Difficulty Insuring Your Kia or Hyundai? There’s a Solution!

The difficulty of obtaining and maintaining auto insurance is becoming prevalent for Hyundai and Kia owners in Kansas and Missouri. In this article, we’ll help you understand why rates are climbing and what you can do to get coverage.

Theft Issues and Vehicle Vulnerability

Theft-related issues, primarily concerning vehicles produced between 2011 and 2021. Models like the Kia Soul and Sorento, as well as the Hyundai Tucson and Elantra, have been particularly susceptible to theft due to security vulnerabilities. These vehicles lack engine immobilizers, making them easy targets for thieves armed with nothing more than a screwdriver and a USB cable.

Major auto insurance providers have begun raising premiums or declining to issue new policies for most Hyundai and Kia models. The rationale behind this decision was to mitigate the heightened risk associated with insuring these vehicles. Many vehicle owners are reporting significant increases in their policy renewal premiums.

Software Upgrades and Their Challenges

In response to the theft problem, Kia and Hyundai have been rolling out software upgrades designed to prevent hotwiring by thieves. However, the upgrade is voluntary and must be completed at a Hyundai dealership. While this initiative is commendable, millions of vulnerable vehicles have yet to receive the update. Consequently, theft rates remain high in many areas, especially Kansas and Missouri.

The Solution

The good news is, we are still able to write new policies for many Kia and Hyundai owners! Your first step is to assess if you qualify for the free dealership security upgrade through a quick google search of your car's year, make, and model. Most Hyundais and Kias will qualify. If you qualify, you’ll want to get on the schedule with your closest dealership to get the update done. Once you’ve completed the upgrade, contact Family Union Insurance, and we’ll shop for you to find the best rates and coverages for you.

If you find that you do not qualify for the free security upgrade, but your vehicle has a push start, still reach out to us. We’ve been able to help many Hyundai and Kia owners stuck in the middle of these security system issues.

Don’t pay too much or spend all your time searching for auto insurance in Kansas City and reach out to Family Union Insurance!

Phone: (816) 287-8597

Email: service@familyunioninsurance.com

Auto Insurance for a New Car: A Comprehensive Guide for Kansas City

When it comes to protecting your valuable assets, such as your new car and your home, having the right insurance coverage is paramount. In this guide, we will delve into the world of auto insurance. If you’re about to purchase a new car, then you’re in the right place.

When To Buy Insurance for a New Car

Purchasing a new car is an exciting experience, but along with that excitement comes the responsibility of securing insurance coverage. In most cases, you'll need to have insurance before driving off the dealership lot, as dealers usually require proof of insurance. However, the timing of obtaining insurance can be influenced by whether the dealer offers a grace period. A grace period typically lasts anywhere from seven to 30 days from the purchase date, allowing you some time to arrange for a new insurance policy.

Factors affecting the presence of a grace period include your insured status and the insurance company you choose. Different insurers have varying policies regarding grace periods; some might offer a 30-day window, while others might not provide any grace period at all. To determine your specific situation, it's essential to review your contract or consult an insurance agent.

Securing Your New Car Insurance Policy

Getting insurance for your new car is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition from dealership to road:

1. Gather information: Have essential details ready, including the vehicle's VIN number, purchase price, and your contact information.
2. Compare quotes: Going through an insurance broker and working with an agent will make this step a lot faster. This step helps you find the best combination of cost and coverage.
3. Choose a provider and plan: Select the quote that aligns with your coverage needs and budget.
4. Provide proof to the dealership: Share your new insurance card, often available through mobile apps, with the dealership to finalize the purchase process.

What Factors Influence Car Insurance Rates

Understanding the factors that influence insurance costs can help you make informed decisions and potentially save money. Several variables contribute to insurance premiums:

• Age and Driving History: Younger and less experienced drivers tend to pay higher premiums. A clean driving record, free of accidents or violations, can lead to lower rates.
• Credit Score: In states where allowed, insurance companies may consider your credit score when determining premiums.
• Location: Your geographic location plays a significant role in insurance rates, with urban areas often having higher premiums.
• Coverage and Deductibles: The types of coverage you choose and the deductible amounts you opt for will affect your premium.
• Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for bundling policies, safe driving records, and other qualifying factors.

Understanding New Car Insurance Coverage

Auto insurance coverage for new cars is similar to coverage for other vehicles. However, specific factors, including state requirements and lender mandates for financed vehicles, can influence coverage needs. State minimum requirements vary, so it's crucial to understand your area's regulations.

Typically, state minimum requirements include:

• Bodily Injury Liability Insurance: Covers medical expenses for other parties in an accident where you're at fault.
• Property Damage Liability Coverage: Pays for damages to other vehicles and property if you cause an accident.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Medical Payments (MedPay): Cover medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.

Lenders might require additional coverage options, such as collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, gap insurance, and loan/lease payoff coverage.

Standard coverages you will also want to consider are:

• Collision Coverage: Ensures that your vehicle is protected in the event of an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
• Comprehensive Coverage: While collision coverage handles accidents, comprehensive coverage goes the extra mile. It shields your vehicle from a range of non-collision incidents.
• Roadside Assistance: Roadside assistance coverage is a practical addition to your insurance policy. It provides assistance when you encounter roadside emergencies.
• Rental Reimbursement: Rental reimbursement coverage is especially valuable if your car is undergoing repairs due to a covered incident.

By understanding insurance requirements, coverage options, and cost factors, you can make well-informed decisions that suit your needs and budget. Remember to compare quotes from multiple providers and select a policy that offers the right balance between cost and coverage. An insurance agent can speed up this process and help you to identify discounts you might not be aware of. Whether you're a seasoned insurance buyer or a first-time purchaser, these insights will help you navigate the complex world of insurance with confidence.

Ready to talk with an insurance agent? Give Family Union Insurance a call at (816) 287-8597

Rising Car Thefts in Kansas City: Auto Theft Prevention Tips

Auto theft is becoming a real concern. Statistics are alarming, as Missouri continues to rank among states with the higher vehicle theft rates. Also concerning are the widespread issues with Kia and Hyundai security systems. Being vigilant and taking preventive measures to keep your car safe is more important than ever for residents of the Kansas City area.

Prevention Tips

Lock Your Doors

It may seem obvious, but locking your car doors is the first and simplest step to deter a thief. Make it a habit to check that your doors are locked every time you park your vehicle, even if it's in your driveway or a seemingly safe area.

Avoid Leaving a Spare Key Near Your Vehicle

While it might be tempting to stash a spare key under your car or in the glove box, thieves know where to look. Taking your keys with you when you leave the vehicle eliminates the risk of a thief finding an extra key and making off with your car.

Close the Windows Completely

Leaving even a small opening in your car's windows can be an invitation for a thief to reach in and unlock the door. Always ensure your windows are fully closed when you leave your vehicle.

Park in Well-Lit Areas

Parking in well-lit areas where passers-by can easily see your car is a good deterrent for thieves. Opt for parking spots under a light and in busy areas whenever possible.

Install an Audible Alarm System and Anti-Theft Device

An audible alarm system can startle potential thieves when triggered, attracting attention and scaring them off. Additionally, visible anti-theft devices, like steering wheel locks or window etching, can discourage thieves from attempting to steal your car.

Install a Vehicle Immobilizer System

These systems prevent thieves from hotwiring your car by disabling the ignition. Using smart keys, kill switches, or wireless ignition authentication, immobilizer systems make it much more challenging for thieves to make off with your vehicle.

Consider Installing a Tracking System

A tracking system, or vehicle recovery system, can be a valuable asset if your car is stolen. These systems emit signals using wireless or GPS technology to help the police locate and recover your vehicle quickly.

Don't Leave Valuables in Your Car

Leaving valuables, such as purses or cell phones, in plain sight can attract thieves. Always take your valuable items with you or keep them out of sight in the trunk before you arrive at your destination.

Stay Alert

Be aware of your surroundings when parking your car. If you feel uneasy about the safety of the area or notice suspicious activity, it's best to find another parking spot.

What to Do if Your Car Is Stolen

If, despite all precautions, your car is stolen, act quickly. Contact the police immediately and provide them with essential details such as the car's make, model, color, license plate number, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Also, inform your insurance company within 24 hours to initiate the claims process.

Insurance Coverage: Protecting What Matters Most

Whether you're looking for auto insurance quotes in Kansas City, Missouri, or seeking comprehensive home insurance coverage, knowledge is power. As you explore insurance options, it's essential to remember that being price-conscious doesn't mean compromising on quality.

Comprehensive Auto Insurance

When shopping for auto insurance, consider the coverage you truly need. While opting for the minimum required coverage might seem cost-effective, it could leave you vulnerable to significant expenses in the event of an accident. For example, a basic liability policy may cover damages to others, but it won't protect your vehicle if it's stolen.

Instead, look for comprehensive auto insurance that covers a range of scenarios, including theft, accidents, and even natural disasters. Yes, comprehensive coverage may have a higher premium, but it offers you peace of mind, knowing that you're financially protected in various situations.

By taking preventive measures to keep your car safe from theft and making informed decisions about insurance coverage, you can place yourself and your family in the best position to avoid and navigate the rising number of car thefts effectively.

Buying Your First Home? What You Need to Know About Homeowners Insurance

If you're shopping for your first home, you may have questions about homeowners insurance. You might be wondering if you’re required to have homeowners insurance in Missouri and, if so, when in the home buying process should you purchase it. At Family Union Insurance, we’re here to provide some insights to help you make an informed decision.

Is Homeowners Insurance Required?

While there's no law that requires home insurance, mortgage lenders do require you to have home insurance coverage before they agree to finance your home purchase. This requirement is understandable because home insurance protects the lender's investment. It provides the necessary funds to repair or rebuild the home if it's damaged or destroyed by a covered event like a fire, lightning storm, tornado, or other such occurrences.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

A standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers three main areas: your house, your belongings, and liability protection. Your house is a significant investment, and homeowners insurance can help pay for repairs or rebuilding in case of damage from a covered loss. It's essential to understand the extent of coverage for your house and other structures on your property, such as a detached garage or a storage shed.

Your possessions also deserve protection, and homeowners insurance can come to the rescue if they're damaged or destroyed. Whether it's your comfortable couch or delicate china, knowing that you can replace them in case of a covered loss brings peace of mind.

In unfortunate situations where your home becomes uninhabitable due to damages, your homeowners insurance policy may include additional living expenses (ALE) coverage. This coverage helps pay for a hotel or other lodging while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. It ensures that you have a place to stay and maintain a semblance of normalcy during trying times.

Beyond property damage, homeowners insurance also offers liability protection. Accidents happen, and if a guest slips on your walkway and you're held liable, your homeowners insurance can cover medical bills, legal costs, and potential court awards. It's wise to review your policy and determine the dollar limit set for this coverage.

What Homeowners Insurance Doesn’t Cover

While a standard homeowners policy provides broad coverage, it's important to note that certain events like earthquakes and floods are typically not included. Depending on your home's location, your lender might require you to purchase additional insurance for these specific risks. Moreover, if you possess valuable items like fine jewelry or an art collection, you may want to consider a Personal Articles Floater (PAF) to secure proper coverage for those items.

When Should I get Homeowners Insurance?

Ideally, you should start shopping for homeowners insurance as soon as you sign a contract to buy a home. This timeframe allows you to explore different quotes, compare coverage options, and ensure that your policy is in place before the closing date. Usually, you'll have around a month or more between signing the contract and the closing day. It's important to note that you'll typically need to provide proof of payment for the first full year of premiums at closing.

How Long Does it Take to Get Homeowners Insurance?

Speaking of timelines, you might be wondering how long it takes to get homeowners insurance. Well, the process is generally quick and convenient. Starting the process typically takes just a few minutes. It can take one to three days to get coverage in place.

Why do I Need Homeowners Insurance

Once you've made your last payment, your mortgage lender no longer has a say in whether you carry insurance. However, it's important to consider the value you've built in your home over the years. Should a loss occur, having insurance in place is essential to protect your investment. Your home holds cherished memories, serves as your sanctuary, and provides security for your family. By maintaining homeowners insurance even after paying off your mortgage, you can safeguard your home well into the future.

Consequences of Not Having Homeowners Insurance

Lastly, let's touch upon the consequences of not having homeowners insurance in the event of damage to your home. If your home or property is damaged by a fire, windstorm, or other covered event, your homeowners insurance would typically cover the necessary repairs. However, without insurance, you'd have to pay for repairs out of pocket or seek alternative resources to rebuild your home. In the worst-case scenario, you could risk losing your entire investment. By maintaining active homeowners insurance, you ensure that you have the means to cover the costs of repairing or replacing your home and belongings in the event of a covered loss.

How to Get Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance is a vital protection for your home, your belongings, and your financial well-being. While it may not be legally mandated, it's a smart choice considering the potential risks and the importance of preserving your investment. To make the process easiest, contact Family Union Insurance to have an insurance agent shop a variety of carriers and compare the rates for you!

Protect Your Recreational Toys with Toy Insurance: Find Coverage in Kansas City | Family Union Insurance

Recreational toys are undoubtedly enjoyable, but they can also be expensive. One of the most critical responsibilities is making sure that they’re adequately covered with a toy insurance policy in the event of an accident. Motorized toys include RVs, boats, motorcycles, and ATVs. Not everybody in Kansas City, MO needs toy insurance, but if you own one or several of the items above, you need toy insurance, and here's why.

Protecting Your Assets

Firstly, protecting your assets is essential. Your toy is an expensive asset that may cost lots of money to replace if not adequately covered. You want to make sure that you can still get a new one in case anything happens. A toy insurance policy provides you with peace of mind as the coverage protects your assets against fire, burglaries, loss, and other natural disasters.

Liability Coverage

Secondly, it's essential to have liability coverage when it comes to toy insurance. Accidents happen everywhere, but that shouldn’t be a problem if you have the right toy insurance. For coverages, liability coverage should be your priority. Whether you have passengers or not, your toy may lead to endless lawsuits in the event of property damage or bodily injury. Remember, you’re supposed to be financially responsible, especially if you drive a luxury vehicle or motorcycle.

Advantages of Toy Insurance

Lastly, toy insurance has some clear advantages. However, it's essential to purchase a policy from an insurance provider with a proven track record. At Family Union Insurance, you can sit back, relax and let them do the hard work as they are here to help with all your toy insurance needs. They have insurance agents that can help you find the best coverage that suits your needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, recreational toys are fun to have, but they come with significant responsibilities. That's why toy insurance is important. It provides coverage against theft, accidents, and other natural disasters. Plus, it offers liability coverage to protect you financially in case of an incident. At Family Union Insurance, they know how expensive recreational toys can be, and that's why they are dedicated to helping you find the best coverage to protect your assets. So, if you're looking for Auto & Home Insurance Quotes in Kansas City, Missouri, Family Union Insurance has got you covered.