Insurance News

5 Things to Do After Buying a New Car

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:57:00 GMT

Side mirror view while driving by JESHOOTS

Buying a new car is exciting, but once the keys are in your hand, there are a few important steps you should take to protect your investment, stay legal, and avoid headaches down the road. Whether you just drove off the lot or sealed the deal with a private seller, here are five smart things to do right after buying a new vehicle.

1. Check Your insurance Coverage

Before you hit the road, make sure your new car is properly insured. This is also a good opportunity to review your auto insurance policy. If your new car is financed or leased, your lender may require full coverage, including comprehensive and collision. You might also consider gap insurance, which covers the difference between your loan balance and the car’s value if it’s totaled.

2. Transfer the Title and Registration

If you bought the car from a dealership, they may have handled the title transfer and registration paperwork for you. If not, you’ll need to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to register the car in your name and ensure the title is properly transferred. Be prepared to bring your bill of sale, proof of insurance, personal ID, and any emissions or inspection certificates your state requires.

Some states have tight windows for registration, and late fees can add up quickly. If you’re moving from out of state or transferring plates, the process may involve additional forms. Make sure to ask whether taxes or fees are due at the time of registration, and keep a copy of all submitted documents for your records.

3. Store Your Paperwork Safely

Your new vehicle comes with a small stack of important documents. Don't lose them in the shuffle. Safely file away your title (or loan paperwork, if you’re financing), purchase agreement, registration, and any warranty documents you receive. Keep digital scans saved securely as a backup.

Make sure your registration and proof of insurance are kept in the glovebox or center console, where you can access them easily if you're pulled over or need to provide documentation after an accident. If your car includes a roadside assistance program or has specific service instructions, those should be kept handy as well.

4. Get to Know Your Vehicle

Every car is different, even if you’ve owned the same brand or model before. Take time to familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s features, dashboard warning lights, safety technology, and convenience systems. Read through the owner’s manual to understand maintenance timelines, fuel type requirements, and emergency instructions.

You should also take a moment to locate the spare tire, jack, jumper cable connections, and other roadside essentials. If your vehicle includes modern safety features like lane assist, blind-spot monitoring, or automatic braking, make sure you understand how they work and how to turn them off, if necessary. The better you know your car, the more confident and safe you’ll feel behind the wheel.

5. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Even brand-new cars benefit from early preventative care. If you purchased a used vehicle, it’s especially important to schedule a basic inspection with a trusted mechanic. They can check for wear on tires and brakes, fluid levels, battery condition, and any early warning signs of mechanical issues.

Ask your service provider to enter your vehicle into their maintenance schedule system so you're notified when oil changes, tire rotations, or inspections are due. Staying on top of routine maintenance helps preserve your car’s value, extend its lifespan, and minimize the risk of unexpected repairs.

Drive Confidently with the Right Coverage

Whether your new vehicle is a daily commuter, a weekend cruiser, or your family’s main ride, the right insurance policy helps give you peace of mind for the unexpected. It’s also important to think beyond just your vehicle. If you’ve added a teen driver to your household, moved to a new address, or changed jobs and are commuting more or less, your insurance needs may have shifted. Regularly reviewing your policy ensures you’re not overpaying for outdated coverage or missing out on important protections.

Peace of mind behind the wheel starts with knowing you're covered when it matters most. Contact us today for a fast, friendly auto insurance review, and drive confidently knowing your policy is up to speed with your life.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

Six Overlooked Items You Should Add to Your Home Inventory

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 17:58:00 GMT

Living room by Pixabay

Creating a home inventory is one of the smartest steps you can take to prepare for the possibility of a future insurance claim. If your belongings are damaged or stolen, a detailed list makes it easier to verify losses and can speed up the claims process. While most people remember to include furniture, electronics, and appliances, there are a few often-overlooked items that can make a big difference.

Here are six things you might be forgetting in your home inventory, and why you should add them now.

1. Clothing and Accessories

Most people underestimate how much their wardrobe is worth. Coats, suits, shoes, handbags, and even everyday clothing can add up quickly. High-end or designer items may even need to be scheduled separately for proper coverage. Be sure to include seasonal clothing, like winter gear stored in the basement or garage, and take photos of anything of significant value.

2. Tools and Lawn Equipment

Power tools, lawnmowers, snow blowers, and garden tools are easy to forget, especially if they’re stored in the garage or shed. These items can be expensive to replace and are often targeted in thefts. Include any major outdoor equipment in your inventory, and don’t forget about toolboxes and specialty gear you’ve collected over time.

3. Kitchenware and Small Appliances

From stand mixers and espresso machines to cast iron pans and chef’s knives, kitchen items can be surprisingly costly to replace. Smaller appliances like toasters, air fryers, or blenders often get overlooked but should be included, especially if they’re high-end brands. Also consider specialty utensils, dinnerware sets, fine china, and bakeware collections that have accumulated over the years.

4. Hobby Equipment

Whether it’s photography gear, musical instruments, crafting tools, or sports equipment, hobby-related items can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Make sure to document these, including make, model, and serial numbers where applicable. Items like bicycles, golf clubs, or camping gear are also commonly stored out of sight but shouldn’t be forgotten.

5. Jewelry and Collectibles

While high-value jewelry is often separately insured, everyday pieces and keepsakes are sometimes left off inventories. The same goes for collectibles, whether it’s comic books, records, figurines, or family heirlooms. These items may not always be replaceable, but documenting them helps support your claim if damage or theft occurs.

6. Electronics and Entertainment Gear

Electronics are some of the most valuable items in a home, but they’re often under-documented in home inventories. Computers, tablets, speakers, gaming consoles, and streaming devices can quickly add up in value, especially when you include accessories like monitors, external hard drives, and controllers.

Be sure to record make, model, and serial numbers whenever possible, and take clear photos of each item. Don’t forget smart home devices like thermostats, doorbell cameras, or voice assistants, which may be mounted or tucked into corners.

Update Your Inventory Before You Need It

A complete and up-to-date home inventory can make filing a claim faster, easier, and more accurate. Walk through your home with a camera and notebook, and store your inventory in a secure digital location. Contact us today for an insurance policy review to ensure your belongings are properly covered, especially the ones you might have overlooked.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

Save Money With These Smart Home Devices That Make Your Home Safer

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 16:58:00 GMT

Woman using a smartphone and laptop by Andrea Piacquadio

Homeowners today have never had more ways to save money through technology. Here are five smart home devices that will help you cut down on your bills and improve your home’s safety. Better safety can mean fewer insurance claims and less hassle for you.

Smart Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat means you don’t have to manually turn your heat or air conditioning on and off. Instead, you set up a schedule on the thermostat, and everything happens automatically. This lets you set your heat to come on right before you get up in the morning, for example.

Even better, a smart programmable thermostat can be controlled via your mobile phone from anywhere. If you forgot to turn down your air conditioning before leaving for a weekend out of town, you can do it from afar. Need to stay late at work? You can change your thermostat to raise the heat a little later and save money on your utility bills.

Smart Irrigation System

If you use an irrigation system to water your lawn and garden, a smart system can save you a lot of headaches. Like a smart thermostat, a smart sprinkler system can be controlled from anywhere via a mobile device. The best ones also monitor weather reports and outside temperatures to make decisions about when to water, so you’re not watering during a rainy period or parching your grass during a drought.

Water Leak Detector

A water leak detector is one of the best investments you can make for your home’s plumbing system. It notices changes in water flow or pressure to alert you if a pipe or a valve breaks. This can prevent massive water damage to your home if, for instance, your clothes washer fails to stop filling or a pipe bursts. It can also help you find hidden pipe leaks before they become an emergency and waste large amounts of water. Your plumber can install a water leak detector system for you.

Smart Locks and Garage Door Openers

Your home’s security is paramount both to keep your household safe and to prevent theft. Installing smart locks and smart garage door openers is an easy way to improve security.

Smart garage door openers can be programmed to close your doors automatically after opening them for a certain period of time. They can also be closed on demand from anywhere using your mobile device if you forget to shut a door when leaving in a hurry.

Smart locks don’t use a traditional key to gain entry into the home. Instead, you enter a numerical password on a keypad at the door. The password can be changed anytime, meaning you don’t have to worry if you change house cleaning services or your babysitter loses a key.

Also, you can open and lock your doors remotely via your mobile phone. This is handy if you don’t want to give someone the key code or only want to grant a one-time entry to your home. Many people pair smart locks with doorbell cameras, so they can see who is coming and going from the home for added security.

Smart Plugs and Motion Sensor Switches

There are many new types of plugs and switches available today that help you save on electricity and reduce the risk of electrical fires. WiFi-enabled smart plugs, which are controlled via an app on your mobile device, can shut off power to appliances when they’re not needed. You can also use them to turn on lamps when you’re not home to give the appearance someone is present and deter break-ins. Many can be voice-activated to turn on lights and music when you come home.

You’ve probably seen motion sensor switches in public restrooms and other commercial buildings to reduce electricity consumption. Now people are using them in their homes to automatically turn on and off lights. They’re ideal if you get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom or if you have someone in the household who typically forgets to turn the lights off when leaving a room.

In addition to using these devices, the best way to protect your home is with the right home insurance policy. Our independent agents at Abernathy Insurance Agency can help you determine the right amount of coverage and make sure you avoid insurance gaps that leave you vulnerable. Call us at 626-574-1000 or request a quote to enjoy stellar personalized service from experienced professionals.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

Defensive Driving Techniques to Avoid Accidents and Insurance Claims

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 19:16:00 GMT

Man driving a car by JESHOOTS.com

If you want to reduce your risk of traffic accidents and the insurance claims that accompany them — which could cause your premium to go up — you need to drive defensively. Here are some driving tips to help you avoid crashes and stay safe on the road.

Always Assume Other Motorists Will Make Mistakes

Defensive driving means always anticipating that other vehicles will be careless or worse, break the law. So, when you come to a four-way stop, for example, don’t assume other motorists will know the right-of-way laws. It’s always better to wait a few seconds and let others go first than to risk a crash.

Don’t Drive Distracted or Under the Influence

In most places, it’s illegal to have a mobile phone in your hand while driving, whether you’re talking to someone or checking a text. Stow your device, and use hands-free or voice-activated aids if you need to have a conversation or get directions. Or you can pull over if you must manually use your phone.

Other common distractions that should be addressed include:

Kids fussing or fighting
Unrestrained pets
Eating and drinking
Loose items in the cabin
Loud music

Watch Your Speed

Statistically, many accidents in the United States, including those with fatalities, involve operating over the speed limit. Obey posted speed limits, and be especially vigilant in school zones and pedestrian areas.

You may need to drive under the speed limit if traffic is heavy, the weather is bad, the roads are slippery, or there is road construction nearby. Dawn and dusk are also times when you could experience poor visibility, so slow down if necessary and turn on your headlights.

Use Your Turn Signals

Many drivers ignore their turn signals, weaving in and out of traffic and turning without warning. This also contributes to accidents.

Pick the safest lane if you have options, and try to stay in it as much as possible. For instance, if you are on a highway with at least three lanes in one direction, choose the center lane to avoid passing and merging vehicles. When you do need to change lanes, turn on your turn signal well in advance to alert other drivers of your intentions.

Be Aware of the Most Dangerous Driving Scenarios

There are situations where accidents are more likely to occur than others. These include:

Railroad crossings
Highways
High-speed boulevards with frequent traffic signals
Uncontrolled intersections
Left-hand turns
Parking lots
Winding rural roads
Motorways used by large trucks

Be extra careful in these scenarios. Don’t drive too close to semis; if you must pass one, give yourself plenty of space and avoid driving for too long alongside the truck. If a truck is following too close to your bumper (tailgating is another defensive driving no-no), pull into another lane or off the road to let it pass.

Reminder: Always Carry Proof of Insurance with You

Sometimes, despite practicing defensive driving, you can still get in an accident. You must carry proof of insurance with you for these situations or for when stopped by law enforcement. Most states today allow you to have an electronic version of your insurance ID card on your phone, but it’s good to have a paper copy in your glove box.

Not sure if your auto insurance is giving you the best protection? The independent agents at Abernathy Insurance Agency are happy to help you. Call us at 626-574-1000, or request a quote online today.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

Simple Household Pest Control Methods

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 22:46:00 GMT

Rodent by Pixabay

No one likes the thought of having pests in their home, whether they be rodents, cockroaches, ants, or any other common household pests. If pest activity is common in your area, it is important to take steps to prevent them from infesting your home. Try these tips to help keep pests at bay over the years.

Seal Off Access Points

The best way to prevent pest infestations is to stop the pests from ever getting inside your house in the first place. To do this, you'll need to ensure there is no way for them to gain access. Check the weather stripping around your doors and windows, and ensure all vents are covered with screens. This includes in the eaves around your roof, as attics are common homes for pests.

Store Food Properly

Pests typically come inside looking for sources of food, so your goal is to make that task as challenging for them as possible. Once you have opened a package of food, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container rather than leaving it in the package. Pantries are the most common areas for pests to look for food, so make sure everything is sealed up tightly. The same goes for pet food. Invest in a storage container or choose pet food that comes in a resealable bag. If possible, keep it inside the house rather than in the garage.

Use Natural Deterrents

Before you resort to chemical pest control substances, try planting some natural pest deterrents, such as mint, basil, and lavender. Your local nursery or garden store can help you select varieties that are appropriate to the climate in your area, so don't be shy about asking. They can also advise you as to how to properly care for the plants to maximize their pest-deterring properties.

Know When to Call in the Professionals

Despite your best efforts, you may still end up with pests in your home. Particularly with wood borers, such as termites and carpenter ants, time is of the essence in getting rid of them to prevent damage. You generally won't be able to get rid of these types of pests on your own, so be sure to call in a pest control expert right away if you suspect you have an infestation. Regular visits from your pest control service can help keep most other common pests away as well, so you may wish to consider investing in an ongoing service if pests are a constant problem in your home.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

Landscape Maintenance Tips for Your Yard

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 23:25:00 GMT

Backyard landscaping by iriana88w

You've worked hard to create a beautiful garden for your yard, but there is more to yard maintenance than simply mowing the lawn and watering the plants. There are plenty of other tasks you'll need to complete in order to keep your yard looking its best over the years. Here are a few yard-care jobs you may have overlooked.

Trimming Large Trees

Pruning tall trees can be a daunting task, but it is an essential one. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire someone to do it for you, it needs to be done each year. For most trees, fall is the best time to prune, as the trees will come back even stronger when the weather warms up again in the spring. In addition to keeping the trees as healthy as possible, this will also prevent wayward branches from scratching against the side of your house or top of your roof, potentially causing damage. Be sure to keep them away from power lines as well.

Cleaning Your Gutters

If your home is equipped with gutters, they'll need to be cleaned out periodically. This is especially true if you have large trees on your property, as their leaves can clog up your gutters. When your gutters are full of debris, they can't do their job of directing water away from your house properly. This can lead to water pooling in the gutters, which can cause damage to your eaves and roof over time. You should expect to clean your gutters at least once a year, though you may need to do so more often in heavily wooded areas. Check them a few times a year, and clear them out as needed.

Keeping Plants Away from Your House

When you first planted your bushes or shrubs, they were likely much smaller than they are now. Over time, they can grow and spread, bringing them closer and closer to your house. This can provide homes for rodents and other pests, and eventually, they may try to come inside. Keeping the plants at a safe distance will enable you to see any damage to the structure of your home so you can repair it as quickly as possible.

Keeping Your Yard Clutter-Free

Finally, piles of yard waste, old garden equipment, and other debris can also create homes for pests, so do your best to keep your yard as clean and tidy as possible. After all, you've done a lot of work to keep your plants looking great, and you don't want a bunch of clutter distracting from their beauty!

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

Upgrading Your Windows - How to Choose What's Best for Your House

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 21:12:00 GMT

Window installation by Ksenia Chernaya

You may not give the windows on your home much thought, but they can actually make a big difference not just in your comfort level, but also in the value of your home. You'll have a wide range of options to choose from, so it is important to evaluate your choices carefully. Here's what you need to know.

Types of Windows

For starters, you'll need to choose how you would like your windows to open. For example, casement windows rotate from a hinge on the side, opening towards the outside of your house. Single-hung and double-hung windows, on the other hand, slide vertically to open one portion of the window. Similarly, slider windows slide sideways to open each side.

If you don't need the window to open to allow airflow into your home, consider bay windows, which can allow you to add a comfortable window seat for relaxing or reading. Picture windows are great for showcasing a beautiful view.

Types of Glass

Next, you'll need to decide whether you want standard or double-paned glass. Standard glass is typically more affordable, though double-paned glass is more energy-efficient. It helps to maintain the temperature inside your home so you don't have to rely on your air conditioning or heating as much. While these windows are more costly initially, you'll save money in the long run on your energy costs. They are also more durable, helping to deter potential burglars. You also have the option of adding thermal films to boost energy efficiency.

Additional Features

Finally, you'll need to consider the overall security of your windows. While this is less of a concern on upper levels as they are more difficult to access from outside, you'll want to ensure the windows on your ground floor are as secure as possible. Locks, opening sensors, and glass-break sensors can prevent thieves from trying to break into your home through the windows.

To decide which types of windows are best for your home, consider your needs, preferences, and budget, not just in the short term, but over the long run as well. A bit of extra investment upfront can enhance your comfort and peace of mind while also adding value to your property.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

Tips for Saving Money on Heating and Cooling Your Home

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 20:54:00 GMT

HVAC units by Sonar

If you're like most people, you like to keep your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. However, running your heater or air conditioner constantly uses a lot of energy, and your electric and gas bills can seriously add up over time. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can reduce your energy costs to save money without having to sacrifice comfort. Try these helpful tips, and watch the savings roll in.

Check window and door seals. Doors and windows are among the worst culprits for allowing inside air to escape, so it's important to check the seals around them on a regular basis. Inspect them once at the beginning of the summer and again going into winter. Watch for any cracks, broken seals, and other signs of deterioration. In general, replacing these seals is not very expensive, and this small repair can make a big difference in your energy bills over time.
Upgrade your insulation. Your roof is another common area for cool air and warmth to escape. While your home was likely built with insulation in the roof, the insulation materials can deteriorate over time, causing them to be less effective at regulating the internal temperature of your home. Rodent and other pest activity in your attic can also wreak havoc on your insulation, as these little critters use the materials to make their nests. Especially if your home is older, you may need to upgrade your insulation, as technology has come a long way over the decades.
Use a programmable thermostat. If you keep your home at a constant temperature throughout the day, you're likely wasting a lot of energy when you aren't even at home. Rather than having to remember to adjust the thermostat before you leave for work each morning and when you return home in the evenings, invest in a thermostat that you can program. This way, you'll be able to let your house get a bit hotter or colder while you are away, then have it come back to a comfortable temperature before you get back. By shutting off your system when you are out of the house, you can reduce your energy consumption dramatically.

Of course, the old standby tips of opening windows in the summer and putting on an extra layer in the winter still hold true and can help you reduce your energy costs even further. It's all about striking a balance between comfort and affordability to find what works best for you.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

How to Make a Fire Safety Plan

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 17:59:00 GMT

Living room by Kara Eads

No one likes to think about the possibility of a fire in their home, but this is one situation where it definitely pays to be prepared. This is especially true if you have children or pets in your home. Read on to learn how to develop a fire safety plan to ensure you and your loved ones are as safe as possible in an emergency.

Plan Multiple Routes Out of Your Home

Depending on where the fire starts and how much of your home it consumes, you may not necessarily be able to use the most obvious exit. Of course, the best way to get out of your home in a fire is the quickest route, but you may not have access to it if fire is blocking it. In addition to identifying the fastest way out, be sure to have several contingency options at the ready as well.

This is especially important if your home has two or more levels. If a fire is blocking the stairs, how will you get your loved ones out safely? Think about as many possible ways to get out of every room in your home as you can, and make sure all members of your family are familiar with their exit routes, no matter where they are.

Consider All Members of Your Family

Small children and pets will likely need assistance in the event of a fire, so you and any other adults in your home will need to plan who will take on which responsibilities. For example, you might tend to your children while your partner handles the pets, or vice versa. The important thing is to ensure that everyone will be taken care of and that no one will be forgotten. The last thing you want to have to do is run back into a burning house to rescue a forgotten hamster on the upper floor.

Do Several Practice Runs

All that planning can quickly go out the window in the stress and chaos of an actual emergency, so be sure to practice your fire exit plan frequently. This will instill the exit routes and procedure in your and your loved ones' minds so everyone can get out safely without panicking. Make sure your kids understand the importance of this practice as well to ensure they take it seriously and pay attention to the details. With practice, you and your family will be well-prepared in the event of a fire.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com

Swimming Safety: 10 Tips for Summer

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 23:42:00 GMT

Jump by Lars Plougmann / CC BY-SA 2.0

Summer is here and people are flocking to the water — whether it’s the beach, a lake, a river or a backyard pool. But, wherever there’s water, there’s also danger.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 10 people drown every day — and two of those are children 14 or younger. Even seasoned swimmers can find themselves in dangerous situations, so brush up on these basic safety tips before your first—or next—swim:

Swimming Safety Tips

Consider the swimming level of everyone in your party before selecting a place to swim. Just because swimmers are comfortable in a pool doesn’t mean they can handle swimming in the ocean.
Swim in designated areas with a lifeguard present, and follow any posted warnings or instructions. However, don’t rely on the lifeguard alone. Never leave young children or other inexperienced swimmers unattended or in the care of another child.
Teach children to ask permission before going near the water. If a child is missing, always check the water first.
Young children should wear swim diapers and Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Even still, maintain constant supervision.
Avoid alcohol or drug use during water activities.
Know CPR and other life-saving measures.
Don’t dive into unfamiliar water. You never know what might be below the surface.
In open bodies of water, watch for dangers that just aren’t present in pools. These can include plants and animals, as well as riptides, currents, waves and rapids. If you see someone in danger, reach out to them with a pole or tree branch – anything that extends your reach – or throw them a floating object while someone else alerts the lifeguard. Wading in yourself could put you in just as much danger, so leave the water rescues to the professionals.
Don’t swallow the water, no matter where you’re swimming. It could cause illness.
Check the weather and be aware of changing and potentially dangerous conditions.

If you happen to have a pool on your property (lucky you), you have even more responsibilities. Your pool should be completely surrounded by a locking fence, at least 4 feet tall, and all pools and spas should have compliant drain covers. Keep life-saving equipment, such as life rings and poles, within easy reach. If you have a small kiddie or wading pool, be sure to empty it after each use. A baby can drown in just 1 inch of water.

Summer fun in and around the water is for people of all ages — just keep in mind that some people need more supervision than others, and everyone needs to keep safety in mind at all times. Happy splashing!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Read the full article at www.abernathyinsurance.com