Tips to keep your car running smoothly

Maintaining your car is vital if you want it to run smoothly. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

  1. Change your oil regularly. Oil is the lifeblood of your car, and it needs to be replaced every few thousand miles for it to run correctly. Be sure to consult your vehicle’s manual for recommended oil change intervals.
  2. Check the air pressure in your tires regularly. Low tire pressure can cause uneven wear and unnecessary strain on your tires, leading to costly repairs down the road. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month and add air as needed.
  3. Get a tune-up every six months. Regular tune-ups are key to keeping your car running smoothly year after year. Make sure you take your car in for tune-ups at the recommended intervals and ask your mechanic to check a range of parameters, including engine performance, emissions, and fluid levels.
  4. Keep your gas tank at least half full. When you allow your gas tank to get too low, condensation can build up in the fuel line, leading to rust and corrosion. Keeping your tank at least half full will help prevent this from happening while also helping you avoid having to stop in the middle of a long journey to fill up.
  5. Replace windshield wipers and brake pads when necessary. Worn-out windshield wipers and brake pads put you at risk for accidents and can increase fuel consumption.

Following these tips can keep your car running smoothly for many years. If you have any questions about your car insurance, please give us at Options Insurance Agency a call today. We proudly serve the Hershey, PA area.

Things you should always have in your vehicle

In Hershey, PA, you can count on Options Insurance Agency to offer you the customer service you deserve. It is crucial to be protected with reliable auto insurance, but sometimes you need some minor help on the side of the road or in an emergency.

Here are some things we suggest to have in your car:

In the trunk

On the practical side, you always need to have a spare tire and a jack in your trunk. No one has full-size spare tires anymore, but the donut will get you 50 miles. A can of Fix a Flat can come in very handy if it isn’t a significant burst. Make sure you know how to operate your jack or, if you don’t, have a roadside service you can call. 

Having a charger unit of some sort, like a Halo, can make all the difference when your vehicle decides it doesn’t want to start. At the very least, you need to carry jumper cables. 

Be prepared for the weather with a blanket, sweatshirt, hat, and other things to keep you warm if the weather is cold. Always carry some water in the trunk as well. Having something to drink is vital for your comfort. You may want to include snacks, choose something that won’t go bad in a short time, and check the dates from time to time. 

A first aid kit and an emergency kit are easy to store and come in very handy if something goes wrong. 

In the glove box

You should have your vehicle registration and insurance card in the glove box. It is also the place to keep a tool that cuts a seatbelt and breaks a window if you are ever in an accident involving water-submersion. 

In the vehicle

Like most people, you need to carry a charging cord for your phone or tablet. You also may need a phone holder so you can go hands-free. An easy pass is important if you travel on roads that have tolls and a bottle of water. 

Contact Options Insurance Agency in Hershey, PA for all your auto insurance needs. Our team will be happy to work with you and help you get a quote.

 

Does your auto policy provide the protection you need?

Hershey, PA area residents can rely on the team at Options Insurance Agency for all of their insurance needs. If you want to make sure that you have the protection you need, give us a call today.

Let’s review your auto policy today.

Having the right auto insurance is an integral part of responsible vehicle ownership. If you want to ensure that you have the protection you need, then it’s a great idea to give your policy a close review at least once a year. This can help you recognize and fix any gaps you may have in coverage. An inspection can also help you keep up with any changes in coverage that may occur over time. 

Without the right auto insurance, you can be left with financial liability that can be easily avoided. When reviewing your policy, make sure that you have adequate collision, liability, and medical expense coverage. Even having gaps in just one area can create problems down the road. 

Auto insurance can help you get your car repaired or replaced and provide protection from liability. And, if you are ever involved in an accident that causes injuries, you will want to have adequate medical expense coverage in place. Ensuring that you have the right coverage is easy to do when you sit down with a local agent. This allows them to understand your insurance needs better.

Give us a call to find out more.

Options Insurance Agency is here for the Hershey, PA community. We are here to help you with all of your insurance questions and concerns. If you want to find out more about your auto insurance policy options, give us a call or stop by today.

Auto insurance features available in the Hershey area

Options Insurance Agency serves the insurance needs of the entire Hershey, PA area. If you are interested in learning more about the features and benefits that are available with an upgraded auto policy, call or stop by our office today. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Auto insurance features are currently available in our area.

There are four primary features to look for when choosing an auto insurance policy. If it’s time to choose a policy, focus on these coverage types: property damage, bodily injury, collision, personal injury, and comprehensive protection. Your agent can help you determine which policy levels are right for your needs to get the protection you need.

After you’ve taken care of the necessities, you may want to consider add-on features that can provide more benefits:

  • Declining premium benefit – the longer you drive without a claim, the lower your premium payments go. In fact, you may even get to a point where you don’t have a premium at all!
  • Car rental reimbursement – if your vehicle is totaled or damaged due to a covered event, you may be without a car while it is repaired or replaced. Many people need reliable transportation to get through their daily lives and will need to rent an alternative vehicle. This benefit can reimburse you for those costs.
  • Roadside assistance – be prepared in the event of a breakdown!

When it comes to insurance, you can count on us!

Hershey, PA area residents rely on the folks at Options Insurance Agency for all of their insurance needs. If you need help with your auto policy, or any other type of insurance, reach out to our team. Feel free to stop by our office or give us a call today!

5 Commonly Asked Questions About Auto Insurance

Are you thinking about getting your car insured? Auto insurance is coverage that helps cover the damages and costs incurred in an accident, collision, or non-collision related. It also helps in claims when you are involved in an accident that causes physical injury to others. The following are some of the commonly asked questions about auto insurance. If you have any other questions or want to purchase an auto insurance policy in Hershey, PA, you can trust Options Insurance Agency for sound advice.

What coverage do I need?

In most states, car owners are required to have minimum liability coverage, but this may not be enough to cover the losses in case of an accident. As such, you need additional insurance coverage in case you have valuable personal assets and comprehensive cover for non- collision-related damages.

Can I minimize my car insurance costs?

Different factors affect the premium costs of a car insurance policy. However, you can reduce these premiums by installing safety features in your automobile and paying a higher deductible fee.

Do I qualify for insurance discounts?

Depending on your occupational group and your state of residence, you may be qualified for car insurance discounts. You also qualify for discounts if you have a low credit score and a clean driving record. Consult with your insurance provider to determine which discounts you are eligible for. 

What does car insurance cover?

Different categories of car insurance cover unique risk aspects. Liability coverage is for damages related to at-fault accidents and pays for property damage, repairs, and medical costs from injuries sustained as well as legal fees. There are additional optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, uninsured, and underinsured motorist coverages.

Is auto insurance mandatory?

Every state in the United States has a legal requirement that all car owners insure their cars with minimum liability coverage. However, insurance laws and regulations vary from state to state, so visit your local insurer for an auto liability policy.

If you have questions about auto insurance, Options Insurance Agency serving Hershey, PA, can help give some clarity and guide on choosing the most suitable coverage for you.

Tips For New Drivers

One of the major milestones in any young adult’s life is getting their driver’s license. Although it’s an exciting time, driving for the first time does come with new responsibilities. This helpful guide can help the newest drivers in Hershey, PA stay safe on the road, along with making sure they have the answers needed for auto insurance coverage from our experts at Options Insurance Agency. 

How New Drivers Should Prepare 

One of the first things you need to do as a  new driver is to get ready for the road test. It takes a while for younger drivers to become comfortable behind the wheel, so much practice is necessary.  It’s always recommended to practice with a responsible adult or to take a driving course for safety. The most important thing as parents is to allow them to get the confidence they need and take things slow and steady. Modern vehicles are also equipped with driver-assisted technology and include plenty of safety features. You’ll also want to spend time explaining to your teen driver how this assistive tech can help promote good driving habits. Here are a few other things to always remind new drivers while on the road.

  • Obey traffic rules and slow down
  • Always buckle up
  • Avoid all distractions ( texting and driving, eating, or loud music)
  • Don’t drive in bad weather conditions. 

Getting An Auto Insurance Policy 

Options Insurance Agency can help the newest drivers get the right insurance policy. We understand that getting the proper coverage can be a source of concern, and our experts have your best interest in mind. If you have a new driver in Hershey, PA, our agency serves the area with the highest level of integrity. So give us a call today to find out more information about an auto insurance policy.

Avoiding Driving Distractions

We live in a busy world where everyone is hustling and bustling to get through the day. With everyone so preoccupied with so many things, it is easy to become distracted when driving, especially when you add the added distraction that comes with staying connected via online apps and other communication methods. 

With so many distractions while behind the wheel, drivers in Hershey, PA, need to take extra precautions when hitting the road. Our experts at Options Insurance Agency can help get you the coverage you need to keep you protected while driving. 

Hands-Free Calls

Using the Bluetooth technology in your vehicle, connect your cell phone, so you can accept and make calls without needing to pick up your phone. 

Dictate Texts

Some devices allow you to dictate who you send a text message to and what you want to say. Additionally, some devices recite text messages, so you do not have to look at your phone. 

Social Media

Do not be tempted to look at any of your social media apps while driving. Whatever you want to read can wait until you are somewhere else besides driving in the car. 

Navigation Guides

When needing assistance finding a location, it is best to input the address before leaving or pull over to do it. Additionally, some apps offer traffic updates, gas prices notifications, and more. Use the audio for these options and limit the number of glances you make to look at the phone. 

Though we cannot help you with the driving distractions in Hershey, PA, we can help get you the insurance coverage you need to stay protected while on the road. Call our agents at Options Insurance Agency to learn more about the different auto insurance options available. 

Add-ons to consider for your auto insurance

When you are shopping for auto insurance in Pennsylvania, you may want to understand the different auto insurance options available for better coverage. When you partner with an agent like Options Insurance Agency located in Hershey, PA, we recommend the minimum coverage and introduce you to add-ons you can consider for your auto insurance for optimal coverage. 

Want to find out add-ons you can consider for your auto insurance? Please keep on scrolling.

Road assistance

While car ownership introduces you to a limitless world of possibilities, mishaps are bound to happen. For instance, breakdowns are part and parcel of car ownership. And boy, you don’t want it to happen when you don’t have road assistance coverage.

This add-on provides the below services whenever your car stalls on the highway or any other location.

  • Jump-starting
  • Gas delivery
  • Puncture repair
  • Roadside mechanical repair
  • Towing

Zero depreciation cover

When you have this cover, and your car needs replacement or part replacement, your insurance will cover full costs without considering the depreciation factor.

Engine protection

The engine serves a pivotal role in powering your vehicle. Without it, your car is rendered useless. In light of this, you can safeguard your engine with this protection rider, especially if you live in areas susceptible to waterlogging. 

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Regardless of how carefully you drive, accidents do happen even when you are not at fault. In such instances, PIP comes in handy, especially for drivers with little or no health insurance. In case of an accident, PIP covers medical costs, including surgery costs and ambulance fees, regardless of who was at fault. 

Auto insurance in Hershey, PA

Your car is a precious asset to you. As such, you need to purchase add-ons that suit your unique circumstances. For Pennsylvania residents, you can relax knowing that your auto insurance needs are well-taken care of by Options Insurance Agency situated in Hershey, PA. Contact us today whether renewing or shopping for new auto insurance.

What’s PA’s State Minimum for Auto Insurance?

Pennsylvania drivers are required to carry auto insurance that meets certain minimum coverage levels. These areas include bodily injury liability coverage, property damage liability coverage, and uninsured motorist coverage. Pennsylvania drivers can carry more than the minimum coverage amounts. However, they must carry at least the minimum in order to legally drive in the state. 

Pennsylvania Law

Pennsylvania drivers will face strong consequences if they don’t adhere to the auto insurance requirements in the state of Pennsylvania. Liability auto insurance is a requirement in the state. If you don’t carry liability auto insurance you face the possibility of a $300 fine and the suspension of your driver’s license for driving uninsured. Your vehicle registration can also be suspended for three months and a three-month suspension of your driver’s license. These are the penalties that you face if Penn DOT discovers that you drove without the required insurance. 

Pennsylvania State Minimums for Auto Insurance

Our team at the Options Insurance Agency is committed to helping Hershey, PA residents understand what’s required to legally drive in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania residents must purchase $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident for bodily injury liability coverage. State residents must also carry $5,000 in property damage liability coverage. Residents must also carry $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident in uninsured motorist coverage. Our team at the Options Insurance Agency wants PA drivers to understand what is required to legally operate a car within the state. We take the time to explain everything that’s required by state law to drive.

Liability auto insurance is required by law. However, liability insurance coverage levels must meet the state minimums. We’re here to answer any questions drivers may have about what’s required and what’s not required. GIve us a call. We’re here to guide you through understanding state laws and liability coverage minimums. 

How Much Auto Insurance Do I Need?

In order to register your car and drive it on public roads in Hershey, PA, you need auto insurance. But how much do you need? According to the state, there is a minimum amount you must purchase. However, is this really enough? It’s enough to get your wheels on the road but if something were to happen, even if it’s not your fault, will the minimum cover you? The answer could very well be no, according to Options Insurance Agency. 

There are three types of drivers on Hershey, PA roads: the insured, the underinsured, and the uninsured (yes, they exist and drive illegally).

When you’re in an auto accident, you and the other driver will fit into one of these three categories. If either of you are uninsured, you’ll face hefty fines and maybe even lose your privilege to drive. You’ll also have to pick up the entire bill for any damages or injuries. This puts your assets and savings at risk. The same goes for someone who is underinsured. You can get into a no-fault accident with an underinsured driver only to discover that your bills are going unpaid because their claim ran out. This is when your insurance kicks in if you’ve bought enough in your policy. You’ll need maximum coverage and in some cases umbrella insurance to cover the costs the at-fault driver can’t pay.

If you were to have an accident that’s not your fault, you’d want the other driver to be insured to the maximum, wouldn’t you? On the other hand, if you’re in an accident and it’s your fault, you’ll also want maximum to cover any injuries to loved ones or the other party. It just makes sense.

To learn more about getting the maximum benefits with your auto insurance policy, contact Options Insurance Agency today.