How do I find out what flood zone I live in?

If you live in Pembroke Pines, FL, it is essential to know which flood zone you live in. Why? First, if you live in a high-risk flood zone, you need to have an evacuation plan for hurricanes, flash flooding, and other emergencies. Second, if your home is not adequately insured, you could risk losing everything should a flood occur. This blog post will show you how to determine which flood zone you live in.

Determining Your Flood Zone

First, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) website. On the main page, type in your address or a nearby landmark. Once you hit enter, a new page will load with information about your property. Scroll down to the "Flood Hazard Information" section and look for the "Map Number." The number next to "Map Number" is your flood zone designation.

The next step is to visit your insurance agent to ensure that you have adequate coverage should a flood occur. If you do not have insurance or your policy does not cover floods, now is the time to get it. You can also purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

How McCormick Insurance Inc. Can Help

If you live in Pembroke Pines, FL, you should know which flood zone you live in. Remember, it is vital to have adequate insurance coverage if you live in a high-risk flood zone. If you do not have insurance, now is the time to get it. Call McCormick Insurance Inc. today, and we can help you purchase flood insurance through the NFIP or a private company.

Five Things to Look For in a Home Insurance Policy

When protecting your home, you want to ensure you have the best possible coverage. Your home is likely one of your most significant investments, so you’ll want to choose a policy that will give you peace of mind knowing that you and your home are covered in an accident or disaster. Here are five things to look for when choosing a home insurance policy.

1. Coverage Limits

Coverage limits are one of the most critical things in a home insurance policy. This is the maximum amount your insurer will pay out in case of a covered incident. It’s essential to choose a policy with limits that will protect your home and belongings in the event of a worst-case scenario.

2. Premiums

Of course, you’ll also want to consider the cost of your premiums when choosing a home insurance policy. Be sure to get quotes from multiple insurers to compare rates. Remember that the cheapest policy may not always be the best option. Be sure to read the fine print and understand what is and isn’t covered before making your final decision.

3. Liability Coverage 

Did you know that your home insurance policy might also cover you if someone is injured on your property? This is known as liability coverage, and it can protect you financially if you are ever sued or held responsible for an accident. Be sure to choose a policy with adequate liability coverage to protect yourself and your assets.

4. Reputation of the Insurer 

You may have the best home insurance policy in the world, but it won’t do you any good if your insurer isn’t reliable. When choosing a home insurance policy, research the insurer’s reputation. Read reviews and check out their financial stability to make sure they will be able to pay out on your policy if you ever need to make a claim.

5. Discounts 

Finally, be sure to ask about discounts when you’re shopping for a home insurance policy. Some offer discounts for things like having advanced security systems. Be sure to ask about any discounts that might apply to you so that you can save even more on your premium.

These are just a few things to consider when choosing a home insurance policy. McCormick Insurance Inc. can help you find the right policy for your needs and budget. Contact us today for more information or to get started on your quote.

We look forward to helping you protect your most valuable asset in Pembroke Pines, FL.

Why you need auto insurance: six compelling reasons

Auto insurance is one of those things we need but don’t necessarily think about unless we have to. It’s not as exciting as buying a new car, but it is essential to protect your assets in the event of an accident. Here are six compelling reasons why you need auto insurance and how McCormick Insurance Inc. can help motorists in Pembroke Pines, FL.

1. Good financial protection

A car is a significant investment. Major repairs from accidents would be difficult to pay for out-of-pocket and could even put you in debt. Auto insurance can help pay for unexpected repairs and medical bills, so you don’t have to worry about finances following an accident.

2. Peace of mind

No one likes worrying about what would happen if they were in an accident. Having auto insurance is that extra security blanket you will have to prepare for the unexpected.

3. It’s required

In most states, it is illegal to drive without auto insurance. If caught driving without insurance, you could face penalties such as fines or driving suspensions.

4. Protects other drivers

If you are involved in an accident and found to be at fault, your auto insurance will help pay for the other driver’s damages. This is important for their financial protection and to avoid potential legal issues.

5. Protects you from uninsured drivers

There’s always a chance you could be in an accident with an uninsured driver. If this happens and you are found to be not at fault, your auto insurance can help cover the costs of your damages.

6. Discounts and perks

Some auto insurance companies offer discounts or perks for their customers. These include safe driving discounts, roadside assistance, and more.

Contact McCormick Insurance Inc. today to learn more about how we can help Pembroke Pines, FL drivers with their auto insurance needs. We would be more than happy to answer any questions you have or if you need an estimate.

Is motorcycle insurance required for those who have car insurance?

For insurance laws and other regulations, motorcycles are treated as a separate class of motor vehicles. Any motorcycle rider in Pembroke Pines, FL will need motorcycle insurance, even if they already have an auto insurance policy for the cars they own and drive. However, there are also insurance options for motorcyclists that can vary based on each person’s needs. Here is a basic overview of motorcycle insurance requirements. Our agents at McCormick Insurance Inc. can provide more specific details to anyone who needs help. 

Liability insurance is required.

Like drivers of standard cars, motorcyclists must have at least a basic liability policy to protect others from the damage they cause during an accident. This means that the insurance provider will pay for most or all of the damage so that the person does not have to pay for the losses if there is a lawsuit related to the crash. Florida law requires several thousand dollars of protection for injuries and property damage caused by the motorcycle operator, which is built into all liability policies. 

There are additional coverage options.

Anyone who has a motorcycle that is financed should get collision coverage. The collision policy will help ensure a damaged vehicle can be repaired shortly after the accident. This type of coverage means that the owner will only have to pay a deductible out of pocket, then the insurance company covers the rest. A motorcycle can also carry comprehensive coverage as another policy option. This protects against things like theft and damage unrelated to motor vehicle accidents. Each individual should discuss their insurance needs with an agent to see if they need this coverage. 

Getting motorcycle insurance

At McCormick Insurance Inc., we can provide more information about motorcycle insurance to anyone who needs assistance. Don’t hesitate to contact our agents, who serve Pembroke Pines, FL, to set a policy or ask questions.

What Are Some Common Inland Marine Insurance Exclusions?

Inland marine insurance covers the property not typically covered by standard homeowners or commercial property policies. This type of policy is often used by businesses that operate in multiple states, as it can provide protection for their goods no matter where they are located. 

However, before purchasing a policy, you should be aware of some common inland marine insurance exclusions. This blog post will discuss the most common exclusions and what you can do to protect yourself from potential losses.

1. Property Transported by Plane, Helicopter, or Boat

If your property is being transported by an aircraft, watercraft, or boat, it usually isn’t covered under an inland marine insurance policy. You see, these types of policies are designed to cover property that is transported via land. So, if you’re shipping your belongings overseas or sending them via UPS, you’ll need a different type of policy from McCormick Insurance Inc. 

2. Property in the Care, Custody, or Control of a Common Carrier

If you’re shipping your belongings via UPS or FedEx, they are technically considered to be in the care, custody, and control of a common carrier. They usually aren’t covered under an inland marine insurance policy.

3. The Vehicle Transporting the Property

The vehicle transporting your property is also not covered under an inland marine insurance policy. So, if your car breaks down or is in an accident while transporting your belongings, the damage to your belongings probably won’t be covered.

4. Weather-Related Damages

Inland marine insurance policies also exclude damages caused by weather events in Pembroke Pines, FL, such as floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for coverage for your belongings while they’re in transit, McCormick Insurance Inc. can help. We offer various insurance policies that can provide the coverage you need. Come to our offices in Pembroke Pines, FL, or give us a call today to learn more.

What type of insurance is required to drive my RV in Florida?

If you own a drivable RV, you must carry RV insurance that meets Florida’s minimum requirements. Our Pembroke Pines, FL team at McCormick Insurance Inc. can help RV owners legally get the insurance they need to drive in Florida. 

Florida RV Insurance Minimums

RV owners who own a motorized RV must carry a minimum of $10,000 in personal damage liability coverage and $10,000 in personal injury protection. Also, motorized RV owners must purchase liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. We can help you determine how much coverage you need to suit your unique situation. If you own a driveable RV, your insurance requirements are similar to automobile insurance requirements. In Florida, insurance isn’t a requirement for non-motorized RVs.

Other Requirements

RVs must be registered within thirty days of purchase. Florida state law also requires RV owners to title and register their RV ten days after relocating. However, your RV must meet the licensing requirements set by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. RV owners are also required to title and register their RV within ten days of:

  • Your child’s public school attendance
  • Of employment
  • Establishing residency

Our team at McCormick Insurance Inc. can help you explore your RV insurance options. We can answer all of your questions and make recommendations. We can also help you obtain insurance that meets Florida’s state minimum requirements and add any additional options that may fit your unique situation. If you have questions regarding insurance for your RV, call us. We’re happy to answer all of your questions. Our Pembroke Pines, FL team at McCormick Insurance Inc. is here to help you get the RV coverage you need.

Is boat insurance required in Florida?

Florida boaters aren’t required to carry boat insurance. However, it may still be unwise to be uninsured as a boat owner. Our team at McCormick Insurance Inc. is committed to educating Pembroke Pines, FL boaters on the benefits of boat insurance. We’re informing residents about the financial liability that comes from boating accidents if you’re uninsured. 

Florida Boating Laws

Boat owners aren’t required to carry boat insurance in Florida. However, if you don’t own your boat outright, your lienholder will likely require you to have boat insurance. Boat insurance ensures that the loan/lien holder is covered if something happens to the boat. Also, some marinas may require boat owners to have boat insurance to cover a possible accident. 

Other Considerations

Many boat owners would be unprepared to replace their boats if they were in an accident. Many owners would be unprepared to cover property damage and medical bills for anyone injured if at fault. An uninsured boat owner could be financially responsible if found liable for a boating accident. Car accidents can be expensive to cover out of pocket. Boating accidents are no different. An uninsured boat owner absorbs all the costs of any potential accidents that they may cause. Property damage, medical bills, and damage to another person’s boat or your own are all expenses you could be required to cover.

If you have questions about boating insurance, we can help. We’d be happy to answer your questions. We will discuss the benefits of boat insurance and situations that may occur if you don’t have insurance. We want you to be informed. Give our Pembroke Pines, FL team at McCormick Insurance Inc. a call; we’re standing by. 

What Is Covered Under Builders And Vacant Risk Insurance?

A builders’ risk coverage form is a kind of insurance that protects buildings, both residential and commercial, while they are being built, renovated, or repaired. Vacant risk insurance provides coverage for an empty building damaged or destroyed. 

More diverse commercial projects include office buildings, wind turbines, and multi-million-dollar sports venues. To know more about the coverages, reach out to McCormick Insurance Inc., serving at Pembroke Pines, FL. 

The Insurance Plans on the Market 

There usually are three types of builders’ risk policies: ground-up new construction, renovation (including or excluding the existing building), and installation. Building risk insurance coverage may widely vary from one provider to another. Some examples are location-specific and single-project policies, reporting forms, blanket policies, and blanket installation policies. 

Unlike the more sophisticated reporting forms and blanket rules, the site-specific policy is simple enough for customers to use for several projects. Some policies will cover damage to temporary buildings and landscaping and damage to construction materials and fences. 

What Isn’t Covered by Builder’s Risk?

Builder’s Risk insurance does not cover issues that arise from workers on the job site. Also not catered are damages inflicted by terrorists or a foreign government. 

If you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, you should budget 1-5 percent of the entire cost of your project budget for BR. The BR cost is mainly determined by factors including the building’s total insurable value (TIV) and the specific risks your customer desires to be protected against. 

The insurance price is affected by the construction materials utilized, with wood and other flammable elements costing more than concrete. Extra policy extensions for BR coverage may also exist in areas prone to natural calamities like earthquakes or flooding. Do you live in Pembroke Pines, FL, and do you need professional help? Call McCormick Insurance Inc.

What’s the Difference Between Excess Insurance and Umbrella Insurance?

Sometimes your existing insurance coverage isn’t enough to cover the cost of significant repairs or even a replacement of what’s important to you. Every policy has a limit, and once that is exhausted, you are left to pay whatever is left out of pocket. This is why excess insurance exists.

If you’re a Pembroke Pines, FL interested in learning more about excess insurance, please read this important information from McCormick Insurance Inc.

What is Excess Insurance?

Excess insurance is a type designed to protect you from a financial loss exceeding your current coverage limits. It is a way of mitigating the risk of a financial loss due to liability claims. Excess insurance is usually purchased in addition to your primary insurance coverage.

If you’re familiar with umbrella insurance, this might sound familiar. However, there are some critical differences between umbrella insurance and excess insurance.

What is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance is a type of excess insurance. Umbrella policies also cover claims that exceed the limits of your primary coverage. But it also provides a broader range of coverage that stretches to losses outside the scope of your primary coverage.

The specialty of an umbrella policy is protection for things not within the underlying policy, while other forms of excess insurance cover only losses designated in the underlying policy. Umbrella is a form of extra insurance, but excess insurance is not always an umbrella policy.

Are you interested in learning more about excess insurance? Want to know what excess policies are available in Pembroke Pines, FL? Contact McCormick Insurance Inc today, where we can answer all your insurance needs!

What you need to know about inland marine insurance

Are you interested in learning more about inland marine insurance? The folks at McCormick Insurance Inc. are here to answer any insurance-related questions that you may have. If you’re a business owner in the Pembroke Pines, FL area, here’s what you need to know.

What is inland marine insurance, and how can it help protect your company?

The name is very confusing, as an inland marine insurance policy can help protect your inventory even when it’s miles away from the sea. The name is a carryover from the days when most commercial transports occurred via ocean liners. Now, inland marine insurance policies can protect inventory and equipment while being shipped, stored, or delivered. Hopefully, the name will more accurately reflect its purpose one day soon.

Such a policy can also protect the freight delivered to you. It can also be effective if any materials, inventory, or equipment is being stored in a third party’s warehouse. Any company that sources materials, products, or equipment overseas or overland can benefit from such a policy.

So, contrary to the name, this type of policy can be used for items shipped via truck, train, or plane. Your primary commercial policy may not be adequate if you rely on the shipping of any type. Sit down with your agent today to learn more about how an inland marine policy can help protect your company!

Let’s work together!

All business owners in Pembroke Pines, FL, and the adjacent areas can rely on McCormick Insurance Inc. for their commercial insurance needs. If you have questions, we have the answers! Get in touch with our office today and schedule a consultation.

We look forward to working with you.