Posted by John Coyle on Mon, Jul 26, 2010
RE: Dallas Morning News July 2010
State Farm is raising auto insurance rates an average 2 percent next month (Aug 2010) for nearly 3 million drivers it insures in Texas, citing raising medical costs as the primary factor.
State Farm County Mutual, another subsidiary that primarily insures higher-risk drivers, will increase rates an average 6.8 percent in August (2010).
Kevin Davis, a spokesman for State Farm, said the increase was filed "primarily to address rising cost associated with bodily injury liability claims, such as medical cost."
Deeia Beck, whose office represents Texas Insurance Consumers, filed objectionsto the rate hike. Beck, in her letter of objections, noted that "this is the company's third rate increase in a two-year period of stable or declining auto insurance loss costs." "The filing would, if implemented, produce rates that are excessive, unreasonable and unfairly discriminatory."
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John Coyle of Tri-Star Insurance Professionals of Plano said of the recent Dallas Morning News artical, "With the economy today, it is important for consumers to review thier current policies and seek help from an independent agent who can show them offereings from several insurance companies." Independent agents work for the consumer not the insurance company. If rising insurance rates are affecting your budget, it's a good time to look at alternatives. You'll be surprised at what the independent agencies like Tri-Star Insurance can find for you. Call Tri-Star at 214-387-0600 or go online for quotes www.tristarins.com
Posted by John Coyle on Tue, Feb 03, 2009
So you’ve decided to buy a car, truck or minivan. Now for the ultimate question, which one will you choose? Not only are there hundreds of makes, models, colors and sizes to pick from, but also each car comes with its own set of special features such as speed, handling and safety. When buying a car, the best rule of thumb is to keep safety first. According to the National Highway Transportation Administration, car crashes result in over 40,000 fatalities each year. Choosing a car on looks alone can be a dangerous and costly mistake.
In addition to shopping for a safer car, purchasing a comprehensive auto insurance policy to compliment your vehicle is ideal. As a driver, you are not only responsible for the car, but the passengers as well. Tri Star Insurance Professionals Inc., servicing North Dallas, Frisco, Allen and the surrounding areas, can help you determine what auto insurance coverage is right for you at a competitive price.
Every car must meet certain federal safety standards, so whether you are buying a new or used car, there are many things to take into consideration such as:
Design: A car’s structural design says a lot about how safe it is. In the event of an accident, the front and rear ends are designed to absorb the force of the crash. So purchasing a vehicle with a solid, well-built occupant compartment is essential to decreasing the likelihood of an injury.
Size: One would think that a larger, heavier car would fare better in a collision and they’d be right. Depending on the accident, smaller cars have a tendency to take the full force of an impact, leaving larger cars less damaged. However, as this is not always the case, don’t just write off a smaller car as a death trap. If you are partial to compact cars, look for one that is equipped with the latest safety hardware, such as stability control and side air bags.
Restraint: Everyone knows that wearing a seatbelt dramatically cuts down the risk of death in a collision, and in most states not wearing one is against the law. Seatbelts, airbags and head restraints work as one to protect you by reducing the chance that you will slam into something or fly through the window shield. In the interest of buying a safer car, always check that the restraint systems are working properly.
Brakes: Conventional brakes are no longer considered as safe because of their tendency to lock up causing skidding and lack of vehicle control. Newer cars are usually equipped with anti-lock brakes that automatically pump the brakes every few seconds to prevent lock up and let you retain control. The only downside to anti-lock brakes is that while safer, they won’t help you come to a stop more quickly.
When you need auto insurance for your safer car, truck or minvan remember that Tri-Star Insurance is ready to assist you. Call 214-387-0600 or visit www.tristarins.com today to speak with an agent to find out more about auto insurance policies. Fill out the form below for more information.
Posted by John Coyle on Mon, Nov 24, 2008
Whether in a severe collision or just a simple fender bender, thousands of people are involved in car accidents on a daily basis. Despite the severity of the accident, the steps you need to take directly following the incident rarely change. There are numerous questions that will need to be answered regarding who is at fault and if the parties involved have auto insurance. Good coverage is essential to coming out on top in the event of an accident. Tri-Star Insurance Professionals, Inc. of North Dallas, Plano and Frisco is an independent insurance agency that can shop around to find you the best auto insurance rates available.
First-rate auto insurance coverage aside, a car accident may still be a costly and frustrating trial. To ensure that the other party does not take you for a ride, remain calm and take the following steps:
Survey Damage: First things first, make sure that no one is in need of immediate medical attention before moving on to inspect each vehicle. Be sure to document any damage with a camera to use as evidence if the need arises. Also, never admit fault. As tempting as it is to say, “I’m so sorry, it’s all my fault,” don’t. Professionals will determine who is at fault after reviewing all the facts.
Exchange Information: Even if there is little or no damage to your vehicle, make sure to request insurance information from the other person or persons involved the accident such as: name, address, phone number, insurance company name, policy number, license plate and drivers license number.
File a Police Report: Even in a minor accident it is wise to involve a third party. Police officers may not directly respond to an accident unless there are emergencies, but you can file a state vehicle accident report at any local police station. A valid police report can also help insurance companies like Tri-Star Insurance make the claims process easier.
Safety First: Never leave home in your vehicle without a first aid kit fit snugly in your trunk or glove compartment. There are many auto first aid kits that contain adhesive bandages, sanitary wipes and sterile gauze. In addition to a med kit, carrying an emergency kit consisting of a disposable camera, pen and paper, and contact information is a good idea.
Know Your Policy: Perhaps after an accident you find out too late that your policy doesn’t cover the cost of towing or a rental car and you end up paying out of pocket expenses. Knowing exactly what your auto insurance policy covers before an accident will make the whole ordeal easier. You can usually add rental car reimbursement coverage for only a couple of dollars a month.
When you need insurance for your car or truck in the North Dallas, Plano and Frisco area remember that Tri-Star Insurance is ready to assist you. Call 214-387-0600 or toll-free at 1-800-880-4600 today to speak with an insurance professional to find out more about auto insurance policies and what you need to be safe out on the open road.
Related Links
Texas Department of Public Safety
U.S. Department of Transportation
MADD
Posted by John Coyle on Wed, Nov 19, 2008
The holidays are famous for feasting, fun and road trips to grandma’s house. Make your yuletide car ride a trip to remember by thoroughly preparing for any bumps in the road. To arrive safely at your destination make sure that your auto insurance policy is up to date. Additional coverage such as towing and labor may be beneficial if you find yourself stuck in a snowy lane. The experts at Tri-Star Insurance in North Dallas, Plano and Frisco will help you get just the right amount of auto insurance coverage for your journey. In addition to having a solid auto insurance policy, proper car maintenance and supplies are essential to traversing the open road.
As prevention is the key to safe holiday winter travel, make sure your car is ready for a road trip by following these simple steps:
Fluid Check
Most people get their oil changed before a long drive, but washer, brake, transmission and power steering fluid are just as important. Checking fluid levels is the easiest and least expensive routine maintenance to perform. Many websites offer valuable instructions on how to accurately perform a check.
Tires
Under-inflated tires not only increase tire wear, but also waste gas. Remember to check inflation using a handheld tire gauge or by visiting a local auto garage. In the event of a blowout, always carry a spare tire and pump. Winter tires are also a viable option for added safety.
Visibility
Full visibility is ideal when driving but is not always an option in snow and fog. Head and fog lights need to be checked and replaced if needed. Swap old wiper blades for news ones and carry extra window washer fluid.
Safety
Even the best driver in the world needs to take safety precautions such as carrying a first aid kit, flashlight, blankets, and a jug of water. Keep flares or reflectors as emergency warnings to other drivers in your trunk. A car charger for your cell phone can also come in handy, but in case of a dead car battery, remember to carry a spare cell phone battery. For all you safety buffs out there looking to cover all your bases, carrying a chemical-type fire extinguisher in your car is essential.
Food & Drinks
Take a trip with plenty of snack food and drinks to keep your travelers happy and secure in case you end up stuck on the side of the road for a time.
Cold Weather Travel
For snow driving, store a medium-sized bag of dry sand in your trunk to throw under your tires if you need better traction in the snow. An ice scraper and snowbrush can be used to free your window shield from chunks of ice and other elements.
For less stress and more merrymaking use preplanning and a road trip checklist to keep you and your family jingling all the way. Also, avoid having to walk in a winter wonderland if your car breaks down by contacting Tri-Star Insurance Professionals, Inc. today at 214-387-0600 or toll-free at 1-800-990-4600. Have a safe and happy holiday!
Related Links
Road Trip USA
U.S. Department of Transportation
Great American Road Trip Forum
Posted by Roger Harkins on Wed, Oct 15, 2008
Insurance policies are a necessary evil, but why do they have to be so confusing? If you’ve ever tried reading page after page of your auto policy and suddenly find yourself lost in a sea of mystifying insurance jargon then stop right now. There is no use giving yourself a headache when professional agents such as the professionals at Tri-Star Insurance in Plano, Frisco and North Dallas can walk you through it step-by-step. In the meantime, why not brush up on the basics of a standard insurance policy?
Every auto insurance policy is made up of several sections that define the many coverage options available and how they can be used.
Liability – Up to a specified limit, this clause covers property damage or bodily injury incurred from an automobile accident for which you are deemed legally responsible.
Personal Injury Protection – Also called “no-fault insurance”, personal injury protection covers medical bills and sometimes lost wages due to an accident that leaves you unable to work . There is a limit to the amount you receive as specified in your policy.
Medical Payments – No matter the person at fault, medical payment coverage pays for reasonable medical bills as the result of a car accident. There are certain limitations to this form of coverage including a specified amount available to use and a time limit of around three years following the accident to continue receiving payments.
Uninsured/ Underinsured Motorist – With the countless number of drivers on the road cruising around with no auto insurance driving can be pretty risky. Not available in all states, uninsured motorist coverage provides reimbursement for damages caused by a person devoid of insurance. Essentially, you would receive the amount payable if the person did have insurance.
Collision – If your vehicle has a run in with a pole or another car then you can use collision coverage to pay for repairs. There is usually a somewhat hefty deductible in the range of $250 - $500, but with the massive cost of parts and labor then it may be worth the slight blow to your pocketbook. You can always specify the amount of your deductible when working with your agent such as the experts at Tri-Star Insurance.
Comprehensive – Not all accidents involve other vehicles so in the event of fire, theft, vandalism, hail, or flood damage comprehensive coverage really does come in handy. Furthermore, if your car is stolen, comprehensive covers the cost of a rental.
Roadside Assistance – Dead batteries, flat tires, mechanical failure and lockout are just some of the nightmares that can occur in the world of driving. If you’ve ever been stuck in the middle of nowhere with a car that refuses to work then this type of coverage can be a lifesaver.
When you need insurance for your vehicle in the North Dallas, Plano and Frisco area don’t forget that Tri-Star Insurance is ready to help you find what you need. Call 214-387-0600 or toll-free at 1-800-880-4600 today to find out more about the language of auto insurance policies.
Related Links
Texas Department of Insurance
Car Maintenance Tips
Roadtrip America