What Comprehensive Auto Coverage Really Protects Against

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Drivers often assume that auto insurance is primarily about collisions, but comprehensive coverage, available through your insurance representative at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., serving Iowa, offers protection for a wide range of unpredictable situations. It is designed to cover incidents that occur when your car is not in motion. For Iowa drivers, who face unique challenges from weather and wildlife, this type of coverage can be especially valuable.

Guarding Against Nature

Storms can sweep through the Midwest with little warning. Hail can leave dents across your car’s hood, strong winds can drop branches on roofs, and flooding can ruin an engine overnight. Comprehensive coverage steps in to pay for these repairs, addressing damages that collision policies do not cover.

Covering Theft and Vandalism

A car is not just a mode of transportation; it is often central to daily life. If your vehicle is stolen or vandalized, you are left dealing with both frustration and financial loss. Comprehensive coverage helps repair or replace the vehicle, offering protection in situations beyond your control.

Handling Unexpected Encounters

Anyone who has driven rural Iowa roads knows the sudden jolt of a deer darting across the highway. Animal collisions are among the most common claims, falling under comprehensive coverage rather than collision coverage. Without comprehensive coverage, the cost of repairs would be entirely borne by the driver.

More Than Just an Extra

It is easy to think of comprehensive coverage as optional, but its role is broader than many realize. It protects against risks that careful driving alone cannot prevent. For families, commuters, and business owners alike, this safeguard can make the difference between a quick repair and a financial setback.

Comprehensive coverage does not replace liability or collision; it fills the gaps. By addressing the unexpected, drivers are better prepared for whatever comes their way, ensuring that mobility and security remain intact. Contact Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., serving Iowa, today to learn more about how comprehensive coverage can benefit you.

Simplifying Complex Health Insurance Terms

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First-time buyers of health insurance often find themselves confused by the levels of coverage and the terminology used in standard insurance policies. One of the most common complaints is a lack of understanding of the definitions of key terms. The staff at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., serving Iowa, can help simplify these complex terms and guide you through the process.

Out-of-Network

The term "out-of-network" refers to receiving healthcare from a provider outside your policy’s network. Depending on your policy, you may be responsible for all, some, or none of the medical costs. The terms of your policy will dictate the copayment amount and deductible for out-of-network care. Emergency care is typically approved without restrictions, but for other healthcare conditions, you may be required to move to an in-network facility to receive full benefits under your policy.

Certificate of Coverage

The certificate of coverage is an official document that outlines the terms and conditions of your health insurance policy. It provides detailed information about benefits, exclusions, cost-sharing responsibilities (such as deductibles and copayments), and the coverage appeal process. Policyholders can use this document as proof of insurance to access the coverage outlined in their agreement.

Cost-Sharing

"Cost-sharing" refers to the total amount a policyholder is responsible for paying out-of-pocket (including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance) before receiving healthcare services. This expense typically applies to appointments with primary care physicians, prescriptions for illnesses, or rehabilitation for injuries. All cost-sharing amounts are clearly defined in your healthcare plan.

If you’re looking to create or update your current health insurance policy, contact Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. in Iowa. Our knowledgeable staff can help clarify complex terms and ensure you get the right coverage for your health insurance needs. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Does Home Insurance Cover Floods?

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Floods can be devastating, causing extensive damage to homes and personal belongings. If you have home insurance, you may wonder whether it includes flood coverage. The professionals at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., servicing Iowa, are here to help you understand your home insurance policy and answer your questions.

Are Floods Covered by Home Insurance?

Most standard home insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood protection is typically provided through a separate policy offered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and made available to the public through a network of insurance agents.

What Is Covered by Home Insurance?

Standard home insurance policies cover a variety of disasters, including:

  • Fire
  • Wind
  • Lightning
  • Theft
  • Vandalism
  • Riot
  • Explosion
  • Hail
  • Damage caused by vehicles

To understand the specific coverage provided by your home insurance policy, request a copy of your policy from your insurance agent or ask them directly for clarification.

Why Choose Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency for Your Home Insurance Policy?

The professionals at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., servicing Iowa, are dedicated to helping you find the best insurance policy for your needs. We work with multiple insurance carriers to ensure you receive a policy that offers the right level of coverage for your situation.

By partnering with various carriers, we can compare policies to find one that fits your budget, provides comprehensive coverage, and gives you peace of mind. Contact us today to speak with one of our trained professionals and get started with your home insurance policy.

Your Tour Business Needs Umbrella Insurance: Here’s Why

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Touring companies require high-quality liability protection to ensure their safety and avoid potential lawsuits. For example, obtaining an umbrella insurance policy from Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. can ensure your operation is fully protected from liability risks during one of your trips.

The Risks of Running a Tour Company

Iowa may not be known as a dangerous state, but it is filled with natural beauty and attractions that draw tourists. As a touring operator, you can earn a good income by showcasing these stunning areas. However, running a touring business comes with inherent risks, including the possibility of injuries and other liabilities.

Are you automatically at risk just because you run a touring company? Not necessarily. However, like any business, there’s always some level of risk, especially when you’re responsible for guiding people. That’s why it’s crucial to expand your liability protection with a high-quality umbrella insurance policy.

What Is an Umbrella Insurance Policy?

An umbrella insurance policy provides additional liability coverage beyond your standard business insurance. It kicks in when your primary coverage limits are exceeded. For instance, imagine one of your customers is injured during a tour, and their lawsuit demands compensation far beyond what your basic liability policy covers.

Without umbrella insurance, you would need to cover the remaining costs out of pocket, which could jeopardize your business. With an umbrella policy, your coverage extends further, helping you avoid financial strain and ensuring your business remains protected.

Secure the Umbrella Policy You Need

If you operate a tour company in Iowa and want to safeguard your business, contact us at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. We’ll help you find an umbrella policy that offers comprehensive coverage to reduce your risks and keep your company running smoothly.

Navigating the Rising Risk of Cyber Threats in Auto Insurance

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Advancements in car technology have opened a new avenue for cybercriminals to wreak havoc on drivers. Self-driving cars, electric vehicles, connected cars, and electronics plugged into the vehicle can malfunction if a hacker manages to crack the code. The auto insurance industry is aware of this threat, and we have investigated whether auto insurance coverage in Iowa has been adjusted to account for this alarming trend.

Does Auto Insurance Cover Cybercrime?

Cybercrime coverage is more prevalent in the commercial auto insurance industry. Few partner carriers in the personal auto insurance industry offer protection against vehicle cybercrime, primarily because these threats are relatively new. However, we at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. encourage you to inquire about it.

Auto insurance companies that offer this coverage may refer to it as "cyber for auto" or a similar term. These are add-on riders that cover viruses, malware, ransomware, identity theft, and cyber attacks. They cover labor, towing, transportation expenses, and more to recover identity and repair affected auto systems. However, they do not cover injuries, property damage, and vehicle damage caused by cybercrime. Standard auto insurance will cover these instead. Coverage for data breaches is less certain.

Why is This Coverage Needed?

Modern cars contain approximately 100 million lines of code, which are written into the vehicle to manage and control various parts. They may also rely on phone apps for operation. If hackers gain control of the code or phone app, they can lock you out of the car, disable the vehicle, or send false notifications to mislead you. This can lead to accidents and instill fear and confusion in drivers.

Cyber threats and attacks are extending beyond the internet, threatening every technological advancement we use in our vehicles. Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. is at the forefront of addressing this issue. Car technology exists to simplify our lives, so don’t let hackers complicate it. Visit our office in Iowa or contact us for more information.

Can I Add My Children to My Health Insurance Policy in Iowa?

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If you have children in Iowa, understanding how to protect them with adequate health insurance is vital. With escalating healthcare costs, preventative care and proper coverage have become more important than ever. At Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., we’ll collaborate with you to ensure your entire household is properly covered and cared for with your health insurance policy.

Who Qualifies as a Dependent in Iowa?

In Iowa, children are considered dependents until they turn 26. This means that your children can remain on your existing health insurance policy even after they turn 18, leave home, or enroll in college. Additionally, stepchildren, adopted children, and newborns can also be added to an existing health insurance policy you hold.

When Can I Add My Children to My Policy?

You can add your children to your health insurance policy during Open Enrollment, which typically lasts from November to January each year. Special Enrollment Periods, or SEPs, also exist in Iowa for certain circumstances. After a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), such as a marriage/divorce, loss of other coverage, or a new birth or adoption, your children can be added to your insurance policy. If you’re unsure of your options, speaking with a trusted agent who handles your insurance can help you make an informed decision.

The more familiar you are with health insurance policy rules and regulations, the easier it will be to find coverage that’s adequate for your entire household. Whether you have school-aged or college-aged children, we can help you protect your whole family with the right insurance policy in place. To learn more about health insurance coverage options for your children in Iowa, contact Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. today.

Does Home Insurance Cover a Boat?

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Purchasing a boat insurance policy is the most comprehensive way to insure a watercraft, but sometimes a homeowners insurance policy will provide sufficient coverage for your boat. There are three main aspects to review when checking whether your home insurance policy covers your boat.

1. Review Home Insurance Policy Terms

Home insurance policies that provide coverage for boats often limit their protections to small watercraft. It’s not uncommon for a policy to only cover non-motor boats or maybe also powerboats up to a certain horsepower (e.g., 50 hp). The boat can also have a length requirement.

These terms vary from one policy to the next, so you’ll need to check your specific home insurance policy. If you’re located in Iowa, our Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. agents can review your policy’s specifics.

2. Consider Potential Boat Damage

You’ll want the boat insured for its full value in case it is destroyed or stolen.

If your boat meets your home insurance policy’s stipulations, it would most likely be covered as personal property. Ensure the personal property coverage limit isn’t lower than the boat’s value. The total personal property limit probably isn’t too low, but a specific lower limit might apply to boats.

3. Consider Potential Liability Risk

Even if you have a small boat that’s wind- or paddle-powered, you should still consider potential liability risks. A friend could fall off a dingy and drown, for example. Your home insurance policy almost certainly offers liability protection for accidents, but double-check that the coverage applies to potential boating accidents.

Find Insurance For Your Boat in Iowa

If your home insurance policy provides sufficient coverage for your boat, then there’s no need to purchase additional protection. If you need more coverage, boat insurance policies are highly customizable and affordable. We here at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. can help you with each type of policy if you’re located in Iowa. Contact us today.

Umbrella Insurance: When Almost Isn’t Enough

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Insurance can provide a sense of safety and security for those who fear the worst. For optimists, insurance is a smart investment against the most unlikely of events. For everyone, however, insurance is the solution and help they need when unexpected, unplanned, and unwelcome events occur. That’s why people from all around Iowa turn to the trusted and professional team at the Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. for all their umbrella insurance questions and needs.

Umbrella Insurance for All the Problems You Do and Don’t Expect

We may not be shocked if we get into a fender-bender. Some things we may not necessarily anticipate but know are possible. What we can’t predict, however, is how other drivers may respond or react. We know that winters in Iowa can be tricky, and an occasional slip or fall isn’t surprising. What we can’t plan on, though, is the claim that follows when someone slips and falls on your property.

These are a few examples of how umbrella insurance can help with those liability issues you can and can’t expect. These are also reasons why people from Iowa choose the trusted and experienced team at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. for all their umbrella insurance questions. When almost isn’t enough, and for all the expected and unexpected events in life, umbrella insurance can offer the protection you need.

Protection and Umbrella Insurance Solutions in Iowa

Do you call the beautiful state of Iowa home? Do you have questions, or would you like to learn more about umbrella insurance and how it could benefit you? We can help. Contact us to find out more and schedule an appointment with our friendly and professional team for all your umbrella insurance needs at the Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency today.

What is uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on an auto insurance policy?

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At Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. in Iowa, we understand that auto insurance terminology can be confusing. So, we’re here to clarify some of the terms you might hear from agents or see on your policy paperwork. Today, we’d like to explain coverage for uninsured motorists.

Only uninsured motorist (UM) coverage for bodily injuries (UMBI) is available in Iowa.

Many clients wonder if they need uninsured motorist coverage on their auto policies. While it’s a legal requirement in Iowa, the state allows you to reject the coverage by signing an "Uninsured Motorist Rejection Form." This form indicates that the agent has explained the coverage and its benefits to you, and you’ve chosen to reject the coverage. However, given the increasing number of uninsured drivers, why you would reject such coverage is worth considering.

If you’re involved in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, you could be left to cover medical bills for any injuries sustained during the accident. Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage provides funds (up to the policy limit) to pay for any medical bills resulting from an accident with an uninsured motorist, whether you were the only one in the vehicle or there were multiple passengers.

Uninsured motorist coverage also provides the same medical coverage if you’re in an accident with a hit-and-run driver who caused an accident and fled the scene.

UM coverages are usually equal to or less than your liability bodily injury coverage on your policy. For instance, if you carry the state minimum liability for bodily injury ($20,000 per person or $40,000 for an accident), your UM coverage will mirror this coverage, at the least.

We’re Here to Help

To learn more about your auto insurance policy and the benefits of uninsured motorist coverage, we’re here to help. Call Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. in Iowa at (614) 939-3404.

Why You May Need Catastrophic Health Insurance

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Health insurance is essential for everyone. Unpredictable health issues can arise, and having health insurance ensures you get the help you need. Among various types of health insurance, catastrophic health insurance is one that offers several benefits for those without health insurance. If you’re interested in health insurance in Iowa, contact us at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc.

Covering High Medical Costs

Catastrophic health insurance is designed to cover high medical costs but typically doesn’t cover minor ones. This type of policy usually has a high deductible, meaning that only very expensive costs will be covered by the policy. Regular medical costs wouldn’t be covered by the policy, but they would count towards the deductible. If a medical expense is extremely high, it would meet the deductible and could be covered by the policy. Many healthy individuals opt for this coverage as a safety net in case of a severe injury or illness.

Lower Health Insurance Costs

One of the significant benefits of a catastrophic policy is its lower cost compared to a traditional policy with a lower deductible. Because the benefit is less likely to be used, it costs less. This type of insurance is popular among self-employed individuals on a budget.

Securing Health Insurance in Iowa

Health insurance is a necessity, as future health conditions are unpredictable. If you don’t have health insurance or are considering switching policies, we can help. To learn more, contact us at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. in Iowa.