Two Electric Cars Earn Top Safety Rating
Two electric cars ― Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf ― are getting the green light from safety experts.
Both vehicles recently earned the highest safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in its first-ever U.S. crash test evaluations of plug-in electric cars.
The Volt and Leaf earned the top protection rating for the four most common kinds of injury crashes: front, side, rear and rollover. With these ratings and standard electronic stability control, they qualify as winners of Top Safety Pick, the Institute's award for state-of-the-art crash protection.
"What powers the wheels is different, but the level of safety for the Volt and Leaf is as high as any of our other top crash test performers," says Joe Nolan, the Institute's chief administrative officer.
Fuel efficient, too
The dual-power Volt and all-electric Leaf not only surpass benchmarks for protecting occupants in crashes, but they also exceed current fuel efficiency and emissions standards. Both models are new for 2011.
• The Volt is a plug-in battery/gasoline hybrid that can run in electric-only mode with a range of about 35 miles on a single charge. A gasoline engine kicks in to power the electric motor when the battery is spent.
• The Leaf runs on battery power alone and has an Environmental Protection Agency-estimated average range of about 73 miles on a single charge.
Small but safe
The Volt and Leaf are classified as small cars, with their overall length, width and passenger capacity in line with their peers. But their hefty battery packs put their curb weights and handling stability closer to midsize and larger cars.
"The Leaf and Volt's extra mass gives them a safety advantage over other small cars," Nolan says. "These electric models are a win-win for fuel economy and safety."
The addition of the two electric cars brings the Institute’s number of safety award winners so far for this year to 80. It lifts General Motors' current model tally to 12 and Nissan's to 3. The safety ratings help consumers pick vehicles that offer a higher level of protection than federal safety standards require.
Shopping for a new car?
If you’re buying a new car, keep safety in mind and check out the full list of winners. Also, give us a call beforehand and we can let you know how much your new car will cost to insure. We can help you learn which safety features can earn you a discount on your ERIE auto insurance, too.
Call 317-534-5202 Brookson Insurance LLC
We do business better because of you
Your go to agent in the Greenwood and Greater Indianapolis areas
Until next time!
Heather Swank
Agent / Owner
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Women, Listen Up: Everyone Needs Life Insurance
Women today have more lifestyle and career choices than ever before. However, whether a woman is married or single; a stay-at-home mom or climbing the corporate ladder, most are underinsured. Any lifestyle a woman chooses is costly to replace.
For instance, the estimated annual cost to hire someone to cook, clean, and take care of children full-time is $40,000. Although stay-at-home moms often have no income, there is a cost associated with their duties should something happen to them. It’s not an easy subject to talk about, but it is an important one to consider. Many families would not be supported by one income alone with the additional childcare and housekeeping expenses.
Women without children still have reasons to take out a life insurance policy. This policy may take care of burial and funeral expenses, estate taxes and outstanding debts. Whatever the case, the policy can provide valuable assistance to their families as they cope with these costs.
The truth is: life insurance is a necessity. Thankfully, it can be more affordable than you may think. To find the best policy for your personal needs, give us a call. We can answer questions and help you get a quote from Erie Family Life*—one that fits into your budget, and your life. 317-534-5202 Brookson Insurance LLC
Let us discuss your family needs for life insurance today!
Heather Swank
Brookson Insurance LLC
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Women today have more lifestyle and career choices than ever before. However, whether a woman is married or single; a stay-at-home mom or climbing the corporate ladder, most are underinsured. Any lifestyle a woman chooses is costly to replace.
For instance, the estimated annual cost to hire someone to cook, clean, and take care of children full-time is $40,000. Although stay-at-home moms often have no income, there is a cost associated with their duties should something happen to them. It’s not an easy subject to talk about, but it is an important one to consider. Many families would not be supported by one income alone with the additional childcare and housekeeping expenses.
Women without children still have reasons to take out a life insurance policy. This policy may take care of burial and funeral expenses, estate taxes and outstanding debts. Whatever the case, the policy can provide valuable assistance to their families as they cope with these costs.
The truth is: life insurance is a necessity. Thankfully, it can be more affordable than you may think. To find the best policy for your personal needs, give us a call. We can answer questions and help you get a quote from Erie Family Life*—one that fits into your budget, and your life. 317-534-5202 Brookson Insurance LLC
Let us discuss your family needs for life insurance today!
Heather Swank
Brookson Insurance LLC
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Watch for Scams after a Storm
When storms hit, your home—and life—can be turned upside down. You’re eager to get your home repaired, but be careful: some contractors aren’t really there to help.
Most contractors are reputable business people. But each year, there are a few dishonest ones who chase storms from state to state. They may try to convince you that you have hail or other damage and need a new roof when you really don’t. They’ll ask to be hired for the work, explaining that your insurance company will pay for the repairs.
ERIE HomeProtector polices cover damage caused by hail and windstorms, but they will not cover the cost to replace a roof or siding when no damage has occurred. Since the work these dishonest contractors offer may not be of the highest quality, ERIE also highly recommends that you get a second—even a third—opinion before starting any contract work. It’s not fair to you to have your roof, once in excellent condition, altered so that it is inferior in quality.
What you can do
If you’re beginning to repair or rebuild after a storm, or even if you are just planning a home improvement project, keep these tips, recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in mind for choosing contractors wisely:
• Get more than one estimate.
• Don’t be pushed into signing a contract right away.
• Get everything in writing. Cost, work to be done, time schedules, guarantees, payment schedules and other expectations should be detailed.
• Check references before deciding which contractor to choose.
• Never sign a contract with blanks.
• Don’t pay a contractor in full until the work is complete.
• Check with county or city licensing authorities to see if the contractor is licensed in your jurisdiction, as well as checking for complaints with their regional Better Business Bureau.
ERIE can help, too
If you need suggestions about who to hire or how to repair your home after a storm, we can help you contact an insurance claims adjuster. Erie Insurance has professional claims adjusters who are trained to assess your property, identify storm damage and prepare an estimate for proper repair. They can also provide recommendations for reliable, licensed contractors in your area—although the final choice of contractor is always yours.
Contact our agency for more information.
Give us a call with any questions you have this storm season!
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
317-534-5202
http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
When storms hit, your home—and life—can be turned upside down. You’re eager to get your home repaired, but be careful: some contractors aren’t really there to help.
Most contractors are reputable business people. But each year, there are a few dishonest ones who chase storms from state to state. They may try to convince you that you have hail or other damage and need a new roof when you really don’t. They’ll ask to be hired for the work, explaining that your insurance company will pay for the repairs.
ERIE HomeProtector polices cover damage caused by hail and windstorms, but they will not cover the cost to replace a roof or siding when no damage has occurred. Since the work these dishonest contractors offer may not be of the highest quality, ERIE also highly recommends that you get a second—even a third—opinion before starting any contract work. It’s not fair to you to have your roof, once in excellent condition, altered so that it is inferior in quality.
What you can do
If you’re beginning to repair or rebuild after a storm, or even if you are just planning a home improvement project, keep these tips, recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in mind for choosing contractors wisely:
• Get more than one estimate.
• Don’t be pushed into signing a contract right away.
• Get everything in writing. Cost, work to be done, time schedules, guarantees, payment schedules and other expectations should be detailed.
• Check references before deciding which contractor to choose.
• Never sign a contract with blanks.
• Don’t pay a contractor in full until the work is complete.
• Check with county or city licensing authorities to see if the contractor is licensed in your jurisdiction, as well as checking for complaints with their regional Better Business Bureau.
ERIE can help, too
If you need suggestions about who to hire or how to repair your home after a storm, we can help you contact an insurance claims adjuster. Erie Insurance has professional claims adjusters who are trained to assess your property, identify storm damage and prepare an estimate for proper repair. They can also provide recommendations for reliable, licensed contractors in your area—although the final choice of contractor is always yours.
Contact our agency for more information.
Give us a call with any questions you have this storm season!
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
317-534-5202
http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Tornado Season Again!
Don’t Let a Tornado Topple You
Tornadoes are one of nature's most powerful and destructive forces; an F5, the strongest and most violent of tornadoes, can level almost any house and its occupants. Thankfully, F5 tornadoes are rare. Most are weaker and can be survived. And now is the time to prepare for them if you haven’t already. Tornadoes are most common from late winter through mid-summer.
Here’s what to do before and during a tornado:
• Know where you can take shelter in the event of the storm. Practice a family tornado drill once a year.
• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies, including nonperishable food, water, medication, batteries and flashlights. Keep the emergency kit packed and easily accessible.
• Know the signs of a tornado: persistent winds, swirling dust or debris under a cloud base, loud continuous roar or rumble.
• Know the difference and help your children understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.
1. Tornado Watch: Current weather conditions could create a tornado, so be on the lookout.
2. Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted in the area. Seek shelter immediately and listen to the radio for further updates. A tornado warning is much more serious than a tornado watch.
• If a tornado is likely or known, take shelter indoors, preferably in a basement or interior first-floor room or hallway.
• Avoid windows and seek additional protection under large furniture or mattresses. This will protect you from flying debris.
• After a tornado has struck, stay out of heavily damaged homes or buildings. Keep clear of downed power lines, broken glass and other debris. Avoid lighting matches and cigarettes due to possibly ruptured gas lines. Try to stay calm. Help will arrive.
And remember, be prepared financially, too, before a storm ever hits. Don’t let nature blow away what you’ve worked hard to build. If you’ve made improvements to your home or purchased large ticket items, let us know. We can ensure they are properly insured. We can also help you review your Erie Insurance homeowners policy anytime so you’re aware of the coverage limits and can adjust them as needed. Give us a call. 317-534-5202
Keeping your family safe year after year. Our insured family is priority! Pass us along to your friends and families. Check out our website and learn more about our agents. Our history of claims backgrounds coupled with our passion for knowing your insurance coverage places us above the rest. Knowledgeable, dependable, Brookson Insurance is the agency for all of your insurance needs.
Have a great week!
Heather Swank
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Tornadoes are one of nature's most powerful and destructive forces; an F5, the strongest and most violent of tornadoes, can level almost any house and its occupants. Thankfully, F5 tornadoes are rare. Most are weaker and can be survived. And now is the time to prepare for them if you haven’t already. Tornadoes are most common from late winter through mid-summer.
Here’s what to do before and during a tornado:
• Know where you can take shelter in the event of the storm. Practice a family tornado drill once a year.
• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies, including nonperishable food, water, medication, batteries and flashlights. Keep the emergency kit packed and easily accessible.
• Know the signs of a tornado: persistent winds, swirling dust or debris under a cloud base, loud continuous roar or rumble.
• Know the difference and help your children understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.
1. Tornado Watch: Current weather conditions could create a tornado, so be on the lookout.
2. Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted in the area. Seek shelter immediately and listen to the radio for further updates. A tornado warning is much more serious than a tornado watch.
• If a tornado is likely or known, take shelter indoors, preferably in a basement or interior first-floor room or hallway.
• Avoid windows and seek additional protection under large furniture or mattresses. This will protect you from flying debris.
• After a tornado has struck, stay out of heavily damaged homes or buildings. Keep clear of downed power lines, broken glass and other debris. Avoid lighting matches and cigarettes due to possibly ruptured gas lines. Try to stay calm. Help will arrive.
And remember, be prepared financially, too, before a storm ever hits. Don’t let nature blow away what you’ve worked hard to build. If you’ve made improvements to your home or purchased large ticket items, let us know. We can ensure they are properly insured. We can also help you review your Erie Insurance homeowners policy anytime so you’re aware of the coverage limits and can adjust them as needed. Give us a call. 317-534-5202
Keeping your family safe year after year. Our insured family is priority! Pass us along to your friends and families. Check out our website and learn more about our agents. Our history of claims backgrounds coupled with our passion for knowing your insurance coverage places us above the rest. Knowledgeable, dependable, Brookson Insurance is the agency for all of your insurance needs.
Have a great week!
Heather Swank
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Umbrella what does that have to do with insurance protection?
Catastrophes of the Court
How much does your policy cover?
Depending on the level of coverage you’ve purchased, ERIE’s homeowners insurance can help cover legal costs if you’re taken to court—for instance, if someone slips and falls in your driveway and blames you. But how much your policy will cover is limited to the amount stated in your policy. It may not be enough if the case doesn’t end in your favor.
To make sure you have adequate coverage, even for catastrophes of the court, consider purchasing a Personal Catastrophe Liability (PCL) policy, more commonly known as an umbrella policy.
The benefit of ERIE’s Mastercover Policy is that it offers a higher level of financial security in case you are sued for an accident.
These policies are highly important in this litigious age of multi-million dollar lawsuits. Insurance experts and financial planners say umbrella policies, or personal liability coverage, should be standard practice. Yet studies show that fewer than 15 percent of Americans purchase umbrella policies, which typically have annual premiums under $200 a year for $1 million or more in coverage. If you’re one who hasn’t purchased an umbrella yet and you’d like to, give us a call. We can help! 317-534-5202 Brookson Insurance LLC or http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Keeping you protected from A to Z
Brookson Insurance LLC
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
317-534-5202
How much does your policy cover?
Depending on the level of coverage you’ve purchased, ERIE’s homeowners insurance can help cover legal costs if you’re taken to court—for instance, if someone slips and falls in your driveway and blames you. But how much your policy will cover is limited to the amount stated in your policy. It may not be enough if the case doesn’t end in your favor.
To make sure you have adequate coverage, even for catastrophes of the court, consider purchasing a Personal Catastrophe Liability (PCL) policy, more commonly known as an umbrella policy.
The benefit of ERIE’s Mastercover Policy is that it offers a higher level of financial security in case you are sued for an accident.
These policies are highly important in this litigious age of multi-million dollar lawsuits. Insurance experts and financial planners say umbrella policies, or personal liability coverage, should be standard practice. Yet studies show that fewer than 15 percent of Americans purchase umbrella policies, which typically have annual premiums under $200 a year for $1 million or more in coverage. If you’re one who hasn’t purchased an umbrella yet and you’d like to, give us a call. We can help! 317-534-5202 Brookson Insurance LLC or http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Keeping you protected from A to Z
Brookson Insurance LLC
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
317-534-5202
Monday, March 21, 2011
What is or is NOT covered???
The age old question what does this policy really cover? Last week we delved into the issue of Flood which is never covered on a standard homeowners policy. Let's talk sewer & drain, sump pump failure coverage. This is for sure another way water enters the home is it covered? The answer is a resounding NO it is not! Especially if you have a basement and do not have this endorsement go out and add it tomorrow!
Water the enters the home through a sewer, drain, or from a sump is not covered. Think about what you have in your home not just the building, but the personal property that could be damaged. Now, think about our rain as of late? It is a scary proposition to be without this coverage. Have you had water from a sewer back up in your home? A sump pump in your home that could fail, will likely fail at some point? Then you should have this coverage. All of the resulting damage is not covered under your standard homeowners policy.
Earthquake yes that is another one NOT COVERED. Most earthquake coverage carriers a very large deductible 2% Or 5% or more. That is of your building coverage so whatever % deductible you have is based off of your "dwelling" value. Your normal policy deductible does not apply. Most earthquake damage is however very costly indeed. Makes sense the earth moves and the foundation can crack, walls, the house can shift. For this reason it is considered catastrophic insurance because it can cause catastrophic loss. Same with flood, or sewer and drain back up, and sump pump failure. Those coverage's that can cause catastrophic loss must be added to the policy.
Make sure when you are quoting your product, or when it comes up for renewal you are asking questions about vital insurance you need. And if suggestions are not being provided or offered then switch it is time.
We can keep you informed on new coverage's and vital endorsements that may affect your valued coverage's. Brookson Insurance we really do business better because of you.
Have a safe and wonderful week!
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
Brookson Insurance LLC
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Water the enters the home through a sewer, drain, or from a sump is not covered. Think about what you have in your home not just the building, but the personal property that could be damaged. Now, think about our rain as of late? It is a scary proposition to be without this coverage. Have you had water from a sewer back up in your home? A sump pump in your home that could fail, will likely fail at some point? Then you should have this coverage. All of the resulting damage is not covered under your standard homeowners policy.
Earthquake yes that is another one NOT COVERED. Most earthquake coverage carriers a very large deductible 2% Or 5% or more. That is of your building coverage so whatever % deductible you have is based off of your "dwelling" value. Your normal policy deductible does not apply. Most earthquake damage is however very costly indeed. Makes sense the earth moves and the foundation can crack, walls, the house can shift. For this reason it is considered catastrophic insurance because it can cause catastrophic loss. Same with flood, or sewer and drain back up, and sump pump failure. Those coverage's that can cause catastrophic loss must be added to the policy.
Make sure when you are quoting your product, or when it comes up for renewal you are asking questions about vital insurance you need. And if suggestions are not being provided or offered then switch it is time.
We can keep you informed on new coverage's and vital endorsements that may affect your valued coverage's. Brookson Insurance we really do business better because of you.
Have a safe and wonderful week!
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
Brookson Insurance LLC
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Rising Waters!
Check Your Coverage Before Flood Waters Rise!
Floods can happen anywhere, anytime. They’re one of the most unpredictable catastrophes, and just a few inches of water can soak your home and sock your wallet. And, according to safety experts, your home has a greater chance of being damaged by a flood than a fire.
But, did you know that homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage? Only flood insurance will cover the losses.
We can help you secure flood insurance to protect your home or business. Flood coverage options are available to you through:
• Erie Insurance, which has partnered with American Bankers Insurance Company. American Bankers is one of the top flood carriers in the country. They have consistently received an excellent rating for financial strength from A.M. Best credit rating organization.
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters and business owners.
It’s a good idea to start the process as soon as you can because most flood insurance policies have at least a 30-day waiting period before they take effect.
Also, premium costs for residential properties vary depending on coverage, which is available for your building, contents or both. Our agency can help you determine the flood risk level for your home and property and advise you on the appropriate level of insurance protection. Give us a call to learn more about adding this coverage to your insurance package.
Next week learn more about sewer, drain, and sump pump failure coverage!
http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Have a great week!Heather Swank
Floods can happen anywhere, anytime. They’re one of the most unpredictable catastrophes, and just a few inches of water can soak your home and sock your wallet. And, according to safety experts, your home has a greater chance of being damaged by a flood than a fire.
But, did you know that homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage? Only flood insurance will cover the losses.
We can help you secure flood insurance to protect your home or business. Flood coverage options are available to you through:
• Erie Insurance, which has partnered with American Bankers Insurance Company. American Bankers is one of the top flood carriers in the country. They have consistently received an excellent rating for financial strength from A.M. Best credit rating organization.
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters and business owners.
It’s a good idea to start the process as soon as you can because most flood insurance policies have at least a 30-day waiting period before they take effect.
Also, premium costs for residential properties vary depending on coverage, which is available for your building, contents or both. Our agency can help you determine the flood risk level for your home and property and advise you on the appropriate level of insurance protection. Give us a call to learn more about adding this coverage to your insurance package.
Next week learn more about sewer, drain, and sump pump failure coverage!
http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Have a great week!Heather Swank
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