3 Signs You Need to Invest in a New Vehicle

There’s a big chance most of us would love to be driving a brand-new vehicle right about now. But in reality, some would benefit more from a new set of wheels than others. If your car is not as reliable as it used to be, it could be time for a new one. Some factors may indicate it’s time for a new vehicle. 

It’s Unsafe

This one is the most glaring indicator that it’s time for your car to hang up the boots. Maybe the seatbelts are no longer working as they used to, you have to “jiggle” your brake pedal before it engages, or you have to steer with all your might for your car to head in the right direction. Should you continue risking safety to drive a car like this? Probably not. 

It’s Expensive

As much as you don’t want to admit it, cars don’t last forever. Keeping the wheels turning is getting a little more expensive than you might have anticipated. Your gas efficiency has hit rock bottom, car repairs are through the roof, and even keeping your car insured is getting expensive! You’ll have to decide whether your vehicle is worth spending so much on. 

It Looks Bad

Some cars are ageless and stunning, no matter how many years pass. Yet this is only valid for a select few. Remember, driving is equal parts function and looks! If you ever look at your driveway and feel like the car you drive has seen better days, it could be time for an upgrade.

Pronto Insurance is Here

Whether you’ve decided on a new set of wheels or remain loyal to your old machine, you’ll need the right car insurance to protect them. If you’re currently trying to find the best value for money, look no further than Pronto Insurance. Contact our insurance agents today to learn more about what we can offer. 

4 Items You Should Keep in Your Car at All Times – Part 2

In a previous blog, we brought you some of those not-so-common items you should always try to keep in your vehicle. They’re not as talked about as jumper cables or flashlights but can offer tremendous help if you’re in a pinch! Today, we’re bringing more items to help you stay prepared.

Work Gloves

Car breakdowns happen when you least expect them; sometimes, they occur during the worst possible weather. Whether it’s cold out, rainy, or the tarmac is blistering hot, a pair of work gloves can help keep your hands as protected as possible. 

Escape Tool

Having to escape your vehicle is not a thought that often crosses our minds. If the situation ever arises, it’s best to be prepared for it. An escape tool can cut through seatbelts and break windows. Remember, this tool is vital, so always keep it close to you (center console or glove compartment). 

Vacuum Cleaner

From pet hair and a child’s mess to pieces of broken glass, vacuum cleaners are beneficial when ridding your car of things that can stain, cause damage to your vehicle, or even damage your passengers. 

Waterproof Ponchos

Changing a tire, prepping your car for a tow, or any other typical breakdown situation in the rain is a nightmare scenario. The last thing you want is to renter your vehicle soaked! With that said, a waterproof poncho can help you stay as dry as possible. 

 

Get Help from Pronto Insurance

No matter what the road brings your way, Pronto Insurance always has your back. If you’re currently on the hunt for an insurance policy that prioritizes your needs while considering your finances, we can help. Contact our insurance agents today for more information about what we can do for you. 

4 Items You Should Keep in Your Car at All Times – Part 1

Preparedness is crucial at all times, but it’s essential when it comes to hitting the road. Of course, we all have an idea of what you should always keep in your vehicle to be prepared if your car breaks down. Flashlights, jumper cables, and a first aid kit are a must! However, certain items are just as important but not nearly as discussed. 

Multi-Tools

Motorists widely recognize the importance of tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, and hammers. But hauling your entire toolbox isn’t always possible. So, what can you rely on when a screw needs screwing, or something needs cutting? The underappreciated multi-tool! Sure, each tool is not as efficient as its stand-alone counterpart, but the sum of its parts makes it an extremely valuable and essential item in any car. 

Duct Tape and Zip Ties

Sometimes, the only issue keeping you from reaching your destination is a collection of things that need to stick together. Maybe it’s a loose bumper, a hanging rearview mirror, or some other vehicle component that’s moving around too much. This is when duct tape and zip ties shine! With a little of both, you’ll be able to fasten things and get on your merry way. However, it’s essential to only use these items when safe, for a short drive, and only until you can repair things. 

Rags

Life on the side of the road can be dirty. Whether dealing with a flat tire or a dying battery, things can get greasy and messy quickly. In these situations, your best friend can be rags, towels, or wet wipes. 

Portable Compressor 

This item is certainly not as affordable as the previous ones, but it’s for a good reason! These relatively small, battery-powered compressors pack enough punch to inflate one or all (depending on the size and model you decide on) of your tires in a pinch! 

Contact a Pronto Insurance Agent

If you’re on the side of the road due to a car malfunction or worse, you can always count on Pronto Insurance to come to the rescue. And if any of our policies does not yet protect you, contact our insurance agents today. 

You May Want to Think Twice Before Using an Automatic Car Wash

First, the positives: automatic car washes are just so convenient. You’re in and out within a few minutes, they leave your car looking squeaky clean, and they’re incredibly affordable. Unfortunately, using automatic carwashes too frequently can end up doing more harm than good for your vehicle. Our auto insurance agency wants to share a few cautionary tips.
Scratches
Many modern automatic car washes claim they use softer, more gentle brushes that won’t harm your vehicle. But that isn’t always the case. With the sheer number of cars washed before yours, grime, dirt, and other impurities can leave these “soft” brushes just as abrasive. This, ultimately, translates to scratches on your clear coat and even your car’s paint.
Damage
Automatic car washes move incredibly fast – the same goes for the brushes charged with cleaning your vehicle. With such high speeds and heavyweight, several parts of your car can be left in harm’s way. This includes wipers, windshields, rearview mirrors, and the decorative trim surrounding your vehicle.
Harmful Chemicals
Glass can be especially prone to damage from harmful chemicals. And although many car washes avoid these toxic products, you ultimately don’t know what you may get from the places you visit.
Do What’s Best for Your Vehicle
If you care about the lifespan of your car, hand washing your vehicle may be the best alternative to automatic car washes. After all, you’ll be in control of every last detail, much like what type of protection you give it. If you’re currently looking for a better insurance alternative, Pronto Insurance can help! Give us a call today to learn more about what we have to offer.

Is Your Teen Ready to Drive? Here’s What You Should Know About Young Driver Insurance Rates

Getting behind the wheel for the first time is exciting and an essential step toward young adulthood as a teenager. However, things can be a little more nerve-wracking for parents. If your teenager is ready for a license, you’re probably wondering what this means for your insurance rates. Yes, insuring a young driver is generally more expensive. Here’s why:
CDC Statistics are Considered
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state teenagers aged 16 through 19 are at a higher risk of car crashes than any other age group. Ultimately, they lack the experience and maturity that other drivers possess. This statistically makes them more prone to errors that can result in car accidents. So, what can your young driver do to combat this age-related issue?
Drive Safe
That’s right! To begin establishing a track record for safe driving that coincidentally saves money on insurance rates, your teenage driver needs to drive with the utmost care. This means obeying traffic laws, avoiding distractions such as mobile phones, avoiding episodes of road rage, and being alert at all times. It’s as simple as that!
Let’s Find the Right Policy
As you can imagine, your young driver should undoubtedly have car insurance when they hits the road. But maybe you’re not happy with the rates you’ve seen. Or perhaps you’re looking for options that best fit your needs? Whatever the case, Pronto Insurance can lend a helping hand. Our insurance agents are ready to evaluate your situation and give you various options. Contact us today to learn more.

Safety Driving Tips to Maneuver Around Some of the Most Common Road Hazards

As technology advances and develops, driving has become an increasingly safer mode of transportation. That said, your vehicle will always be as safe as you and other drivers behind the wheel. But this begs the question, how should you react when the road throws some unexpected hazards your way? At Pronto Insurance, we have the answers and the auto coverage, you need. 

Wildlife

Roads aren’t just shared with other motorists. Sometimes, especially at night and early morning, wildlife can find their way to the tarmac and pose a real danger to unsuspecting drivers. It’s why driving is so essential, especially alert during these active hours. Remember, if a wild animal darts in front of you, hit your brakes, hold on to your steering wheel firmly, and honk your horn. Jerking your wheel away from danger can cause you to lose control and crash. 

Floods

Countless vehicles are lost to floods and recklessness each year. If you live in an area prone to flooding, you’ve likely heard the adage, “turn around, don’t drown.” This saying has stood the test of time because it continues to hold a lot of weight. So, if you drive up to a sizeable puddle and don’t know how deep it may be, do the right thing and find an alternate route to your destination. 

Newly Wet Roads

If your area has received its first rain in weeks or months, you must be extra cautious while driving. The oil, grease, and grime accumulated on the road with the lack of rain turn into a slippery hazard as soon as a few raindrops fall. We suggest you be mindful of your speed and stay alert during these times. 

Pronto Insurance Has Your Back

Whether there’s rain, wildlife, or other hazards out on the road, you can always count on Pronto Insurance to provide the protection you deserve. Give us a call today to learn more about our policies and rates.

3 Tips for Being Mindful on the Road from our Auto Insurance Agency

Each day, large delivery trucks and 18-wheelers hit the road to ensure everyone gets their goods promptly. Of course, this means drivers have to share the road with these big rigs safely and responsibly. If you tend to feel overwhelmed as you approach these oversized vehicles, don’t worry. Pronto Insurance has a few tips to help you maneuver around them safely and effectively. 

Before you get on the road, make sure you are getting the best price for auto insurance, and contact a Pronto Insurance Agent today.

Don’t Get Too Close

You never want to tail an 18-wheeler closely. If they were to make an abrupt stop, you’d end up rear-ending them and causing damage to your vehicle, injuries, or worse! Instead, ensure you’re always at least four car lengths behind these large trucks. 

Mind the Blind Spots

Unsurprisingly, large vehicles have blind spots that are just as large and highly dangerous. If you choose to pass an 18-wheeler, make sure you do so on the driver’s side, where they’ll be much more likely to see you. Once you’ve passed them, stay on your lane until you’re four cars lengths or more in front of the vehicle before merging into its lane. 

Watch the Turns

These massive vehicles take massive turns due to their size. In some instances, 18-wheelers can take up as many as three lanes when making a turn! If you see a big rig turn on its turning signal, keep your distance and let them maneuver safely. If you’re coming to a traffic stop and can see a truck about to make a turn, make sure you bring your car to a halt behind the white traffic line to give them enough space. 

Contact Pronto Insurance for Affordable Insurance

No matter the road ahead, you’ll always benefit from having the peace of mind that only auto insurance can provide. If you’re looking for a policy that best fits your needs, Pronto Insurance is here to help. Give us a call today and learn more about our rates.

3 Factors Our Insurance Agents Want You to Consider When Buying a Car

 

3 Factors Our Insurance Agents Want You to Consider When Buying a Car 

Buying a car opens you up to a world of possibilities. Will you get a truck or a smaller vehicle? Is it time to go electric? The questions you’ll face are virtually limitless, but we have to admit some are much more crucial than others. So, what are some of the most important things to consider as you prepare to purchase your next vehicle? The insurance agents at Pronto Insurance have the information you need. 

Are You Financing?

In a perfect world, you’d pay for your vehicle in cold, hard cash and never look back. Unfortunately, most people will have to opt for financing options. This means you’ll have to determine what terms best fit your needs. Will you get a loan for five or six years? Are the interest rates looking good now, or should you wait for them to drop? Whatever the case, read all the fine print in your contract before putting pen to paper. 

Are You Ready for Depreciation?

They say a vehicle’s value drops substantially when you drive off the lot. Additionally, vehicles lose around 20% of their value every year! Of course, some known and trusted brands tend to keep their value much more intact than others. Whatever the case, you need to consider how long you’ll want to drive your new vehicle and whether or not you’re prepared to lose money on it. 

What About Gas Prices?

Let’s say you plan to upgrade from a four-door sedan to an offroad truck — good on you! However, it’s essential to understand that your gas budget will surpass what you expect. If your budget is already taking a hit with the car payment itself, you may not have too much leeway for gas. 

Don’t Forget About Insurance

Whether you pull the trigger on a fancy new vehicle or decide to keep your old set of wheels around for a while longer, you’ll want to make sure somebody is always watching your back. That’s where Pronto Insurance can help you out! With us, you and your vehicle are a priority, and we’ll work around the clock to offer you the best of our services. Get in touch with our insurance agents today to learn more about our rates.

Filing a Home Insurance Claim? 3 Steps You Can Take Now!

Filing a Home Insurance Claim? 3 Steps You Can Take Now!

When you’re preparing to purchase your new home, you will inevitably hear plenty of advice from your friends and family. They’ll tell you:

  • How often you need to call an exterminator.
  • What to do if your AC stops working.
  • Whether getting a pool is a good or bad idea.
  • However, what you may not hear is any advice on getting the right homeowner’s insurance. For instance, the steps you need to follow when filing a claim. Fortunately, Pronto Insurance has you covered if this is the information you want.

    Call Your Agent

    If anything happens to (or at) your home, the first thing you must do is contact your insurance company. Doing so promptly may mean the difference between a successful and speedy claim or one that takes way too long to process.

    Hold Off on Repairs

    Sure, if something happens to your home, you’ll want to get it fixed as soon as possible. However, you must take photos and record the damage before you make repairs. Your insurance adjuster will likely want to inspect your home, so you may need to wait on repairs until after speaking with them.

    Ask Questions

    When an insurance adjuster contacts you or visits your home make sure to:

  • Be clear and concise when reporting the events leading up to the home damage.
  • Remember to stay calm and avoid feeling overwhelmed while your insurance company helps you.
  • Ask your agent as many questions as you need to be answered.
  • Feel free to join your adjuster as they complete their inspection.
  • Here to Help

    Whether you’re an established homeowner or just beginning your journey into homeownership, know that your insurance company should be there to take care of you. It’s something that Pronto Insurance has prioritized since our inception and something that we’d love to share with you. If you’re currently shopping for insurance or want to know more about our services, message us today.

    3 These Steps to Keep Your Home Safe While on Summer

    3 These Steps to Keep Your Home Safe While on Summer

    Vacation

    After months of hard work and dedication, it’s time for you and your loved ones to head out to a relaxing destination where you can wind down and relax. But, before you head out, you should take proactive steps to make sure you don’t return to a ransacked home! Not sure where to start? Pronto Insurance has you covered homeowner’s insurance and these three steps.

    Tell Someone You Trust

    Summer vacations are exciting, and sometimes it can be challenging to keep things under wraps. However, it’s in your best interest to not tell anyone your plans. You should only tell someone you trust about your upcoming trip. In fact, you can even ask them to stop by your
    house and:

  • Check your house is safe
  • Pick up your mail
  • Feed your pets
  • Leave a Light On

    Yes, this advice may sound like something your dad would suggest, but he has a point! If your house is left in absolute darkness, it may be a beacon of opportunity to any would-be robbers.
    If you can avoid this issue by leaving your porch lights on (and maybe even a radio), you may do yourself a massive favor.

    Go Social Media Dark

    Would you ever tell the entire world you’ll be away from your home for a few days, giving someone the chance to ransack your valuables? We think not. You should strongly consider:

  • Limiting your social media use while you’re gone.
  • Turning off your location tags on all your social media posts.
  • Waiting to post that fantastic picture of a beach sunset until you return home.
  • Protect Your Home

    Whether you are home, out on a quick errand, or away on a relaxing summer vacation, the one thing your house should not go without is insurance. The right policy can help you navigate:

  • Fires
  • Robberies
  • Destructive weather
  • Contact Pronto Insurance today to learn more about our homeowner’s insurance and the tailor-
    made rates we can offer you.