Category: Personal Insurance

25 Jan 2018
How to Get the Most Out of Your Brakes

How to Get the Most Out of Your Brakes

Try out these tips to help extend the lifetime of your car’s brakes.

While there’s no hard rule regarding how often you should change your car’s brakes, it’s possible that you are replacing them too frequently.  If you feel like you have to replace your brakes too often, then there are things you can do to improve their longevity and functionality.  Tyr out these tips to make your brakes last longer.

  • Slow Down

The faster you are driving, the more pressure you place on your brakes when you hit them.  That’s why one of the easiest ways to make your brakes longer is by reducing your speed.  For example, when you know that you will have to stop soon, take your foot off your accelerator.  This will allow your car to slow down without having to hit your brakes.  When you do apply them, there will be far less strain on them.

  • Don’t Overuse Them

Many drivers have bad habits that place unnecessary strain on their brakes.  For instance, many drivers ride their brakes when they are going downhill or when they are trying to maintain a constant speed.  In fact, some drivers even brake at the same time they are trying to accelerate.  If you are guilty of any of these behaviors, then you are wearing down your brakes at a much faster rate.

  • Change Your Brake Fluid

As time passes, water can seep into your brake fluid.  This diluted brake fluid can cause your entire braking system to corrode.  This in turn can negatively affect your brakes functionality and longevity.  To prevent this issue from happening, you should change out your brake fluid every two years or so.  This simple maintenance task will help your brakes last longer and perform better.

Try out these tips to help your car’s brakes last longer.  Remember, another way to take care of your car is by getting it covered with comprehensive auto insurance.  To find the right policies to fit your needs, contact the team at Moser Group Inc. in New York.  Our knowledgeable professionals are ready to get you covered today.

11 Jan 2018
Learn These Water Heater Maintenance Tasks

Learn These Water Heater Maintenance Tasks

Learn how to take care of your home’s water heater.

There’s nothing worse than having to take a cold shower in the dead of winter.  However, this could be your reality if you fail to take care of your water heater.  But what exactly does water heater maintenance entail?  Here are some tips that you should know to properly maintain your water heater.

Know Where It Is

While this may seem obvious, many homeowners don’t actually know where their water heater is.  Normally, the water heater is located in the garage or basement of the home.  Once you are able to locate your water heater, make sure that you can access it easily.  This means clearing away any obstacles that stand between you and the tank.  Be particularly careful to clear anything that blocks the plumbing leading to and from your water heater.

Know How to Turn Off Your Water

If you are faced with a sudden emergency, it might be necessary to turn off your water.  This might be especially necessary if you detect a gas leaks near your water heater or if your water heater starts to leak.  Luckily, shutting off your water is pretty straightforward.  All you have to do is locate the main water shut-off valve.  The valve is normally located on the pipes leading to your tank.  Once you locate it, simply turn it until you feel the valve close completely.

Know How to Inspect It

Finally, you should conduct a water heater inspection at least once a year.  During your inspection, pay close attention to the piping leading to and from your water heater.  Look for any signs of deterioration or extreme wear.  You should also look around your water heater for any signs of soot or black residue.  This is normally a sign that your water tank is experiencing combustion issues.  If you notice either of these issues, then call in a professional to make the necessary repairs.

Try out these tips to help you maintain your water heater.  Want another way to care for your home?  Then make sure you have the proper insurance protections in place.  To find the right policies to fit your needs, contact the experts at Moser Group Inc. in New York.  Our dedicated team is ready to assist you with all your insurance needs.

04 Jan 2018
How to Inspect and Replace Your Car’s Windshield Wiper Blades

How to Inspect and Replace Your Car’s Windshield Wiper Blades

Learn how to maintain your windshield wiper blades this winter.

Your windshield wipers work hard to prevent water, ice, and other debris from affecting your visibility.  However, most drivers don’t give them a second thought until they stop working.  Want to take better care of your windshield wipers this season?  The use this guide to learn how to inspect and replace your car’s windshield wiper blades.

Inspection

For the most part, your windshield wipers do not require too much attention.  However, if you notice that your windshield wiper blades aren’t touching your windshield, or if your wipers starting to skip, squeak, streak, smear or scratch, then it’s time to replace your blades.  Refer to the steps below to ensure that you are replacing them correctly.

Replacement

1) Measure– Before you start, measure your blades and refer to your car’s owner’s manual to make sure that you are using the right sized blades for your car.

2) Remove Old Blades– To remove your old blades, lift the arm of your windshield wiper away from your windshield.  Then, press the small tab located on the underside of the arm.  Continue to hold the tab down and slide the blade off the arm in a downwards direction.  Complete these steps for your other wiper.

3) Attach New Blade– To attach the new blade, simply slip the blade onto the wiper arm.  You should hear a soft clicking noise when the blade locks into place.  Then, lower the wiper arm until the blade comes into contact with your windshield.  Complete these steps for your other wiper.

4) Test– Finally, make sure that you test that your windshield wipers are operating correctly.  They should be able to clear water and other debris without creating streaks or scratches across your windshield.  Once you are satisfied with how your windshield wipers are operating, then you’re good to go!

Use this guide to help you inspect and replace your car’s windshield wiper blades this winter.  Want another way to care for your car?  Then make sure it’s covered by the right auto insurance.  To find the right policy for your needs, contact the team at Moser Group Inc. in New York.  Our experts are ready to get you the coverage you need today.

21 Dec 2017
Why You Should Conduct a Year-End Review of Your Insurance

Why You Should Conduct a Year-End Review of Your Insurance

Find out why a year-end insurance review is a good idea for you.

With 2018 almost upon us, it’s natural to start planning for the new year.  However, before you get too caught up in all your future plans, it’s important to stop and take a moment to review your insurance policies before the end of the year.  Not sure why a year-end review is necessary?  Here are a few reasons why reviewing your various policies is so important.

1) Update Your Information

One reason why you should review your insurance is to make sure that all your information is up-to-date.  Over the past year, you have probably experienced life changes.  If your home was damaged in a storm, if you purchased a new car, if you had a child, or if you experienced another major change, then it’s important that all these changes are reflected in your various policies.  If your insurance company does not have your most current information, then they can refuse to renew your policy, or, worse, refuse to cover a claim.

2) Investigate Policy Changes

Another reason why you should conduct an insurance review is to check for any changes in your policy.  One major change that you should look for is any premium increases.  While most premium increases are legitimate and can be explained by your insurance agent, sometimes these increases can be the result of a mistake or incorrect information.  By reviewing your various polices and investigating changes such as this, you can avoid paying more for your insurance than you need to.

3) Apply New Discounts

Finally, it’s a good idea to review your insurance policies to ensure that you are getting all the discounts that you qualify for.  Changes in your circumstances mean that you might now qualify for discounts that were previously unavailable to you.  Make sure that you take advantage of these new discounts and reduced rates.  Reviewing your insurance to make sure that these discounts are being applied will save you considerable money on your insurance in the new year.

These are just a few of the reasons why conducting a year-end review of your insurance is so important.  If you have any questions regarding your policies, or if you simply want to get the coverage that you will need for the coming year, then contact us.  We at Moser Group Inc. in New York are dedicated to getting you the right coverage to fit your needs.

14 Dec 2017
Why Life Insurance is Still Important for the 50+

Why Life Insurance is Still Important for the 50+

Find out why life insurance is still an asset for those over 50.

If you are over 50 and our children are out of the house and you no longer have any long standing financial obligations, then you might think that life insurance is no longer worth it for you.  However, before you cancel your policy, consider these reasons why life insurance is still important for you.

Life Changes

While you might not have any dependents or remaining financial obligations, there’s a chance that your circumstances might change.  For instance, you could become legal guardian to your grandchildren.  If this happened, you would need life insurance to provide for them in case you passed.  If this scenario seems unlikely to you, then imagine what would happen if you died after a long illness.  Not only would your loved ones be responsible for your medical costs, but they would face the expenses associated with your passing.  Without the help of your life insurance policy, your family might fall into economic hardship.

Means of Comfort

Even if neither of these scenarios are likely to happen to you, then it might help to remember that life insurance is one of the only types of insurance that is more for your loved ones that it is for you.  That’s why it’s important to consider your family’s needs before your own when deciding to cancel your life insurance.  One way to look at your life insurance is as a means of comfort for your family.  Having a policy in place saves them from having to carry the burden of your burial expenses and your policy could provide them with a means of financial stability as they grieve.  When you think of your life insurance as means of comfort rather than an annoying financial obligation, many people find that their life insurance is still a worthwhile investment for them.

Keep these considerations in mind before you decide to cancel your life insurance.  If you have any questions regarding your coverage or if you simply want to get a policy to provide for your loved ones, then contact the experts at Moser Group Inc.  Located in New York, our dedicated team is ready to assist you with all your insurance needs.

21 Nov 2017
Tips for Your Thanksgiving Road Trip

Tips for Your Thanksgiving Road Trip

Learn how you can make your Thanksgiving road trip a breeze.

Many Americans travel to meet up with friends and family on Thanksgiving.  If you are planning on driving to your destination this Thanksgiving, then it may seem like a daunting task.  However, your Thanksgiving road trip doesn’t need to be an overly stressful experience.  Try out these suggestions to make your Thanksgiving road trip go off without a hitch.

 Clean and Organize

If you are going to spend extended periods of time in your vehicle, then make sure it is a pleasant environment.  Clean up any clutter and clean the inside of your car thoroughly.  Additionally, wipe down any surfaces to clean away any stickiness, greasiness, or dust.  Pop in a clean smelling air freshener and you’re ready to embark on your journey.

Create a Schedule

If your drive will span several days, then create a driving schedule.  Breaking down your drive into smaller chunks will make your road trip much more manageable.  Set a reasonable driving goal for each day, and make sure you schedule time to take frequent breaks.  Having a schedule will remove any time pressure you might feel during your drive.

Have a Plan

Finally, to prepare for your road trip, it’s important that you have emergency action plans in place.  Think about any possible situations you might encounter and plan accordingly.  For instance, you should know what to do if faced with a medical emergency, a flat tire, a car crash, and so on.  Additionally, you should keep emergency supplies such as a first aid kit, food, water, changes of clothes, etc. in your vehicle just in case.

Try out these tips for an easy Thanksgiving road trip.  Another way to ensure your drive goes smoothly is by having the right auto insurance to keep you and your passengers safe.  To find the right policy to fit your needs, contact the insurance experts at Moser Group Inc. in New York.  Our dedicated team is ready to assist you with all your insurance needs.

09 Nov 2017
Protect Your Loved Ones from the Threat of Carbon Monoxide

Protect Your Loved Ones from the Threat of Carbon Monoxide

Learn how you can keep your family safe from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odourless gas produced by the burning of carbon based fuel sources such as wood, charcoal, natural gas, and so on.  When inhaled, this gas prevents the body from getting enough oxygen and prolonged exposure could lead to death.  Don’t leave your family vulnerable to the threat of carbon monoxide; take these precautions to keep all your loved ones safe.

Install Detectors

As previously mentioned, carbon monoxide is both colorless and odourless, making it virtually undetectable to the human senses.  That’s why it’s so important to have carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout your home.  You should have these detectors on every floor and in every sleeping area of your home.  Much like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors set off an alarm when they sense the toxic gas in the air.  If you hear your detector go off, quickly evacuate the home and get to a place with fresh air.  Once everyone is out, contact emergency services to report the possible gas leak.

Check Your Vents

If your home’s external vents become blocked, then it can cause dangerous levels of carbon monoxide to accumulate inside your home.  That’s why it’s important for you to check and clear your vents every once in a while.  Especially after a storm, you should be sure to clear away any debris or piles of snow that might be obstructing your home’s vents.

Don’t Burn Fuel

Finally, you can protect against carbon monoxide by never burning carbon based fuel sources in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas of your home.  For instance, you should never run your car when the garage door is closed and you should never run a gas-powered generator in your garage or basement.  You should also avoid lighting up grills or wood stoves inside your home.  Avoiding these activities will ensure that your family isn’t exposed to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.

Take these safety steps to protect your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning.  Want another way to keep your family safe?  Then make sure you have the proper insurance protections in place.  To find the right policies to fit your needs, contact the professionals a Moser Group Inc. in New York.  We are ready to get you covered today.

26 Oct 2017
Storing Summer Toys for Winter

Storing Summer Toys for Winter

Learn how to prepare your boat, motorcycle, RV, and other summer toys for winter storage.

When the temperatures begins to drop, that’s when you know that summer is at its end.  The end of summer also signals that it’s time to prepare warm-weather toys such as your boat, motorcycle, and RV for storage.  Follow this guide to help you prepare your toys for storage this winter.

Cleaning

The first step in preparing your toys for storage is to clean them thoroughly.  Make sure you clean both the interior and exterior of every toy.  At the same time, check for any damages that might need repairs.  These will be addressed during maintenance.

Maintenance

If you noticed any damages, then get them repaired.  Once all repairs are addressed, then there are a couple of things you must do to prepare your vehicles for long storage.  First, make sure to remove any water from the engine and plumbing systems of your boat and RV.  If this water is left to sit, then it could start to corrode your vehicles.  Additionally, if you have gas remaining in any of your vehicles, then make sure you add fuel stabilizer to their gas tanks.  This will prevent the leftover gas from damaging any engines while your toys are in storage.  Apply a thin layer of wax to the exterior or all your vehicles to protect against rust and make sure you address any flat or damaged tires.  You want your summer toys to be ready to use as soon as your remove them from storage.

Choosing a Facility

If you are planning to store your vehicles off-property, then there are a couple of things to look for in a storage facility.  First, make sure you take a tour of the facility and check that security is to your liking.  Additionally, make sure the facility offers dry and heated units.  Finally, look for a facility that allows you to pay rent on a monthly basis.  This will allow you to only pay for storage when you need it.

Follow these steps to ensure that your summer toys are ready for winter storage.  Another way to prepare your vehicles is by making sure they have adequate insurance to keep them safe.  To find the right policies for you, contact the experts at Moser Group Inc. in New York.  Our dedicated team is ready to assist you with all your insurance needs.

28 Sep 2017
Fall Driving Dangers

Fall Driving Dangers

Stay safe this fall by watching out for these seasonal driving hazards.

When temperatures drop and the kids get ready to start a new year of school, you know that autumn is finally here!  Though fall is beautiful with all its golden leaves and soft sunshine, the start of the season also means a fresh batch of driving dangers to watch out for.  Keep you and your family safe this autumn by keeping these driving hazards in mind.

Rain

The first few heavy rains of the season are particularly precarious.  Rainwater collects on top of accumulated oil and dust, making the streets slippery and difficult to maneuver.  Drivers should take care to reduce their speed and to avoid sudden, hard breaking when driving through the rain.

Leaves

While autumn’s falling leaves might be beautiful to look at, they also pose a serious risk for drivers.  Fallen leaves can make streets slick, obscure traffic markings, and even conceal road hazards such as potholes.  When driving in areas with damp leaves, give yourself more time to react to a potential hazard by leaving ample space between your car and the car in front of you.

Fog

Cooler fall temperatures frequently lead to more foggy mornings.  Fog can affect your visibility and can make it difficult to judge distances.  If faced with heavy fog, use your car’s low beams rather than its high beams.  High beams can reflect off of fog, creating glare and reducing visibility to an even greater degree.

Increased Traffic

The return of fall means it’s back to school for the kids, and drivers should be aware of increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic.  It is particularly important to be vigilant near bus stops and in areas close to schools.

Stay safe this fall and contact Moser Group Inc. for all your auto insurance needs in New York.

14 Sep 2017
How Do I Choose the Right Home Insurance Deductible?

How Do I Choose the Right Home Insurance Deductible?

Maximize your home insurance by choosing the best deductible for you!

Deciding on your home insurance deductible can be a stressful balancing act.  Before starting the process, learn what a deductible is and how it affects you.

In plain words, a deductible is the amount of money you agree to pay out-of-pocket before your home insurance kicks in.  For example, if you have a deductible of $100 and you make a claim for $300, your insurance company will pay $200.

Many insurance companies have a minimum deductible that you must assume.  However, they also offer you the opportunity to balance your deductible against your premium.  This means that the higher deductible that you agree to pay, the lower your annual premium will be.  While increasing your home insurance deductible is a common money-saving strategy, it’s important to know the risks this decision entails.  Many homeowners agree to pay a higher deductible to save money on their premium only to find that they can’t pay their deductible when disaster strikes.  Agreeing to pay a higher deductible than you can afford means you might not receive coverage when you need it.

On the flip side, many homeowners decide on a lower deductible to ensure that they can afford coverage when they need it.  However, if these homeowners consistently avoid filing a claim, they might find themselves losing money by paying their high premium costs.

Ultimately, when choosing the right deductible for you, it’s important to look at your finances and determine what you can afford to pay comfortably.  Please remember that how your deductible affects your premium differs depending on state and local regulations.  Your individual insurance company will also affect the balance between your deductible and premium.  To learn more and get help choosing the right home insurance deductible in New York, contact the friendly team at Moser Group Inc.