Animal owners are encouraged to get insurance that includes pet injury coverage because four-legged family members can be severe distractions while driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that in 2008, over 5,800 people lost their lives, and another 515,000 people were injured as a result of automobile accidents involving distracted drivers. Driving with an unrestrained dog in the car could have dangerous and financially devastating consequences.

To reduce the chances of using any newly acquired pet injury insurance, drivers should take the necessary steps to minimize driver distraction while behind the wheel. An unrestrained cat or dog can easily wander around a car with potentially dangerous consequences. If a dog wedges under the driver’s legs, it could prevent braking and easily cause an accident.

Owners are strongly encouraged to restrain their animals while driving by investing in specially designed harnesses that allow dogs to be quickly attached to the vehicle’s seat belts. Investing in wire cages or plastic crates can also effectively prevent animals from wandering around the car. Because pets are part of the family, keeping them safe on the open road is essential.

Vehicle coverage that includes pet injuries has become a feature of policies offered by several insurers.
Progressive, the insurer known for helping people get insurance online, has protected cats and dogs injured in automobile accidents. According to the company, when policyholders purchase collision coverage, it comes with up to $1,000 of protection that Progressive will pay toward vet bills if an animal companion is injured in an accident. This also includes injuries to a dog or cat owned by a relative living in the same household as the policyholder. However, the coverage is not yet available in North Carolina or New Hampshire.

Farmers Insurance Group in 2008 began offering coverage for pets injured in auto accidents, but only in select states. The protection is limited to traditional family pets and excludes animals commonly kept for food or profit. Where available, it provides up to $600 worth of coverage. According to a press release from the insurer, it is included for no extra charge in policies that have both comprehensive and collision.
The Chubb Group launched pet injury coverage in select states in February 2011, adding up to $2,000 to its “Masterpiece Auto Preference” policy for pets injured in crashes.

Even though the prevalence of pet injury coverage is growing, only some insurers offer it. The country’s second-largest insurer, Allstate, says on its website that pets are not covered under its auto policies. (Other large insurers like State Farm and GEICO did not have pet injury coverage info on their sites.)

Practically every motorist on the road must maintain financial responsibility while operating a motor vehicle, and most choose to comply with this requirement by purchasing an auto insurance policy. While satisfying this law is enough, automobile owners should always keep the documentation handy, whether behind the wheel or allowing another individual to operate the car. Insurers will issue identification (I.D.) cards to policyholders, which are used to prove that automobiles are insured, and it is advised by many state government departments to have this paperwork readily available by keeping it in the glove compartment if it is needed.

When an insurer issues proof of insurance to a customer, state law requires that certain information is included on the identification cards; this includes the name of the insured, the year, make, and model of the vehicle, the vehicle identification number (VIN), the name of the carrier, policy number and the effective and expiration dates of coverage. It is up to the policyholder to make sure that all of these items on the I.D. cards are accurate, especially if they reside in a state that requires carriers to notify the governing motor vehicle department electronically; if the VIN does not match, then the automobile may be considered uninsured, and registration could be suspended.

Insurers usually offer different types of protection depending on the company, so it may be beneficial to research various policy providers to understand better what is available before purchasing a protection plan. One form of coverage that a motorist may want to explore is Medical Payment protection. Commonly referred to as MedPay, this type of protection typically covers many medical costs or funeral expenses that may follow an accident up to the policy’s limits. This can be particularly helpful because of the rising cost of healthcare and the potential for serious injury that may result from a crash. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates in Funerals: A Consumer Guide that the average cost of a memorial service and burial is roughly $6,000 but could easily climb to $10,000.

People looking for auto coverage should know that there is usually a wealth of options when choosing a policy provider, which means that companies are often competitive and eager to attract new customers. Drivers can take advantage of these details by shopping around and comparing various quotes to find the cheapest insurer. Motorists are also encouraged to compare policies that contain the amount of vehicle protection that suits the driver’s needs to get an accurate list of estimates and find an adequately priced plan that still covers a variety of situations and damages.

Buying automobile coverage is a sour subject for the average consumer. After all, most motorists are required to purchase auto insurance, which can leave a bad taste in the mouths of individuals. Many would prefer to have the option to decide whether or not they will be purchasing vehicle policies. The fact of the matter is that an automobile policy is a precious product, and the reason states require it is not intended to punish those who choose to occupy the roads, but to protect them, and purchasing the right amount can offer ideal protection.

If the local governments allowed motorists to operate vehicles without coverage, the sad fact is that there would likely be many more uninsured drivers utilizing the roadways; as it is, it is estimated that 1 in 6 uninsured motorists are behind the wheel in the United States. Allowing motorists to drive without policies would mean tons of unpaid injuries, property damage, flooded courtrooms, and numerous lawsuits. This is not to mention the outstanding hospital bills. These factors would lead to high premiums and health care for the rest of the citizens. Therefore, automobile coverage is required, but consumers must also understand how much car insurance should be purchased. Because a state law mandates a certain level of protection, it does not mean that this will be adequate in a traffic accident.

Choosing the Right Insurance Coverage: Particular states only require motorists to purchase liability policies that only cover the losses caused by the policyholder to another party and at shallow limits. For example, according to the California Department of Insurance, motorists must only carry a liability policy with minimum limits of $15,000 for bodily injury to one person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage. 

Anybody who knows what a weekend in hospital costs is aware that $15,000 will not cover the costs; purchasing higher limits can protect policyholders from being held liable and sued for any amount that exceeds the policy limits. States such as Florida require motorists to maintain Personal Injury Protection (PIP) in the amount of $10,000, which covers the injuries of the insured regardless of who is at fault for causing the traffic accident; just as mentioned, this amount can quickly be exhausted which can lead to the policyholder left with hefty medical bills that may only be recovered through litigation.

Higher limits can be purchased and may be worthwhile following a severe injury. This type of coverage is voluntary in many states and could be beneficial, especially to those who do not have a healthcare plan. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage is not made mandatory in many states, and some states will require insurance providers to offer this protection but give consumers the right to waive it. Unfortunately, many motorists choose to waive it to save a few dollars on their premiums, but this is a valuable option on a policy.

If an uninsured driver strikes a motorist, does not have coverage, or is a hit and run victim, this protection will kick in and compensate the policyholder, giving good peace of mind following an accident. Although paying as little as possible is tempting when purchasing a policy, choosing less protection can be far more costly.

Like many states, motorists must carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) in addition to liability policies. This is intended to cover insureds for bodily injury or property damage sustained if involved in an accident with a driver who does not carry a policy or whose liability limits are insufficient to compensate for the losses caused. Motorists must have limits of $50,000 for bodily injury or death per person, $100,000 for bodily injury or death per accident, and $10,000 for property damage per accident. Claims for the property damage portion of this coverage are subject to a $150 deductible if the policyholder does not have a comprehensive collision.

Comprehensive and collision is an optional form of coverage designed to compensate the vehicle owner if the insured automobile suffers a loss. These coverages protect against a wide range of perils, including collisions, glass breakage, theft, contact with animals, fire, vandalism, missiles, explosions, and many more. Although not required by the state, consumers who are financing automobiles are often required by lenders to carry this coverage as part of a loan agreement. For further coverage information, motorists may view a Consumer’s Guide to Buying Automobile Insurance the state provides.

No matter what you are hauling, you want to ensure you have the right insurance coverage for your pickup truck. Whether you are a contractor, a landscaper, or any other skilled tradesperson, you must ensure you have enough truck insurance to protect you regardless of your situation. Some of the common types of pickup truck insurance coverage include:

• Liability Insurance: Liability insurance includes bodily injury and property damage coverage and can cover injuries or damage to other people or property if you are at fault for an accident.
• Physical Damage Coverage: Physical damage insurance includes comprehensive collision coverage and can protect you if your pickup truck collides with another object, rolls, or is stolen.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist insurance helps to provide coverage when you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Uninsured motorist insurance options vary by state, but licensed agents can help you determine the best options for your business.

Although there are many types of businesses that haul goods that require box truck or straight truck insurance, the most common types of companies that need box truck insurance include the following:

Couriers
Expeditors
Retail operations
Household goods movers

Box truck insurance is commercial auto insurance that covers box trucks used for business purposes. Box trucks are often used to transport goods and equipment, so having the right insurance coverage can protect your business from financial loss in case of an accident, theft, or damage to your vehicle. The insurance policy can cover a range of scenarios, including liability for bodily injury or property damage, collision, comprehensive, and more. Choosing the right insurance policy for your box truck is essential based on your business needs and budget.

Many business owners quickly realize their needs extend beyond primary liability and business auto insurance policies. Certain jobs will require specific coverages, employees need protection, and several risks fall outside the protection of basic liability coverage.

When business insurance coverages are packaged together, it’s often referred to as a Business Owners Policy or, otherwise known as a BOP. Additional coverages in a BOP might include:

1) Property: This can protect your commercial buildings and most of your personal property. A liability insurance policy covers neither of these. Liability usually covers other people’s assets and not yours.

2) Workers’ compensation: If you have employees, you will need to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance since it requires legal coverage. Workers’ Compensation insurance can pay for medical costs and lost wages of employees who become ill or injured on the job.

3)Professional Liability: Do you provide professional advice or professional service? If so, you should carry Professional Liability insurance.

If you’re wondering about the cost of Umbrella Insurance for handypersons, you can click on the start quote link to get a free quote. Please note that the specific premium cost will vary, and the estimates below are just for reference purposes.

Umbrella Insurance, or Excess Liability Insurance, can enhance your coverage for three standard handyperson liability insurance policies: General Liability, Employer’s Liability (a part of Workers’ Compensation), and Hired and Non-Owned Auto Insurance. If you exceed the limits of these policies, Umbrella Insurance can pay up to $1,000,000 in additional legal costs.

As a handyman, you can increase your liability insurance by purchasing Umbrella Insurance for approximately $1,000.00 to $2,700.00.

As a handyman, umbrella insurance is an additional layer of protection that can cover costs exceeding the limit of your primary insurance policy in the event of an incident. It provides extra coverage for your business liability and protects your company in case of a lawsuit that exceeds your primary policy limits.

Without it, you may be held responsible for any costs that exceed your policy limit, which can be financially devastating for your business. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you consider getting an umbrella policy to ensure your business is fully protected.

In California, any construction work that exceeds $500 in labor and materials requires a contractor license. However, there are some specific exceptions to this rule, such as for homeowners who want to do their construction work on their property.

In general, it’s essential to check with the California Contractors State License Board to determine what type of work requires a license and what type is exempt.

As a handyman, insurance is integral to protecting your business and yourself from potential risks. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when purchasing insurance:

1. Assess your needs: Consider your work type and the risks involved. Assessing your work type and risk will help you determine what insurance coverage you need.
2. Shop around: Don’t settle for the first insurance policy you come across. Shop around and compare prices and coverage options from different insurance providers.
3. Read the fine print: Ensure you understand your insurance policy’s terms and conditions. Pay attention to any exclusions or limitations that may affect your coverage.
4. Consider bundling: Some insurance providers may offer discounts if you bundle multiple policies, such as liability and property insurance.
5. Review your policy regularly: Your insurance needs may change as your business grows and evolves. Make sure to review your policy periodically and make any necessary adjustments. Remember, insurance can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected events.

General Liability Insurance is a type of insurance policy that covers a business against claims of property damage, bodily injury, and other related lawsuits. This type of insurance can benefit handypersons as it can protect them from their work’s legal and financial risks.

For example, suppose a handyman accidentally damages a client’s property while working on a project. In that case, their general liability insurance policy can cover the costs of any repairs or replacements that may be required.

Additionally, if a client is injured while on the job site, the policy can cover any legal fees or medical costs that may arise, overall, general liability insurance can provide peace of mind for handypersons and their clients.

As a handyman in California, consider a few types of insurance. The first is general liability insurance, which can protect you if you are sued for bodily injury or property damage resulting from your work. Another type of insurance to consider is professional liability insurance, which can protect you if you are sued for negligence or errors in your work. If you have employees, you will also need workers’ compensation insurance to cover any injuries they may sustain while on the job. Finally, consider commercial auto insurance if you use your vehicle for work. It’s essential to speak with an insurance professional to determine the exact types and coverage amounts you need for your handyperson business.

In the state of California, a handyman is not required to be bonded. However, it is still recommended for a handyman to obtain a bond as it can provide an added layer of protection for both the handyman and their clients. A bond can help ensure that any damages or losses caused by the handyman’s work are covered, providing peace of mind for both parties involved.

As a handyperson, having business auto insurance is vital because it provides coverage for any vehicles you use for work-related purposes. Business Auto Insurance includes transporting equipment, materials, and tools to job sites. Without proper coverage, you could be held liable for any damages or injuries caused by an accident while driving for work.

Additionally, having business auto insurance can help protect your assets in case of a lawsuit arising from a work-related accident. It’s always a good idea to consult an insurance professional to determine the appropriate coverage for your needs.

A contractor is a person or company that provides services for a specific project or task, usually for a limited period of time. Individuals or organizations typically hire them for a particular job or service, such as construction, home renovation, landscaping, or IT support.

Contractors are usually self-employed and work on a project-by-project basis rather than full-time employment by a single company. They are responsible for their taxes, Insurance, and other business expenses and are paid a negotiated fee or hourly rate for their services.

Are Contractors Required to Have Insurance?

In many cases, yes, contractors are required to have Insurance. The specific types and amounts of necessary Insurance may vary depending on the type of work being performed, the location of the project, and other factors.

For example, contractors working on construction sites may be required to have liability insurance to protect against accidents or injuries that may occur on the job. In contrast, contractors working on home renovation projects may be required to have property damage insurance to cover any damage that may occur to the homeowner’s property during the project. It’s always a good idea to check with your local authorities and contractor to determine what types of Insurance are required for your specific project.

A handyman is a person who is skilled in a variety of home maintenance and repair tasks, such as fixing a leaky faucet, painting a room, or installing a ceiling fan. They usually work on small projects and charge by the hour. On the other hand, a general contractor is a professional who manages larger construction projects, such as building a house, remodeling a kitchen, or adding an addition to a home. They oversee the entire project, including hiring subcontractors and obtaining necessary permits, and charge a flat fee or a percentage of the total cost.

In California, a handyman does not need a state license to perform most types of repair and maintenance work for residential or commercial properties. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

For Example, If a handyman performs work totaling more than $500 in labor and materials, they may need a contractor’s license. Additionally, certain types of work, such as electrical and plumbing, typically require a licensed professional. It’s always a good idea to check with your local government and licensing agencies to determine what requirements apply to your situation.

Handymen can perform a wide variety of jobs, including:

1. Minor plumbing repairs, such as fixing leaks and replacing faucets
2. Electrical repairs, such as replacing light fixtures and installing ceiling fans
3. Painting and touch-up work
4. Drywall and plaster repairs
5. Furniture assembly and installation
6. Installing shelving and storage solutions
7. Cleaning gutters and downspouts
8. Pressure washing decks, patios, and other outdoor surfaces
9. Repairing fences and gates
10. Installing or repairing flooring

These are just a few examples of the many services that handymen can provide. The specific jobs that a handyman can perform may vary depending on their skills and experience.

As a handyperson, it’s essential to have insurance for a few reasons:

1. Accidents can happen. Whether it’s property damage or bodily injury, having insurance can protect you from financial losses resulting from these unfortunate events.
2. Some clients may require insurance before hiring you for a job.
3. Insurance can give you peace of mind, knowing you are protected if something goes wrong.

When shopping for handyman insurance, there are a few things you should consider to ensure you get the coverage you need:

1. Look for a reputable insurance provider with experience in the handyman industry. They should be able to customize a policy that meets your specific needs.
2. Consider the type of coverage you need. Liability insurance is a must-have for any handyman, but you may also require additional coverage for tools and equipment.
3. Take the time to compare quotes from different providers to ensure you get the best possible price for the coverage you need.

There is no set time frame for contractor licensing, but applicants can expect to wait several months for the California Contractors State License Board to process their application. After completing the review process, the California Contractors State License Board will send you a “Notice to Appear for Examination.” The California Contractors State License Board website features a tool to check your application status while waiting for that notice.

To become a licensed contractor in California, you must be at least 18 years old and have at least four years of experience as a journeyman, foreperson, supervising employee, contractor, or owner-builder.

A qualified individual with firsthand knowledge of your capabilities — such as an employer, foreman, supervisor, union representative, engineer, or building inspector — must verify your work experience. Your contractor license classification should align with the type of work you do.

You can count up to three years of technical training, apprenticeship training, or education toward the four-year work experience requirement.
To become a licensed contractor in California, you must be at least 18 years old and have at least four years of experience as a journeyman, foreperson, supervising employee, contractor, or owner-builder.

A qualified individual with firsthand knowledge of your capabilities — such as an employer, foreman, supervisor, union representative, engineer, or building inspector — must verify your work experience. Your contractor license classification should align with the type of work you do.

You can count up to three years of technical training, apprenticeship training, or education toward the four-year work experience requirement.

A handyman or handywoman does small repairs, carpentry, or minor maintenance jobs. Typically, these jobs only involve one person.

If you work on larger projects, such as building a deck or wiring a new kitchen that requires subcontractors, you could be considered a contractor and need the appropriate license and insurance coverage.

A handyperson is usually someone who can complete a job on their own. Understanding the difference is essential since unlicensed contractors could face fines, misdemeanor charges, or even jail time.

So, what can a handyperson do without a license? Here are some examples.

• Unclogging Pipes
• Patching holes in walls
• Repairing or painting a dec
• Fix fences.
• Repair doors.
• Hang and patch drywall.
• Mount televisions.
• Repair appliances.
• Install ceiling fans.
• Repair faulty toilets.
• Perform maintenance and light repairs.
• Perform routine landscaping on the grounds.