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

Posted on by Active Insurance

 

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!

Posted on by Active Insurance

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

    Posted on by Active Insurance

    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.

    These 3 Insurance Myths Are Not What They Seem

    Posted on by Active Insurance

    These 3 Insurance Myths Are Not What They Seem

    If you find yourself shopping for insurance, you’re likely to hear a few opinions from friends, family, or even the internet. This, along with the overwhelming amount of available information, can make finding the best insurance for your vehicle challenging.
    At Pronto Insurance, we want to make your insurance shopping experience a little easier. We want to discuss and debunk some of the most common car insurance myths.

    Your Credit Doesn’t Matter

    If you’ve bought a house, a car, or simply gotten a credit card, you know how important your credit score is. Things are no different when it comes to your car insurance. Most insurers determine rates by using your credit history. After all, it will disclose just how reliable you are when making payments.

    Specific Colors Are More Expensive to Insure

    You’ve probably heard people say red cars are almost impossible to insure. However, this is far from the case. The reality is that your car’s age, model, make, and engine size will have a greater say in how your insurance rates play out.

    Your Rates Rise Along With Your Age

    Nobody wants to get older, but at least find closure in knowing aging won’t raise your premiums. Actually, quite the opposite! In many cases, drivers over a certain age are eligible for age discounts that could decrease their payments.

    Let’s Get You Insured

    If your insurance shopping journey has been too stressful, don’t worry. The experts at Pronto Insurance are ready to make things easy. We’ll evaluate your needs and tailor an insurance plan based on them, so you get exactly what you need and nothing more. Contact us today if you have any questions about our rates.

    Today’s Gas Prices Call for a Guide on How to Save Fuel

    Posted on by Active Insurance

    Today’s Gas Prices Call for a Guide on How to Save Fuel

    Gas prices have skyrocketed over the last few weeks, and there’s no telling when they will normalize. Of course, it would be unfair to suggest you should simply stop driving. However, you can take a few steps to make sure you’re keeping as much fuel in the tank and money in your pocket as possible.

    Not Every Hour is Rush Hour

    Quick question. Is speeding acceptable when running late to work or simply looking for a thrill? Nope! Speeding is never the right call. It’s dangerous and selfish, and it also wreaks havoc on your gas consumption. The key to saving your fuel is watching your pace and driving steady.

    Maintenance Your Vehicle Regularly

    If you’re not necessarily one to keep up with tune-ups, it may just be time to change your ways—oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks, are all essential to keep your vehicle in good shape.

    Tires are Important

    Your tire’s pressure, tread, and overall health are important factors ensuring your vehicle is safe and efficient. Even a poorly-inflated tire will produce more resistance on the road. This means your car will struggle to ride along and, in turn, waste more of your precious gas.

    Plan Ahead

    Driving around aimlessly is the perfect way to ensure you’re wasting gas. Be smart and plan your trips before climbing into the driver’s seat. Plan ahead and give the insurance agents at Pronto Insurance a call if you’re ready to protect your car. We’ll help you find the protection that best fits your needs.

    Keep It Cool and Prep Your Car for Warmer Weather

    Posted on by Active Insurance

    Keep It Cool and Prep Your Car for Warmer Weather

    When the cold days wear off, and the sun starts to sizzle down on us, we tend to waste no time in getting ourselves ready for the new weather. We wear lighter clothes, hydrate more, and even lather our skin with a bit of sunblock. Wouldn’t it be great if we gave our vehicles the same treatment? At Pronto Insurance, we want to help you prep your car and keep it working as it should during the sizzling hot weather.

    Your AC is a Priority

    Summers can be brutal, and taking on the road without air-conditioning is entirely out of the question. If you want to avoid driving around in a foul mood and soaked in sweat, we recommend you make sure your AC is working properly before the weather gets even hotter. Giving it a test run will let you know if you’re all set or if it’s time to make some repairs.

    Check Your Coolant

    Your vehicle’s coolant is its natural hydration. Without it, overheating becomes a huge danger that can potentially leave you stranded when you least expect it. We recommend you check your coolant levels even before spring begins. It’s always a good idea to carry an extra container of coolant in your trunk, especially if you drive an older vehicle.

    How’s Your Battery?

    As you can imagine, the blazing summer heat can negatively affect your car battery. If you wish to avoid any malfunctions while out on the road, it’s always a good idea to have your battery charge checked. Now, doing so allows you to replace your battery before the weather gets even hotter.

    Help When You Need It

    Did you know some insurance plans come with the added benefit of roadside assistance? At Pronto Insurance, we know this feature can be a difference-maker in unexpected situations. Give our insurance agents a call today for more information about this comprehensive service.

    These 3 Signs Could Indicate It May be Time for a New Vehicle

    Posted on by Active Insurance

    These 3 Signs Could Indicate It May be Time for a New Vehicle

    Car payments can be a major monthly headache. It’s the reason why so many drivers keep their cars running for as long as they possibly can. However, no matter how hard you may try, there is always a point when your car just won’t work any longer. At Pronto Insurance, we want to share the 3 most common signs that indicate it is time for a new set of wheels.

    Safety Concerns

    Older cars tend to have a few quirks in them that need to be done in order to work. Maybe the gas cap needs to be jiggled in order to twist off. Or perhaps the seat reclining lever needs a bit of a shimmy to let you adjust your seat. But, if you find yourself doing these same things to your seatbelt, your brakes, or any other component that’s vital for your safety, it’s time to say goodbye to your car.

    You’re Hemorrhaging Money

    Sure, not having a car payment is a godsend. And yes, you’re going to have to make some repairs to your vehicle eventually. But, if you’re finding yourself frequently paying mechanics, your gas efficiency is in shambles, or insurance costs are steadily rising, you may be spending way too much on your old car.

    Bad Looks

    Some older vehicles look great and are full of charm. But it’s safe to say that many other older vehicles have definitely seen better days. Chances are, you can probably tell which category your vehicle falls under. If your set of wheels is an absolute eyesore and you have an opportunity to score a better-looking set of wheels, run with it!

    Protection Always

    No matter what state your car is in, it’s important to remember the best protection you can give it is car insurance. At Pronto Insurance, we’re ready to help you find the protection that best fits your need, so you can keep hitting the road with peace of mind. Contact us today for more information about our insurance services.

    3 Reasons a Used Car May Be the Best Way to Go for Your New Set of Wheels

    Posted on by Active Insurance

    3 Reasons a Used Car May Be the Best Way to Go for Your New Set of Wheels

    Did you know the average cost for a new car at the end of 2021 was over $45,000? That’s up from $40,000 in 2020, according to Kelly Blue Book! Given the latest prices and the chip shortage that has left car dealerships looking empty, buying a used car may be the best way to go. If that doesn’t convince you, Pronto Insurance also has a few factors to share that may make you want to choose a used vehicle instead.

    Depreciation

    Your car depreciates the moment you drive out of the dealership’s lot. New vehicles depreciate roughly 20 percent the moment they’re driven out of the lot and a further 10 percent during the first year. On the other hand, used vehicles have already significantly depreciated since they first left the dealership. While they will continue to decline, they’ll do so at a slower rate. This all translates to a better loan-to-vehicle-value ratio.

    Value for Money

    Let’s say you’re ready to purchase that beautiful truck you’ve always wanted but, after looking at the prices for new ones, you find that it’s out of your price range. However, the prices for one or two years older models are well within your means! This means you can get the vehicle of your dreams for a very good price.

    Proven History

    Getting a brand-new car guarantees you’ll be driving a machine that has never experienced any issues. But this doesn’t mean an old vehicle is the complete opposite of that. Fortunately, with the accessibility of finding car histories, title status, reports, and other past ownership information, you can be sure of what type of vehicle you’re driving before you make a purchase.

    Insurance Is a Must

    If you’re ready to bring a new set of wheels to your driveway, insurance is a must. The insurance agents at Pronto Insurance are ready to help you evaluate your needs and determine what type of protection best fits your needs and vehicle. Give us a call today for more information about our insurance services.

    If There’s a New Driver in Your Home These 3 Steps Are a Must

    Posted on by Active Insurance

    If There’s a New Driver in Your Home These 3 Steps Are a Must

    Getting your “first car” is a milestone in almost everyone’s life. It signifies more freedom, more responsibilities, and an even more important step into adulthood! But before your new driver takes to the road, they should do three essential things. The insurance experts at Pronto Insurance want to share a few steps new drivers need to follow.

    Learn About Your Hot Rod

    As any seasoned veteran knows, no two vehicles are the same. Pedal positioning varies between cars, the shifter may be in a different spot, and the way it drives can also be unique. It’s the reason why it’s so important that every new driver gets to know their vehicle before even turning it on. They should also become familiar with the concept of regular tune-ups and the frequency of oil changes.

    Know Your Roads

    Your new driver is likely not going on a cross-country road trip any time soon. More than likely, their commute will probably be limited to just a few miles from your home. With that said, it’s important they know their routes to get familiar with speed limits, street names, and even the odd bump on the road.

    Insurance Is a Must

    Insurance can be a confusing concept even for the most seasoned drivers on the road. But it doesn’t have to be! Your new driver needs to learn just how important insurance is, especially at their age. It’s why the insurance agents at Pronto Insurance are ready to provide every bit of information they need along with expert advice on coverage, policies, and cost. Contact us today for more information about our services.

    Your Car Insurance Costs Are Dependent on these 4 Vehicle Factors

    Posted on by Active Insurance

    Your Car Insurance Costs Are Dependent on these 4 Vehicle Factors

    Time and time again, people are told their car insurance costs are directly related to their age, gender, driving record, and so on. While this is true, it’s important to remember just how much impact your vehicle will have on your insurance costs. In fact, at Pronto Insurance, we want to share the four factors that are most commonly related to your car insurance.

    The Size

    We can probably all agree small cars are enjoyable to drive. You can zip and zoom around everywhere and fit it into the tightest spots. However, in many cases, smaller cars can speed up quickly, cut people off, and maneuver in a way that can potentially cause accidents. For this reason, bigger cars are considered “safer” and therefore a bit less expensive to insure.

    The Value

    Value is in the eye of the car owner. It may not be surprising to learn a car worth hundreds of thousands of dollars will be much more expensive to insure than one that costs five grand. This goes for foreign luxury or sports cars, which are pricier to repair than their American counterparts.

    The Age

    New cars have cutting-edge features and parts that make driving them a good experience. But, for all this technology, you’re probably looking at spending a pretty penny if your brand-new vehicle needs repairs compared to an older car. This, as you can imagine, translates to insurance prices, which will be much higher for newer vehicles.

    The Safety Features

    Today, some of the highest-ranked vehicles are considered the best due to their safety features and rankings. They often come equipped with warning systems backup cameras and even have the capacity to avoid accidents when you least expect them.

    Insurance companies love safety features, and a vehicle that is maintained. It’s possible to even be charged less for protection depending on these additional factors. Contact Pronto Insurance to get started today.