Is Auto Insurance About Compliance Only?

You have probably invested in car insurance because it’s mandatory. For instance, Florida requires all motorists to invest in property damage liability and personal injury protection. But should you invest in car insurance because your state requires it? Karla Salmon Insurance in Oviedo, FL differs. Car insurance is more than just compliance. Here are the reasons.

State-required car insurance isn’t adequate.

Your mandatory car insurance is just a minimum. For instance, Florida only requires $10,000 each for PIP and property liability insurance. When faced with significant accidents, these amounts can only go far in protecting you.

We often advise our clients to increase the limits of the state minimums. For example, we advise clients to consider combined property damage and bodily injury liability coverage of above $300,000. If you need higher liability coverage, we recommend investing in umbrella insurance.

Similarly, a requirement of $10,000 for PIP is just too low, given the high cost of healthcare in the US. We usually advise you on the appropriate PIP amount after evaluating your health insurance coverage. We can advise you on balancing the two policies for optimal benefits.

Basic insurance doesn’t cover you.

In most cases, mandatory car insurance only protects third parties but not you and your vehicle. Considering that, it’s advisable to opt for optional car insurance policies. If you want to protect your vehicle from risks like fire and collisions, invest in comprehensive and collision policies. These insurance policies repair or replace your car when lost or damaged by a covered peril.

Car insurance in Florida

There are enough reasons to purchase more than the state-required car insurance. All-rounded car insurance gives you optimal protection and peace of mind throughout your car ownership. Want to buy car insurance in Oviedo, FL? Please get in touch with Karla Salmon Insurance for affordable car insurance.

 

The Best Scenic Drives in Central Florida

The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Florida is probably the beaches, the theme parks, and all of the nightlife. However, looking closely, you’ll also find other hidden gems. At Karla Salmon Insurance, we are proud to serve the Oviedo, FL, area, so we’ve put together this list of scenic drives that showcase the best our region has to offer!

The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway

This 123-mile drive takes you through the heart of Ocala National Forest, where the black bear population is at its most robust. And there is much more to see as you traverse the Big Scrub ecosystem! Stop along the way to explore some of the state’s prettiest lakes, like Lake George or Lake Kerr.

Green Mountain Scenic Byway

A cyclist’s dream, this byway is an exciting route of winding curves and rolling hills along the west side of Lake Apopka. Start at Mount Dora and enjoy the many recreational areas and wildlife watching spots along the way south to Winter Garden. These lovely towns both enjoy putting on shows, festivals, and more, so there’s always a reason to explore.

Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway

This drive takes you along the Indian River Lagoon, one of the state’s most impressive and unique natural refuges. This barrier island system is protected from development and is a beautiful home for dozens of Florida’s endangered species. The closeness to the Kennedy Space Center makes this a perfect educational day trip!

Conclusion

There is no denying that driving around Florida is an incredible experience. There are many more scenic byways than we could hope to fit here. If you’re an Oviedo, FL driver, ensure you have the right car insurance. Reach out to Karla Salmon Insurance today!

The Different Types of Auto Insurance Coverage

Most people know that they need car insurance, but not many people know their options. If you want to learn about the different types of auto coverage, read on.

Types of Car Insurance

There are five types of auto insurance coverage: liability, collision, comprehensive, medical, and uninsured/underinsured protection. Each one is there for a different reason and has a specific function in helping you return to stability after an accident occurs.

1. Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is for damage that occurs to your car, not resulting from an accident. For example, this includes hail damage or theft.

2. Medical Coverage

If you are injured in an accident, medical coverage will help pay for your injuries and get you back on your feet quickly. It can cover doctor and hospital costs, ambulance services, and even rehabilitation.

3. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

This coverage takes care of you if you are hit by a driver who doesn’t have any insurance or not enough insurance to cover your bills. It can pay for medical costs, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering.

4. Liability Coverage

The first type of coverage is liability insurance. This covers you if you are at fault for an accident that causes bodily injury or property damage to another party. This includes medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, or other costs associated with the accident.

5. Collision Coverage

The next type of coverage is accident-related, which is called collision insurance. A collision occurs when your car strikes something, like another vehicle or a tree. While your liability coverage will help you pay for damages that result from an accident that is your fault, collision coverage pays for damages to your car resulting from the accident.

There are many types of auto coverage, and it is vital to understand what each one does. Karla Salmon Insurance can help you find the best insurance for your needs in Oviedo, FL. Call Karla Salmon Insurance today for a free quote.

How to Avoid Buying Too Much Florida Auto Insurance

It happens when we are on the phone trying to get this really boring errand out of the way. We say yes to the insurance agent that is securing our car insurance, and then wind up annoyed for the rest of the year because our premiums feel too high. They might be. 

At Karla Salmon Insurance, we want Oviedo, FL drivers to have what they need on the road.  You don’t have to say yes to everything. We can help you to determine the best policy for your needs, and it doesn’t take long to do that for you at all.

Here are some ways to avoid paying too much for Florida auto insurance.

Increase Your Deductible

It is a given that your rates will go down if you have a high deductible. You are assuming some financial risk in the event of an accident, and this risk brings your premiums down. Pick a realistic amount for you, and this will help you to avoid buying too much auto insurance.

Buy What You Need

Do you need a special rider on your Florida auto insurance for all of those times you rent a car? It can help if you rent a car a lot. Do you?

It can sound like an exciting add-on, and it is if you will use it. Add on to your policy only the things that you know you will need. If you already have AAA for roadside assistance, you don’t need to add it to your car insurance. 

Watch Collision Insurance and Comprehensive Insurance Rates

If your car has a lower value or is very old, you may not need either of these additions to your auto insurance policy. If, for example, the blue book value of your vehicle is less than $2,000, it might not be worth it. The amount you pay for that in insurance could be saved for a better car down the road.

You won’t get a full replacement value in the event of a collision, and insurance companies reach a point where repairs worth more than the car lead to a write-off.

You don’t always need collision and comprehensive insurance unless a lender requires it. They are great to have, but a waste of money if your car is older.

Get a Quote

When you are looking for auto insurance in Florida, it’s easy to overbuy. Avoid that by thinking more about what you need. At Karla Salmon Insurance, we want Oviedo, FL drivers to have what they need to get the premiums that work best for them. Call us for a quote today.

Auto Insurance Options in Florida

In Florida, auto insurance is required and you must have at least an auto liability insurance policy in place to be able to legally drive your vehicle on public streets and highways. The auto insurance agents at Karla Salmon Insurance in the Oviedo, FL area are stressing the importance of auto insurance not only to protect your vehicle but to provide you with a sense of security and peace of mind.

In addition to a liability auto insurance policy, there are other auto insurance coverage options you should consider.

Uninsured and Underinsured Auto Insurance Coverage

An uninsured or underinsured policy is great to have in place in the event you are ever involved in an accident that is caused by a motorist that is driving with no insurance policy in place or a driver who does not have enough insurance coverage to pay for all of the damages and medical treatment involved.

Comprehensive Insurance

If you have an active loan for the vehicle you purchased, your lender may very well require you to have comprehensive auto insurance in place to protect the investment they have made in your car, truck, or SUV.  This type of auto insurance will help you repair or replace your vehicle if it is damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster, fire, vandalism, or some other detrimental event. It will also replace your vehicle if it is stolen.

Collision Insurance

If you are driving your vehicle and collide with another vehicle or if you collide with some type of object, collision auto insurance coverage will help you pay for any damages that were caused in the collision.

Get Your Auto Insurance Policy Started

To obtain an auto insurance quote and to get your policy started today, contact the trusted and experienced auto insurance agents at Karla Salmon Insurance in Oviedo, FL.

Ways You Can Protect Your Car from Theft

If you have not installed anything to slow down professional car thieves, you are making your car more attractive to thieves. Car theft cases have increased in Oviedo, FL, and other parts of America in the past few years. The most frequently stolen vehicles include Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Jeep Cherokee, Dodge Pickup, and Nissan Altima.  Even if your car is not among them, it’s still at risk of getting stolen. Karla Salmon Insurance explains several ways you can prevent car theft.

Be smart about where you park your car

Dark unattended areas can create great opportunities for thieves to get away with your car. At night, always make sure your vehicle is parked in well-lit areas and install a motion sensor or security camera if the area is not lit enough.

Lock the doors and remove the keys from the car

80 Percent of vehicles stolen in the US happen due to car key accessibility. Not locking the door or leaving your car keys lying anywhere around the car is one great way to invite thieves. It only takes seconds for someone to jump in and get away with your vehicle.

Never leave valuables in your car

Regardless of where you’re going, never leave valuables in the car. Leaving a purse, phone, laptop, or other valuable items in your car may attract unnecessary attention, particularly from thieves. If you have to take these items with you, don’t leave them in the car and if you have to, keep them out of sight.

Install alarm systems and anti-theft devices 

In Oviedo, FL, there exist many systems designed to alert you or stop your vehicle from moving if they’re triggered. An audible alarm is enough to warn you that all is not well. The unwanted noise will also chase away any thief trying to break into your car. You can also invest in a steering wheel lock or wheel lock to deter a car thief.

Don’t forget to buy enough auto insurance to replace the car if the worst happens. Karla Salmon Insurance can help you review your policy and add coverages based on your needs. Call us today.

Who needs auto insurance in Oviedo?

When you are in the Oviedo, FL area it will make a lot of sense to purchase your own vehicle. If you are in the market to buy a car when you are here, you also need to get the right insurance for it. There are a lot of situations when someone will need to get a full auto insurance plan when they are in this area of Florida. 

Those with Auto Loans

A situation when you will need to have an auto insurance plan is when you have taken out financing to purchase the vehicle. Anyone that would like to buy a car should make sure that they comply with any standards and regulations set forth by their auto loan provider. Most of the time, this will require that you carry a full auto insurance plan with collision and comprehensive protection.

Those that Want to Drive Legally

You should also get an auto insurance plan if you want to be able to drive the car legally. If you intend to drive a car on a public road in Florida, you will need to carry a liability insurance plan. This coverage ensures that you will be able to pay for any damages that you may cause if you are in an accident. If you do not maintain this protection, you could face serious penalization if caught. 

Those that would like to get an auto insurance plan when they are in the Oviedo, FL area need to make sure they speak with someone that understands this form of coverage. The team with Karla Salmon Insurance can help you assess your insurance needs and options. Karla Salmon Insurance can then give the support that is needed to build a plan that is ideal for your situation. 

Do You Need Theft Protection for Your Vehicle in Oviedo?

Theft protection for your vehicle is usually optional if you own it outright, but not everyone realizes this. Many owners will call their insurance company in the case of a stolen auto, even if it’s not actually covered under their policy. If you’re in Oviedo, FL and want to learn more about how theft works, Karla Salmon Insurance wants you to know more. 

Facts and Considerations 

There are a number of anti-theft devices available for drivers today. There are devices out there that will lock your steering wheel or the gas pedal. Or they’ll track down the car using a GPS if someone happens to take it. You might very well choose to rely on this if you have the option. 

But there’s a reason why you’re required to have full coverage on your vehicle if you finance it in any way, and that’s because these strategies aren’t always a reliable way to keep thieves at bay. Whether you forget to use a device or it malfunctions, there’s just too much chance there to take. Having the right auto insurance coverage is the best way to keep yourself protected from theft, as it ensures you get what you need in case there’s no recovering the vehicle. 

Taking Action Today 

Karla Salmon Insurance is here to discuss options with you. Whether you live, work, or visit areas that are more likely to experience car theft, we want to ensure that you feel comfortable going wherever you need to go (and parking wherever you need to park too). If you’re in Oviedo, FL, we can make your auto insurance policy everything it needs to be and more. We look forward to giving you the personalized advice you need to make smart decisions. 

Auto insurance tips for new drivers in Oviedo, FL

New car ownership comes with endless freedom and possibility. That is why it comes with a bit of practical advice–with great driving comes insurance responsibilities. At Karla Salmon Insurance, we always recommend buying enough auto insurance to make sure you do not find yourself in the wrong hands of the law.

Remember, you are supposed to carry a minimum auto insurance coverage for your vehicle in Oviedo, FL. Here are a few tips to help you when you are out to buy new insurance for your car.

Have a budget

While price should never come first when it comes to your safety, a budget helps you determine where to focus. There are cheaper coverages offered by small insurance agencies, which will not be useful to you in the event of a fatal accident. The amount you spend on your premiums determines the amount you will receive as compensation.

Evaluate your insurance needs

You have a life to live after insurance, so make sure all needs are considered when creating a budget. Are you getting married soon? Do you have children in college in the coming years or teenagers who will need to use your car when going somewhere? If that is the case, you can always speak to your insurance expert in Oviedo, FL, to advise you accordingly.

Research your options

Different insurance providers have different ways of calculating insurance premiums.  For this reason, they have to consider various factors such as your address, the model of the car, year of manufacture, your driving records, and many other factors to come up with a solid rate. That doesn’t mean you go for the lowest. Learn what is covered and the limits offered before making a final decision.

As you enjoy being in the driver’s seat, remember to follow the rules and regulations to stay safe. For more information about auto insurance, feel free to contact Karla Salmon Insurance, and we will be happy to help.

Auto Insurance for Oviedo, FL Residents

Have you recently relocated to Florida? Did you just purchase your first car? Are you considering upgrading your auto insurance policy? Then you’ve come to the right place! The agents at Karla Salmon Insurance in Oviedo, FL have decades of experience in the insurance industry combined. They are happy to answer any questions and guide you through the process of purchasing an auto insurance policy. When you choose Karla Salmon Insurance, you will get exceptional customer service from professionals who are truly passionate about their job and exceeding clients’ expectations.

Is auto insurance mandatory in Florida?

Yes, it is. Every state has its own rules and regulations regarding auto insurance, and Florida is no exception. Florida state law requires that anyone driving a motor vehicle possess a minimum of both Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL). The coverage provided by PIP and PDL policies is limited. Therefore, it is a good idea to consider purchasing additional coverage. The friendly and knowledgeable agents at Karla Salmon Insurance are happy to go over these options with you. They will make sure that you get auto insurance that meets not only the requirements set forth by the state of Florida but your personal needs, too!

What else should I consider when purchasing an auto insurance policy?

Florida is considered a “no-fault” state, which means that in the event of an accident, each individual is covered by his or her own insurance policy. Additional auto insurance policies to consider are underinsured/uninsured drivers, collision, medical, and roadside assistance. Contact the agents at Karla Salmon Insurance for more details or with any questions.

So, what are you waiting for? Call or stop by Karla Salmon Insurance in Oviedo, FL today!