Vargas & Vargas Insurance

1133 Washington St
Dorchester, MA 02124

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If You Don’t Own A Home And Rent, You Need Renters Insurance

No matter who you are – single person, a family of three, or a retiree – and you do not own a home or condominium, having renters insurance is a must.

We speak with our customers who rent often and find a lot of confusion around insurance. Some don’t understand why they need it, and the idea of an additional expense turns some off. However, when we get the opportunity to explain why renters insurance is beneficial, there are five points that we always make sure to cover.

Your Landlord’s Insurance Does Not Protect Your Belongings.

Your landlord’s insurance policy covers only what the landlord owns. For example, suppose a fire burns your rental property. In that case, the policy will cover rebuilding the structure and common areas and replacing permanent items such as major appliances and lost rental money. However, it will not cover any of your possessions. Anything you own is your own responsibility.

You May Have More To Lose Than You Realize.

Think how much it would cost to replace your phone, laptop, TV, furniture, and clothing. The bill could easily be over $5,000. A Renters policy would cover the cost if those possessions were stolen, damaged, or destroyed. You would pay a deductible (usually a few hundred dollars) and the insurance company would pay the rest.

This type of policy covers fire, flooding, theft, smoke damage, electrical surges, and water damage from a neighbor’s bathtub overflowing. We recommend clients photograph and inventory their possessions, then price them online or in a store. People are usually surprised by the monetary value of everything they own.

Renters’ Policies Can Protect You From Many Potential Issues.

You threw a party in your apartment. It started small but got bigger as your friends invited their friends. Someone you didn’t know slipped on a spill and went to the hospital. This could put you at risk of a lawsuit and your landlord’s insurance won’t help. A Renters policy would cover legal and settlement costs. You can customize a policy with Animal Liability, Identity Theft Protection, and Extra Personal Property Protection.

Renters Insurance is Very Affordable

The Insurance Information Institute states that the national average cost of Renters insurance is $180 per year. That’s pennies per day for the security it provides.

Getting a Renters policy from the same company through your local independent insurance broker that insures your car may help you save money on Auto insurance. Many insurers offer discounts for customers with multiple policies. This discount could cover the cost of the Renters’ policy.

Your Local Independent Insurance Broker

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is your local independent insurance Independent Agent, we work with you to customize a policy to suit your very specific needs. We understand that everyone’s needs are different, and that’s why we take the time to carefully review your situation and develop a policy that fits your needs perfectly. We’ll also make sure you’re getting all the discounts you’re eligible to receive so that you can save on your premiums.

With over 40 years of experience in the insurance industry, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands with Vargas & Vargas Insurance. We’d be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with the best coverage possible. So don’t hesitate to call us today at 617-298-0655 and let us help you find the perfect policy for you.

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The Limitations of Classic Car Insurance

Classic car insurance offers specialized coverage for classic vehicles in and around the Dorchester, MA area. Not all vehicles qualify for this type of insurance due to their limitations. Several criteria determine eligibility: age, rarity, condition, and usage restrictions. Understanding these factors is essential for classic car owners to determine if their vehicles meet the criteria.  

Usage Restrictions 

Classic car insurance often imposes usage restrictions to qualify for coverage. The first thing considered is if there are any age restrictions on the vehicle. Other restrictions vary but commonly include limitations on mileage, requiring the vehicle to be used for pleasure or exhibition purposes rather than daily commuting. Some policies may prohibit commercial use or restrict the distance traveled from the owner’s residence.

Limited Coverage for Modifications 

Classic car insurance may have limitations on modifications. Insurers often expect classic cars to be kept as close to their original condition as possible. How rare the vehicle is can be a factor. Extensive changes or aftermarket alterations may impact eligibility or result in limited coverage.

Limited Use for Regular Transportation 

Classic car insurance is designed for vehicles primarily used for recreational purposes rather than as daily drivers. Consequently, coverage for regular transportation, commuting, or extensive business use may be limited or excluded.

Agreed Value vs. Actual Cash Value 

Classic car insurance policies typically offer coverage based on an agreed value or stated value rather than the vehicle’s actual cash value. This means the insurer and owner agree on the vehicle’s value upfront, ensuring appropriate coverage. It also means that depreciation may not factor into claims settlements.

How Vargas & Vargas Insurance Can Help You

Here at Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we are ready to assist you with your classic car insurance needs. We cover areas around the Dorchester, MA region. Contact us today.

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Understanding Earthquake Insurance

Understanding Earthquake coverage

When you hear the term “Big One,” you may think of California or the Pacific Northwest. But the strongest earthquake in the lower 48 states occurred in the heartland. In 1811 and 1812, a series of quakes hit the New Madrid fault near present-day Memphis, Tennessee. It was estimated at 7.7 on the Richter scale and could be felt in New York City.

According to the United States Geological Survey, New England has a low to moderate earthquake hazard. Most earthquakes in New England have been <5.0 magnitude (Mw), but some significant earthquakes >Mw 5.0 occurred in the last few hundred years.

A 2009 study by the Mid-America Earthquake Center at the University of Illinois showed that a quake of this magnitude now could damage more than 700,000 buildings in eight states. The USGS states that earthquakes affect more than half the US population.

Despite this, only 7% of Americans have earthquake insurance. Sales have gone down in recent years because it can be expensive. Premiums may cost hundreds of dollars, and the coverage has some restrictions that make many people not want to buy it.

When it comes to Earthquake insurance, there are a few things to know. Understanding one’s options and what to expect from the policy is important.

Your Homeowners Insurance Does Not Protection Against Earthquake Damage.

A standard Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover damage caused by an earthquake. It may, however, cover damage to the home caused by fires following the quake.

Proper Earthquake insurance is available as a rider on your insurance policy to a standard Homeowners policy. In some areas of the country, coverage is provided by private insurers as a separate insurance policy.

Some Earthquake Coverage Have Limitations

Some home insurance policies can be tailored to provide extra protection for items such as detached garages, pools, jewelry, and firearms. Earthquake insurance may not offer coverage for these extra structures and items and may have less coverage for alternate housing if your home needs repairs or rebuilding.

Earthquake Deductibles Tend To Be High

Earthquake insurance can be expensive, particularly in high-risk areas. Its deductibles are higher than a standard Homeowners policy’s, usually ranging from 5 to 15% of the policy limit. For example, a common Homeowners policy deductible is $500, but a 15% deductible on a $200,000 policy limit would be $30,000. In cases of major damage, this is a welcome tradeoff. However, with minor to moderate damage, an Earthquake insurance claim may not be worth it.

How Much Does Earthquake Insurance Cost?

How much is earthquake insurance? It can cost from $800 to $5,000 a year. The deductible is usually 5-20% of the coverage limit.

We have a policy for our condominium in Dorchester. It’s a rider on our HO6 policy and costs $287 a year. The deductible is 5% if there is a loss from an earthquake. The price can change depending on certain factors.

Your Local Independent Agent Can Assist You In Deciding If Earthquake Insurance Is A Good Fit For You.

Earthquake insurance is often recommended for homeowners who live in high-risk areas, like near a fault. A quake can cause severe damage, so the coverage is important. For homeowners in low-to-moderate risk areas, an independent insurance agent can help compare rates and policies from multiple companies to ensure the policy is adequate.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance can help you decide and compare rates and policies from multiple companies. He or she can help you be confident your policy is up to protecting you financially if the Big One does hit close to home. Call us today at 617-298-0655.

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Hyundai And Kia Drivers Are Being Dropped By Major Insurance Companies

Car enthusiasts! We have some important news to share with you today that’s been causing quite a stir in the world of auto insurance. 🤯 Some major car insurance companies like Allstate and State Farm have recently made changes to their policies regarding Kia and Hyundai vehicles, and this news may have left many of you confused and concerned. That’s why we’re here to shed some light on the situation and provide you with valuable insights.

Kia and Hyundai vehicles have unfortunately become targets for theft due to certain vulnerabilities in their manufacturing. Recently, details on how to hotwire these vehicles have spread across social media, making them more susceptible to theft. As a result, car thefts have skyrocketed, prompting insurance giants like Allstate, Progressive, and State Farm to take action. They have decided to limit the number of new policies they write for these specific vehicles.

However, the story doesn’t end there. Both Kia and Hyundai have swiftly responded to this issue by releasing free software fixes to address the hotwiring vulnerability. They strongly urge all owners of their vehicles to check if their car has received the update. The update is easy to access and install, and can help ensure your car’s safety and security.

It’s important to note that these changes don’t necessarily mean that Kia and Hyundai vehicles are unsafe or unreliable. On the contrary, these companies are doing their best to keep their vehicles up-to-date and secure with the latest technology. It’s simply a matter of being proactive and taking the necessary steps to protect your car and your wallet.

We hope this update has provided some clarity on the situation and given you greater peace of mind. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help!”

Vulnerability can pose a challenge when it comes to obtaining coverage from major insurance providers. That’s why our team of dedicated independent agents is here to help. We will work with you to explore the insurance market and find the best coverage plan that meets your needs. We are committed to providing our readers with the most up-to-date information to enable them to make informed decisions about their insurance coverage.

When it comes to protecting your vehicle, knowledge is power. It is essential to stay informed about the latest software updates, as well as to seek expert advice from our team. By doing so, you can ensure that you are taking the necessary steps to protect your vehicle and maintain your peace of mind on the road.

Our team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance is always ready to provide reliable and comprehensive guidance, so you can have the assurance that your vehicle, you home and your life is properly protected.

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How Much Does Condo Insurance Cost in Massachusetts? +Pro-Tip

If you’ve recently purchased a condo, you may be feeling a mixture of emotions. You’re likely thrilled to have your own place, but the idea of adding additional payments and HOA fees to your budget can be daunting. Additionally, you may be unsure how much it will cost to insure your new condo; however,

Vargas & Vargas Insurance has provided thousands of Massachusetts condo owners with the coverage they need.

In this article, we’ll provide an estimate for the cost of condo insurance, discuss the factors that can affect it, give sample premiums from Massachusetts residences, and offer tips on how to reduce the cost.

How much does a MA condo insurance policy cost?

It is not possible to give you an exact figure of what condo insurance would cost without knowing the specifics. However, an approximate range can be given based on average premiums observed. Generally speaking, a condo insurance policy could cost between $300 and $1,000 annually ($25 to $84 per month). To get a more precise evaluation, further details need to be considered.

What affects the cost of MA condo insurance

The range of coverage we gave is not exact since each condo policy differs depending on various factors. The following elements will influence the policy.

Condominium insurance limits

Every kind of insurance has a maximum amount they will pay out in the event of a claim. Each policy typically includes several different limits that apply to each coverage included. For example, condo insurance may have limits on dwelling, personal property, loss of use, loss assessment, medical payments to others, personal liability and personal injury. Generally speaking, policies with higher limits tend to cost more.

What does your master policy cover

The kind of coverage you need for condo insurance depends on if your master policy is walls-in or all-in. An all-in policy will provide protection for anything in the condo that isn’t owned, such as appliances, wiring, plumbing and carpets. It covers all the items that would be taken with you if you moved out.

A walls-in policy does not cover anything inside your walls, even if it belongs to you. This includes drywall, carpeting, flooring, countertops and appliances; it may also exclude plumbing and electrical units.

If the master policy is all-encompassing, usually the HO-6 policy must have enough dwelling coverage to pay for the master policy’s deductible. However, if the master policy only covers external walls, then you need a greater amount of dwelling coverage to cover what’s inside your unit.

The deductible you choose

The level of deductible you choose affects the cost of personal insurance. A deductible is an amount that needs to be paid by the owner of the condominium before an insurance company will pay a claim. Generally, you have a selection of deductibles for home insurance, commonly $1,000, $1,500, and $2,000. The more significant the deductible amount is that you pick, the less expensive your premium will be.

Your Condominium exposure

Insurance companies use a variety of factors to determine your insurance quote. One of the most important elements is the risk assessment, which looks at the likelihood of you making a claim. This assessment takes into account a variety of factors such as your age, driving record, location, and credit rating. The higher the risk, the higher the premium you will be charged. It’s important to note that the insurance company will also consider the type of coverage you are requesting. For example, if you are requesting coverage for a high-value item, this could increase the risk and therefore the premium. The same is true of additional riders or endorsements that you may request. Understanding the risks associated with the coverage you are requesting is key to getting the best quote possible.

Prior claims history

If you have previously had to make a claim on your condo insurance, the insurance company will view you as more of a potential hazard and may increase the cost of premiums accordingly.

The insurance company

The cost of a condo insurance policy can differ significantly depending on the insurance carrier that provides it. We’ve seen examples of price variations ranging from a few hundred dollars in some cases. That is why we emphasize the importance of working with an independent agent who can compare different policies from various carriers to get you an appropriate coverage for the best price.

Other factors that affect the condo insurance price

The location of the condo, the location of the condo can affect the cost of insurance due to the varying levels of risk associated with different areas. For example, a condo located in an area prone to flooding or other natural disasters may cost more to insure than one located in a lower risk area.

The age ,the age of the condo can also be a factor, as older structures may require more coverage than newer ones

The size, the size of the condo can affect the cost of insurance, as larger condos may require more coverage than smaller condos. and the materials it is made out of.

The materials, the materials the condo is made out of can have an effect on the cost of insurance, as certain materials may be more expensive to insure than others.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is committed to providing assistance and support to families and individuals for more than four decades. Our staff are available to answer any queries you may have, so don’t hesitate to reach out today by dialing 617-298-0655.

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Most Common Summertime Insurance Claims

As temperatures heat up, so do some types of insurance claims. Keep reading to find out the most common accidents we see during the summer and a bit of guidance on how to prevent them.

Outdoor fires – Bonfires, cookouts, and grilling are fun but can put you at risk for fire. Never leave a fire unattended, and keep fires at least 10 to 25 feet away from flammable structures/surfaces.

Make sure that the surrounding area is free of any debris, and that the fire is in a fire-safe pit or container. Additionally, have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher on hand in case of an emergency. Make sure to keep children and pets away from the fire at all times. Finally, when you’re done with the fire, make sure to completely extinguish it so that it won’t reignite. Taking these safety measures will help ensure that your outdoor fire is a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone!

Pool Accidents – Splishing and splashing come with a lot of dangers. Fencing in your pool, jumping safely, and never leaving children unattended help prevent accidents.

Additionally, it’s important to teach children how to jump safely into the pool. Make sure they understand how to properly enter the pool and the importance of not running around the pool area. Lastly, it’s never a good idea to leave children unattended when they’re in the pool. Make sure that there is always an adult nearby who is paying attention and can help if something goes wrong. Taking these simple precautions can help to prevent pool accidents.

Car Accidents – Road safety is essential during summer vacations and road trips. Practice defensive driving, and complete a maintenance check-up on your car before hitting the road.

Complete a maintenance check-up on your car, such as checking the oil, brakes, and tires, to ensure that your car is in peak condition. By following these tips, you can greatly reduce the risk of being involved in a car accident.

Home Burglaries – During the summer months, when people are away from home on vacation, there is an increased risk of home burglaries and thefts. Taking a few simple precautions can help reduce the likelihood of a home burglary. Installing a home security alarm system is one of the most effective deterrents.

Motion detection lights placed around the exterior of the home can also help scare away potential intruders. Additionally, having a trusted neighbor collect your mail on a regular basis will help keep your home from appearing vacant. Taking these steps can help protect your home from burglaries and give you peace of mind.

Pro Tip – Add deadbolt locks to all windows and doors for extra security. Consider smart devices like locks and video surveillance systems to control remotely. This added protection could help keep your summertime claim-free. Additionally, consider installing alarm systems in case of intruders. Finally, send the alarm certificate to your insurance agent to receive a discount.

At vargas & Vargas Insurance we always have time for you, you can reach us at 617-298-0655.

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Tips for making your home a safer place

Home safety is a significant concern for people everywhere. Home is where your heart is, but it is also where many accidents happen. Many accidents in the house are preventable if the correct measures are taken in advance. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester, MA, we want to make your home safer by providing you with the best and most affordable home insurance. 

Keep poison out of reach.

Many things we use daily in our homes are not safe if ingested by pets or children. It can be things like cleaning products or even laundry detergent. If you treat weeds in your lawn, these products may be unsafe if your pet or children get into them. Keep these products in a locked cupboard if possible but at the very least in a high location. 

Avoid falls

Falls are a major risk in the home. Some simple things, such as never placing things on stairs and removing clutter, can help decrease the risk. Don’t run extension cords across spaces where people walk; they are a trip hazard. Add slip-resistant mats or decals to your tub or shower. Make sure that the lighting is adequate so that you can see where you are going, and use night lights or motion activation lights. 

Common sense

Some things that can help keep you safe are just common sense things. Set your water heater temperature to a safe temperature. One hundred twenty degrees is recommended. Never climb a ladder alone; always have a spotter. Have a fire extinguisher in your home for small fires. Have smoke detectors and make sure they are working. 

Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester, MA, either through our website or by calling or visiting our office. 

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Filing A Home Insurance Claim Plus Pro Tip

A survey done in 2020 showed that only 6% of homeowners with insurance policies made claims. This might lead you to ask why you’re paying a fee each month if no one is taking advantage of the coverage. The answer is easy: filing a claim isn’t always the best choice. Home insurance is meant to protect your financial security in the case of major damage to your home, but if it’s just a few thousand dollars or less, it may not be worth filing a claim. Ultimately, whether or not to file depends on your policy.

If you are uncertain if you should submit a homeowners insurance claim, this article is designed to help. Read on to learn more about analyzing your insurance policy and deciding upon when it is appropriate to file a claim.

Choosing The Right Home Insurance Policy

Before you sign up for a new insurance policy, you need to account for the value of your home, possessions in your home, and your budget. The more your home and personal property is worth, the more you will be paying for your home insurance policy.

Your premium is a new monthly bill, and it is important that you can comfortably and reliably pay it. Additionally, you should think about how much you can afford to pay out of pocket in the event your property is damaged. Let’s say the deductible is $1,000. Can you pay $1,000 out of pocket before your insurance kicks in or do you need a policy with a lower deductible? Talk to an insurance agent to get started building the right plan for you.

Understanding Your Insurance Policy

To begin with, it is important to comprehend your home insurance policy. What is the amount of your deductible and does filing a claim lead to increased premiums? Additionally, what type of coverage does your insurer provide? Is my situation eligible for coverage? We will discuss these issues in more detail below.

Understanding Your Deductible

The deductible is the amount that you have to pay yourself before your insurance begins to cover costs. You will not be paying towards your deductible unless a claim is made with your home insurance. For instance, if the deductible for your policy is $1000, then in cases of damaged or stolen items, you would need to spend $1000 and your insurer would cover anything above that sum.

Additionally, keep in mind that filing a claim can potentially increase your insurance premiums. Your insurance company may view you as a higher-risk customer, resulting in higher monthly payments.

Keeping An Eye On Your Premiums

The first step in deciding whether to file a homeowners insurance claim is to understand your deductible. Your deductible is the amount of money you’re responsible for paying out-of-pocket before your insurance policy kicks in.

For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and experience $3,000 in damages, you’ll be responsible for paying the initial $1,000, and your insurance company will cover the remaining $2,000.

It’s important to consider your deductible when deciding whether to file a claim. If the cost of damages is less than your deductible, it may not be worthwhile to file a claim at all. Additionally, if the cost of damages is only slightly above your deductible, you may want to consider covering the cost out-of-pocket instead of filing a claim, as it could potentially raise your premiums.

Outlining The Damages

Home insurance can be confusing. Does it provide coverage for the home itself and its contents? The answer is yes. The real inquiry, however, relates to what circumstances are covered by the policy. Many insurers offer plans that are based on the Insurance Services Office HO-3 policy, so let’s examine what this plan covers. Generally, standard insurance policies protect possessions from natural disasters such as lightning, windstorms, hail storms, extreme snowfall and volcanic eruptions.

House fires, electrical damage, theft and vandalism are usually covered by insurance plans. On the other hand, water damage, earth movement, infestations, mold growth and neglect are not typically included in these policies. These sorts of damages can be expensive to repair so it’s important to be aware that you may not receive any compensation for them. We will discuss this further later on.

Understanding Your Responsibility After a Loss

All Home insurance policies contain duties that the insured must comply with to recover under the policy. These duties vary from policy to policy but generally include providing notice of the damage to the insurer shortly after the damage occurs, taking appropriate actions to protect the property from further damage, and appearing under oath for an examination of the incident.

Your Insurance Policy Is Not A Maintenance Policy

If your roofing is in bad condition and it caused your home to be damaged in a windstorm, you may be able to file a claim. However, it depends on the terms of your insurance policy and the maintenance agreements that are in place.

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to maintain your property. This includes any needed repairs or renovations concerning plumbing, electrical wiring, roofing, siding and so on. If you do not take care of any damage or wear and tear it can be considered negligence and your insurance company may reject your claim. There are certain ambiguities when filing an insurance claim for maintenance costs; for example if there have been weak patches in the roof for some time with missing shingles and signs of leakage.

It is possible that you could file an insurance claim for the wind damage to your roof, but this depends on the maintenance requirements in your policy. Most insurers require their customers to maintain certain parts of their home, such as the roof, in order to be eligible for coverage. After a severe windstorm has damaged more of your shingles and some interior roofing, you find yourself with an emergency repair job that will cost money. If you have kept up with regular maintenance, then filing a claim may be possible.

Pro-Tip

When damage you need to file an insurance claim, take pictures of the damage if possible. Make a list of everything that was lost or damaged. Keep the list and photos handy to support your claim to provide a clear image of the damage(s) you are reporting.

How Much Can You Save

Vargas & Vargas Insurance has been providing reliable and affordable coverage for over four decades. Our knowledgeable agents are dedicated to helping you find the right policy for your needs, so you can rest easy knowing your business is safe and secure.

With our expertise and comprehensive coverage options, you can feel confident that whatever life throws at you, your business will be taken care of. Invest in peace of mind today with homeowners insurance from Vargas & Vargas Insurance, you can reach our team at 617-298-0655.


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Do I need To Purchase Insurance For My Rental Car?

Before taking a trip, it is important to understand what insurance coverage applies in the case of an accident while driving a rental car. We at Vargas & Vargas Insurance are often asked how claims will be handled in these situations. To be prepared, it is essential to research the extent of coverage provided by rental car companies and if additional insurance needs to be purchased.

What Is The Insurance Coverage For Rental Car Accidents?

In most states, if you have your own auto insurance policy, the coverage will apply to you and the rental car you are using. This means that if there is an accident involving your rented vehicle, your existing auto policy would still provide coverage. However, keep in mind that this type of protection only applies within the United States and its territories – it does not extend to international rentals. In Massachusetts, it is mandated by law that rental car companies must carry a certain amount of liability protection for any accidents involving their vehicles. For example, they must be able to cover up to $5,000 worth of damage claims concerning their cars. After the required liability limits are reached by the rental company, any remaining costs will come out of the renter’s personal auto or named non-owner policy.

Renters of long-term leases have restrictions on the amount of coverage they can get.

Loss Of Use

If you have an accident and damage a rental car, the rental company may charge you for not being able to use it while it is being repaired. Typically, your auto policy will not cover this fee, however, if you have Safety Shield Plus added as an endorsement to your policy, it may be covered. Also, many credit cards provide coverage for loss of use when renting a car if used to pay for the rental.

What Is Rental Automobile Insurance?

In some situations, you may need to obtain rental car insurance in order to be covered for any accidents you are involved in while driving a rental car. It is important not to confuse this with rental reimbursement coverage. Rental car insurance is a distinct policy provided by the car rental company that provides protection for the rented vehicle. This kind of coverage typically includes:

  • Liability coverage: This covers you for any medical bills or damage to another person’s property if you cause an accident while driving a rented vehicle. 
  • Loss/collision damage waiver: A collision or loss-damage waiver protects you in the event of damages that occur to the rental car, including vandalism and theft. 
  • Personal accident insurance: This offers coverage against injuries to you and your passengers while driving a rented vehicle. 

Personal effects coverage: Provides protection for your belongings if they are taken or ruined while in a car you have hired.

Do I Need Rental Car Coverage?

Typically, you won’t need to purchase a separate rental car policy. If you have an auto insurance plan already, it will extend protection to any rented vehicles. If your auto policy includes comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, liability insurance and medical payments/personal injury protection, then buying an additional rental car policy is likely unnecessary. Additionally, any personal possessions in the rented vehicle would be safeguarded if you have a homeowners’, renters’ or condo insurance plan.

When Should I Purchase Rental Car Insurance?

In some cases, having a rental car policy may still be advantageous even if you already have car insurance. Examples of such situations include when you wish to avoid making claims on your auto policy; don’t have collision or comprehensive coverage; travelling somewhere that isn’t covered by your plan; having high deductibles on the auto insurance; having low liability limits under the policy; or renting a moving truck or vehicle (auto insurance won’t cover this).

What Should I Do After A Rental Car Accident?

If you are in an accident with a rental car, or if another driver has a rental car, the steps to take afterwards are similar to those after any other auto accident. However, there are some extra considerations that must be kept in mind. To deal with an accident involving a rental car, do the following: move yourself and the vehicle out of harm’s way; assess if anyone is injured; call emergency services; swap contact information and document details about the crash; take pictures of any damages and road conditions/obstacles; let your rental company know what happened (they may require you to fill out their own report); and notify your insurance carrier even if it was not your fault so you can decide whether to file a claim.

Covering rental Cars:

Now that you are aware of the different insurance coverage options for rentals and what to do in the event of an accident, you can confidently get behind the wheel of your next rental car. Even with full coverage, it is understandable for someone to feel confused after a collision. That is why Vargas & Vargas Insurance is available to help guide you through any claims process that may arise from a minor or major accident.

Dealing With An Independent Insurance Broker

Vargas & Vargas Insurance has been helping Families, individuals and businesses for over 40 years, you can reach our team at 617-298-0655

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Registering A Car in Massachusetts Plus Pro Tip

Massachusetts does not have a grace period for registering your vehicle when you move into the state. You must register it right away. If you are transferring the registration from an old car to a new one that was purchased from either a dealer or an individual, then you have 7 days after selling the previous vehicle to do so. Registering a car in Massachusetts may seem complex at first glance.

Buying Automobile Insurance

In Massachusetts, only 3.5% of drivers are not insured, making it the second lowest in the country. This is largely due to the stringent laws regarding car insurance. To register a vehicle, you must provide evidence of insurance; visiting an independent agency can help you decide which type of coverage is best for your needs. Comparing quotes between different companies online is one way to find the best rates; alternatively, having an independent agent compare quotes on your behalf may save time and effort.

The representatives of Vargas & Vargas Insurance collaborate with numerous insurance companies to offer our clients the most economical rates on the market.

Registering Your Vehicle With the Massachusetts RMV

Once you have purchased your automobile insurance policy, you can now register your car at the RMV. Make sure to bring all the necessary items with you in order to complete the registration process successfully.

What Is Needed for Auto Insurance

Registration and Title Application: This document is needed for all registration transactions, such as out-of-state vehicle transfers and new vehicle registrations. It can be obtained from the RMV in person or downloaded online and must be completely filled out with a signature from your insurance provider. The form will have details about other documents that may be required, like lien holder info. You need to present valid identification that could include a driver’s license, Massachusetts ID or social security number. Additionally, your registration and title application should contain your auto insurance information along with an insurance stamp and signature.

Proof of ownership: Your title is generally an indication of possession. If you have obtained a loan to buy the car, the title would stay with your lender until you settle the debt. In this situation, your registration will stand in its place.

Required Costs: The fee for a certificate of title is $75 and the fundamental registration charge is $60. Unless other expenses are applicable, you can expect to pay close to $135 in total. After your application and related documents are processed, you will be issued vehicle registration and plates. The certificate of title will be processed and sent via mail within 6 to 8 weeks. If the car is under a financial obligation, the title will be transferred to the lender.

Get Your Car Inspected

Once your registration is complete, you have 7 calendar days to get your vehicle inspected. All vehicles registered in Massachusetts must pass a yearly inspection. The inspection typically costs $35 but could be more for a commercial vehicle.

Once you finish signing up, you have a week to have your vehicle checked. All cars registered in Massachusetts must go through an annual inspection. The cost of the assessment is usually $35 but may be more for a commercial car. Massachusetts has 1,800 approved inspection centers. To find one near you, search the Inspection Station Locator online. If your automobile passes the examination, you will get a vehicle inspection sticker that is valid for 12 months. A temporary “fail” sticker will be issued if it doesn’t pass and drivers must make repairs within 60 days and get it re-inspected.

Your Local Independent Insurance Broker

Registering your car correctly is essential to avoid hefty fines and sanctions. Getting your vehicle registered in Massachusetts begins with obtaining the right auto insurance plan. Car insurance is a beneficial asset that can guard you and your automobile. Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance to find out more about acquiring an insurance policy that meets your needs at a reasonable cost.

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