This is an area that I want to touch on because it seems that alot of my RV clients are either unsure if they have a Towing and Roadside plan, or if they do, are unsure if it will actually tow their RV, or think they have some coverage on their policy and don't.
I will explain what is offered by some of the companies that I represent.
Progressive has a nice towing and roadside plan. I get very few complaints, if any, about their service. If you have some stories to share, I would love to hear them because if I don't get complaints, I generally don't hear any of the good stuff either. The cost is about $40 per year and is available as a "sign and drive" service. It is available on auto, motorcycle, RV and Travel Trailer policies. The company provides a separate Towing and Roadside phone number for you to call.
National Interstate contracted with Continental Car Club for many years at a cost of $50 per year. I had more complaints than good comments on this service, but it varied from year to year depending on who the got the contract to service these clients as I believe Continental Car Club contracted with several independent services over the years. I am excited to report that National Interstate has chosen to contract with CoachNet now. Any exisisting Continental Car Club clients will automatically renew with the new CoachNet program at a cost of $65 per year. There is a Premier program available for $109 per year that provides the RV Technical Assistance Hotline with ASE, RVIA/RVDA and Master Certified Technicians on staff to help you over the phone or in person if necessary. Since this is a new program to National Interstate, I will be interested to see how it does.
GMAC offers towing on their auto and RV policies. I always found it confusing that the limit of coverage is $75 and the company was charging sometimes as high as $22 per year for it. I called my GMAC rep to question why so high for so little coverage? I was informed that GMAC will pay unlimited Towing and Roadside FOR THE RV ONLY on the policy. Any auto's will have the $75 maximum. This would be a reimbursement type of claim where you pay the bill and GMAC reimburses you with a copy of the receipt. You use their standard claims phone number to report the claim.
I know many RV clients use Good Sam RV Towing and Roadside and have good things to say about it. Several have AAA, but I have also heard that AAA will not tow an RV unless you have purchased a special higher priced program.
Hope that gives some useful info on what is available for Towing and Roadside. If you have comments about these programs or any that I may have missed, let me know!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
GPS and Cell Phones
My sister-in-law in Alburquerque NM recently had her car stolen with her purse in it. The thiefs wasted no time attempting to rob her home. She happened to be home when they simply walked in her front door. She chased them off by yelling at them to get out of her house! She's a brave (or crazy) girl!
Thanks to my client Judy Harding for sending me this post and giving us something to think about today:
GPS
A couple of weeks ago a friend told me that someone she knew had
their car broken into while they were at a football game. Their car was
parked on the green which was adjacent to the football stadium and
specially allotted to football fans. Things stolen from the car included
a garage door remote control, some money and a GPS which had been
prominently mounted on the dashboard.
When the victims got home, they found that their house had been
ransacked and just about everything worth anything had been stolen.
The thieves had used the GPS to guide them to the house. They then
used the garage remote control to open the garage door and gain
entry to the house. The thieves knew the owners were at the football
game, they knew what time the game was scheduled to finish and so
they knew how much time they had to clean out the house. It would
appear that they had brought a truck to empty the house of its contents.
Something to consider if you have a GPS - don't put your home
address in it.. Put a nearby address (like a store or gas station) so you
can still find your way home if you need to, but no one else would know
where you live if your GPS were stolen.
MOBILE PHONES
I never thought of this...
This lady has now changed her habit of how she lists her names on
her mobile phone after her handbag was stolen. Her handbag, which
contained her cell phone, credit card, wallet.. Etc....was stolen.
20 minutes later when she called her hubby, from a pay phone telling
him what had happened, hubby says 'I received your text asking
about our Pin number and I've replied a little while ago.'
When they rushed down to the bank, the bank staff told them all the
money was already withdrawn. The thief had actually used the stolen
cell phone to text 'hubby' in the contact list and got hold of the pin
number. Within 20 minutes he had withdrawn all the money from their
bank account.
Moral of the lesson:
Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people in
your contact list.
Avoid using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, Sweetheart, Dad,
Mom, etc...
And very importantly, when sensitive info is being asked through texts,
CONFIRM by calling back.
Also, when you're being text by friends or family to meet them
somewhere, be sure to call back to confirm that the message came
from them. If you don't reach them, be very careful about going places
to meet 'family and friends' who text you.
PLEASE PASS THIS ON
I never thought about the above!
As of now, I no longer have 'home' listed on my GPS or cell phone.
Thanks to my client Judy Harding for sending me this post and giving us something to think about today:
GPS
A couple of weeks ago a friend told me that someone she knew had
their car broken into while they were at a football game. Their car was
parked on the green which was adjacent to the football stadium and
specially allotted to football fans. Things stolen from the car included
a garage door remote control, some money and a GPS which had been
prominently mounted on the dashboard.
When the victims got home, they found that their house had been
ransacked and just about everything worth anything had been stolen.
The thieves had used the GPS to guide them to the house. They then
used the garage remote control to open the garage door and gain
entry to the house. The thieves knew the owners were at the football
game, they knew what time the game was scheduled to finish and so
they knew how much time they had to clean out the house. It would
appear that they had brought a truck to empty the house of its contents.
Something to consider if you have a GPS - don't put your home
address in it.. Put a nearby address (like a store or gas station) so you
can still find your way home if you need to, but no one else would know
where you live if your GPS were stolen.
MOBILE PHONES
I never thought of this...
This lady has now changed her habit of how she lists her names on
her mobile phone after her handbag was stolen. Her handbag, which
contained her cell phone, credit card, wallet.. Etc....was stolen.
20 minutes later when she called her hubby, from a pay phone telling
him what had happened, hubby says 'I received your text asking
about our Pin number and I've replied a little while ago.'
When they rushed down to the bank, the bank staff told them all the
money was already withdrawn. The thief had actually used the stolen
cell phone to text 'hubby' in the contact list and got hold of the pin
number. Within 20 minutes he had withdrawn all the money from their
bank account.
Moral of the lesson:
Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people in
your contact list.
Avoid using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, Sweetheart, Dad,
Mom, etc...
And very importantly, when sensitive info is being asked through texts,
CONFIRM by calling back.
Also, when you're being text by friends or family to meet them
somewhere, be sure to call back to confirm that the message came
from them. If you don't reach them, be very careful about going places
to meet 'family and friends' who text you.
PLEASE PASS THIS ON
I never thought about the above!
As of now, I no longer have 'home' listed on my GPS or cell phone.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
RV Replacement Cost Settlement
There can be quite alot of confusion among the RV community about this subject so I want to just do a review on what your options are when purchasing RV insurance.
I am going to base this information on how the big 3 companies (Progressive, GMAC and National Interstate) describe this coverage.
Total Replacement Cost:
This coverage is available on new RV's with all 3 companies. (Some will allow the RV to be a couple years old). In the event of a total loss, this coverage replaces the current RV with a brand new untitled RV that is as close as possible to the same make and model you had with comparable equipment. Even if it cost more than you paid for yours. This is a no-brainer and is inexpensive. If you buy a new RV make sure you have this coverage!!
Purchase Price Guarantee:
Once the RV you purchased new is 5 model years old, the 3 companies will revert your Total Replacement Cost coverage to Purchase Price Guarantee automatically. This means that in the event of a total loss, you will receive your purchase price back. Therefore, I cannot stress how important it is for you to always keep your original purchase invoice. I always try to have my clients send me a copy for safekeeping.
I have asked all 3 companies how long this coverage will remain. All three said either 20 years or forever and since no one seems to keep their RV's for that long, we have never had to put that to the test.
Agreed Value:
Progressive is the only one that offers this coverage and I think it's also a no-brainer if you have purchased your RV within the last 2 years. They will insure the RV based upon your purchase price and agree to pay you that amount in the event of a total loss. It doesn't matter if the RV is not brand new at the time of purchase. Again a copy of your purchase invoice is required. In South Dakota, they have allowed this coverage to be added even if you purchased your RV over 2 years ago as long as you provide a current NADA print out showing the value. www.nada.com. National Interstate offers this coverage on bus conversions but will require a qualified appraisal.
Actual Cash Value:
If you do not see any of the above three coverages listed on your policy, then most likely you have an Actual Cash Value loss settlement. This means that the company will depriciate the RV and take into account the condition, mileage, existing damage etc. I'm not a fan if you can get one of the above. Especially on your higher valued RV's
I want to make mention that if you have an RV that has had Total Replacement Cost and it is now 5 years old, you may want to consider dropping the Replacement Cost/Purchase Price Guarantee and just insure the RV for it's current value. This amount will need to be adjusted based upon market conditions and should be reviewed at renewal time to make sure it is accurate. The plus side to this is that insurance premiums are based upon the value of the RV. So, if you have an RV that has depriciated significantly, you could reduce the value on the policy, insure it for Actual Cash Value and pay less for your policy. Personally, I am OK with this if your RV is under $50,000 in value AND if you do not owe money on it.
I am going to base this information on how the big 3 companies (Progressive, GMAC and National Interstate) describe this coverage.
Total Replacement Cost:
This coverage is available on new RV's with all 3 companies. (Some will allow the RV to be a couple years old). In the event of a total loss, this coverage replaces the current RV with a brand new untitled RV that is as close as possible to the same make and model you had with comparable equipment. Even if it cost more than you paid for yours. This is a no-brainer and is inexpensive. If you buy a new RV make sure you have this coverage!!
Purchase Price Guarantee:
Once the RV you purchased new is 5 model years old, the 3 companies will revert your Total Replacement Cost coverage to Purchase Price Guarantee automatically. This means that in the event of a total loss, you will receive your purchase price back. Therefore, I cannot stress how important it is for you to always keep your original purchase invoice. I always try to have my clients send me a copy for safekeeping.
I have asked all 3 companies how long this coverage will remain. All three said either 20 years or forever and since no one seems to keep their RV's for that long, we have never had to put that to the test.
Agreed Value:
Progressive is the only one that offers this coverage and I think it's also a no-brainer if you have purchased your RV within the last 2 years. They will insure the RV based upon your purchase price and agree to pay you that amount in the event of a total loss. It doesn't matter if the RV is not brand new at the time of purchase. Again a copy of your purchase invoice is required. In South Dakota, they have allowed this coverage to be added even if you purchased your RV over 2 years ago as long as you provide a current NADA print out showing the value. www.nada.com. National Interstate offers this coverage on bus conversions but will require a qualified appraisal.
Actual Cash Value:
If you do not see any of the above three coverages listed on your policy, then most likely you have an Actual Cash Value loss settlement. This means that the company will depriciate the RV and take into account the condition, mileage, existing damage etc. I'm not a fan if you can get one of the above. Especially on your higher valued RV's
I want to make mention that if you have an RV that has had Total Replacement Cost and it is now 5 years old, you may want to consider dropping the Replacement Cost/Purchase Price Guarantee and just insure the RV for it's current value. This amount will need to be adjusted based upon market conditions and should be reviewed at renewal time to make sure it is accurate. The plus side to this is that insurance premiums are based upon the value of the RV. So, if you have an RV that has depriciated significantly, you could reduce the value on the policy, insure it for Actual Cash Value and pay less for your policy. Personally, I am OK with this if your RV is under $50,000 in value AND if you do not owe money on it.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Making Life More Fun!!!
Eight Tips For Getting Ready For RV Season
(NAPS)—If you enjoy roaming the road with your recreational vehicle (RV), you have lots of company. Millions enjoy that freedom, too. Here are some general tips that will help to steer you towards a stress-free season on the road:
Clean it up and air it out. Open all roof vents and windows and then remove any pest control items you may have placed during winter storage. It is also a good idea to clean or replace air conditioner filters.
Check for damage.
Look for deterioration of seals around doors, roof vents and windows and reseal as necessary.
Check awnings for damage, mildew and insects.
Examine the hitch system for wear, loose bolts and cracks.
Change the engine oil and spark plugs. Many manufacturers recommend changing the oil and filter prior to storage and again in the spring. During storage, oil can separate and cause condensation buildup that may harm the engine. While replacing spark plugs, be sure to set the gaps to the recommended manufacturer’s setting.
Inspect the engine.
Check the battery.
Check the cooling and fuel systems.
Drain and flush the entire system of the nontoxic antifreeze you used before placing the RV into storage and replace with the proper coolant.
Check for cracks in hoses and fan belts and replace if necessary.
Replace fuel filter, and examine the fuel lines and fittings for cracks and leaks.
Change the transmission fluid and filter.
Flush the water system.
Inspect the tires. Check for cracks, worn treads and correct tire pressure.
Check all lights. Make sure headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals are all functioning properly.
Prepare for a safe season. After checking all mechanical components, it’s always a good idea to inspect your safety equipment. This means installing new batteries in flashlights and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and restocking the first-aid kit.
Check your coverage. After making these routine checks, don’t forget to review your insurance policy to make sure it meets your current needs. Progressive, for example, has been insuring RVers for more than 25 years and understands their needs and wants, so it has developed specialized coverages that offer true protection.
It covers more than other companies that simply add RVs onto an existing auto policy.
For more information about specialized RV insurance coverages, visit progressiveagent.com.
Did You Know?
After RVers make routine checks, they should review their insurance policy to make sure it meets current needs. Progressive, for example, has developed specialized coverages that offer true protection, much more than other companies that simply add RVs onto an existing auto policy.
(NAPS)—If you enjoy roaming the road with your recreational vehicle (RV), you have lots of company. Millions enjoy that freedom, too. Here are some general tips that will help to steer you towards a stress-free season on the road:
Clean it up and air it out. Open all roof vents and windows and then remove any pest control items you may have placed during winter storage. It is also a good idea to clean or replace air conditioner filters.
Check for damage.
Look for deterioration of seals around doors, roof vents and windows and reseal as necessary.
Check awnings for damage, mildew and insects.
Examine the hitch system for wear, loose bolts and cracks.
Change the engine oil and spark plugs. Many manufacturers recommend changing the oil and filter prior to storage and again in the spring. During storage, oil can separate and cause condensation buildup that may harm the engine. While replacing spark plugs, be sure to set the gaps to the recommended manufacturer’s setting.
Inspect the engine.
Check the battery.
Check the cooling and fuel systems.
Drain and flush the entire system of the nontoxic antifreeze you used before placing the RV into storage and replace with the proper coolant.
Check for cracks in hoses and fan belts and replace if necessary.
Replace fuel filter, and examine the fuel lines and fittings for cracks and leaks.
Change the transmission fluid and filter.
Flush the water system.
Inspect the tires. Check for cracks, worn treads and correct tire pressure.
Check all lights. Make sure headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals are all functioning properly.
Prepare for a safe season. After checking all mechanical components, it’s always a good idea to inspect your safety equipment. This means installing new batteries in flashlights and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and restocking the first-aid kit.
Check your coverage. After making these routine checks, don’t forget to review your insurance policy to make sure it meets your current needs. Progressive, for example, has been insuring RVers for more than 25 years and understands their needs and wants, so it has developed specialized coverages that offer true protection.
It covers more than other companies that simply add RVs onto an existing auto policy.
For more information about specialized RV insurance coverages, visit progressiveagent.com.
Did You Know?
After RVers make routine checks, they should review their insurance policy to make sure it meets current needs. Progressive, for example, has developed specialized coverages that offer true protection, much more than other companies that simply add RVs onto an existing auto policy.
A trip in an RV shouldn’t ruin your marriage … or your day
Mistakes happen, especially when you’re somewhere unfamiliar, but the results of a recent survey may still surprise you.
The survey found that among RVers, a spouse is more likely to be accidentally left behind than the dog.
A leading RV insurer, The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, surveyed more than 1,000 RVers countrywide to uncover amusing mishaps they’ve experienced while traveling.
The survey found that the most common blunders made while traveling are:
•driving away with the steps extended;
•backing into something;
•misjudging overhead or side clearance space;
•not connecting taillights correctly; and
•running out of gas.
The survey found that 53 percent of RVers spend a month or more each year traveling the open road, and 42 percent travel more than 500 miles per trip.
Traveling the open road in an RV can be a great adventure, but sometimes it gets a little bumpy. That’s why RVers were also asked about their insurance. When mishaps happen, you want to get back on the road fast—ideally with all of your passengers on board.
Only 28 percent bought a stand-alone insurance policy with specialized RV coverages. In fact, 54 percent simply added their RV to their auto policy, and 14 percent didn’t buy any RV insurance.
Although mishaps can sometimes be funny, they can also lead to costly damages. Simply adding your RV to your auto policy can leave you woefully underprotected. It’s important to know what coverages are available to adequately protect yourself and your vehicle.
“There are huge differences in coverage and services from companies that specialize in RV insurance,” says Cathy Pelfrey, RV product manager at Progressive. “Check with your local independent insurance agent or do research online so that you buy the policy and coverages that are right for you.”
To find an independent agent, visit www.progressiveagent.com. For more information on specialized RV coverages, visit http://rv.progressive.com.
The survey found that among RVers, a spouse is more likely to be accidentally left behind than the dog.
A leading RV insurer, The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, surveyed more than 1,000 RVers countrywide to uncover amusing mishaps they’ve experienced while traveling.
The survey found that the most common blunders made while traveling are:
•driving away with the steps extended;
•backing into something;
•misjudging overhead or side clearance space;
•not connecting taillights correctly; and
•running out of gas.
The survey found that 53 percent of RVers spend a month or more each year traveling the open road, and 42 percent travel more than 500 miles per trip.
Traveling the open road in an RV can be a great adventure, but sometimes it gets a little bumpy. That’s why RVers were also asked about their insurance. When mishaps happen, you want to get back on the road fast—ideally with all of your passengers on board.
Only 28 percent bought a stand-alone insurance policy with specialized RV coverages. In fact, 54 percent simply added their RV to their auto policy, and 14 percent didn’t buy any RV insurance.
Although mishaps can sometimes be funny, they can also lead to costly damages. Simply adding your RV to your auto policy can leave you woefully underprotected. It’s important to know what coverages are available to adequately protect yourself and your vehicle.
“There are huge differences in coverage and services from companies that specialize in RV insurance,” says Cathy Pelfrey, RV product manager at Progressive. “Check with your local independent insurance agent or do research online so that you buy the policy and coverages that are right for you.”
To find an independent agent, visit www.progressiveagent.com. For more information on specialized RV coverages, visit http://rv.progressive.com.
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