Understanding Auto Insurance for New Drivers

Starting your journey as a new driver is exciting, but it comes with many responsibilities, including understanding auto insurance. At Jason Ridley Agency, proudly providing auto insurance to residents in and around Colleyville, TX, we’re here to help you navigate the essentials of car insurance and ensure you’re well-prepared on the road.

Why Insurance Matters

Auto insurance is crucial for protecting you from financial losses in case of accidents, theft, or damage. For new drivers, it’s important to understand the types of coverage available. Liability insurance covers damages you may cause to others, while collision and comprehensive insurance protect your vehicle from accidents and non-collision incidents like theft or natural disasters.

Factors Affecting Premiums

As a new driver, you might notice that premiums can be higher. This is because insurers consider your driving experience when calculating rates. However, there are ways to lower costs. Maintaining a clean driving record, taking defensive driving courses, and opting for a car with safety features can help reduce your premiums over time.

Building Confidence

Understanding your insurance policy boosts your confidence as a driver. Knowing you’re covered allows you to focus on gaining experience and enjoying the freedom of driving. It’s also wise to regularly review your policy, ensuring it meets your changing needs and that you’re taking advantage of any available discounts.

Get Started with Confidence

At Jason Ridley Agency, serving the area in and around Colleyville, TX, we’re dedicated to helping new drivers find the right insurance coverage. Our team is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process, ensuring you have the protection you need. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you on your driving journey.

Can Auto Insurance Cover Your Belongings in Your Car?

At Jason Ridley Agency in Colleyville, TX, we know that your car might be your safe haven that feels like a second home and storage locker all wrapped into one. Some of our customers like to keep items of value in their car that they take to work or recreational spaces, like a laptop and expensive bag. If someone steals or damages a valuable that was stored or temporarily placed in your car, you may wonder if your car insurance policy could help cover the cost of replacing it. As you’ll see below, the answer to this question can be tricky.

What Is Auto Insurance?

Auto insurance covers cars and related vehicles for personal use. It usually only covers your primary vehicle. Additionally, coverage depends on the terms and limits of your policy, so you’ll need to speak with a qualified insurance agent on our team to know what your policy covers specifically.

Can Auto Insurance Cover Your Belongings in Your Car?

Auto insurance doesn’t usually cover valuables, according to Experian. Still, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ask one of our associates if we can help protect your valuables inside and outside your car. Home insurance and renter’s insurance policies may cover valuables. There may also be specialized policies that can cover these precious items.

How to Tell If a Car Insurance Policy Covers Valuables

To determine whether your policy covers valuables, we recommend speaking with one of our professionals. They can go over what your policy covers. Additionally, they can let you know what your policy doesn’t cover, along with the limits of it.

Contact Jason Ridley Agency

For more information on auto coverage, call our office at Jason Ridley Agency in Colleyville, TX!

Do You Need Comprehensive Insurance if You Own an Older Vehicle?

Jason Ridley Agency has been providing auto insurance services in Colleyville, TX, for many years now. Our clients rely on our professionalism and insight, making us your first choice if you want trustworthy car insurance. We have an experienced and knowledgeable group of professionals who are always on standby to help you choose the very best coverage that works for you. 

Customer satisfaction and industry knowledge are our first priority, and we aim to serve our customers with the best insurance coverage possible. Count on Jason Ridley Agency to protect your assets and ensure you get peace of mind today and forever on your journey to success.

Auto Insurance Coverage

When you weigh the pros and cons of getting full coverage for an old automobile, you need to look into the cost and the benefits. In order to have protection from serious damage unrelated to a collision, such as theft, vandalism, fire, or storms, one must consider the vehicle’s value when choosing the appropriate coverage. 

When you communicate with an insurance official like the one with the Jason Ridley Agency in the Colleyville area, it allows you to see if comprehensive coverage is worth the money you spend in the case of a claim. Decision variables like the present market price of your existing car, financial circumstances, and risk comfort zone must be assessed. In essence, the choice of whether to purchase complete coverage for your older car ought to be a thorough assessment of factors like the situation you are in and professional advice from experts.

Find Out More About Auto Insurance Near Colleyville, TX

The Jason Ridley Agency stands out for its ability to provide the residents of Colleyville, TX, with uncompromising insight and experience when looking for insurance. By calling our professional and highly experienced team, you can be assured of receiving the best services and recommendations from our considerable expertise.

Contact us now without hesitation, and we will show you how our team of professionals can deliver exceptional results. What makes the Jason Ridley Agency stand out from the rest in the business is our dedication to bringing the clients the best and most valued support and the newest knowledge in the field.

If You’re Intoxicated, Is Your Auto Insurance Invalidated?

With the help of Jason Ridley Agency, you can drive safely in Colleyville, TX, and avoid serious problems. However, if you’re drinking and driving or using drugs, it isn’t easy to know what to expect. Will you be protected if you’re intoxicated and get into a car accident while driving?

Your Policy Must Pay Third-Party Expenses 

First, your intoxication will not void any third-party payments your policy needs to make. For instance, if you caused the accident due to being drunk, your policy must pay the liability coverage. They may try to sue you for compensation, but they must legally pay it.

Any other problems you cause when you’re drinking must be paid for by your policy. For example, if someone in your vehicle who is sober gets hurt, your insurance will pay for their recovery. But when it comes to your needs, you will be very disappointed.

You Will Lose Protection for Yourself

While your policy is legally required to cover any third-party damages your crash might cause, your personal protection is limited. According to federal law, if you’re found to be over the limit for alcohol or abused drugs while driving, your coverage is likely severely limited or even voided.

For example, if you get into a crash when you’re drunk, and you normally have medical payment protection for yourself, you might not get that protection. It’s important to understand what kind of limitations your insurer built into your policies to make sure that you’re safe. 

Give Us The Help That You Need

With the help of our team at Jason Ridley Agency, you can keep yourself safe when driving in Colleyville, TX. We strongly suggest you avoid drinking or doing drugs entirely to keep yourself safe on the road. There’s not much we can do for you if you get caught breaking the law in this way.

Auto Insurance and Getting Estimates During Claims

When filing an auto insurance claim in and around the Colleyville, TX area, obtaining accurate repair estimates is a crucial step in the claims process. Understanding the significance of estimates helps ensure fair compensation, timely repairs, and a smooth claims experience.

Determining the Extent of Loss

After an accident, it is vital to evaluate your vehicle’s damages thoroughly. This includes visible damage to the exterior, mechanical issues, and potential hidden damages. Conducting a detailed inspection or seeking professional assistance from reputable repair shops can help accurately document the damages for insurance purposes.

Exploring Repair Options

It is advisable to seek multiple estimates from reputable repair shops to ensure a fair evaluation of damages and repair costs. Obtaining multiple estimates allows you to compare prices, assess repair options, and select a repair facility that meets your needs. It also provides a basis for negotiating with your insurance company, if necessary.

Collaborating with Claims Professionals

When obtaining estimates, working closely with your insurance adjuster is essential. They play a vital role in the claims process, reviewing estimates and facilitating communication between you and the repair shops. Keep your adjuster informed about the estimates you receive and any additional information or concerns that may arise.

Exploring Insurance Network Options

Some insurance companies have preferred repair shop networks, which offer certain advantages. These shops are often pre-screened by the insurance company and may provide benefits such as expedited service, direct billing to the insurer, and guaranteed repairs. However, policyholders have the right to choose their repair facility, so weighing the benefits against personal preferences and convenience is crucial.

How Jason Ridley Agency Can Help You

At Jason Ridley Agency, we can answer all your questions concerning auto insurance coverage. We assist the Colleyville, TX region. Contact us today. 

Stay Protected on the Road: Auto Insurance Tips

If you’re a driver in Colleyville, TX, you know that there’s nothing quite like hitting the open road. But as you do so, it’s important to make sure that you’re properly protected with the right auto insurance coverage.

Here are some tips from the Jason Ridley Agency to help you stay safe and secure while you’re out on the road.

Auto Insurance Tips

First and foremost, it’s important to understand the types of auto insurance coverage that are available to you. Liability coverage, for example, is required by law in Texas and covers any damages or injuries that you cause to others while operating your vehicle. However, liability coverage won’t cover any damages to your own vehicle or injuries you sustain in an accident. Collision coverage and comprehensive coverage are two additional types of coverage that can provide additional protection for your vehicle.

Another important factor to consider is your deductible, which is the amount you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Choosing a higher deductible can help lower your monthly premium, but it also means you’ll be responsible for paying more if you’re in an accident. It’s important to choose a deductible that you can afford in the event of an accident.

When it comes to choosing an insurance provider, it’s important to do your research and find a company that you can trust. Look for an insurer that has a strong financial rating and a good reputation for customer service. You can also ask for recommendations from friends and family members who have had positive experiences with their own insurance providers.

Finally, it’s important to review your insurance coverage regularly to make sure that it still meets your needs. If you’ve recently purchased a new vehicle, for example, you may need to adjust your coverage levels to ensure that you’re adequately protected. It’s also a good idea to review your coverage if you’ve experienced any major life changes, such as getting married or having children.

Contact Us Today

By following these tips and working with the Jason Ridley Agency to find the right auto insurance coverage for your needs, you can enjoy peace of mind as you hit the road in Colleyville, TX. Remember, staying protected on the road is essential for your safety and financial security, so don’t hesitate to take the time to find the right coverage for you.

What to do when you are in an accident

Being in a car accident is never something that you can be 100 percent prepared for, but following certain steps can certainly help you stay calm. Jason Ridley Agency in Colleyville, TX is here to assist. We are going to talk about the steps you should take if you get into a car accident.

What to do when you are in an accident

The first thing you should do is check yourself for injuries. Once you have assessed yourself, it is important to make sure all the other passengers are okay. If anyone has been seriously injured, call 911. Next, get yourself and, if possible, your car out of traffic and to safety. If someone hasn’t already, now would be the time to call 911 to report the accident. After calling 911, the next step is to wait for help to arrive. After it is determined that everyone is okay, it is important to exchange information between parties. This includes names, addresses, numbers, and insurance information.

Before starting a claims process, you need to document the accident:

  • Identify the officers at the scene
  • Get a copy of the accident report
  • Take lots of pictures
  • Write the names and addresses of all parties involved
  • Talk to witnesses to get an accurate description of what happened

Now you are ready to start the claims process. Call your insurance company and give them all the information that is needed to make a claim. In some states, it is also required to call the DMV to report an accident as well.

Contact Us Today

If you are looking to get insurance, give us a visit or a call and get a quote from us today at Jason Ridley Agency in Colleyville, TX.

4 Add-ons to Consider for Auto Insurance

If you have invested in car insurance from Jason Ridley Agency in Colleyville, TX, it protects you from perils like collisions, fire, theft, select natural disasters, fallings objects, etc. As you can see, standard auto insurance gives you blanket coverage against common risks. However, if you need protection against unique risks, you should consider “add-ons” or “riders” to boost your car insurance policy.

Here are 4 auto insurance add-ons to consider:

Roadside assistance

Your vehicle gives you comfort and convenience, but like most things in life, it can break down when you least expect it. However, don’t let a flat tire, dead battery, an electronic mishap or empty fuel tank leave you stranded on the highway. Instead, invest in roadside assistance coverage to rescue you when your car misbehaves while many miles away from your residence.

While this coverage is suitable for everyone, it’s more critical for motorists who drive long distances frequently.

Zero depreciation

If your car is totaled or stolen, your compensation will be less than the depreciation amount. If you want a similar vehicle in the market, you will have to fork out more money from your pocket to cover the depreciation. The zero depreciation coverage cushions you against depreciation. This coverage is more appropriate for newer cars compared to second-hand vehicles.

Personal belongings coverage

Suppose your laptop is lost or damaged while in your vehicle. Your standard auto insurance won’t cover the loss or damage. For such damage, you have to rely on your renter’s or home insurance policy. But if you have none of this, consider personal belongings coverage, especially if you travel with valuables in your vehicle.

Engine protect

Your standard car insurance covers engine damage if damaged in a collision or due to a peril included in your policy. However, if your engine fails because of waterlogging or an oil leak, your typical auto insurance won’t help unless you have an engine protection add-on.

Give Us A Call

Need to learn more about auto insurance add-ons in Colleyville, TX? Book an appointment today with Jason Ridley Agency for more information.

Why Auto Insurance Is Important

When you first buy a car or other vehicle, you may be wondering about insurance. Though you may think that it is a waste of money every month, the truth is that it really isn’t. 

Here are some reasons why auto insurance is important:

It is there to protect you. Accidents can be pretty expensive, and most people don’t have a lot of extra money lying around, so insurance is there to protect you and your family. Fixing and replacing a vehicle can be quite expensive, let alone the medical bills that you could be facing. If you are at fault, you may also be responsible for their expenses. Your insurance will cover these costs, so that you don’t go into debt over an accident. 

Your state may require you to have insurance. Legally, you need to have automobile insurance if you are driving in most states. If you are caught without insurance, you could face serious legal consequences. 

Your loan may also require insurance. If you take out a loan in order to buy your vehicle, they are going to want to make sure that their investment is protected. They may require even more insurance than is required by your state. 

Though you may not want to buy insurance for your vehicle, the truth is that you have to. It is there to protect you in case you are involved in an accident. If you are at fault, you have no idea how much money it could cost you. Your state and loan may also require you to have a certain amount of insurance. 

If you want to make sure that you have enough insurance for your needs, contact us at Jason Ridley Agency in Colleyville, TX. 

4 Facts About Texas Auto Insurance You Should Know

Texas is the second-largest state in the US in terms of population and size. Besides, the Lone Star State features popular cities like Houston and Dallas. Whereas Texas is a great state to live and drive, it’s home to some of the most dangerous highways.

For this reason, you shouldn’t drive in Texas without car insurance from Jason Ridley Agency in Colleyville, TX. While auto insurance is mandatory in Texas, this coverage cushions you financially when mishaps happen. Ready to get started with auto insurance? Here are four facts you should know about Texas auto insurance.

Proof of insurance

You must provide proof of insurance or financial responsibility when driving in Texas. As such, always carry your insurance card to show proof of insurance whenever pulled over.

Required auto insurance in Texas

Like most states, auto insurance is mandatory in Texas, and you are required to include the below coverages in your car insurance:

  • Property damage liability: This insurance policy protects you when accused of property damage by other people.
  • Bodily injury liability: This coverage protects you when third parties accuse you of causing physical harm to them following an auto accident.

While the state requires the above coverages, we usually advise motorists to increase limits and consider other optional car insurance coverages.

Penalties apply for non-compliance

If you drive without proper auto insurance, you pay fines ranging from $175 to $350.Additionally, you pay $250 per annum for three years if you are a first-time offender. Of course, the penalties are more severe for repeat offenders.

Texas is an at-fault insurance state

If the other party is responsible for the accident, you don’t have to file a claim with your insurance. Instead, you can follow up with the other party to pay for your damages. And if they have insufficient coverage, you can sue.

Find out more about auto insurance

Would you like to learn more about car insurance? Please get in touch with Jason Ridley Agency for more information.  You can also pop in our Colleyville, TX offices to speak to one of our agents.