Author: agentinsure

The Top Three Disability Insurance Trends to Watch for in 2024

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The landscape of disability insurance is evolving, with new trends emerging that could impact your coverage options. At Martin Insurance Team in Evergreen Park, IL, we’re keeping an eye on these developments to help our clients stay informed and protected. Here are the top disability insurance trends to watch in 2024.

Increased Focus on Mental Health

Mental health has become a critical component of overall well-being, and disability insurance providers are starting to recognize its importance. In 2024, expect to see policies that include comprehensive coverage for mental health conditions. This shift acknowledges the growing prevalence of mental health issues and the need for support for those affected.

Flexible Coverage Options

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all disability insurance policies. In 2024, insurers are offering more flexible coverage options that can be tailored to individual needs. This might include customizable benefit periods, elimination periods, and coverage amounts. The trend towards personalization allows policyholders to create plans that better fit their unique circumstances and financial goals.

Emphasis on Short-Term Disability

While long-term disability insurance remains important, there’s a growing emphasis on short-term disability coverage. This shift is driven by the increasing recognition that many workers may experience temporary disabilities that prevent them from working for a few weeks or months. Short-term policies can provide crucial financial support during these times, helping to bridge the gap until the individual can return to work.

Staying informed about the latest trends in disability insurance is essential for making the best decisions for your financial future. At Martin Insurance Team, we’re here to help you navigate these changes and find the right coverage for your Evergreen Park, IL needs. Contact us today to discuss how these trends might affect your insurance options.

If You Get Sick or Hurt Health Insurance can Help

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When life goes as planned, it is easy to forget the importance and value of insurance. Fortunately, however, insurance doesn’t forget us when we need the protection and coverage that insurance can provide. That is also why people in and around the greater Evergreen Park, IL, area turn to the trusted and professional agents at the Martin Insurance Team for all their insurance questions, needs, and solutions. From the right coverage and plan to the insurance you need for your peace of mind and protection, the right insurance and insurance partner can make a difference.

The Benefits and Importance of Health Insurance if You Get Sick

We do not plan on getting sick, hurt, or becoming ill. Hopefully, it is something we prepare for, which is the first and arguably most important benefit and reason for health insurance. With the cost of health care, prescriptions, and even a single visit to the doctor, the expense of medical care can be daunting.

For many people, the cost of medical care is more than they can afford, and medical expenses can threaten the livelihood of many people and families. Fortunately, health insurance is the solution most people need to bridge the gap and, more importantly, get the care they need—and that is, without question, the greatest benefit and reason for having health insurance.

Health Insurance Solutions in Evergreen Park, IL

Do you have questions about health insurance or need health insurance coverage? At the Martin Insurance Team, we can help with all your insurance needs and help you find the right plan to protect the things you care about most. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment today for the coverage and insurance solutions you need and deserve at the Martin Insurance Team.  

A Quick Look at Motorcycle Stats Every Rider Should Know

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Are you looking to buy a motorcycle? Do you already own one and need motorcycle insurance? Martin Insurance Team offers motorcycle insurance to residents of many communities, including Evergreen Park, IL. Let’s delve into some crucial motorcycle statistics you should know.

Key Motorcycle Statistics to Consider

Motorcycles are generally considered more dangerous than cars due to the exposed nature of riding and the impracticality of installing certain safety features, like airbags. However, motorcycles can be safe when handled correctly.

While accounting for only about 3% of registered vehicles, motorcycles are responsible for nearly 15 percent of total fatalities. Tragically, the number of deaths has been steadily increasing over the last decade. In 2022 alone, over 6,000 fatalities occurred in accidents involving motorcycles.

Motorcycle usage is also climbing. In 2022, merely 4.3 million motorcycles were registered in the United States. This number doubled to reach 8.6 million by 2021. More motorcycle riders may potentially lead to an increase in accidents and incidents.

Motorcycles can also be quite expensive, sometimes rivaling the cost of luxury cars. Legal experts report that insurance settlements average $60,000 per accident. If a motorcycle is involved in a wreck, it’s highly likely to be totaled. Thankfully, the right motorcycle insurance plans can provide coverage and assistance.

It’s crucial to thoroughly understand specific motorcycle insurance policies to ensure you know what is and isn’t covered. Partnering with a competent insurance agent can reduce the risk of misunderstandings. If you’re searching for a trusted insurance agency serving Evergreen Park, IL, don’t hesitate to contact us immediately. The Martin Insurance Team is eager to assist you.

Explaining Warehouse to Warehouse Coverage in Transportation Insurance

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Warehouse-to-warehouse coverage is a crucial aspect of transportation insurance. It is designed to protect goods during the entire transit process, from the point of origin to the final destination. This type of coverage is essential for Evergreen Park, IL, companies, and others that depend on the safety and on-time delivery of shipments.

What is Warehouse-to-Warehouse Coverage?

Warehouse-to-warehouse coverage is a clause in marine insurance policies that ensures goods are covered from the moment they leave the origin warehouse until they arrive at the destination warehouse. This comprehensive coverage includes all transit stages, whether by sea, air, rail, or road, offering protection against various risks that goods might encounter during their journey.

Scope of Coverage

The primary advantage of warehouse-to-warehouse coverage is its extensive protection. It typically covers losses or damages due to perils like theft, fire, natural disasters, and accidents during transportation. Additionally, this coverage often includes handling during loading and unloading, temporary storage, and delays caused by unforeseen events.

Benefits for Businesses

For businesses engaged in international trade, warehouse-to-warehouse coverage is particularly beneficial. It ensures that goods are protected from the start of their journey, reducing the financial risks associated with potential damages or losses. This type of coverage also simplifies the claims process, as it eliminates gaps in coverage that can occur when goods are transferred between different modes of transportation or stored temporarily.

Importance of Understanding Policy Details

While warehouse-to-warehouse coverage offers extensive protection, businesses must understand the specifics of their policy. Different insurers may have varying terms and conditions, including exclusions and limitations.

Martin Insurance Team Is There For You

Martin Insurance Team is here for you when you need insurance information. Our services are available at the Evergreen Park, IL, locations and in the surrounding areas of Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, and Naples. Call today.

Insurance Coverage for Office Equipment

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If you rely upon the use of computers, copiers, and other types of office equipment, it is important to provide these essentials with the insurance coverage you need. Learn how liability and replacement coverage can prevent monetary loss. Then, prepare a list highlighting the business equipment you want to add to your insurance plan.

Liability Coverage

Business liability coverage protects against unexpected injuries. If a colleague or employee is injured while using a piece of office equipment, the insurance coverage you have acquired will handle medical costs.

Liability coverage can also play a vital role in protecting you if you are involved in a legal matter. The existing liability insurance policy will cover attorney fees and other legal fees. 

Replacement Coverage

Office equipment is at risk of damage or theft. Replacement coverage will cover the cost of fixing or replacing it.

The replacement coverage you choose can be equal to the value of the office equipment you own. Choosing to acquire sufficient coverage will prevent you from being responsible for out-of-pocket costs.

Itemized List

Prepare an itemized list of automatic, semi-automatic, and manual office equipment you and your staff rely upon daily. This list should include valuable items and equipment vital for business operations. When preparing the inventory of the office equipment, include the make and model number of the equipment.

Get More Information!

Contact an insurance representative who serves the Evergreen Park, IL, region. At Martin Insurance Team, our clients come first. One of our representatives will update your business insurance policy.

Dogs and Homeowners Insurance

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Being a homeowner in the Evergreen Park, IL, area can be a great investment, a source of pride, and a terrific place to raise a family. However, it also has its risks. You can experience maintenance issues, be subject to fires and storms, and be held liable for injury claims that occur on the property. Martin Insurance Team is here to help you manage those risks.

One element that you should be aware of is dog ownership. Yes, owning a dog can impact your homeowner’s insurance. Here’s why.

Dogs pose a risk.

Dog ownership can raise your liability risk when you own a home. A dog bite can generate an immediate claim against you that could be costly to defend and resolve. Even if you claim your dog doesn’t bite, a barking, charging, or otherwise aggressive dog may frighten a visitor into a slip-and-fall that could be your responsibility.

Some dog breeds may be so aggressive that an insurance provider may refuse or alter coverage for homeowners.

Be honest about your pet.

Don’t be tempted to ignore your pet’s safety when it comes to homeowner’s insurance. Being less than truthful could place you at higher financial risk. The solution is to compare.

Compare home insurance rates.

Some homeowners insurance providers may be more “pet friendly” than others. If you have a dog, the Martin Insurance Team can help you insure them. We can get you a quote with which you and your pet can agree on. Contact us today for insurance in the Evergreen Park, IL, area.

The Danger of Summer Storms

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One of the major factors families secure home insurance is to provide financial protection in case of a natural disaster. We may not be subject to hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires in Evergreen Park, IL, but we certainly have our share of dangerous summer storms. These often include high winds, heavy rain, hail, and even tornadoes. The Martin Insurance Team is here to help you protect your investment.

Here are some things you should know about summer storms and home insurance.

High Winds

High winds are a major cause of damage in summer storms. Tornadic and straight-line winds can significantly damage roofs, uproot trees, and cause fencing to fall. Homes can also be damaged from flying debris and unsecured outdoor furnishings.

Flood Insurance

Homeowners in the Evergreen Park, IL, area must understand that flooding is not covered under a standard home insurance policy. A separate flood insurance policy must be acquired, often managed by the National Flood Insurance Program. With the changing climate and rapid housing developments, flood-prone areas are increasing. More homeowners should consider this valuable protection.

Lightning

Lightning strikes can cause significant damage in multiple ways. An initial strike can create damage all by itself. The resulting electrical shock may cause damage to major appliances and expensive electronics. Lightning strikes can also cause fires, leading to water damage from fire-fighting efforts.

Temporary Living Expenses

Should your home become temporarily unlivable following damage, your homeowner’s insurance may be able to help. Hotel accommodations, meals, and living expenses may be included in your home insurance protection.

Are You Covered?

Are you covered for summer storms? Find details with a home insurance review from the Martin Insurance Team of Evergreen Park, IL. We can even provide a price quote. Reach out to us today for greater peace of mind during the summer storm season.

Five Things to be Sure to Discuss With Your Teen Driver

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Are you welcoming a new teen driver to the family? Martin Insurance Team understands. We serve drivers of all types in the Evergreen Park, IL, area, including those with teen drivers. It is important that young drivers get off to a safe start in their driving careers. Here are some tips to set them on the right path.

Discuss Economics

Now is a logical time to let them know that driving is a privilege—an expensive privilege. They should know that car payments, repairs, fuel, and auto insurance can be costly. Safe driving and proper maintenance can help keep those expenses in line.

Talk About the Dangers of Distracted Driving

While cell phones are a significant cause of distracted driving, other causes include putting on makeup, playing with the radio, and eating or drinking.

Incentives For Safe Driving

Create a plan that rewards your safe teen driver for every year of accident and citation-free driving.

What To Do in a Traffic Stop

Your teen driver should know what to expect in a traffic stop and how they should respond. Make sure they understand the importance of having proper paperwork and ID.

Encourage Defensive Driving

Remind teens to watch out for the other guy. They need to keep their emotions in check and avoid aggressive driving. Avoid engaging other drivers.

Insuring Your Teen Driver

Adding a teen driver to the family will likely significantly increase your car insurance premiums.

The Martin Insurance Team of Evergreen Park, IL, can help. We can help you explore discounts, such as those available for good students, bundling, and more. Contact us to discuss your options and to get a free quote. We look forward to assisting you.

How Often Should You Update Your Auto Insurance Policy?

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At Martin Insurance Team, we want to help you protect your vehicles and keep them covered for the long term. If you’re in the Evergreen Park, IL area and looking for auto insurance, we’re here to help. Whether you’ve had your policy for years or it’s newer, making sure it’s updated is the best way to keep your vehicle safe and create peace of mind for you, as well.

By working with us, you can get the policy updates you need to keep your vehicle secure. It’s best to update that policy at least once every year. Of course, if you make changes to your vehicles or who drives them, you’ll also want to update your policy at that time. There’s no reason to settle for a policy you’re not sure about or don’t feel comfortable with when we can help you adjust your coverage or even switch to a different insurer.

We’ll provide you with quotes, review your policy, and talk with you about any concerns you have. Our agents are also happy to answer your questions so you can get all the details about any policy you’re considering. We want you to feel comfortable when you choose an insurance policy, and we know your vehicle is important to you. Getting the right coverage and all the information you need to make a knowledgeable decision is how you can enjoy your vehicle long-term.

Contact us at Martin Insurance Team today if you’re in the Evergreen Park, IL, area and looking to update or change your auto insurance policy. You don’t have to make changes alone or wonder whether you’ve picked out the right options to protect your car when you have us to help you get the right coverage today.

Actions to Take If Your Home Insurance Is Canceled

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If you are a homeowner, keeping your home insured is essential. If you live in the Evergreen Park, IL, area, we invite you to visit us at Martin Insurance Team. In addition to serving clients in Evergreen Park, we also serve clients in the Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, and Naples areas. 

Can Home Insurance Be Canceled?

If you have a homeowners’ insurance policy, you may wonder if it can be canceled without your permission. The insurance company can cancel your policy during the first 60 days if their review of your risk causes them concern. After 60 days, the policy can be canceled only if you fail to pay the premium. Writing a check that bounces can be considered non-payment.  

Actions After Cancelation Notice

If you are notified that your policy is canceled, the insurance company must send a notice explaining the cancellation. Policyholders then have the right to appeal the cancelation. You must prove the insurance company didn’t follow the correct procedure to win the appeal. 

Appeal to Director of Insurance

If your policy is canceled for a reason other than non-payment, you have the right to appeal to the Director of Insurance. Your appeal must be filed 20 days before the cancelation date. If the state insurance office agrees you have a right to appeal, they will notify you of a hearing date.

Call Us Today for an Appointment 

If you need new homeowner’s insurance, we can review all your options. We will take the time to listen to you and determine your insurance needs. Residents of Evergreen Park, IL, will find our experienced staff at Martin Insurance Team ready to provide you with quotes from our many top-rated insurance carriers. Give us a call today for an appointment to discuss your insurance needs.