Why Tires Are Key to Accident Prevention

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Most drivers focus on their engine, brakes, and transmission when thinking about vehicle safety, but there’s one component that literally keeps you connected to the road. Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the pavement, making them critical for safe driving. Capretta Insurance Agency, serving Parma, OH, understands how proper tire maintenance can significantly reduce your risk of accidents and insurance claims.

Tread Depth Makes All the Difference

Worn tires are dangerous tires. When tread depth drops below 2/32 of an inch, your vehicle’s ability to grip the road diminishes dramatically. This becomes especially hazardous in wet conditions where shallow treads cannot channel water away effectively, leading to hydroplaning. Even a light rain can turn into a dangerous situation when your tires can’t maintain proper contact with the road surface.

Proper Pressure Prevents Problems

Underinflated tires create multiple safety hazards, including increased stopping distances, reduced handling capability, and higher likelihood of blowouts. Overinflated tires are equally problematic, as they reduce the contact patch with the road and make your vehicle more susceptible to losing control. Checking your tire pressure monthly and maintaining manufacturer-recommended levels is one of the simplest yet most effective safety measures you can take.

Regular Inspections Save Lives

Beyond tread depth and pressure, regular tire inspections should include checking for sidewall damage, irregular wear patterns, and proper alignment. These issues often develop gradually but can lead to sudden tire failure if left unaddressed.

Drive Safely With Confidence

Taking care of your tires is taking care of your safety and your wallet. For comprehensive auto insurance coverage that protects you on the road, contact Capretta Insurance Agency, serving Parma, OH.

Will Commercial Insurance Cover Mold Removal?

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Commercial insurance in Parma, OH, provides the protection you need to ensure your business can stay open. However, mold removal is often covered on a case-by-case basis. There are several factors that insurance companies consider when determining whether to cover the cost. 

Mold From Floods

Business owners who experience mold growth after a flood may be eligible to file a claim with their insurance company. The company will consider whether floods are a covered peril. They’ll also examine whether the mold is a result of negligence. For example, is there mold because the water wasn’t removed promptly? They may also consider whether mold was likely present before the flood. 

Covered Peril

If the mold is a result of a covered peril, like a burst pipe, you may be able to file a claim. Your ability to file a claim usually depends on whether the event is covered under your insurance policy. An agent at Capretta Insurance Agency can help you learn more about what your policy covers. If you notice mold from a covered event, take pictures and contact your agent as soon as possible to make sure you file the claim properly. 

Common Exclusions

Generally, insurance policies will not cover any damage that is considered normal wear and tear, due to a lack of maintenance, or not a covered peril. For example, if a pipe were slowly leaking and you didn’t fix it, that would mean the mold is a result of negligence. 

Mold removal is complicated when it comes to insurance. Our agents will listen compassionately to your situation and work with you to determine what coverage you have. Contact us to learn more. We’re currently serving the Parma, OH, area. 

Do You Need To Tell Home Insurance Companies About A Remodel?

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Finally completing your remodel can be an exciting milestone, especially if you’ve added a living space that your entire family can enjoy. However, it’s crucial to contact your insurance company to ensure your policy reflects the changes. Here are a few reasons why speaking with an agent in Parma, OH, is important.

Possible High-Risk Additions

Some additions are considered high-risk because they are more likely to cause accidents. Examples include trampolines, pools, and wood-burning stoves. These amenities may lead to higher monthly premiums or even exclusions from your policy.

If you fail to notify your insurance company about certain high-risk features, you may face denied claims in the event of an incident. An agent at Capretta Insurance Agency can help you understand how these amenities might impact your policy and premiums.

Replacement Cost

Your insurance policy is designed to cover the replacement of items lost during a covered peril. For instance, if your home is damaged or destroyed in a fire, your policy should provide enough coverage to restore it to its previous condition.

Remodeling often increases your home’s value and replacement cost. If you don’t inform your insurance company about the renovation, you may not have sufficient coverage in the event of a disaster. This could leave you without the funds needed to replace the remodeled area. To avoid this, it’s best to consult with an agent to ensure your coverage is adequate.

Minor Remodels

Most minor remodels don’t require you to contact your insurance company. For example, finishing a basement that meets all safety regulations typically won’t increase your premium, as it doesn’t involve high-risk amenities. Additionally, the replacement cost may not significantly increase if the changes are minimal, such as adding drywall.

Still, it’s always a good idea to check with an agent at Capretta Insurance Agency to confirm whether your renovation impacts your policy or premiums. Contact us today to learn more. We proudly serve the Parma, OH, area.

Why Life Insurance Should Be Part of Your Estate Plan

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If you have an estate plan or are considering creating one in Parma, OH, it’s worth exploring the benefits of a life insurance policy. Many financial planners recommend including life insurance as part of your estate plan to help distribute your wealth effectively after your passing. Capretta Insurance Agency can assist you in determining the best type of life insurance policy for your needs.

Provides Liquidity Through Immediate Cash

Life insurance policies typically pay benefits shortly after the insured individual’s death. These funds can be vital for survivors who need to cover funeral expenses, settle debts, and pay estate taxes without having to sell assets to meet immediate financial needs prematurely. The costs associated with settling an estate can be significant, and providing liquidity through life insurance can help ease the financial burden on your beneficiaries.

Other Advantages

One major benefit of life insurance is that the funds go directly to beneficiaries, bypassing probate. This simplifies the distribution process, especially if you have multiple beneficiaries. Life insurance can also help ensure a fair distribution of wealth among your heirs. For instance, if you leave a business to one child, the policy can provide cash to other heirs to balance the inheritance.

Life insurance policies can be tailored to meet specific needs, such as providing income for a surviving spouse or supporting a child with special needs. Additionally, many people use life insurance to fund charitable giving or create a lasting legacy. Death benefits are tax-free, which can help your heirs manage estate taxes if you have significant wealth. Some policies even allow owners to access a portion of the death benefit for long-term care expenses.

Discover the life insurance policy that best complements your estate plan by consulting the agents at Capretta Insurance Agency, serving Parma, OH. Contact our office today to get started.

How Age Affects Auto Insurance

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If you’re shopping for auto insurance, you might not realize the wide range of factors that determine your premium costs. One significant factor is age. But which age groups are most affected by this factor? We’re here to help you understand how and why age plays a role in auto insurance rates so you can make informed decisions while shopping. If you’re looking for the right coverage and need support as you begin your search, visit us at Capretta Insurance Agency in Parma, OH!

How Age Impacts Your Auto Insurance Policy

Age is a key determinant in auto insurance rates because certain age groups tend to exhibit higher risks. For example, teenage drivers and young adults often pay higher premiums because they are more likely to be involved in accidents. This is often due to their inexperience or, in some cases, reckless driving behaviors. On the other end of the spectrum, seniors may also face higher rates. For seniors, the issue isn’t a lack of experience but rather age-related factors such as poorer eyesight, slower reaction times, and other developments that can affect driving ability.

If age is a factor affecting your auto insurance policy, inquire about safe driver discounts and other potential savings opportunities to reduce your premium. Smart shopping and exploring discounts can help you save as much money as possible.

Start Here With Capretta Insurance Agency

At Capretta Insurance Agency in Parma, OH, our team is dedicated to providing the support you need to find and compare quotes efficiently. Contact us today to secure auto coverage that meets your needs!

Which Businesses Need Worker’s Compensation Insurance?

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Each state has its own laws regarding workers’ compensation insurance. Some states require it if you have a specific number of employees above a certain threshold. It’s crucial to understand the rules in your state and the minimum number of employees that necessitate this type of commercial insurance. In Ohio, the requirement is straightforward: if you have one or more employees, you must have workers’ compensation insurance. This means every employee you hire requires coverage. To get started with workers’ compensation insurance for your business, call us at Capretta Insurance Agency in Parma, OH.

Covering Your Employees

According to Ohio law, it doesn’t matter whether an employee is full-time or part-time. All employees, including part-timers, must be covered. Additionally, you cannot wait until after an employee starts to arrange a workers’ compensation policy. The policy must be active on the day the employee begins working. Unless your business operates without any employees, you are required to have this insurance.

Seasonal and Contract Workers

In some cases, contract workers may not need to be covered by workers’ compensation insurance. However, in Ohio, certain contract workers are required to be covered during their contract period. Seasonal workers, on the other hand, are fully included in the requirement for workers’ compensation insurance. Even if you hire extra staff for just one day a year, they must all be covered under your policy.

Get Workers’ Compensation Insurance in Parma, OH

Workers’ compensation insurance is essential for your employees, but it’s equally important for protecting your business. Without it, you could face lawsuits, substantial medical expenses, and fines for non-compliance. Don’t put your business at risk by neglecting proper insurance coverage. Call us today at Capretta Insurance Agency in Parma, OH, to set up a policy that meets your needs.

Residential Insurance Add-On Coverage for Common Upgrades

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Residential upgrades you choose to undertake may impact the amount of insurance coverage your home requires. Consider the following upgrades as a guide when planning modifications to your insurance policy.

Structural Upgrades

Structural upgrades encompass new flooring, walls, windows, and the accessories needed to complete a home renovation project. If you’re considering the addition of structural materials, think about the potential risk of these materials being stolen, vandalized, or damaged by a natural disaster.

Having adequate insurance coverage will enable you to replace new materials or repair those that an unforeseen event has damaged.

Outdoor Additions

A new deck, patio, or landscaping features could qualify you for additional residential protection. Any valuable additions can be added to your home insurance policy. An assessment of the financial and use value of each addition will help you identify which additions to seek home insurance coverage for.

New Furnishings

New furnishings could significantly increase the value of your assets. Your home insurance policy can cover any furnishings installed indoors or outdoors.

Add-on protection won’t cover normal wear and tear. However, it will cover each insured piece of furniture from unforeseen theft, vandalism, and damage. An inspection of each piece of furniture you plan on investing in will help you decide how much coverage to add to your existing homeowner’s insurance policy.

Additional Support for Your Policy

Now that you have reviewed some insurance coverage variables, you may need additional support. Take the time to contact one of our Capretta Insurance Agency representatives. An insurance agent who serves the Parma, OH area will schedule a time to meet with you and discuss the add-on protection you have selected.

The Advantages of Whole Life Insurance

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Whole life insurance offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among insurance products. While it does come with higher premiums than term life insurance, its unique advantages make it a valuable option for many policyholders. If you’re considering life insurance, a whole life policy could be a great way to protect your loved ones. For more information, contact us at Capretta Insurance Agency in Parma, OH.

Accumulation of Cash Value

A whole life insurance policy accumulates a cash value over time. This is an amount that you can borrow against in the future if needed. Initially, this value starts small as a portion of the company’s profits from investing your premiums is added to a pool of value. Over time, this value increases, potentially providing significant financial support during an economic emergency. Many people opt for whole life policies for this benefit, as they offer financial security.

No Expiration

Another reason for the popularity of whole life insurance is that it has no set term. Unlike term life policies that expire after a certain period, whole life policies never expire. Regardless of your age, you can maintain your policy indefinitely. This significant advantage means you won’t need to find another policy later in life, as you might with a term policy. This feature offers an additional layer of financial security for policyholders.

Securing Life Insurance in Ohio

If you’re considering life insurance, whole life is a viable option. To learn more about these policies and to get started, contact us at Capretta Insurance Agency in Parma, OH.

Tips for determining what types of auto insurance coverage you need

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Residents of Parma, OH, can get guidance when choosing their auto insurance from our team of experienced independent agents at Capretta Insurance Agency. We offer coverage from a variety of top insurance carriers, which means we offer more choices. Having more choices makes it easier to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Not every person or family requires the same type of auto insurance. Knowing your options can make the decision easier and guarantee you have the coverage to protect you.

Basic Auto Insurance

In Ohio, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance in the amount of 25/50/25. This coverage is:

  • $25,000 for injuries to one person in an accident you are responsible for
  • $50,000 for two or more injured persons
  • $25,000 for personal property

While this is what is mandated, it is not necessarily the right coverage for you.

Collision and Comprehensive Coverage

If you have an auto loan or are leasing your vehicle, you will be mandated to carry coverage to protect it. But for many people, their vehicle is essential to their lives, and this means it needs to be protected. If you have a vehicle of little value or can afford to buy another vehicle, then you can go with basic insurance, but for those who would find it difficult, Collision and comprehensive insurance is the way to go.

Auto Insurance Add-Ons

To customize your auto insurance, there are add-ons to make it even better. These include:

  • Gap insurance for newer cars to make sure you get what you owe on your vehicle
  • Full glass coverage takes away the deductible for glass replacement
  • Roadside service does what the auto club does

Why wait? Call our team at Capretta Insurance Agency in Parma, OH, to get a quote for your auto insurance.

Commercial Insurance for AI/Virtual Investments in Parma OH

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The global value of AI and virtual investments was estimated at approximately $200 billion in 2023. As investing in the AI industry continues to gain popularity, it’s crucial to safeguard your commercial investments against potential risks, liabilities, and losses. If you’re in Parma, OH, and considering investing in a new AI startup or venture, Capretta Insurance Agency can provide the necessary protection year-round.

Potential Liabilities

Commercial insurance for AI properties protects against potential legal claims arising from AI-driven malfunctions or decisions. It’s essential to shield yourself from legal claims and filings anytime you’re investing in long-term AI technology.

IP Risks

Intellectual Property (IP) risks are also important to consider when investing in AI startups or ventures. Given the highly competitive nature of the AI industry, protecting your investments from loss, infringement, and theft is vital.

Misconduct

Occasionally, employees may breach contracts or restrictions, leading to theft or fraud. This can be particularly hazardous for AI and technology companies dealing with large sensitive data and personal information sets. Proper commercial insurance for your AI investments can provide peace of mind, regardless of your employees’ conduct.

Injuries

Employees who sustain injuries on the job may require short- and long-term coverage for medical costs and/or recovery services. While AI products do not sustain or experience injuries, those building AI products are at risk of encountering malfunctioning AI systems that pose risks to those around them.

Properly insuring your commercial assets is key, whether you work and live in Parma, OH, or you deal with AI and virtual entities. To learn more about commercial insurance options for your AI/virtual investment, contact Capretta Insurance Agency for a quote and to get started today.