Category: Auto Insurance

California’s Mature Driver Improvement Program

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Many states in the U.S. require drivers to purchase auto insurance, and many drivers have questions about their state’s specific auto insurance requirements. At Avail Insurance Solutions LLC, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, we also serve clients in Nevada, Arizona, and Oregon, offering tailored insurance solutions to meet their needs.

California’s Mature Driver Improvement Program

According to the California Division of Motor Vehicles, the State of California offers driver improvement courses for residents aged 55 and older. These courses provide valuable information about California driving laws, defensive driving techniques, and updates on the state’s rules of the road. Additionally, the program addresses potential driving challenges caused by factors such as alcohol, fatigue, medication, and auditory or visual impairments.

Drivers who complete these courses can present a completion certificate to their insurance provider to request a reduction in auto insurance premiums. The initial course lasts 400 minutes, while annual renewal courses are 240 minutes long. To find a Mature Driver Improvement Program course near you, visit the California Division of Motor Vehicles website.

Call Us for Your Appointment Today

At Avail Insurance Solutions LLC, we are an independent insurance brokerage committed to offering a wide range of insurance solutions at reasonable prices. Since 2010, our team has been committed to delivering exceptional customer service and support to clients in California, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us assist you with your insurance needs.

What Questions to Ask Your Insurance Agent When Selecting An Auto Insurance Policy

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When you’re seeking car insurance, it’s important to ask the right questions. Asking the right questions of your insurance agent can help you find the best policy for your needs.

At Avail Insurance Solutions LLC, serving California, Nevada, Arizona, and Oregon, we’re happy to answer customer questions to help them feel more informed and more comfortable with their policy purchase. Below, we’ve listed several questions that you can ask your insurance agent when seeking auto insurance.

How Much Coverage Will This Provide?

It’s important to get the right level of coverage for your vehicle. Your policy should at least cover the minimum limit set by state law, but you can get more coverage if you feel it’s needed.

What Is the Deductible?

The deductible is how much you’ll be expected to pay before your insurance policy starts to pay covered expenses. Before you buy a policy, the deductible amount can be changed if needed. Changing the deductible amount may raise or lower the auto insurance premium.

If you’re worried about being able to pay for the deductible, ask for the lowest deductible possible. If you’d like to save money on your insurance premium, ask your insurance agent how much you can save by raising the deductible.

What If I Get In An Accident?

Know the procedure for filing a claim if you are in an accident. Choosing a policy from a company with policies and procedures that you’re comfortable with is important.

Do you have more questions about car insurance? Avail Insurance Solutions LLC professionals, serving California, Nevada, Arizona, and Oregon, can help. Call today to start shopping for an auto insurance policy you can trust.

3 things to remember when insuring your teen as a new driver

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Many teens consider getting their first driver’s license a significant milestone. However, this event can cause concern for their parents, primarily because of the increased insurance premiums associated with a new teen driver.

Parents in California and the surrounding states should take a few minutes to familiarize themselves with the implications of adding a teen to their policy. Considering these three points may be beneficial.

#1: Consult a Knowledgeable Agent

One of the most important things for parents to do is speak to an insurance agent familiar with teen drivers and how they can impact coverage. Take the time to learn what coverage is required and understand how deductibles and premiums interact.

#2: Explore Possible Discounts

It’s sometimes possible to receive discounts. These can involve multi-car or multi-policy discounts. Others might also be possible, such as those for good grades, driver’s education, and safe driving. Speaking to the insurance agent is beneficial in determining what you qualify for.

#3: Ensure the Teen Drives a Safe Car

The type of car the teen is driving can impact the premium. Vehicles with higher safety ratings and lower repair costs may result in a better quote. Safety should always be the first priority, so teaching teens to drive defensively is also a good idea.

The team at Avail Insurance Solutions LLC is ready to help California, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona residents find the insurance policy that enables them to add their teen with the coverage they need.

Does Auto Insurance Remain Valid in Out of State Moves?

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Avail Insurance Solutions LLC offers auto insurance solutions for residents of California, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona. However, moving from one state to another requires purchasing a new auto insurance policy suitable for your state of residency. This is because each state in the U.S. sets its auto insurance requirements.

Deadlines for Policy Replacement

Every state has different minimum requirements for auto insurance, so a policy from Arizona, for instance, wouldn’t meet California’s or Nevada’s requirements. Each state defines a time limit for purchasing a replacement policy. It would be best if you generally had the new policy by the time you register your vehicle in your new place of residence. Here are the deadlines for new vehicle registration and driver’s license updates:

  • Arizona – 10 days
  • California – 20 days for registration, 10 days for driver’s license
  • Nevada – 30 days
  • Oregon – 30 days.

As every state mandates proof of insurance for vehicle registrations and driver’s license updates, you need your new auto insurance policy before performing either task.

Difference in Insurance Policies Across States

Whichever state you move to, you need to update your auto insurance to meet its minimum coverage requirements. In the insurance industry, these are expressed as bodily injury per person per accident/bodily injury to all parties per accident/property damage:

  • Arizona – 25/50/15
  • California – 15/30/5
  • Nevada – 25/50/20
  • Oregon – 25/50/20.

Additionally, Oregon drivers must carry uninsured motorist coverage and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage of $15,000.

Get in Touch with Us Today

Ensure you carry the appropriate insurance for your state. Contact Avail Insurance Solutions LLC today to update your auto insurance needs and requirements.

Do Auto Insurance Requirements Vary by State?

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Almost all states in the U.S. require drivers to purchase liability insurance to cover bodily injury to third parties as well as property damage. However, the amount of liability coverage you need will vary from state to state. Moreover, some states require you to purchase other forms of coverage besides liability insurance.

Arizona Auto Insurance Requirements

Arizona drivers need bodily injury liability insurance to cover up to $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. Additionally, you’ll need at least $15,000 to cover property damage.

California Auto Insurance Requirements

If you drive in California, you’ll need liability coverage of $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage.

Nevada Auto Insurance Requirements

In Nevada, drivers need to have at least $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person as well as $50,000 in liability coverage per accident. Additionally, you’ll need at least $20,000 in property damage insurance.

Oregon Auto Insurance Requirements

In Oregon, you’ll need not just bodily liability and property damage coverage but also uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and personal injury protection. Minimal coverage requirements for liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage are $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 per accident. Property damage coverage is $20,000 per accident. Your personal injury protection policy should cover at least $15,000.

Get the Policy You Need from Avail Insurance Solutions LLC

Avail Insurance Solutions LLC makes it easy for drivers in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Arizona to find the insurance coverage they need for any vehicle. We offer minimal coverage options as well as additional forms of coverage to ensure you’re completely covered no matter what happens. Contact us to learn more about your policy options and get personalized advice to help you find great coverage at a great price.

Can You Purchase Auto Insurance With a Foreign Driver’s License?

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Most car owners are familiar with the above topic, but there are options for individuals to be insured with a foreign driver’s insurance. The Avail Insurance Solutions LLC of California, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona team can provide further information or tailor a temporary auto insurance policy that safeguards an international driver from potential disaster. 

What are the Parameters for Purchasing Auto Insurance with a Foreign Driver’s Insurance?

Foreign drivers can purchase a short-term auto insurance policy (6-12 months). It is the same requirement as renting a vehicle at the airport. The rental car company often offers minimal auto insurance as part of the agreement. Most insurance companies believe it is the best option for foreign tourists driving in the United States. 

But if your stay is any longer, you must obtain a valid United States driver’s license. Depending on your home country, you could apply for an international driving permit with the local Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) where you are staying. Keep in mind that you may have to forfeit your country driver’s license.

Canadian Driver’s Requirements

Canadian drivers crossing the American border have slightly different requirements. If they’re vacationing, their driver’s license and a valid auto insurance policy are required to travel throughout the United States.

However, if you are permanently relocating to the United States, you will need a valid driver’s license from a local DMV. The process begins by forfeiting your Canadian driver’s license and passing a written test before receiving a United States driver’s license.

If you have a foreign driver’s license and are planning to spend time in California, Oregon, Nevada, or Arizona, contact our team at Avail Insurance Solutions LLC. We are eager to help you get auto insurance during your stay in the United States. Our expertise can tailor a temporary policy that protects your vehicle for a short-term visit to our country. Call and schedule an appointment today.

3 Benefits of Automating Your Auto Insurance Bill Paying Process

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Remember when you were a kid? You couldn’t wait to become an adult so you could do what you wanted.

While it’s true that being an adult grants you the freedom to do virtually anything you want to do, oftentimes you don’t have time to do it. Between taking care of the kids, going to work, and paying bills, you’re exhausted. It’s hard to appreciate the beauty of California, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, and other West Coast scenic hotspots when there isn’t time to do so.

Thankfully, our agents at Avail Insurance Solutions LLC can help. We know it’s possible to regain some of your time and explore your surroundings. For instance, you don’t have to sit in traffic or stand in line at the post office to mail off your car insurance note if you automate the process. There are other benefits to taking this route as well.

Some of them include:

  • Saves time and effort: When you use technology to help you pay your car insurance note, you won’t have to rely on manual processes that require a lot of both human intervention and paperwork.
  • Helps improve your credit score: Automating your bill-paying process helps you avoid late payments and delinquencies. Both negatively affect your credit history.
  • Helps the environment: Since you don’t have to mail or print your auto insurance bill, this reduces paper waste and carbon emissions.

These are just a few of the reasons automating your car insurance bill-paying process can help you. Learn more about this and other auto insurance benefits when you contact our experts at Avail Insurance Solutions LLC today. We take pride in helping our patrons in California, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona get the best coverage for their needs and budget. 

Four things that might surprise you about your auto insurance policy

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Motorists in California, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona should be adequately informed about their auto insurance needs and responsibilities. There might be some things you’re not aware of about your auto insurance policy. At Avail Insurance Solutions LLC, we’re here to ensure that consumers know everything they need to know about auto insurance coverage.

The following are four things that might surprise you about your auto insurance policy.  

Your auto insurance policy might not cover you in the event of damages caused by fire or theft.

All auto insurance policies don’t cover damage from fire or theft. If you want to enjoy coverage for these types of incidents, you need to add comprehensive coverage to your auto insurance policy.  

Your auto insurance might come in handy if your vehicle breaks down on the road.

Many auto insurance policies include roadside assistance coverage. With this type of coverage, you can get towing costs covered when your vehicle breaks down. 

Your auto insurance policy may cover you for rental vehicle costs after an accident.

Rental coverage is one type of coverage that you really should make sure you have on your policy. With rental coverage, you can get a rental car paid for after an accident if your vehicle is in the shop for repairs for a while. 

Your auto insurance policy is impacted by how much you use your vehicle. 

Auto insurance providers usually ask policyholders how often they use their vehicles.

Policyholders who don’t use their vehicle on a daily basis should definitely make sure their insurance provider knows this because they may be able to enjoy a discount as a result. 

Schedule A Consultation Today

If you need to ensure you’re vehicle, call Avail Insurance Solutions LLC to get a quote on an auto insurance policy. We meet the auto insurance needs of consumers in Arizona, Nevada, California, and Oregon. 

Safe driving tips for new drivers

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Many new drivers in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Arizona are unaware of the risks and responsibilities associated with driving. To ensure safe driving, it is important to understand the basics before taking the wheel. Here are some tips from us at Avail Insurance Solutions LLC for new drivers to help make the roads a safer place.

Safe driving tips for new drivers

1. Always wear a seatbelt

Seatbelts not only keep you safe but they are also required by law in most states. Wearing a seatbelt can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in case of an accident. 

2. Obey speed limits

Driving too fast increases your risk of getting into an accident and can also lead to costly tickets and fines. Always be aware of speed limit signs posted on the road and drive safely within them. 

3. Understand basic road rules

Familiarize yourself with all local traffic laws and regulations, such as yielding at stop signs, merging on highways, and parked vehicles’ right-of-way rules. 

4. Don’t drive while distracted

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes across age groups. Avoid using your phone or any other device while behind the wheel that could take your attention away from driving safely. 

5. Take extra caution in inclement weather

Rain, snow, fog, ice, or wind can present hazards when driving conditions become less than favorable – so it’s important to slow down and take extra precautions when bad weather strikes! 

We Are Here To Help

Driving is a privilege that requires focus and responsibility – so make sure you adhere to these tips for safe roadways! For more information, give us at Avail Insurance Solutions LLC a call today We are proud to serve the states of California, Nevada, Oregon, and Arizona.

The Importance of Having Comprehensive and Collision Coverage for Your Car

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Whether you live in California, Oregon, Nevada, or good ol’ Arizona, as a conscientious car owner, you take all the necessary precautions to protect your investment. However, no matter how careful you are, accidents happen. Comprehensive and collision insurance from Avail Insurance Solutions LLC are essential types of coverage that protect your car from damages that are beyond your control. 

What Is Comprehensive Coverage, and How Does it Protect Your Car?

Comprehensive coverage takes care of damages resulting from incidents that are beyond your control. For instance, if your car is damaged in a hailstorm, vandalized, or stolen, comprehensive coverage will pay for the repairs or replacement. Comprehensive coverage also includes damages caused by animals, such as deer causing a collision. Moreover, this type of coverage also reimburses you when your windshield gets cracked.

Understanding Collision Coverage: When and How It Pays for Auto Repairs

On the other hand, collision coverage pays for damages resulting from an accident with another car or object, irrespective of who is at fault. For instance, if you collide with another car, or hit a tree or a fence, collision coverage will pay for the repairs or replacement.

The Benefits of Having Comprehensive and Collision Coverage for Your Car

The benefits of having comprehensive collision insurance in California, Oregon, Nevada, and Arizona are vast.

Firstly, comprehensive coverage gives you peace of mind that your car is protected in unforeseen circumstances beyond your control. Secondly, collision coverage will eliminate the need for you to pay out of pocket for damages from an accident. Thirdly, both types of coverage can greatly increase the resale value of your vehicle, as potential buyers are more likely to purchase a car that has undergone fewer accidents and had comprehensive protection.

We Can Help!

Comprehensive and collision coverage are essential protections for all car owners. The benefits of having these coverages cannot be overemphasized, as they ensure that your car is protected in various situations beyond your control. At Avail Insurance Solutions LLC, we urge residents of any area to take advantage of comprehensive and collision coverage options to give them peace of mind and protect their investments. Contact us today for more information on how we can help protect your assets.