Keeping your home safe while you are on vacation

Posted on July 30, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

You wait all year for the opportunity to go away on vacation. As the date approaches you to start thinking about leaving your home alone while you are away and the thought that you need to take some safety precautions dawns on you. By taking a few actions you can make your home is much less likely to be targeted. At Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD, we believe in providing our customers with tailor-made insurance products that they can afford.

Stop your mail delivery

It is very easy to put a stop to your mail delivery. You can do it online at the USPS website. Also, stop the newspaper if you get one.

Arm your alarm

If you have a home alarm system make sure it is turned on. Lock all your doors and windows and if you don’t have an alarm, get the signs that say you do have one. They are a worthwhile investment.

Have lights on timers

If you want your home to look lived in, it helps to have lights in different rooms that will turn on and off at scheduled times. Do it as randomly as possible.

Park a car in your driveway

If you have a second car, make sure it is out sitting in your driveway. If not, maybe you can borrow one from a family member or friend.

Talk to your neighbor

Let your neighbor know that you will be away and ask them to keep an eye on your home for you

Don’t announce your vacation plans on social media

You can feel free to post pictures when you return but before and during your vacation don’t tell everyone where you are and when you are returning.

When it comes to home insurance, you can count on Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD for all your insurance needs.

What does renters insurance cover?

Posted on June 21, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

Many renters are under the false assumption they don’t need renters insurance since they are covered by their landlord’s insurance. Not true. Your landlord probably insures the building you live in but not your personal possessions. At Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD, we are committed to raising the bar on providing affordable insurance to our clients. We are a local independent agency, and we provide unparalleled service and options.

Your possessions

For many renters, their apartment, condo, or home contains most of their possessions. Basically everything they own other than their vehicle. A home fire, hurricane, or tornado can cause total devastation. Not only is your home gone but everything you own is gone. Renters insurance may cover your possessions. This coverage will also cover theft from your home or when you are away from home with one of your possessions.

You have two choices when purchasing content insurance. You can choose actual cash value or replacement cost. Actual cash value-this is the amount a possession is actually worth today taking depreciation into account. Replacement cost is what it would cost to replace that possession today.

Liability

If someone is hurt while visiting you at your rental or by a member of your family, even your pet, you may find yourself with medical bills and property damage that you must pay. If it leads to legal actions, that can get expensive. Renters insurance provides liability protection.

Loss of use

If your rental is damaged by a covered peril, it may become uninhabitable. If that happens, you will need a place to stay right away and after that for months. Having this insurance will provide the assistance you need to get an interim rental.

Contact Wilcoxon Insurance Inc in Sioux Falls, SD with all your renter’s insurance questions and needs.

How Does Auto Insurance Protect Me?

Posted on May 26, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

If you own a vehicle in Sioux Falls, SD, you understand that auto insurance is mandatory, but do you know how auto insurance protects you? When you purchase auto insurance from Wilcoxon Insurance Inc., here is how it protects you.

Liability protection

Almost all states in the US require drivers to include liability coverage in their auto insurance. And even in those states that don’t need auto insurance, you are still compelled to cover damages and injuries that you cause to other people.

When you purchase auto insurance with liability coverage, it covers damage costs, medical expenses, and legal suits for losses and injuries you cause to other persons.

Assets protection

Liability covers other people and not you or your vehicle. Including comprehensive and collision coverages in your auto insurance ensures that you get compensation for physical damage to your car when accidents and non-collision perils like fire, theft, vandalism, and hail occur.

Personal injury protection (PIP)

PIP is a no-fault coverage that protects you and your passengers when accidents occur. It pays for medical expenses, including hospitalization, X-rays, medications, and surgeries for injuries suffered in a vehicular accident.

Besides, this coverage pays for partial loss of income and final expenses for you and your passengers following an auto accident.

Underinsured/uninsured motorist protection

While motor insurance is mandatory in South Dakota, it’s not uncommon to encounter irresponsible motorists who carry no insurance. Unfortunately, uninsured drivers leave many uncovered expenses for accidents they cause.

However, when you have this coverage, medical costs and property damages you suffer when you collide with a less responsible motorist are well covered. Additionally, this insurance protects you in hit-and-run situations where the other motorist at fault goes unidentified.

Auto insurance in South Dakota

Having seen how auto insurance protects you, it’s time to take the next step and buy auto insurance from Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. Contact us today for a competitive quote.

Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota Home Insurance.

Posted on April 26, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

Do you own a home in the Sioux Falls, SD area? If you do, you already know it is one of the most beautiful places to live. At Wilcoxon Insurance Inc., we are proud to serve homeowners, renters, travelers, and businesses with quality insurance services. Here are a few common questions about homeowner’s insurance:

Home Insurance FAQs in South Dakota

How much homeowner’s insurance is required in South Dakota? Legally, you do not have to have homeowner’s insurance if you own your home outright. If you have a mortgage, your mortgage company likely requires enough coverage to cover the remaining cost of the loan. Although it is not a legal requirement, it is an affordable way to protect your family’s assets.
Is my home covered in the event of a flood? Typically, homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage. This is why adding flood coverage is a good idea if you live in an area with any risk. There are various affordable options to protect your home from the unique risks that may be in your area.
How much coverage do I need? If you have a mortgage, you need at least enough coverage to cover the cost of your home. If you do not have a mortgage, then each situation is unique, but we will be happy to discuss your coverage needs, so you have the exact protection you need.

Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. serves Sioux Falls, SD with friendly and efficient service. If you have any questions about homeowners insurance, give us a call, and we will be happy to make it as easy as possible for you to get the coverage you need.

A Newbie’s Guide to Motorcycle Insurance

Posted on March 29, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

You have saved enough, and you have gone ahead and bought a bike for yourself; congratulations. You are now part of South Dakota’s rich riding culture. While owning a motorcycle comes with its fair share of freedom, you have to deal with the respective responsibilities. One of such obligations is motorcycle insurance.

Because you are new in the motorcycle world, you might be wondering: should I buy motorcycle insurance? Is it mandatory in South Dakota? At Wilcoxon Insurance Inc., situated in Sioux Falls, SD, we are glad you asked. Here, we help riders like you understand the motorcycle insurance landscape, helping you choose the right coverage.

Want to find out more? Please keep reading.

Is motorcycle insurance mandatory in South Dakota?

Yes, South Dakota requires you to carry motorcycle insurance, and you are required to show proof before registration of your bike. When on the roads, failure to show proof of insurance could lead to severe fines and penalties, including license suspension.

What motorcycle insurance options are offered in South Dakota?

While the state requires you to carry minimum motorcycle insurance coverage, your agent should advise whether it’s adequate. At first glance, the minimum coverages might look sufficient but may fall short when you are involved in a significant accident.

Other motorcycle insurance options that are offered for South Dakota riders include:

Collision coverage to pay for your bike’s damages when involved in an accident.
Comprehensive coverage to protect your ride from theft, vandalism, fire, and other perils stated in your policy.
Medical payment coverage to pay for medical costs, loss of income, and funeral expenses in accident-related injuries.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Did you know that approximately 8 percent of South Dakota motorists are uninsured? With many less responsible motorists on the road, you need this cover if you are involved in an accident with one of them.

What determines my motorcycle insurance rate?

While each insurance company computes its rate differently, the below factors are primarily considered in the computation.

Your bike’s value and power rating
Your location
Your driving record
Type of coverage you opt

Need motorcycle insurance? Whether you are an occasional rider or a seasoned biker, at Wilcoxon Insurance Inc., located in Sioux Falls, SD, we can customize motorcycle insurance for you. Contact us today, and our team shall handle the rest.

Common Renters Insurance Myths Exposed

Posted on February 25, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. serves the Sioux Falls, SD community by offering multiple types of policies. One of our primary goals is to provide excellent customer service to our clients. We take pride in serving the community as an independent agency.

Common Renters Insurance Myths

Renters Insurance allows you to protect your assets. The policy covers any damage to your personal items if a fire occurs or some other type of natural disaster. You are also covered if someone steals or vandalizes your property. Liability coverage is also important, as you will be protected if someone gets injured while visiting your property. Here are some common renters insurance myths to avoid while researching coverage.

I Don’t Have Valuable Assets.

Perhaps you may feel that you don’t need renters insurance coverage because you don’t have any valuable possessions. This is a mistake. Any item that you own holds some value. That’s why you need coverage. If something were to happen to your items, things could get pricey very quickly without renters insurance.

The Policy Is Restrictive

Many people assume that renters insurance only provides adequate coverage for personal items. You have more flexibility than you may realize. For example, you can add temporary living coverage to your policy so that you will be protected while you seek temporary lodging and your rental property is being repaired.

I Can Rely On My Landlord’s Policy

This is incorrect, as your landlord’s coverage does not protect your personal items if an accident occurs. Your landlord’s policy covers any damages to the building. However, you are responsible for covering your belongings.

Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. Will Help You Protect Your Assets

Visit our website today to learn more information about renters insurance.

When to review your auto policy

Posted on January 28, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

For most people, an auto policy is not something you think about unless you need to file a claim. Most policies renew yearly, and they include a declaration that lists all the important facts about your policy. At Wilcoxon Insurance, Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD, we are an independent agency that strives to tailor our policy suggestions to our customers’ needs. We have partnered with a selection of top carriers.

When you receive your auto insurance renewal, review the declaration. It lists the drivers on your policy, the vehicles, the level of liability coverage, other included coverages, and the deductible amount. This is a common time to review your policy. Do you have enough liability coverage? If your assets have increased since you first got the policy, this is covered carefully. Think about the reality of having an accident where you are at fault and the injuries that could result. Is your coverage adequate?

When you make your last auto payment, you may want to review your auto policy. How old is your vehicle? How much value does it have? Is keeping collision and comprehensive coverage the right thing to do?

When you need to remove a car, add a driver, or make any change to your auto policy, it is a good opportunity to take the time to review your policy.

When you notice an increase in your auto insurance premium, you may want to review your auto policy with your agent. Are you taking advantage of all the discounts available to you? Are you getting a multi-policy discount? Do you need to keep additional coverages you may have? Can you get a better deal with a different carrier? An agent like those at Wilcoxon Insurance, Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD can help you find a perfect policy for you.

Store Your Motorcycle Safely During The Cooler Months

Posted on December 28, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

When the cooler months start to set in in South Dakota, you find yourself riding your motorcycle less and less until it becomes too cold to travel by bike alone. Even decked out in leather, it is not enough to keep the icy temperatures from shooting straight to the bone in your body. It is important to safely store your motorcycle during the cooler months when you are not going to be riding it.

Keeping It Out Of The Elements

One of the most important things you can do for your bike when you are storing it away for winter is to keep it out of the elements by storing it inside a garage or storage facility. Keeping the ice and snow off of your bike will prevent rust and corrosion, which can damage your bike.

Cover Your Bike

Even if you have your bike back into a corner in your garage, you still want to cover it with a large tarp to protect the bike’s exterior. These covers are meant to insulate the bike, keeping dirt and debris off of it as well as moisture.

Lubricate Your Bike

Before you put your bike up for storage, make sure that all of the moving parts on your bike have been well lubricated so that they are safe from the dry air that comes when it cools off.

Remove Weight Off Of The Tires

Once you decide it is time to put your bike up, it is essential to take all of the tires’ weight when you store the bike. This protects the tires and prevents flat spots when you ride your bike again in the spring.

Do you need motorcycle insurance coverage in or around Sioux Falls, SD? If so, give our agents at Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. a call today for more information.

3 Tips for Buy Homeowner’s Insurance in South Dakota

Posted on November 30, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

Sioux Falls, SD is a beautiful place to live. If you own a home here or are currently purchasing one, having a homeowner’s policy is a smart idea. In fact, it’s mandatory to have a policy if you mortgage your home. This is how the bank protects their investment. Even if you own your home outright, it’s still a good idea to secure a homeowner’s policy. You never know when something might happen, such as a fire, theft, or a liability accident. Are you ready to get started? Then read on to learn how to easily and affordably secure a homeowner’s insurance policy.

1. Compare Quotes

You’ll want to compare several quotes before choosing the right one. This is a good time to ask questions, take notes, and compare coverage vs. cost. A reputable agent from Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. can help you with this task. We recommend comparing three to five quotes to really understand the differences in coverage and cost. Remember that flood insurance is not included in a standard homeowner’s policy, so you may want to ask your insurance agent about this.

2. Bundle Policies

One way to save on your premiums is to bundle your homeowner’s policy with your other insurance policies. Consider bundling your auto, life, and any other policies you have. Then take that savings and add umbrella insurance to be protected to the maximum.

3. Work with a Reputable Agent

The reputable agents at Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. are standing by to answer all your questions about homeowner’s insurance. They will help you compare quotes and bundle your policies. To learn more, contact one of our friendly agents serving Sioux Falls, SD today.

Why do I need renters insurance in South Dakota?

Posted on October 27, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

Sioux Falls, SD is a great place to live whether you are a homeowner or a renter. As a renter, you may feel safe thinking that your landlord or management company has your back and your insurance. That is only partially correct. Your personal belongings are not covered by any insurance on the apartment, condo, or house you are renting. At Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD, we are a locally owned independent agency that provides personalized service to our customers.

The insurance covering the building you rent only covers the things that come with the rental like the actual structure, the cabinets, doors, and appliances if they are included. Everything you bring in with you, your furniture, decor, and clothing will not be covered. If you don’t have renters insurance, you will have to replace everything yourself. That could be a real hardship.

Imagine your furry friend gave someone a little nip, or one of your visitors slipped in your bathroom and got hurt. Renters insurance provides liability coverage to protect you from a legal judgment against you, medical bills, and legal costs.

If your rental was hit by a covered hazard and was no longer habitable, where would you stay? With renters insurance, you would be able to stay in a hotel while you find a temporary rental to stay in until you can move back home. That would certainly give you peace of mind.

When you are ready to discuss renters insurance at Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD, we will be here to help you find a policy to fit your needs and your budget. Stop in and visit us at our office or give us a call to get answers to any questions you may have and a no-obligation quote.

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Author: admin