inspected and removed.
  • The Water: A gentle fall rain can be soothing, but let’s be honest the rain in the fall tends to be more torrential. Fast moving storms can overwhelm storm drains (that could already be blocked with leaves or other debris) and the oversaturated ground cannot absorb the water resulting in large amounts of standing water or a flash flood. Remember that a standard homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover outside water entering your home due to rain or flood. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, having sandbags on hand in case of a storm could be the difference between just mopping off your front porch and filing a flood insurance claim.

With a little preparation, you may be able to avoid an unpleasant situation and a costly insurance claim. The insurance experts at Trucordia in Olympia, WA can assist you with setting up policies like auto insurance, home insurance and flood insurance. If you have questions about your current insurance policies or about the potential fall dangers in the Olympia area, give your Trucordia agent a call. You can also visit their insurance website 24/7!

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Protecting your family from hidden home dangers

The home is a safe haven that is often impenetrable from the troubles and dangers of the outside world. We don’t often think about the unseen risks that could be lurking in homes, although there are a few gases that can be potentially hazardous to your health. All three of these gases are colorless and two are odorless, so you may not be aware that you could be in danger.

Hidden home dangers in Washington:

  • Radon: Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can seep into a home through cracks in the walls or foundation and through other gaps in the structure of the home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency radon “comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils…and…nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the U.S. is estimated to have elevated radon levels.” Radon can contribute to the development of lung cancer if one is exposed for long periods of time. Fortunately, testing for radon in the home is relatively easy and cheap. If it is found that you do have radon in your home, repairs can be done either by you or a contractor. Check out the EPA’s Consumer’s Guide to Radon Reduction for more information about radon testing and repair. It is important to note that if you do find radon in your home and you plan on selling it, you will need to disclose this information to the buyers and may be asked to take care of the issue prior to the close of the sale.
  • Carbon Monoxide: We have all heard about the dangers of carbon monoxide in the garage, but it can get into your house through various sources. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can make you feel dizzy, nauseated and sleepy. If exposed for too long, CO can cause suffocation. Sources that can leak CO include gas space heaters, chimneys, furnaces and gas generators. Most new homes and apartments have CO detectors installed, however if your home does not have one, they are relatively inexpensive. To help keep CO levels in your home down, make sure that all gas appliances are in proper working order. Ensure your chimney flues are open and the chimney is clear when lighting a fire and never use a generator in an enclosed space. If you suspect that you have a CO leak or CO poisoning call 911.
  • Natural Gas: You know the smell of natural gas, while colorless, smells like rotten eggs. Natural gas leaks can occur when pilot lights for stoves or furnaces go out. The can also occur when there is a leak or puncture in the line. Natural gas is a highly combustible material, so if you suspect a leak, you’ll want to leave your home and call the gas company. They will send out a technician to shut off the gas and determine the problem.

While these gas intrusions do not happen often and can be remedied quite quickly, being prepared with carbon monoxide monitors and testing for radon can help stave off a potentially hazardous situation before it starts. Ask the local insurance experts at Trucordia in Olympia, WA about any discounts for which you may be eligible. They can assist you with discounts, amending an existing policy or setting up a new policy. Visit their insurance website 24/7 to learn more about home insurance or the other insurance products they offer like auto insurance or flood insurance.

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Five great reasons to try an independent insurance agent

We live in the digital age. We can get instant results like game scores, recipes and silly videos at the touch of a button. You can also get instant quotes for auto insurance, home insurance and more from specific carriers, but what you can’t do is have someone make sure that you are getting the best insurance rates for your situation and needs. That is why having a local, independent insurance agent is a smart idea.

  • Lower rates: A local, independent insurance agent will work hard to save you money. They have the ability to quote from many different insurance carriers and are able to provide you with several carrier options. Since their business is consumer-driven, your agent will provide a level of service and care with which many large carriers cannot compete.
  • Ease of service: Your local, independent insurance agent can service your insurance policies, so if there is a problem there is only one number to call if you have questions about your policy. Your agent also lives in your area so they are able to be honest and let you know if you really need specialty coverages like flood or earthquake.
  • Adaptability: Did you get a new car, buy a house or get a boat insurance policy? Your local, independent agent can assist you with all of that. Your agent is able to quote multiple types of insurance coverage like personal umbrella or business insurance as your needs change over the years. They can also update your existing policies with ease.
  • Jargon: Your local, independent insurance agent is an expert when it comes to the insurance world. If you are confused to the meanings of Comprehensive, UMBI, PIP or any of the other coverage options, your agent will be able to explain your coverage in plain, easy-to-understand language. When you purchase any type of insurance, there are a lot of ins-and-outs to consider, your agent will be there to walk you through your coverage and make sure that you understand what may or may not be covered.
  • They have it all: It bears repeating: a local, independent insurance agent is a one-stop shop. They offer auto, home, boat, motorcycle, renters, flood insurance and the list goes on. If you are looking for a coverage that they do not offer, your local, independent insurance agent can recommend a carrier who can assist with your needs.

When looking for insurance, consider your local, independent insurance agents in Olympia, WA – Trucordia. They offer personal insurance coverages for your home, vehicle and “toys.” Give Trucordia a call today or visit the insurance website 24/7 to see the difference of working with a local, independent agent.

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Olympia Grand Opening

Olympia Insurance AgencyThank you to the many who joined us for our Olympia Grand opening! We look forward to continue serving the Olympia community with great service, competitive insurance rates and giving back to our community. Thanks for the support Olympia! Click here to view the pictures!

 

 

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College students: Updating your auto insurance

College is an exciting place. New experiences, friends and knowledge await wherever you go.  Before the fun starts, there are some decisions that need to be made: Will you live on or off campus? Will you work while in school and will you be taking your vehicle with you? Check with your school first, as some colleges and universities do not allow freshman to have vehicles on-campus. You should also consider the cost of a parking permit and remember that parking lots are not the friendliest or secure places for vehicles that are not driven that often. When it comes to your auto insurance, talk to your agent as there are many factors that could influence the price of your premium.

College students and auto insurance Washington:

  • Location: Where you attend school matters when it comes to your auto insurance. Are you attending school more than 100 miles from home? Will you be living in a dorm or off-campus? Parking in a garage or on the street. All of these factors will influence the price of your auto insurance premium. If you are leaving your vehicle with your parents while away at school and will not have regular access to your vehicle, you may be eligible for a distant student discount.
  • Coverage: If you plan on attending a school in a different state, ask your insurance agent if you insurance coverage limits are enough. The legal insurance requirements in your state may be insufficient for the legal requirements where you attend school. If you don’t have underinsured motorist coverage (UMPD/UIM), it may be worth considering as cars tend to get dinged, scratched and hit in large parking lots.
  • Theft: While college can be filled with great experiences, there can be some bad with the good. Break-ins and thefts can occur at your dorm, apartment and car. Renter’s insurance may help to help recoup costs for thefts that occur in your dorm or apartment. An auto insurance policy may cover the physical damage to your vehicle like a broken or smashed window, however there a no provisions for the loss of personal property like laptops, cell phones, etc. It is important to remember that valuables should not be left in unattended vehicles.

There are several discounts that could be available to students as they go through school like a good student discount or multi-policy discount. For all your insurance needs, talk to the insurance experts at Trucordia in Olympia, WA. No matter where you are attending school, they can assist you with making sure your auto insurance policy has you completely covered. They can also assist with setting up a renter’s insurance policy for your dorm or apartment. For more information about Trucordia or the insurance products they offer, visit their insurance website 24/7.

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Join us Olympia! Trucordia 1st Annual Olympia Barbecue Event – August 15th

Join Trucordia for our first ever, annual Community Appreciation Barbecue, where we honor you – Our customers and community members! Lunch will be on us, so bring an appetite!

Cross Annual Olympia

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Traveling with dogs – Buckle up your pup!

Getting out on the open road with the family can be a great summer pastime. Whether your road trip takes you to a national park, a beach or to visit family, it can be a great opportunity to bond as a family that includes your dogs too! Loading Fido up in the family vehicle doesn’t have to be stressful and making your dog comfortable in the car can be quite easy.

Traveling with dogs in Washington:

  • Safety: Safety truly comes first at all times when riding in a vehicle – this goes for people and pets. An unsecured dog wandering the vehicle can be a distraction and a hazard. Large dogs can bump the driver, causing them to swerve and small dogs can get underfoot, under a gas pedal or brake pedal. Securing your dog may also help keep them safe in the event you are in an auto accident. There are many options for securing your dog in a vehicle. There are car seats that have an interior harness to secure the pup and a place to secure the car seat to a seatbelt, minimizing the risk of the car seat bouncing around. Another option is a harness that attaches directly to the seatbelt. This allows the dog some free movement, but it is restricted to a small area. Then there are barrier options, like a crater or a seat barrier. When purchasing a travel crate, make sure the dog has plenty of room to stretch and is not too cramped. A seat barrier works well for SUVs and hatchbacks.
  • Entertainment: Just like the people in the car, your dogs will need some entertainment as well. Bring along favorite toys, chews and treats may go a long way to keep a bored dog from barking, jumping and perhaps trying to eat the interior of your vehicle. Don’t forget to bring spill-proof water and food containers!
  • Take a break: Get out and stretch your legs and your pup’s! Leaving the vehicle and giving your dog a little room to run (search for off-leash dog parks along your route) can go a long way to eliminating a carsickness or boredom in a dog. It also gives them a chance to use the “facilities” in an outdoor setting versus your vehicle.
  • Destination: Make sure that your destination is pet-friendly. If you are staying in a hotel or vacation rental, ask about their pet policies ahead of time, it is also helpful to locate the closest emergency vet, just in case.

Taking steps to ensure that everyone on your road trip is happy and safe will lead to less stress overall. In some states, if you have a Progressive auto insurance policy, you may have Pet Injury coverage, which helps cover vet expenses (up to $1000) if your pup is injured as a result of an auto accident. Before you head out on the open road, check the details of your auto insurance coverage with your Trucordia agent in Olympia, WA. They can assist you with amending an existing policy or setting up a new policy. You can also visit their insurance website 24/7 to learn more about the other products they offer like boat insurance or motorcycle insurance.

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Auto Insurance Discounts – Do you qualify?

We have all heard the auto insurance commercials talking about the discounts this insurer or that insurer offers. There are the standard ones: multi-policy, multi-vehicle, etc., but there may be some other discounts that drivers are not aware of. We have compiled some of the most common auto insurance discounts below. Could you be saving money with these discounts?

Auto insurance discounts in Washington:

  • Multi-policy: Bundling multiple polices like auto insurance, home and boat with the same insurance carrier can save you some money.
  • Good or distant student: If your student keeps their grades above certain level (as designated by the insurer) they may be eligible for a good student discount. The insurance carrier will need proof, typically sending a transcript will suffice. If your student is attending college at a distant (typically more than 500 miles from home, but that varies by carrier) you may be eligible for a discount on the vehicle since it may not be driven as much.
  • Education level: Like an extension of the good student discount, drivers who hold advanced degrees, like a bachelor’s degree, may qualify for a discount.
  • Defensive Driver: Taking a carrier approved defensive driving course could earn you a discount on your auto insurance policy. Check with your insurance agent, as this type of discount may be limited to certain age groups.
  • Multi-vehicle: Like a multi-policy discount, insuring multiple vehicles with the same carrier may earn you a small discount.
  • Green vehicle: If you drive an electric or hybrid vehicle, you may be eligible for a discount. Ask your agent to see if your vehicle qualifies.
  • Anti-theft: Vehicles with anti-theft systems statically tend to be stolen less often, thus a lower risk. You may be entitled to a small discount if your vehicle meets the criteria.
  • Anti-lock brakes: The anti-lock brake feature is standard on almost all new vehicles. Check with your insurance agent to see if your carrier provides a discount for anti-lock brakes.
  • Safe driver (accident free): Many major insurance carriers will award safe driving discounts to drivers who have been accident free for a number of years. The criteria varies between insurance carriers.
  • Military: Active and veteran military members are often eligible for discounted auto insurance. Ask your insurance agent to see if you qualify.
  • Early quote/signing: If you are looking to change insurance carriers or upgrade your auto insurance, getting a quote (and signing up) before your current policy has expired may get you a discount. You may need to get a quote within a certain number of days prior to your policy expiration, so check with your agent.
  • Paid-in-full: You’ll see the discount reflected in the price when you are presented with your options for paying your auto insurance policy. Paying off the policy in full will cost you a little less than paying every month.
  • Paperless: Don’t want to get a paper statement? Great, you get a discount. Most major insurance carriers offer discounts for customers who choose to do automatic billing and receive emails rather than paper statements.
  • Loyalty: Sticking with your insurance carrier for three or more years could earn you a discount for every loyalty milestone you hit. Typically these rewards not only include a discount on the cost of your policy, they can sometimes include accident forgiveness!

While most of these discounts are small, a few added together could amount to some real savings. Be sure to speak with your Trucordia agent today the discounts that may be available to you. For more information about Trucordia in Olympia, Washington or the insurance products we offer like home insurance and RV insurance, visit our insurance website 24/7.

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Boats and Yachts: Do you know the difference?

It is fairly easy to tell the difference between a car and a truck or a motorcycle and a moped, but when it comes to boats and yachts, differences may not be as evident. In insurance terms, the differences between a boat and a yacht are very clear.

How are boats and yachts defined in Washington?

  • Boats: A boat is generally defined as a vessel under 26 feet in length. This can include speed boats, fishing boats (for recreational purposes) and classic or antique boats. Standard boat insurance policies can include physical damage coverage, liability coverage, personal property coverage and towing and assistance coverage. Many of the policies are yearly policies so there is no need to be concerned about your boat when it is moored or in a dry dock for the winter months. Boat insurance policies often include limits on navigational areas or be an agreed value policy which means you and the insurance carrier will agree upon a set value of worth for the boat before a policy is drafted. This may help recoup costs in the event the boat is lost or damaged beyond repair. A basic boat insurance may not include extra coverage for uninsured/underinsured boater coverage or coverage for fuel spills, but a yacht insurance policy may include those items. So, when insuring a boat, be sure to ask your agent about these coverages because most times, they can be added.
  • Yachts: A yacht is defined as a vessel over 26 feet in length and used for mostly personal or recreation purposes. Yacht insurance tends to be more inclusive than your standard boat insurance policy. Those extras that you may pay more for in boat policy, like fuel spill coverage, towing and additional personal property coverage, may be generally included in your yacht insurance policy. There are also custom coverage options that may be available just for yacht insurance. Custom coverages may include additional hurricane protection if you are sailing or docking in an area during hurricane season. It may also include an option to extend or create a custom navigation area as most standard boat insurance policies only offer coverage the extends 75 miles past the U.S., Canadian or Mexican coastline. If your yacht includes a dinghy, there is a coverage option for that as well, though it may be limited to anything under 16 feet in length.

Whether you are considering purchasing a boat or a yacht or wondering which category your current sea-faring vessel falls, the insurance experts at Trucordia in Olympia, WA can assist you with all your boating insurance needs. Trucordia agents can also assist you with insuring other items like your autos, homes or adding a personal umbrella insurance policy for additional protection beyond your auto and home insurance policies. Whatever your insurance needs, let Trucordia help. Visit their website 24/7 for more information about the agency or the insurance products they offer.

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