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31 Cherry St, Ste. 104
Milford, CT 06460

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Must I Add My Teen Who Just Obtained a Driving Permit to My Auto Insurance?

Many parents eagerly anticipate the day their teens become old enough to drive, relieving them of driving duties to and from various activities. But this period can also induce stress as you realize your child is growing and will be navigating the often dangerous roads. If your teen in Milford, CT, recently received a driving permit, you’re probably excited. However, before they take the wheel — even with you in the car — it’s crucial to consider car insurance.

Adding Your Teen to Your Policy is Optional

Most insurance companies do not require a teen with only a permit to be added to their parent’s auto policy. It becomes mandatory once the teen obtains an official driver’s license and can operate a vehicle without supervision. If you choose to add your teen to your policy once they receive their permit, your costs should not significantly increase. However, your rate may surge depending on your insurance company when they secure a driver’s license. Consequently, some parents might require their teens to secure a job and pay the difference in rates, although this approach varies.

In summary, while adding your teen to your auto insurance policy is beneficial, it’s not compulsory until they acquire a proper driver’s license. If you’re seeking a new insurance provider in the Milford, CT, area, consider White Oak Insurance LLC. We specialize in delivering superior coverage. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.

What is a Deductible from White Oak Insurance LLC

Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a car accident, heart pounding and mind racing as you navigate the aftermath? In those tense moments, thoughts of insurance coverage and deductibles may start to swirl in your head. Understanding the concept of an auto deductible is crucial for every driver, as it can significantly impact your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim. White Oak Insurance LLC in Milford, CT aims to demystify this critical aspect of insurance coverage and empower you with knowledge to make informed decisions when it matters most.

How Does an Auto Deductible Work?

A deductible is the amount of money you are responsible for paying before your insurance coverage kicks in to cover the remaining cost of repairs or expenses resulting from an accident. Typically, the higher the deductible you choose, the lower your insurance premium will be. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between a reasonable deductible and affordable premiums that suit your financial situation.

When faced with a claim, having a clear understanding of your auto deductible can help you make informed decisions about whether it’s worth filing a claim based on the total repair costs compared to what you would pay out of pocket through the deductible. Remember that your deductible applies each time you file a claim for certain types of incidents specified in your policy. By understanding this process thoroughly, you’ll be better prepared to handle unexpected situations and manage your finances more efficiently while keeping adequate vehicle insurance protection in place.

Contact White Oak Insurance LLC in Milford, CT for Auto Insurance

If you are looking for quality auto insurance in Milford, contact our team to determine your auto insurance needs. We look forward to helping you!

Adding Coverage for Vehicle Customizations

Many Milford, CT drivers turn to White Oak Insurance LLC for their automotive insurance. Most drivers buy their automobile, then their insurance, and never change either. The few who customize their vehicles need to update their insurance policy to reflect the added value to the auto.

What Items Need Special Coverage?

Auto insurance offers many ways to extend the policy to cover everything in and on the vehicle. This includes listing in the policy items, such as radar systems, tablet computers, etc. that you purchase for the vehicle to customize. It also includes things like a rear spoiler or custom tail lights that increase the vehicle’s value. Listing items in the policy, called scheduled coverage, specifically covers them from damage or theft.

Auto Body Customizations

When purchasing a vehicle, you sometimes want to make it your own by getting it a custom paint job or altering the auto body. When you order the vehicle this way from the manufacturer, your initial policy covers them. When you hire a mechanic after picking up the vehicle from the sales lot, these customizations that transform your vehicle into one that reflects your personality don’t yet have coverage in your policy. Altering the auto body creates a one-of-a-kind vehicle that can require additional coverage. Adding a camper or commercial-grade tool chest to your pickup truck also adds value to your vehicle that won’t receive coverage without adding it specifically to your auto policy.

Contact Our Insurance Office

Contact White Oak Insurance LLC for an auto policy review. Tell us about any vehicle alterations you made, and we can schedule coverage to protect your financial investment. Don’t drive the Milford, CT, streets unprotected. Call today.

Will My Insurance Policy Cover Damages Caused by Hitting a Deer?

Deer have been known to dart out in the road when you least expect it, even in areas that aren’t necessarily rural. Since you can never predict when you might encounter a deer while driving, you might wonder if your insurance policy will provide coverage if you were to hit one. Serving the greater Milford, CT area, White Oak Insurance LLC is here to assist in understanding your options. 

What Type of Coverage Do You Have?

The type of coverage you currently have will determine whether your insurance policy will provide coverage in the event you were to hit a deer. If you have liability insurance only, then your coverage likely won’t be adequate to cover hitting an animal or other object. On the other hand, if you have full coverage insurance, then you will likely have nothing to worry about. If comprehensive insurance is included along with your collision, then you will be covered. 

Is Another Vehicle Involved?

If you only hit a deer while driving and you have comprehensive coverage, then you have no worries. However, if you swerve in an attempt to avoid a deer and you end up hitting another vehicle, then comprehensive coverage may not be sufficient. Collision is the type of insurance that covers accidents, regardless of the cause. Therefore, if you’re not sure of the type of coverage you have, then you need to double-check, so you’ll be sure. 

Schedule A Consultation Today!

If you’re shopping around for a new auto insurance policy that includes comprehensive coverage and you live in the Milford, CT area, we at White Oak Insurance LLC would love for you to choose us. We are always looking for new customers, and we pride ourselves on providing a wide array of insurance types and great customer service. So, give us a call today and one of our knowledgeable insurance agents will be happy to provide you with a quote. 

How Do I Know if I Have Enough Auto Insurance?

At White Oak Insurance LLC, in Milford, CT, we offer customizable insurance policies to meet your unique needs. We offer auto insurance, as well as other types of coverage. 

Coverage Requirements in Connecticut

Connecticut drivers are required to have liability insurance. The minimum requirement is $25,000 for bodily damage liability, up to $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability are required. 

However, this isn’t enough for most drivers. 

How Much Liability Coverage Do I Need? 

Insurance experts recommend that drivers have $100,000 in bodily damage liability, up to $300,000 per accident. This will allow your policy to cover expected medical costs if someone is injured in an accident that is your fault. 

They also recommend $100,000 in property damage liability, which will cover the property damage in most accidents. 

Under/Uninsured Motorist Coverage 

Liability coverage includes under/uninsured motorist coverage at the same coverage limit as your bodily injury liability policy. However, you can purchase up to double this amount. This covers you and your passengers if you are injured in an accident and the other party doesn’t have liability coverage or inadequate coverage. 

Experts recommend at least $100,000 and up to $300,000  in under/uninsured motorist coverage. 

Other Types of Coverage 

If you have a lien against your vehicle, you are required to carry comprehensive coverage, which includes collision and comprehensive coverage. However, if you can’t afford to replace your vehicle, you should consider this coverage even if it isn’t required. 

If your lien is more than your vehicle is worth, you should consider gap coverage to make up the difference.  

Give Us A Call

If you aren’t sure if you have adequate auto insurance coverage in Milford, CT, contact us at White Oak Insurance LLC. Our knowledgeable agents can discuss your policies and ensure that you have the coverage you need. 

Does my auto insurance policy cover me when I drive in Canada?

If you live in Milford, CT, going on a road trip to Canada is an amazing way to spend your vacation. But will your auto insurance policy cover you while you’re there? White Oak Insurance LLC is happy to assist with all your queries. 

Here’s what you need to know before crossing the border:

Your Domestic Policy

If you have a standard auto insurance policy, chances are it won’t cover you for anything that happens outside of the United States and its territories. However, if your policy does include coverage for Canada, it typically only applies to Ontario and Quebec. If you plan to drive through other provinces, like British Columbia or Alberta, you will most likely need additional coverage.

Rental Car Coverage

If you’re renting a car while in Canada, your domestic auto insurance may not cover the rental vehicle either. That said, some credit cards offer secondary coverage for rental cars when they are used overseas, including in Canada. If something happens while driving the rental car and your primary insurance doesn’t cover it, your credit card company could pick up the tab instead. It is important to check with both your insurer and credit card provider before leaving to ensure that all of your bases are covered.

Canadian Auto Insurance Policies

If neither of these options appeals to you, then another option would be to buy an auto insurance policy from a Canadian insurance provider specifically for your trip. White Oak Insurance LLC can help you find the right policy for your needs before you leave Milford CT. Still confused? Contact us today, and we’ll answer all your questions.

Demystifying Common Myths About Auto Insurance

There are many myths about auto insurance, which may crowd your judgment when purchasing car insurance. White Oak Insurance LLC in Milford, CT is here to set the record straight.

Here are the common car insurance myths we would like to debunk:

Myth#1: Red cars attract high premiums

This myth is grounded on the fact that red cars are assumed to be fast, hence attract high insurance rates. Among many factors considered in calculating your premiums, color isn’t one of them. So, don’t be afraid to purchase your dream red car because of the high insurance rates.

Myth#2: comprehensive coverage protects you against all risks

This perhaps stems from the word “comprehensive.” Your comprehensive car insurance only covers you against non-collision perils, like fire, theft, and falling objects. This means you should consider other car insurance policies if you want optimal protection. Other coverage options you can consider for your car include liability coverage, medical payments, collision coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Myth#3: If your friend borrows your car, their insurance covers your vehicle

That’s a blatant lie. Only your car insurance — and not someone else’s — will cover the associated losses caused by your vehicle. So if your friend borrows your car and causes an accident, it’s your car insurance that will cover the resulting liability costs and own damage.

Myth#4: Your insurer pays for the auto loan if it’s totaled

If your car is written off or stolen, your insurer will compensate you for the fair market value of your vehicle. Sometimes, this could be significantly less than the outstanding loan balance. It’s the responsibility of the owner to pay the difference. Unless you have gap insurance, you will have to pay for the difference from your pocket.

Get Auto Insurance Today

Need to learn more about car insurance in Milford, CT? Please get in touch with White Oak Insurance LLC.

Connecticut’s Best Weekend Drives

With so many great weekend getaways in Connecticut, you may be wondering where to go first. Luckily, many beautiful, fascinating, and unique places throughout the state are perfect for Milford, CT residents. Let White Oak Insurance LLC present some of our favorite weekend drives across this beautiful state. Before you hit the road, however, make sure you have the right insurance coverage for your vehicle. 

Explore Connecticut With Auto Insurance Coverage From White Oak Insurance LLC

New Haven to Stonington Coastal Drive

Connecticut’s coastline is one of the state’s most visually stunning features. The drive from New Haven to Stonington will take you through beaches full of golden dunes and sandy shores. Stop and enjoy the view at numerous coastal towns along the way. Make sure to visit The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center and the Florence Griswold Museum, both excellent museums that offer unique and educational experiences.

Salmon River State Forest

This winding scenic drive is perfect for those who like to stop for some fishing or hiking along the way. The Salmon River State Forest is full of wildlife and beautiful scenery. Stop by the Day Pond, a popular spot for locals to gather and play some Frisbee or read a book.

CT State Route 169

Enjoy the scenic villages and woodlands of the Quinebaug and Shetucket Rivers Valley National Heritage Corridor. This drive is an excellent destination for peace, quiet, and nature seekers. Massive trees line your path, and the route will lead you through roads lined with ivy. The ideal time for this drive is autumn when the foliage turns color to quintessential American backroads driving.

Get The Right Auto Insurance Before You Explore

Connecticut is a state filled with beauty and history. With so many places to visit and so many ways to explore, there’s no better place to spend a weekend driving. White Oak Insurance LLC can help you drive with less worry by having an excellent auto insurance policy. If you’re a resident of Milford, CT in need of car insurance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today!

Should I add my teen driver to my auto policy or get them their own?

When teens begin driving, it is often a life event that makes them think of themselves as an adult. As a parent of a teen driver, you may feel that they’re still your child who needs protection! And, car insurance is one of the major life expenses that they may be responsible for themselves. Oak Insurance LLC can help find the right coverage for your new Milford, CT area driver.

The right insurance policies for teen drivers

When your teen starts to drive, you may wonder if they should have their own insurance policy. Choosing between that option or adding them to the family auto policy, depends on the situation.

For many, putting their new driver on their own auto policy is a great way to help them understand responsibility. Paying all or a portion of their auto insurance is a great way to introduce your teen to budgeting and financial responsibility. On the other hand, it may be more economical for some families to include their teen driver in the family policy. 

Whatever option may be right for your family, it’s important that the auto policy provides sufficient coverage. Understandably, teens and other new drivers can have more fender benders and dents and dings. This can mean that they also have more claims. And, if the teen is on the family auto policy, this can lead to higher premiums for everyone.

Let us help your family with all of its insurance needs!

White Oak Insurance LLC is here for all the residents of the Milford, CT area. We can help you find the right policies to keep your family protected. Our office team is here for you. Give us a call or come by today!

Basic Steps to Filing an Auto Insurance Claim

No matter how careful you are as a driver in Milford, CT, an accident can happen. If you have never been involved in an accident, you may be clueless as to what steps you should take. One thing you definitely should do is file an insurance claim with your insurer. White Oak Insurance LLC wants to ensure all Milford, CT residents are familiar with what to do after an accident. 

Call the Authorities

It doesn’t matter how minor or major the accident is, you should contact the authorities. An officer will ensure everyone involved in the accident is safe while keeping traffic away from the accident scene. Further, you will be given a police report for the accident, which is a key element when filing your auto insurance claim.

Speak to the Other Driver

Although you should exchange insurance information with the other driver, you should never, ever accept responsibility for the accident. This is true even if the collision was indeed your fault. A simple apology can be taken out of context and used against you. Keep interactions short and sweet.

Take Note of Specific Details

Apart from contact information from the other driver(s), you should also take note of the location and time of the accident. You should also take note of the road conditions, damage to all vehicles and property, and potentially eyewitness statements and contact information.

Call Your Insurance Company

As soon as you have spoken to the police, obtained information from the other driver(s) and scene, and received the necessary medical attention, get in touch with your insurer so you can file an auto insurance claim. Provide them with as many details as you can, including pictures, video, and eyewitness statements. Don’t forget to be honest as you retell the events that transpired.

If you have any other questions about what you should do when filing an auto insurance claim in Milford, CT, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professional insurance agents at White Oak Insurance LLC.

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  • Connecticut
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