by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info |
Transportation Expense (TE) coverage, often called rental reimbursement is an optional coverage that can be added to your auto insurance policy to help cover the costs associated with renting a car while your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered loss, such as an accident.
Many drivers opt for the minimum rental reimbursement coverage, but is that enough? With the rising cost of vehicle rentals, extended repair times, and other complications, minimum coverage often proves insufficient, leaving policyholders to cover unexpected expenses out of pocket.
Understanding TE Coverage
This coverage provides a fixed daily amount, up to a total limit, that is put toward rental car expenses. For example, if you have $30/$900, these amounts refer to the specific limits:
- $30 per day: The maximum amount your insurance company will reimburse you per day for rental car expenses.
- $900 total: The maximum amount your insurer will pay out for rental car expenses over the entire repair period.
On the surface, opting for low rental reimbursement coverage could seem like enough, but it may not go as far as you think when you need it most – leaving you responsible for the difference.
Rising Rental Car Costs
The price of renting a car has skyrocketed in recent years. In 2023, the average daily cost of renting a car was between $50 and $70, depending on the location, vehicle type, and availability. This is a significant increase compared to previous years, primarily driven by supply chain disruptions, vehicle shortages, and inflation.
If you have minimal TE coverage that offers only $30 per day, but rental prices are closer to $50 or more per day, you would be left covering the difference of $20 per day. This gap can add up quickly. For example, if your repairs take two weeks and the daily rental cost is $60, your insurance would cover only $30 of that each day, leaving you responsible for the remaining $30. Over 14 days, that adds up to $420 out of pocket—a substantial and unexpected expense.
Extended Repair Times
Another factor that can make $30/$900 rental reimbursement coverage insufficient is the time it takes to repair vehicles. Repair times have increased due to various factors, including shortages of auto parts, labor shortages in repair shops, and the growing complexity of modern vehicles. What used to be a simple fix taking a few days might now take weeks—or even a month—depending on the extent of the damage and the availability of parts.
If you have minimum coverage, the total limit might not cover your rental for the entire repair period. For instance, if your car is in the shop for 25 days and you’re renting a car at $50 per day, you would need $1,250 in rental car coverage. However, with minimal TE coverage capped at $900, you’ll be on the hook for the remaining $350, even though you’ve been responsible and maintained insurance coverage.
Limited Vehicle Options
The type of vehicle you need can also impact whether carrying minimum rental reimbursement coverage is sufficient. For instance, if you typically drive a larger vehicle, such as an SUV or minivan, you may need to rent a similar-sized vehicle to accommodate your family or lifestyle needs. Unfortunately, rental prices for larger vehicles tend to be significantly higher than those for compact or economy cars, sometimes reaching $80 to $100 per day.
If your insurance only reimburses $30 per day, but you need an SUV rental that costs $90 per day, you would be responsible for the $60 daily difference. Over the course of just days, this could result in hundreds of dollars of out-of-pocket expenses.
How to Protect Yourself from Paying Out of Pocket
While minimal TE coverage may seem like a cost-effective choice at first, it’s important to weigh the risks and consider upgrading your coverage to ensure you’re fully protected in the event of an accident. Here are some ways to avoid financial surprises:
- Choose Higher Daily and Total Limits: For a small increase in cost, upgrade your TE coverage limits to $50/$1500. By selecting a higher daily limit and total coverage amount, you’ll have greater peace of mind and reduce the likelihood of out-of-pocket expenses.
Pro Tip: As a California Casualty policyholder, we give you the option to update your coverage at any time during your policy period.
- Choose an Economy Rental: If possible, opt for an economy or compact car. These vehicles typically have the lowest daily rates, making it more likely that your $30 daily allowance will cover the cost. Even if you normally drive a larger vehicle, renting a smaller car temporarily can help you avoid additional costs.
- Go Through CalCas: Take advantage of our partnership with Enterprise so you can benefit from:
- Negotiated rates that are below the published daily rate
- Expedited reservations services
- Direct billing from Enterprise to California Casualty for your covered transportation expenses
- Pick up and drop off service in many areas when using our Guaranteed Repair Network of body shops
While choosing minimal Transportation Expense coverage might seem like a smart way to save money, it can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses if rental costs, repair times, or vehicle needs exceed your coverage. With rental prices on the rise and repairs taking longer, a bit more coverage now could help you avoid unwanted surprises later.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Helpful Tips |
Want to instantly make your home brighter, safer, and more welcoming? A few simple lighting upgrades can do just that. Whether you’re creating a cozy atmosphere in the living room, brightening up your kitchen workspace, or making sure hallways and staircases are well-lit to prevent accidents, improving your home’s lighting can make all the difference. Not only does good lighting boost mood and productivity, but it also enhances safety and adds value. Ready to see your home in a whole new light? Read on.
Enhance your natural light.
Sunlight is free, and there are ways to maximize how much light is naturally in your home. Make sure your windows are clean as a first step. Then try some of these tips.
- Use sheer curtains on your windows rather than heavy drapes. Try curtains or blinds that can be pulled back or opened wide to let the light in.
- Paint your walls lighter colors and your ceilings white. You’ll be surprised at how much that can lighten up a space.
- Place mirrors in hallways or corners to reflect the natural light coming in your windows. Other glossy surfaces have a similar effect, so consider adding silky fabrics, wallpaper with a sheen, or glass tables and objects.
- Make sure nothing is blocking your windows inside or out. Move furniture. Trim bushes. Clear the way for more sunshine.
Consider the type of lighting.
Not all lighting is the same. Knowing the types will help you determine which works best for each space in your home.
- Ambient describes general lighting. This is usually the main source of light, when you flip the light switch as you enter a room. It is a foundation for the lighting of your rooms. You can then add lighting as you see fit.
- Task lighting illuminates an area for a specific task. These are typically brighter lights for seeing clearly as you are cooking or while you’re in the bathroom. Task lighting could also be the desk lamp that you use for your home office or a table lamp for reading while the rest of the room is lit by ambient light.
- Accent lighting draws attention to pieces of art or an architectural feature of a room. It draws the eye in that direction.
- Decorative lighting offers the finishing touch to your home’s décor. This type of lighting typically includes wall sconces, chandeliers, hanging pendant lights, and floor and table lamps.
Pay attention to the bulbs.
Bulbs range in brightness and in color—and different choices can really change the feel of a room. Energy efficiency is also a factor in light bulb selection, as it can save you money over time. There are a lot of choices on the market so do your research for the right bulbs for your home.
- Warm white light works best for relaxing. Look for bulbs that are 2000 Kelvin (K) to 3000 K.
- Cool bright light looks the most like daylight. Look for bulbs that are 4500 K and above.
- Neutral light or bright white light, ranging from 3100 K – 4500 K, is for areas that require focus: kitchens, home offices, and bathrooms.
- Bulbs are measured by lumens and watts. The more lumens a bulb has, the brighter the light will be. The more watts a bulb has, the more energy it will use.
- Incandescent bulbs used to be the industry standard. They are not as energy efficient as other kinds of bulbs. Halogen light bulbs use less energy. Fluorescents are popular for kitchens and offices. LED bulbs are longer lasting and energy efficient. Smart versions of LED bulbs can be adjusted remotely for brightness and timing.
Pro Tip: Chances are you have three or four different types of light bulbs with different color temperatures throughout your home (and possibly even in the same room). Replace them with one kind for a more cohesive look.
Layer your lighting.
You will benefit from having several types of lighting in each room, so you have multiple options for different moods and tasks.
- Consider the activities that will take place in the room and the need for lighting. Use the ambient light as the base.
- Include brighter lights for tasks, which can be turned off or dimmed when you do not need them.
- Add an accent lamp on the table or floor for softer and more flattering lighting. Try a new lampshade. Light colored shades help diffuse light. Dark colored shades will concentrate it.
Pay attention to placement.
You can use lighting to help define your space by strategically placing it throughout the room, at different levels – on a table, floor, and hanging from the ceiling.
- Consider LED strips under cabinets to illuminate counters.
- For larger rooms, cluster the lighting to break the space into cozier areas.
- To make a room appear wider, place lamps in the corners.
- Point your light fixtures toward walls and ceilings, which can diffuse harsh light and reduce glare.
Install motion sensor lights.
Motion sensor lights enhance home safety by automatically lighting dark areas when movement is detected.
- Install them in hallways and stairwells, which are prime places for slip, trip and fall accidents.
- Use plug-in night lights with motion sensors.
- Battery operated LED light strips are available if you don’t have outlets in these spaces.
- Motion sensor lights are also effective outside your home. A sudden light can alert you to movement on your property and deter intruders.
Use smart lights and dimmers.
Smart lights and dimmers offer customizable, energy-efficient lighting solutions that adapt to your mood, schedule, and lifestyle with just a tap or voice command.
- With smart options, you can set up routines for changing lighting throughout the day and evening.
- You can control your lighting from anywhere via an app, adjusting for color and brightness.
- Dimmers also are available with manual switches. Dimming lights helps you save on your energy bill.
Add exterior fixtures for safety.
Exterior lights provide visibility around entry points, driveways, and walkways outside your home to enhance security.
- Walk your perimeter at night. Identify the dark spaces you want to illuminate.
- Try sconces for a side door or garage door.
- Landscape lighting is effective for a walkway and is available in solar and battery powered options.
- Consider smart lighting solutions for the outside that can be controlled remotely from inside or wherever you happen to be.
Your home is one of your greatest investments. Make sure to protect it with the right insurance.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Helpful Tips, Safety |
It’s the perfect time of year to open the windows and enjoy the fresh air. Yet open windows can be a hidden danger for kids. It’s easier than you may think for young ones to slip through and fall. Fortunately, window accidents are preventable with the right safety measures. This season, keep your home and windows secure for your little ones.
What makes windows dangerous?
Children are naturally curious. They like to climb and explore. Window screens are designed to keep bugs out, but not hold children in. Even a small child has the strength to push out a screen. Children under the age of 5 are especially at risk if this happens. Their heads make up a larger percentage of their bodies as compared to adults, so they are likely to fall headfirst.
Some windows are more enticing or easier to access for young kids:
- Windows with deep windowsills or built-in window seats
- Windows that overlook a play area or place of interest to a child
- Windows that are near furnishings where children can climb to reach them
- Windows that do not have safeguards and do not lock
Types of Windows
You want to be concerned about any type of window that can open.
- Single hung windows have a bottom sash that opens.
- Double hung windows have bottom and top sashes that open.
- Bay windows often have side angled panels that can open.
- Casement windows swing open to the side, often using a hand crank.
- Awning windows swing up in a similar way to casement vehicles.
- Horizontal sliding windows open by sliding to the side.
- Picture windows generally do not open.
Window Safety Devices
You can buy safety devices that limit or block window openings at your local hardware or home store and online. Look for ones that are compliant with ASTM International specifications. ASTM stands for the American Society for Testing and Materials, and it establishes standards for a wide range of products, including window fall prevention devices. Place these devices on every window that can open, including first floor windows. That still can be a significant fall for a young child.
Window Guards
Window guards block the opening of a window. There are two basic kinds, each of which needs to be properly fitted.
- Fall prevention window guards use closely spaced bars that are secured to the window frame. Made of durable material such as steel, these guards may be installed with screws or bolts. They usually have a release mechanism for quick access to disable them.
- Fall prevention screens are different from standard window screens that protect from bugs. These screens are designed to withstand as much as 60 lbs. of pressure or more.
Window Stops
Window stops restrict windows from opening fully. Make sure to set them so windows open a maximum of 4 inches.
Pro Tip: Once you install a safety device, practice removing it, so you’ll know how to do so if you need to exit via the window in an emergency.
Window Cords
Young children also can be entangled and strangled by window cords. Remove the cords or keep them well out of reach.
- Retrofit old cords with cord stops or cut looped cords and replace with tassel ends.
- Switch to cordless blinds for your window treatments.
Other Window Safety Tips
- Close and lock windows when an adult is not in the room to supervise.
- If you have windows that can open at the bottom and the top, open them only at the top to help prevent falls.
- Move furniture and cribs away from windows so kids cannot climb on them. Make sure that furniture is a minimum of 3 feet from windows.
- Keep your eyes on children when the windows are open. Make sure they do not get too close.
- Teach children not to play near windows, not to lean on windows, and to always ask permission before opening a window.
- Regularly inspect and repair broken windows as soon as possible.
- If you have a hard surface outside underneath your windows, consider adding soft grass, bushes or other landscaping that could cushion a fall. This could ultimately help to lessen an injury.
- Open, unsecured windows can also be a danger to pets. Keep your fur babies safely away from open windows and balconies.
- Discuss window safety with your child’s daycare, babysitter and family members. Make sure everyone is aware of the safety precautions to take.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Helpful Tips, Safety, Travel |
You’re ready to hit the road in your RV. Whether you’re an experienced RVer or a newcomer to the lifestyle, protecting your vehicle from fire hazards can mean the difference between a dream vacation and a disaster.
As your home on wheels, your RV presents greater fire dangers than a standard vehicle. With features like kitchens and curtains, there are more opportunities for things to go up in flames. There also are electrical and mechanical components that can present a fire risk if not properly maintained. Here’s what you need to know to keep your family safe.
Electrical Systems
RVs use both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) power. AC operates your appliances and outlets while DC powers your engine and battery. Solar panels also are gaining popularity and can be configured to provide either AC or DC power.
- Bumps and vibrations can loosen connections. Check your electrical systems regularly to make sure connections are secure.
- Check for frayed wires and damaged outlets. Never use wires or outlets that are compromised. Replace as needed.
- If the circuit breaker shuts off power to a certain circuit, it’s probably overloaded. Other signs include lights that flicker or buzzing noises from outlets and switches. Consult a professional to ensure that you don’t have an overloaded circuit.
- While power strips are generally safe for small wattage appliances (charging cell phones or table lamps), they may not do well with high wattage. They also cannot handle continuous loads required by space heaters. Power strips can overheat and ignite combustible material in the walls.
- Don’t cover electric cords with rugs or carpets.
- Only use extension cords rated for outdoor use. If left out overnight, cords can get wet.
- If you have an electrically charged fire, don’t use water to extinguish it. Use a fire extinguisher approved for type C fires.
Propane Appliances
Propane commonly powers stoves, refrigerators and water heaters in your RV. It’s an efficient fuel that also can be dangerous if mishandled. Propane leaks can cause fires and explosions.
- Regularly inspect your propane tanks and lines for leaks or any issues. Do not use tanks and lines that have been damaged.
- Always store propane tanks in an upright position in a well-ventilated area away from a heat source.
- Turn off propane-powered appliances when not in use.
- Make sure propane-powered appliances are off when you are in motion. Gasoline vapor and an open flame are not a good combination. Also, many propane appliances need to be level and roads are not.
- Get your RV LP-certified. A licensed liquid propane technician can inspect and test your propane system.
- Consider switching to an induction cooktop and electric fridge to reduce the use of propane.
Cooking Accidents
The small space and low ceilings in most RVs make it more dangerous to cook there than at home. Most RVs use propane stove tops, which can be an added risk.
- Properly vent fuel-burning appliances. Never operate them in an enclosed space such as a bathroom, bedroom or storage area. Turn on the exhaust fan, open a window, or cook outside.
- Keep flammable materials away from the cooking area.
- Never leave cooking appliances unattended while preparing meals.
- Turn off appliances before leaving the RV.
- Check and maintain your appliances regularly. Keep them clean; make sure there are no loose or chewed wires.
- Do not use cooking appliances to heat your RV. That could create a dangerous situation where there’s insufficient oxygen in a small space.
Pro Tip: For curtains, choose natural fabrics (cotton, hemp) which are less flammable than polyester.
Engine & Mechanical
Your RV is not just a home; it’s also a vehicle. That means it’s equally important to keep the engine and mechanical systems well maintained.
- Check brakes and bearings. Improperly adjusted trailer brakes can overheat. Wheel bearings also can overheat if not properly greased.
- Make sure there are no leaks. Place a piece of cardboard under the RVs engine for a few nights to see if you have a leak. Repair any engine or transmission leak as soon as possible. Transmission fluid is highly flammable.
- Check the battery. Most RVs use lead acid batteries which must be ventilated, or they can give off dangerous gasses. Make sure the battery is open to the outside by vent or hose.
- Trailer chains that are too long can drag on the road and create sparks. Adjust them as needed. Just one spark can cause a fire.
- Improperly inflated tires can overheat and cause a fire. It also can cause the tire to fail.
- Exhaust systems can become very hot. If they have contact with flammable dry grass, it could ignite.
Safety Gear
Outfit your RV with the right safety gear so you’re alerted to any potential emergency, and you can act quickly.
- Place smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in every sleeping area.
- Check the alarms and detectors, and switch batteries every spring and fall.
- Fire extinguishers should be in easy to reach areas, for example near the door. Get one that is rated type A (for wood, plastics, cloth) and type B (for liquid fuel like grease, oil, stove and motor fuel) and type C (for electric fires).
- Test your emergency exits including windows that can be used as an escape route. Make sure you have at least two ways out and nothing is blocking those paths.
If you smell gas:
- Extinguish all open flames pilot lights, lamps.
- Shut off the gas supply.
- Do not turn on an electrical switch as that can create a spark that causes an explosion.
- Remember to evacuate first. Call the fire department, and then try to put out the fire.
If you’re renting an RV:
Remember to do your due diligence to make sure your RV is safe.
- Choose a newer model. Older models of RVs have fewer and less advanced safety measures. Older engines and equipment also are more likely to fail.
- Ask the last time it was inspected.
- Look at the fire extinguisher expiration date.
- Look at the indication lights on the propane system and carbon monoxide system to see that they’re working properly.
- Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
- If you suspect an issue, address it before you sign the paperwork.
Finally, if you’re driving your own RV, make sure it is fully protected by insurance for your own peace of mind. Safe travels!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, Helpful Tips |
When it comes to protecting your vehicle, car insurance and vehicle warranties both play a big role. Knowing the difference between the two can help you make informed decisions about the coverage you need.
Vehicle Warranty
New car warranties
When you buy a new car, you get a factory warranty from the vehicle manufacturer at no additional cost to you. It is a guarantee that the car you bought is in good working order. A vehicle warranty covers replacements or repairs in case a component breaks or fails for a specified period. Typically, there is no deductible with a new car warranty. It covers both the new part and the labor.
A new car warranty generally comes in two parts:
- Bumper to bumper coverage: This covers repairs to most parts including electronics and air conditioning (for typically 3 years or 36,000 miles).
- Power train coverage: This covers the engine and transmission (for typically 5 years or 60,000 miles).
Sometimes a manufacturer’s warranty includes a limited corrosion warranty, emissions warranty, tire warranty, hybrid and electric car battery warranty, and roadside assistance. When your warranties expire, you often have the option to purchase an extended warranty.
Used car warranties
You can get warranties for used cars. A limited warranty comes with a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle. The cost is rolled into the higher price you will pay for a CPO vehicle. You also may purchase an extended warranty from your car’s manufacturer or a third party for most used cars. The cost of that extended warranty usually depends upon vehicle age, mileage, make and model, coverage level, your deductible, and the warranty provider.
What warranties cover and what they don’t
Warranties protect you against defects in your car’s parts from power windows and the infotainment system to your engine and transmission. They help cover repairs for those parts if they break or fail during the warranty period. Most car warranties are similar in their broad coverages but may differ in the details so check your policy for what is covered.
Warranties do not cover everything. They do not cover routine maintenance like oil changes or tire rotations. They do not cover wear-and-tear parts like brake pads or wiper blades. They do not cover damage from collisions, damage caused by the owner, severe weather, fire, or theft. For the latter, you need vehicle insurance.
Vehicle Insurance
Car insurance is required by law in most states for any car – new or used – that is on the road. This type of insurance pays for damage from a collision, or another covered adverse event such as fire or theft. Auto insurance does more than fix your car. It can help with medical bills for you, your passengers and the people you hit in a collision. It can help pay if the other driver is not insured. It even covers damages when another driver is at the wheel of your car and has an accident because insurance follows the car, not the driver.
What vehicle insurance covers and what it doesn’t
Car insurance policies are made up of different coverages. You choose the types you need from a range of options. Your premium is determined in part by the coverages that you choose.
- Liability: If you are at fault in an accident, and others are involved, it’s good to have liability coverage. Liability coverage is required by law in most states. It covers you for bodily injury and property damage you cause to others. However, it does not cover any damage to your own vehicle; that’s covered by collision. It also does not cover injury to you and your family; it only covers the people in the other car.
- Collision: This coverage is if your car is damaged in a collision with another car or an object, such as a fence. Your collision coverage will pay for repairs minus the deductible. Collision coverage is not required unless you’re leasing a car or paying off a loan on a vehicle. However, it may be good to have, especially in the event of an accident.
- Comprehensive: Comprehensive coverage is for natural disasters, fires, vandalism, theft and animals that damage your vehicle. Think of it as “bad luck coverage.” Comprehensive coverage is not usually required unless you’re leasing a vehicle or paying a car loan. However, it’s valuable to protect your car.
- Medical expenses: If you or others are hurt in an accident, you will want medical expenses covered. You will either be able to get medical payments coverage or personal injury protection (PIP). These coverages apply to everyone in your car whether or not you are at fault in the accident. This type of coverage is good to have, as your health insurance may not cover auto accidents and does not normally protect your passengers. PIP is only available in some states and may be mandatory if your state offers it.
- Uninsured or underinsured motorist: You may encounter drivers who are not insured or who are underinsured. If so, you will need insurance to cover your car and the people in your car if hit by an at-fault driver in that situation. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) helps pay for repairs to your vehicle. Uninsured/Underinsured Bodily Injury coverage pays for medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering for you and your passengers. These are optional coverages in most states. In some states, you are not allowed to carry collision and UMPD at the same time. Also, sometimes UMPD has a policy maximum, or cap on the amount it will pay.
Talk to your insurance agent to see what is covered under your policy. That way you’ll be fully prepared should anything happen. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
