Should You Increase Your Car Insurance Deductible | Blog | Vargas & Vargas Insurance

High Deductible Auto.jpgHere at Vargas and Vargas Insurance , we talk to a lot of people about their automobile insurance. We do everything we can to make sure that all of our clients get the coverage that suits their needs. 

One of the auto insurance topics that we discuss most is the policy’s deductible. You can set your auto insurance deductible low or high, and there are some people that are confused as to why anyone would choose to have a higher deductible.

In truth, there are a few major benefits to setting a more elevated deductible. These reasons include:

Higher Deductibles Mean Lower Premiums – If you agree to pay a higher deductible in the event of an accident, your insurance provider will agree to let you pay a lower monthly premium. This monthly savings on your collision and comprehensive auto insurance coverage can really add up over time!

According to USA Today , raising your auto deductible from $200 to $500 could save you 15% to 30% of your monthly insurance cost.

File Fewer Auto Insurance Claims – If your car insurance deductible was a $1000, you wouldn’t bother telling your insurance provider about a measly ding in your car, would you? The goal of an insurance policy is to financially protect what you cannot. If you feel confident that you can cover minor dings and scratches yourself, you probably don’t need a low deductible policy.

In addition, it is a well known fact that when you file an auto insurance claim, your policy’s rates may rise. By filing less claims with your insurance provider, therefore, you will be saving yourself from raising your rates due to little, somewhat meaningless, claims.

Who Would Benefit?

You should really only consider this method if you fulfill a few categories. First and foremost, you should have enough money to cover a higher deductible should you ever need to make a claim. This can be accomplished by putting the money you save on each insurance bill into a separate account just in case of an accident.

Second, this method is really only viable for safe drivers. A high deductible is not a good choice for those people that are “accident prone,” as they could end up spending a great deal of money each time they find themselves at fault for an accident.

Who Wouldn’t Benefit?

While increasing an auto insurance deductible is the right choice for some car owners, there are others who would not benefit from this tactic.

As we said earlier, those who make auto insurance claims often would not benefit from this approach. In addition, you should only attempt to save this money if you are comfortable putting aside your savings until you have your auto deductible within easy reach in its own savings account. This step is vital in ensuring that you are prepared for an accident, should one occur. Remember – you never plan to get in an accident, and they always happen at the most inconvenient times!

If you are interested in talking to an automobile insurance expert about how raising your automobile insurance may save you money on your premiums, call 877-550-0025 now to speak to a Vargas and Vargas Insurance representative.

Photo credit:  401(K) 2013  /  Foter.com  /  CC BY-SA

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What Happens to My Auto Insurance After a Hit & Run?

By carlos vargas • November 21, 2025
If someone hits your car and drives off, it’s called a hit and run . Imagine leaving the grocery store to find your bumper smashed with no note or witnesses. It’s not just the damage that’s frustrating; it’s the uncertainty about what to do next. Why Are Hit & Runs Confusing? Many drivers aren't sure what to do because we aren’t often taught how insurance works for these situations. But the more you know, the more protected you’ll be. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance , we guide drivers through hit and run claims, breaking down the process in simple terms. Key Questions Answered: What is a hit & run under Massachusetts law? What auto insurance helps in this situation? Will your premium go up? What immediate steps should you take? What Is a "Hit & Run"? A "hit and run" involves another driver damaging your car or injuring you and leaving without giving their info. It could happen in a parking lot, on the street, or even at home. Massachusetts law requires you to report it and file a claim. Coverage That Helps in a Hit & Run Your auto policy can help—if you have the right coverage. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Essential for covering injuries to you or passengers. Collision Coverage: Covers car damage but requires you to pay the deductible. Note: Massachusetts is a no-fault state , needing collision and/or UM coverage for protection. Will Your Insurance Rates Rise? It depends. If considered a not-at-fault accident, rates might not increase. However, lack of a police report or a history of claims might affect rates. Reporting it properly is crucial. What Actions Should You Take? Call the police immediately to file a report. Take photos of all damage and surroundings. Seek witnesses or security camera footage. Contact your insurance agent for advice on filing a claim. Keep all records , like police reports and photos. The Bottom Line You can't control reckless drivers, but you can control your preparedness. Here's what you need to know: Have collision and uninsured motorist coverage for protection. A police report is essential. Your agent is your best ally for making claim decisions.  If you’ve returned to your car to find damage without a note, you know the stress. Now you know the steps to take and the protections you need. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance , we’re here to make this simple and stress-free. Unsure if your policy protects you from a hit & run? Call us at 617-298-0655 . Let’s ensure you’re covered before it happens.

Personal Liability Insurance: What Happens When Someone Gets Hurt on Your Property

By carlos vargas • November 21, 2025
In this post, we'll guide you through what happens when someone is injured on your property, how personal liability insurance can provide protection, and the steps you should take immediately if an accident occurs. By the end, you'll understand common scenarios that trigger personal liability coverage, what's included (and not included) in a standard policy, how claims are managed, and practical tips to protect yourself both before and after an accident. Understanding Personal Liability Insurance Personal liability insurance is designed to protect you financially if you are found legally responsible for someone’s injury or damage to their property. Typically, this coverage is part of your homeowners or renters insurance policy. If an incident occurs on your property and you’re held responsible, your personal liability insurance can help cover: Medical expenses for the injured person. Legal defense costs if you’re sued. Settlement or judgment amounts awarded to the injured party. Without this coverage, you could face out-of-pocket expenses which could amount to thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the situation. Common Injury Scenarios on Your Property Personal liability coverage may be applicable in situations like: A guest slipping on an icy walkway. A child falling off a swing in your backyard. A delivery driver tripping over a loose step. A neighbor’s fence being damaged by a tree falling from your yard.  Accidents can happen even if precautions are taken, and unfortunately, being "careful" doesn't automatically shield you from legal or medical bills. What’s Not Covered It's crucial to understand that personal liability insurance doesn't cover everything. Most policies exclude: Injuries to you or household members. Intentional acts causing harm. Certain high-risk situations, such as injuries from business activities conducted at home (unless you have separate business liability coverage). Understanding these exclusions can prevent surprises and the frustrations often accompanying a denied claim. What Happens After an Injury on Your Property If someone is injured on your property: Get medical help immediately — the priority should be the person’s safety and well-being. Document the incident — take photos, collect witness statements, and record all details. Notify your insurance company — report the incident promptly, even if unsure whether the injured party will make a claim. Avoid admitting fault — stick to the facts when speaking with the injured person and your insurer. Once a claim is filed, your insurance company will: Investigate the incident. Determine whether your policy covers the claim. Handle negotiations, settlements, or defense in court if necessary. How to Protect Yourself Before an Accident Happens While insurance covers the unexpected, prevention is better than reaction. Reduce your risk by: Keeping walkways clear of ice, snow, and clutter. Repairing loose steps, handrails, and flooring. Properly maintaining landscaping and trees. Providing adequate lighting for entrances and pathways. Regular maintenance not only keeps your property safe but shows responsible behavior if a claim is filed. The Role of Your Insurance Broker An experienced insurance broker can help you: Review your policy to ensure adequate liability coverage limits. Clarify exclusions so you understand what's not covered. Guide you through the claims process if an injury occurs. Suggest umbrella insurance for additional liability protection beyond your standard policy limits. Having a broker means you aren't navigating these situations alone — you'll have someone familiar with your policy advocating for you. The Bottom Line Accidents can occur anywhere to anyone at any time. If someone gets hurt on your property, personal liability insurance can safeguard your finances, cover legal costs, and help manage the situation professionally. The key is understanding how your coverage works before you need it. This involves knowing your policy limits, understanding exclusions, and ensuring you have sufficient protection in place. Additional Resources: Insurance Information Institute – Understanding Liability Coverage NAIC – Consumer’s Guide to Home Insurance