To Sell or Trade-In My Car?

To Sell or Trade-In My Car?

by | Helpful Tips | 0 comments

You’re ready for a new car. That means you’ll have to decide what to do with your old one. Either you’ll want to sell your car or trade it at the dealer. Ultimately, the choice comes down to what matters most to you—getting top dollar for your vehicle or taking care of it quickly and easily. Here’s what you need to know.

Trading in Your Car

When you give your vehicle to a dealership in exchange for a credit toward a new car, that is a trade-in. Dealers take your used car and resell it, so that means you won’t get exactly what it’s worth. You’ll be offered a little less. Trade-ins work best with lower mileage cars. Cars over 100,000 miles cannot be re-sold by dealers as certified used cars.

Advantages

    • Trade-ins are convenient and require minimum time and effort from you.
    • Car dealers may be less picky about the car’s condition than an individual buyer.
    • Dealers will handle all the necessary paperwork.
    • You will have a credit to apply to a new car.
    • You also might save on taxes. While some states tax buyers on the value of a new car, others tax you on the value, minus the trade-in.

Disadvantages

    • You may not get as much money for a trade-in, as if you sold your car privately.
    • If your car is old and has high mileage, the dealership may not want it or may offer a less-than satisfactory value.

Tips for Trading

    • Don’t trade in a car for less money than you owe on it. You are still responsible for paying the lease in full.
    • Having your original paperwork will make the trade-in process easier.
    • Do your research and find your potential trade-in value.
    • Check with multiple dealers to see if there is a difference in trade-in value.
    • Don’t be afraid to walk away from the deal if you don’t get your price.

Selling Your Car

If you have the time, you can sell your car privately. You can generally get more money for a private sale, but it’s a lot more work. You will need to take photos of your vehicle, write an ad and post it, and then answer all the people who are interested. You also may need to negotiate for the price you want. Generally, selling independently works well if you have a car that’s high in demand, and if you are comfortable with the sales process.

Advantages

    • You will probably get a better price than at the dealer.
    • There are lots of online sites where you can post your car.
    • If you sell your vehicle online, escrow services can help coordinate the sale while protecting both parties.

Disadvantages

    • It takes a lot of time to sell a car. You may not be able to sell your old car before you buy your new car.
    • It takes a lot of work to sell a car. You must create the ad and publicize the sale either online or locally with a sign on your car displayed in a prominent place.
    • You will be responsible for any accidents that potential buyers cause in your car. That’s because insurance follows the car not the driver.
    • You can put yourself in a risky situation with the exchange of funds. A bank check or direct wire might be best. You can also do the transaction in the parking lot of a police station.
    • You must do the paperwork. This includes creating a bill of sale and making sure that the title is transferred correctly.

Tips for Selling

    • Clean your car and remove bumper stickers.
    • Take professional looking photos.
    • Research the right asking price.
    • Make any necessary repairs.
    • Be honest in your ad.
    • Advertise on safe sites.
    • Potential buyers will want to do test drives. You will need to make sure they will not drive away with your car. Take a picture of the buyer’s driver’s license.

Beware of Car Selling Scams

  • Car Sale Phishing: Scammers that pose as customers can steal your private information. In this scam, they ask for extra verification to get as much information about you as they can. They then use it to set up credit cards, access your bank accounts, or steal your identity.
  • Confirmed Buyer: You may get a notification from an online site that you have a confirmed buyer. The email will request a finder’s fee before releasing the information. Usually they include a money-back guarantee, which is also fake. You end up being out the money.
  • Fake Escrow: The buyer sets up a fake escrow account to hold funds until the vehicle is purchased. They will link to your bank account and steal your information and often, your money.
  • PayPal Scam: The buyer will need your car quickly because of a transportation issue, and likely not haggle over price. They will say they can only pay via PayPal. They will send you an email from PayPal saying that the payment is awaiting approval to be released and ask you for a shipping fee. Once you send the payment, the buyer disappears and you’re out several thousand dollars.
  • Payment Plan: The buyer will offer you a price above market value with a decent amount of interest to pay the car off over time. They’ll make the first payment and then you’ll never hear from them again.

Whether you sell or trade-in your vehicle, take precautions to do it safely. Your car is one of your greatest investments. Protect it with the right policy for added peace of mind.

 

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.

Car Insurance Fraud

Car Insurance Fraud

by | Auto Insurance Info, Helpful Tips | 0 comments

It never feels good to fall victim to a scam or pay more for a product because of it. That’s what it is like with car insurance fraud.

Car insurance fraud happens when someone lies to get a better rate or a larger payout. It could be intentional or accidental, but either way it can cost you money in premiums. The FBI estimates that car insurance fraud costs the average family an additional $400 to $700 every year. In addition, nearly 7 in 10 consumers are tricked into illegal schemes, according to the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud. Here’s what you need to know about car insurance fraud, including some clever scams that could catch you unaware.

What are the types of fraud?

Staged Accidents

In staged accidents, dishonest people intentionally cause a collision with an unsuspecting driver. Then they misrepresent the situation, putting the other driver at fault—and thus get a payout that they don’t deserve. Common scenarios for staged accidents include:

          • Two vehicles trap your car and force you into a rear end collision.
          • Someone waves you on that it is safe to pull out, and then another car collides with you.
          • You are tricked into turning early and the oncoming driver moves forward and collides with you.
          • Another car purposefully sideswipes your vehicle in a dual left turn intersection.
          • A car deliberately and abruptly brakes in front of you.

Injury Fraud

Dishonest people can file claims for unnecessary medical treatments or for treatments that they did not receive. Injury fraud also includes claims where people exaggerate the extent of their injury to get a bigger payout.

Exaggerated Claims

Sometimes after an accident, a dishonest person can cause additional damage to their vehicle to receive a bigger payout. That’s why taking photos of the damage is so important to do at the scene of the accident. Another exaggerated claim could be to file multiple claims for the same accident. Finally, disreputable shops can charge for repairs that weren’t made or for substandard work.

Counterfeit Airbags

If you have your airbag replaced by a dishonest shop, you might be charged for the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) bag but get a counterfeit one installed. In a worst-case scenario, a disreputable shop could install a garbage bag stuffed with rags. Counterfeit bags are dangerous and may not protect you in the event of an accident. The good news is that it’s easy to check. With an airbag, the light on your dashboard will flash when you start the car. You can also ask an authorized dealer to check that you have a quality airbag.

Windshield Replacement Scams

There are a variety of different scams associated with windshield replacement. Here are some of the most popular.

          • A stranger approaches you in a parking lot and offers a free windshield replacement. They point out nonexistent damage that can be fixed. They take your insurance information and file an exaggerated or false claim.
          • Windshield scam artists also could go door-to-door or call you with a “special” for customers in your area. Then they follow a similar process of filing a false claim.
          • If you live in one of the states that has no deductible for windshield replacement, con artists can file a claim for your windshield and charge you for the deductible.

Tow Truck Scams

Tow trucks that appear right after your accident could be “bandits” who will only tow your vehicle to their shop and charge you hundreds to repair and release it. Calling your own tow truck will help you to avoid this scam.

False Reports of Stolen Vehicles

Reporting a vehicle that hasn’t really been stolen as stolen is illegal. So is misrepresenting the value of a stolen vehicle.

False Documentation

Intentionally providing a false address for your policy to get a better rate is a form of fraud. Understating the annual mileage, misrepresenting the use of a commercial vehicle, and failing to add a new driver also is fraud.

What are the consequences of fraud?

It depends on the seriousness of the fraud. For minor infractions, your claim can simply be denied. For more serious offenses, your policy may be canceled, you could be fined or even serve jail time. A misdemeanor for auto insurance fraud can come with a fine and probation. A felony conviction can result in significant fines and prison time.

How can you fight against fraud?

  • Carefully check your insurance application forms for mistakes.
  • If you’re in an accident, take good notes of all those involved. Take pictures at the scene. Don’t sign any documents or agree to any terms at the scene of the accident.
  • Don’t accept fault for an accident if you believe you are not at fault.
  • Be wary of individuals offering services that you didn’t request. Avoid sharing details about your auto policy with those who may be disreputable.
  • Don’t tailgate. This gives criminals a chance to take advantage.
  • If your car needs repairs or maintenance, go to a trusted professional.
  • Don’t accept a windshield replacement offer.
  • Choose OEM parts for vehicle repairs to avoid counterfeits. Before buying a used car, have a certified mechanic check that there are authentic air bags.
  • Avoid rushed decisions. If someone is pressuring you into something, that could be a red flag.

If you suspect fraud, report it to your insurer as well as to the National Insurance Crime Bureau at 800-835-6422 https://www.nicb.org/.

 

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.

Fire Pit Safety

Fire Pit Safety

by | Helpful Tips, Safety | 0 comments

It’s a beautiful night to sit around the fire pit. The flicker of the flames and the crackling of the fire create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and conversation. Yet the scene can quickly turn dangerous without the right precautions.

Each year, fire pits send thousands of people to the emergency room. Young children and pets are especially vulnerable. Fire pits can also pose a significant fire hazard for your property, igniting leaves and grass, wooden structures and even your home. Follow these 10 fire pit safety tips to help keep everyone and everything safe.

1. Choose the right location.

Place your fire pit at least 10 to 20 feet away from other structures. Keep it away from low hanging branches above. There should be a minimum of 12 feet between your fire pit and tree branches. Never set up below power lines or string lights, which can create immediate danger if sparks fly. Don’t put your fire pit under a building overhang or in an enclosed area. That could cause a buildup of smoke, carbon monoxide and harmful gases that can be deadly.

2. Select a safe, stable surface.

Avoid putting your fire pit directly on the grass or on a wood deck. Instead place your pit on brick, concrete pavers, gravel or sand. Alternatively, you can buy pit pads and heat shields for underneath your pit, as well as pedestals. Surround your pit with crushed stone, sand or brick for added protection.

3. Choose the right fuel.

Soft woods like pine burn less efficiently, and spark more. It’s better to buy seasoned hardwood kindling and logs. You also could use fallen branches from trees in your yard. Do not, however, use construction lumber like pressure treated wood, plywood or chemically treated pallets. These woods will emit toxic fumes when they burn. So will trash and plastic. Never start a fire with lighter fluid or gasoline; that will create a burst of flames and can even release toxic gas or cause an explosion. Don’t throw leaves into the fire. They are light and can be carried by the wind. Finally, when tending to the fire, make sure your sleeves are rolled up and your hair is tied back. Use heat-proof gloves, a metal fire poker or safe long handled tongs.

4.  Check the wind conditions.

Don’t use your fire pit on windy days. Wind can easily blow sparks around to surrounding brush. Use a screen to contain sparks and large embers. If your fire pit is portable, place it in a location with a natural windbreak before you start the fire. Always heed “no burn” alerts from your local municipality. If they say conditions are unsafe for a fire, it’s too risky to chance it.

5.  Keep chairs far enough away.

Carefully place your seats around the fire pit. If you’re too close, your hair or clothes could catch fire. Stay 3-4 feet away from wood burning fires and 2-3 feet away from gas fires. Keep children 3-10 feet away from the flames. If a light breeze is blowing, have guests sit upwind so they can keep clear of the smoke.

6.  Supervise children and pets.

Children and pets don’t understand the dangers of fires. They are naturally curious. Teach children the rules about not touching the fire or fire pit and not throwing things into it. Make sure they stay sufficiently away and remind them if they venture closer. Consider barriers or designated areas for both children and pets. Make sure there is a responsible adult who always has eyes on them.

7.  Drink responsibly.

Fire and alcohol are not a good combination. Alcohol is highly flammable, and overindulgence can affect our judgment, coordination, and reflexes. If you are going to serve alcohol around the fire pit, have a designated nondrinker overseeing the flames. Keep everyone a safe distance away. You also may consider a smokeless fire pit which could add a layer of safety.Never leave a fire unattended. Extinguish it completely when you are done.

8.  Never leave a fire unattended. Extinguish it completely when you are done.

Sparks can fly and fire emergencies can happen in an instant. If you must leave the area, designate a deputy to watch over your fire pit. Remember that fires are “live” for long after they seem to stop burning. Almost extinguished fires with hot ash and hidden embers have been known to cause plenty of damage. Make sure to put out the fire completely before leaving it. Pour water over live embers. Turn the logs to make sure all sides have stopped burning. Check the fire pit the next day just in case. Hover your hand over the ashes to make sure they are not still radiating heat. When it is safe to do so, use a metal shovel to dispose of ashes in a metal pail or trash can. Then wet the ashes by slowing pouring water over them.

9.  Be prepared to extinguish a fire in an emergency.

Always keep a shovel, dirt/sand, and water on hand in case of an emergency. You can smother the flames by piling dirt or sand on them. You can spray water from your garden hose but don’t use a focused stream which can spread embers. Also check your manual to see if your firepit is made from a material that is water safe and won’t rust or crack. You may want to invest in a fire blanket which can be used to smother a fire. A multipurpose fire extinguisher can be used as a last resort.

10.  Check your local regulations.

Some municipalities require you to get a permit for your fire pit. Due to the fire risk, some homeowners’ associations (HOAs) don’t allow fire pits. Others require an onsite inspection from a local fire official. Do your homework and find out the local rules so that you can follow them.

Finally, protect your home with the right insurance. Accidents happen despite our best precautions. Make sure you have enough coverage in the event of a fire.

 

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.

Traveling with Fido – Pup-Proof Your Car

Traveling with Fido – Pup-Proof Your Car

by | Helpful Tips, Safety, Travel | 0 comments

It’s time for a ride in the C-A-R. Cue the excited barking and tail wagging. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or just a quick spin around the block, we have some paw-some tips to turn your car into the ultimate canine-friendly cruiser!

Floor Mats

Face it. Our fur babies can be messy. Dogs can track mud, sand, and debris onto your car’s floor. Protect it with rubber floor mats that are waterproof and easy to clean. They cover your car’s carpet and shield it from dirt. You can get floor mats that are custom fit to your car, ones you can trim to fit, or universal mats. Avoid mats made with harsh chemicals such as lead, cadmium, latex, and PVC, as they will have unpleasant odors.

Seat Covers

As any dog owner knows, fur floats everywhere. It can easily get into crevices and stick to seats. Plus, if car rides stress your dog, he will shed even more. Seat covers will help keep your seats fur-free and mess-free. Cover the seats where your dog will be. Choose tightly knit fabrics that also will be scratch proof. Some covers are padded for shock absorption; some have nonslip designs with a rubber base. Still others have pockets for storage. Look for ones that are washable so you can periodically clean them.

Pro-Tip: A felt blanket is a simple alternative to a seat cover. It attracts fur and it’s easy to remove and wash. Just make sure to tuck it in the crevices of your seat.

Cargo Liners & Hammocks

If you put your back seats down for your dog, consider a cargo liner or hammock that extends from the back of the front seats. These are larger than traditional seat covers, and they give your dog a chance to spread out and lay comfortably. Look for one that is non-porous, water resistant, tear resistant, and easy to clean. Make sure it is comfortable for your fur baby.

Window Protection

Nose prints on windows are just a fact of life, right? They don’t have to be. Try a magnetic window shade, which also protects against UV rays. Alternatively, you can buy shatter resistant window film to add another layer of protection to your glass. In a pinch, clear plastic wrap works too.

Scratch Protection

Paint and surfaces can be easily scratched. You can help to prevent scratches with some paint protection film on doors and trunk sills where your dog usually enters your vehicle. If your dog will wear them, nail caps can work too.

Barriers

While our dogs may want to ride in the front seat, it’s not a good idea. In the event of an accident, your front seat airbag could deploy. Safety is important, and you want to keep them from jumping into your lap when you’re driving. That’s where barriers come in. They keep your fur baby safely in the back. Barriers come in various materials, from breathable mesh to heavy duty fabric to plastic or metal.

Safety Belts

Just as we wear seat belts, it’s a good idea to secure your dog. Some safety belts hook right into your car seat belts. Others attached to your seats. Choose a harness that goes around your fur baby’s body. Never secure them by their collar as the leash can pull unnecessarily on their necks.

Carriers

You can also travel with your fur baby in a crate or pet carrier. They come in a range of styles. Some are soft mesh and others are hard. Some come with wheels for easy transport. Make sure the crate is large enough so that your dog can stand, turn around, and lie down in it.

Tips for Traveling with Your Pet

Follow these additional tips for traveling with your pet.

  • Start with short trips to get your dog used to the car before driving long distances.
  • Feed your dog 3 hours before you leave.
  • If you need to feed your dog on the road, stop the car to do it.
  • Stop regularly along the way so dogs can stretch their legs and go to the bathroom.
  • Give your dog access to clean water. Riding in the car can be stressful for dogs and if they pant, they can lose water.
  • Don’t let your dog hang their head out the window.
  • Never leave your dog alone in the car. Hot cars are dangerous, but even in cool weather, a well-meaning passerby may try to release your dog.
  • Pack an emergency kit for messes. Include gloves and cleaning supplies. (A moistened rubber glove is great for picking up pet fur.)
  • Don’t forget your dog’s favorite treats.

Finally, protect your fur baby with pet insurance. You can easily add coverage from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy.  Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.

 

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.

Do I Need a Home Safe?

Do I Need a Home Safe?

by | Helpful Tips, Homeowners Insurance Info, Safety | 0 comments

A home safe is a fortress for your prized possessions and a sanctuary for your peace of mind. In an unpredictable world, a safe might be exactly what you need to protect your valuables. How do you know if one is right for you, and which one do you need? Read on.

Reasons to buy a home safe:

There are many reasons why people buy home safes. These include:

  • Protecting valuables from theft
  • Storing firearms safely
  • Safeguarding important documents
  • Keeping items safe from damage during fires, floods, and natural disasters

 Types of Safes

The reasons that you want a home safe will determine the type of safe that you need. Safes are specially designed with certain features, depending upon their use. Note that you can get safes that combine features such as a burglary safe that is also a fireproof safe. Here are some of the most common types:

Burglary Safe

This type of safe protects your cash and other valuables from being stolen. While no safe is 100% secure, a burglary safe is designed with sturdy material that can withstand attacks by hammers and cutting instruments. Burglary safes are often classified based on the tools and techniques required to break into them. Common burglary ratings include:

  • Residential Security Container (RSC): Suitable for residential use, providing basic protection against burglaries.
  • TL (Tool Resistant): Indicates resistance against common hand tools like hammers, chisels, and drills.
  • TRTL (Torch and Tool Resistant): Resistant to torches and more advanced tools.
  • TXTL (Explosive and Tool Resistant): Provides high-level protection against explosives and advanced tools.

Data Safe

A data safe is used to store electronic data such as hard drives, USB sticks, DVDs, film, tapes, and more. These products can be damaged by heat, humidity, dust, and electric/static charges. Not all safes will protect computer media and data. A data safe uses specially insulated material to keep the inner part cooler than traditional safes.

Fireproof Safe

This type of safe protects its contents from heat, fire, and smoke damage. Fireproof safes usually have a thin metal exterior, a middle core made of flame-retardant material, and an inner layer of felt or carpet. However, since the metal on a fireproof safe is typically thin, it can be easily punctured or cut with simple tools. Fireproof safes are tested to see how long they can maintain a certain internal temperature without damaging the contents. Common ratings include:

  • 30-minute
  • 60-minute
  • 90-minute
  • 2-hour
  • 3-hour

Floor Safe

A floor safe is embedded in the floor, usually in the concrete foundation. Floor safes are great for concealing valuables. They protect well against burglaries and fire. However, in the event of a fire, floor safes often fill with water so you will want to include any contents in waterproof containers. Floor safes also can be expensive and messy to install. You need to install them in a concrete foundation which means the location might be inconvenient.

Gun Safe

A gun safe is ideal for guns and ammunition. These safes can be small enough to fit in a nightstand drawer or larger depending on how many weapons you must store. Many people keep them easily accessible but out of view, so guns are safely tucked away from children, guests, and importantly criminals. Look for a gun safe with a minimum of a 1-hour fireproof rating, a secure locking mechanism, and half-inch or thicker steel.

Jewelry Safe

While you might keep your necklaces, earrings, and bracelets in a jewelry box, you might consider a jewelry safe for higher worth items. After all, jewelry is an easy “grab and go” option for thieves and it’s relatively easy for them to resell precious gems and gold. Jewelry safes often include fabric-lined drawers for organizing your collection. You’ll want to have a burglary safe and fireproof version to keep jewelry from being damaged in the event of a fire.

Wall Safe

These safes are installed in your wall and can be concealed. They’re usually mounted between support beams. You’re limited by size and weight. You don’t want the wall safe to stick out into another wall; nor do you want it too heavy to be held up when attached to drywall and wood studs. While wall safes may be placed in convenient locations, they are less secure than a safe bolted to the floor. A wall safe can be cut out of the wall.

Waterproof Safe

A waterproof safe keeps its contents dry even when the safe is fully submerged in water. While no safe is truly waterproof, there are different water protection ratings. Look for ETL water protection ratings that identify the timing and depth, such as up to 8 inches deep for 24 hours or fully submerged for up to 72 hours. Waterproof safes can help in cases of extreme weather.

Types of Locks

When you buy a safe, not only do you have to consider the body, but the lock that secures it. Following are the different kinds of locks available.

  • Key – If you have the key that fits the lock, you gain access. Certain key locks allow you to change keys for times when keys are lost, stolen or if you think they’ve been duplicated.
  • Mechanical Combination – Similar to a combination lock that you may have had on your locker or to secure your bike, a mechanical combination lock relies on a dial or wheel that you spin in a certain sequence. The combination locks for safes can have as many as 1 million code variations, and the four-wheel variety can have 100 million code combinations.
  • Digital Combination – These combination locks use a keypad rather than a dial to enter your numbers. Codes may be changed as necessary. Digital combination locks rely on batteries, so make sure yours are up to date.
  • Dual – A dual key and combination lock gives you the option to use either method to open your safe.
  • Biometric – These locks work by scanning your fingerprint, palm print, face, or eye. There’s no need to remember a code or carry a key. They can be set up to store more than one user’s credentials to allow access to several people.

 Safes come in many sizes.

You will usually see measurements in cubic feet. To find the interior size of a safe in cubic feet, multiply its height, width, and depth, then divide by 1728. For instance, if a safe is 20” x 15” x 20”, its interior is approximately 3.47 cubic feet. It’s wise to select a slightly larger safe than you initially think you need, as your storage needs may grow over time.

Whether or not you decide to purchase a safe, you can take steps to prevent a burglary. Finally, protect the things inside your home with personal property coverage. This will help ensure your valuables are fully covered.

 

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.