Everything You Need to Know About Deductibles

Understanding auto insurance, especially deductibles, can be confusing. To select the best car insurance and ensure you’re covered with a policy you can afford, you’ll need to decide what your deductible should be. To make the best choice, you need to understand what deductibles are, what the average deductible is, and what all this means for someone living in Texas.

What Are Deductibles?

A deductible is the amount you have to pay before your insurance starts paying. It’s an upfront expense you’ll pay whenever you file a claim with your insurance provider. The deductible is agreed upon when you purchase your insurance policy. The average deductible for auto insurance in Texas is $500. You are generally choosing a higher deductible, which results in a lower premium.

How Do Deductibles Work?

If you have a $500 deductible on your insurance policy and get into an accident that requires $1,500 to fix your car, you’ll pay $500 for repairs, leaving $1,000 that your policy would cover. If you have a higher deductible, you might end up paying for all the repairs yourself before insurance coverage begins. Sometimes, you can choose what your deductible will be. Other times, the deductible is based on factors such as your vehicle’s value and driving history.

Why Partner With EasTex Insurance?

At EasTex Insurance in Tyler, TX, we offer a wide range of insurance options. We can help you select the right insurance for your individual needs and guide you through the process of figuring out the best deductible that will suit your budget. Contact an agent serving Tyler, TX, for more information.

Comprehensive Auto Insurance: Big Coverage for Big Cars in Tyler, TX

Navigating the urban streets and mazes in Tyler, TX, can be daunting for motorists driving oversized trucks, pickups, and SUVs. Ensuring your vehicle with the best auto insurance available can provide maximum protection for Lone Star State motorists.

Learn more about the benefits of comprehensive auto insurance coverage in Tyler, TX, from the insurance professionals at EasTex Insurance.

Liability Insurance Offers Basic Protection

Texas motorists who opt for state minimum liability insurance meet the basic requirements for legally operating a vehicle on public roads within the state of Texas. However, the downside of liability-only insurance policies is that they provide limited coverage for drivers and vehicles.

Liability insurance policies shield drivers from outrageous out-of-pocket expenses that can occur in an at-fault car accident. While basic insurance policies help drivers save on the high costs of legal liability claims, property damage claims, and claims for medical expenses, they do not cover the costs for repair or replacement of your vehicle when it has been in an accident.

Comprehensive Auto Insurance Equals Big Coverage

Truck and SUV drivers who want to ensure total protection of their vehicles opt for insurance policies with comprehensive and collision coverage. This heightened level of coverage offers protection for auto collisions, vandalism, theft, damages from natural disasters, and animal collisions. Comprehensive coverage adds another layer of protection, encompassing non-collision-related incidents that normally result in high repair or replacement costs for local drivers.

A licensed and knowledgeable insurance agent at EasTex Insurance can assist local drivers in choosing the most suitable comprehensive insurance coverage for their needs.

Starting a comprehensive auto policy is as simple as reaching out to your trusted local insurance agent, sharing details about your driving history and budget, and receiving a quote today!

Auto insurance FAQs

At EasTex Insurance in Tyler, TX, our team understands auto insurance, and we ensure all our customers’ questions and concerns are answered. 

What is comprehensive coverage?

Comprehensive coverage is also known as non-collision coverage. It covers many things that can damage your vehicle, including a collision with another vehicle. It includes theft and vandalism. It protects your vehicle from damage due to floods, high winds, and hail. It also includes glass coverage. It does cover collisions with large animals like deer as well. 

Does my auto insurance cover someone else driving my vehicle?

Yes, your auto insurance is on your vehicle. It will cover other people who may be driving your vehicle. If you drive someone else’s vehicle, you are covered by their insurance.  

How much liability coverage do I need?

The amount of liability coverage that you need is a personal decision. It depends on what you have for assets you need to protect from legal judgments against you. Every state mandates the minimum amount you are required to have, and you can go much higher if that makes sense. 

If my car is damaged, will I get a rental car?

Rental car coverage is an additional coverage that you can add to your policy. It can be beneficial if you get into an accident and you cause the accident. If the other party caused the accident, their insurance should pay for your car rental. 

What is basic auto insurance?

Basic auto insurance is the minimum amount of coverage the state requires to drive legally. In Texas, this is 30/60/25, which protects other drivers and property from damage where you are responsible.

Give our office at EasTex Insurance in Tyler, TX, a call with all your auto insurance needs. 

How to Find Great Auto Insurance

Finding the perfect auto insurance company can sometimes be challenging. Not only are there many different agencies available, but each offers different rates, coverages, exclusions, and more. However, if you’re a Tyler, TX resident, you have insurance agencies like EasTex Insurance available that can make choosing easy. Here are some tips for finding the best auto insurance:

Determine Your Needs

Not all insurance companies are the same, so you need to determine your needs before you can start looking. Do you need something beyond typical auto insurance? Classic car insurance? Insurance after a DWI? If any of these circumstances apply to you, seek out a company that can meet your needs. 

Don’t Settle for the First Choice

While it might be easy to settle for the first choice you come across, the first choice might not necessarily be the cheapest or offer the coverage you’re seeking. Take the time to perform a bit of research so that you can find the best choice. 

Check Ratings

It’s possible to check the ratings of prospective insurance companies by going online and researching that particular company. Be sure the ratings are on Google or some other public site, which increases their chances of being authentic because there are, unfortunately, fake ratings out there. 

So, if you reside in Tyler, TX, or the surrounding area, and you’re struggling to find a new auto insurance agency, you should contact us at EasTex Insurance for more information. One of our licensed agents will be happy to provide you with a quote and answer any questions you may have. We consider ourselves to be excellent at providing customer service as well as offering affordable rates, so give us a call today for a quote. 

Three Signs Your Brakes Need Work

Making great insurance choices is just one of the ways you can keep yourself safe out on the road. Good vehicle maintenance is another essential part of vehicle safety. At EasTex Insurance, serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas, we want to help keep you safe while driving. This quick guide will explain how to tell if your brakes need work. Keep reading to learn more. 

Squeaking

Usually, one of the first signs that your brakes need to be serviced is that you will hear squeaking when braking. This squeaking is caused by the brake pad material wearing away. When this happens, metal will start touching metal on other brake components. This causes friction and noise. This is always a sure sign that your brakes need work. If you hear squeaking, have your brakes services immediately to stay safe. 

Slow Braking

Another sure sign that brakes need attention is slow braking. If you notice that you need to apply more and more pressure to get your brakes to slow your vehicle, you should get brake service ASAP. This is a very unsafe situation as it cuts down your reaction time. If you are in a driving situation where you need to brake suddenly to avoid hitting a vehicle, animal, or even a person, your faulty brakes may not be able to handle the job. This puts you and others in great danger. Always seek a mechanic and have brakes serviced quickly if you notice slow braking. 

Brakes Warning Light 

Many newer vehicles have a brake warning light on the dashboard. If this light is signaling that you need brake service, heed the warning. This is an excellent early warning system. 

If you would like to learn more about vehicle insurance, please get in touch with us at EasTex Insurance serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas.  

What You Need to Know to Stay Safe on the Roads in Northeast Texas

The roads in Northeast Texas can be dangerous and intimidating. Whether you are a new or experienced driver, there are always some important safety measures to consider. Here is an overview from EasTex Insurance of what you need to know to stay safe on the roads in the Tyler, TX region.

Observing Road Laws

Driving safely on the roads of Northeast Texas requires a good knowledge of traffic laws and regulations. Also, watch out for deer. In Texas, drivers must observe speed limits, keep right, never cut off trucks, and move over or slow down for emergency vehicles and flashing lights. Drivers should also give themselves time to rest and take breaks regularly.

Most Dangerous Roads

Drivers in and around Dallas need to be aware of the most dangerous roads in the city. Interstate 20 and Interstate 35 East and West have been ranked among the deadliest highways in the country. Similarly, Interstate 45, which connects Dallas with Houston, has had its fair share of fatal car accidents.

Use Safety Measures

Drivers should follow certain safety rules to stay safe during a car ride. They should always wear their seatbelts, observe speed limits, keep a safe distance from vehicles, and never use mobile phones while driving. It is also essential to remain alert and patient on the roads and to avoid engaging in road rage.

Bad Weather Caution

Finally, winter driving poses additional challenges, so drivers should be careful while driving in adverse weather conditions. Some necessary precautions that should be taken include avoiding hard braking and acceleration, leaving extra space between vehicles, and increasing one’s following distance.

EasTex Insurance is the perfect choice for auto insurance. We offer competitive rates and excellent customer service so you can be sure you’re getting the coverage you need. If you’re looking for auto insurance in Tyler, TX, come to EasTex Insurance and let us help you today!

What to Do if You’re in a Texas Car Accident

No one ever wants to be in a car accident. But unfortunately, accidents happen. If you’re involved in a car accident in Tyler, TX, there are four steps you need to take to ensure everyone’s safety and to protect your interests.

1. Check for Injuries

The first thing you need to do after a car accident is to check for injuries. This includes checking on the occupants of your vehicle and any pedestrians who may have been involved in the accident. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and wait for medical assistance to arrive.

2. Move to a Safe Location

Once you’ve ensured that everyone is safe and accounted for, the next step is to move your vehicle (if possible) to a safe location off the road. This will help prevent further accidents and make it easier for emergency vehicles to get through if needed.

3. Call the Police

Even if there aren’t any injuries, you should still call the police and file a report. The police will investigate the accident and create an official record of what happened. This can be helpful later on if there are any disputes about who was at fault for the accident.

4. Contact Your Insurance Agent

After you’ve taken care of everything else, the last step is to contact your insurance agent. Your EasTex Insurance agent will help you file a claim and work with you to ensure you have the coverage you need to repair or replace your vehicle.

These four steps after a car accident will help ensure everyone’s safety and protect your interests. And don’t forget, it’s always a good idea to contact your EasTex Insurance agent after an accident to ensure you have the most protection for your vehicle. We’re here to help!

What Are the Dangers of Driving in Hot Weather?

Summer is upon us, and with it comes the oppressive heat and humidity all citizens of Tyler, TX know so well. Driving in this season is a challenge. You feel like you’re driving around in a sauna, but your car is also facing down hazards that are more prevalent and more dangerous.

Before packing up for your summer road trip, EasTex Insurance has some tips to help you stay safe and protect your vehicle.

1. Stay Hydrated!

It’s easy to get dehydrated when you’re driving in the heat, and when you’re dehydrated, your ability to drive safely is compromised. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and slow reflexes.

Take plenty of water along with you on your trip. Make sure you have an emergency supply of drinking water in your vehicle. Every passenger should at least have one gallon of emergency drinking water.

2. Keep An Eye On Your Fluids!

The big one is coolant. Without enough coolant, your engine will overheat, leading to engine failure. This can leave you stranded on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. For hours. With no A/C.

Before hitting the road, it’s good to check your other fluids, such as oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and brake fluid.

3. Watch Your Temperature!

Ideally, your temperature gauge should remain at the centerline. If your temperature gauge is in the red, it’s time to pull over and stop the car. After waiting for 20 minutes, restart the vehicle.

If the temperature warning light is on, drive to the nearest service station and have the car checked. NEVER continue to drive when the temperature gauge is in the red.

EasTex Insurance in Tyler, TX is here for you no matter what the weather is like. If you need to discuss your auto insurance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Auto Insurance Tips for Parents of Teen Drivers

From the day they’re born, you work hard to keep them safe. But as they embark on the new adventure of being licensed drivers, there are a few new steps you’ll have to take. Which is why our EasTex Insurance team has put together this list of tips for Tyler, TX parents of teen drivers.

Tip #1: Remember That You’re Their Greatest Influence

In case you haven’t noticed, your kids watch every move you make. That means you should always strive to model good driving behavior while they’re in the car. This means following posted speed limits, minimizing distractions like cell phone use, and always wearing your seatbelt.

Tip #2: Start Them Slowly

In addition, make sure to start them slowly. Just because your teen has turned sixteen doesn’t mean they’re totally ready to drive alone. Instead, work to build good driving over time until you feel confident they have the skills to handle a variety of scenarios on the road.

Tip #3: Make Your Expectations Clear

As a parent, it is your job to make your expectations clear from the very beginning in regards to your teen’s driving. Set ground rules with any possible consequences for things like speeding, texting while driving, or whatever else makes sense for your family. To keep everyone on the same page, you can use special software with your child’s smartphone or even some newer vehicle features to track their driving.

Tip #4: Take a Deep Breath

Hey, we get it. Not everything about sending your teen out on the road is comforting. Instead, remember to take a deep breath and know that you’ve done as much as you could to prepare them for this big step in life.

Ready to see how we can help? Please contact our Tyler, TX insurance team at EasTex Insurance today to schedule an appointment.

What Tyler, TX parents need to know about auto insurance for teens

When your kids start to drive, it can bring up a wide range of emotions. You may be proud of their higher level of independence, but at the same time, you may worry more about their safety. EasTex Insurance understands these concerns that many Tyler, TX parents experience and are here to help. Knowing that your teenager and your family have appropriate auto insurance coverage can help you lessen your anxiety and give you a greater feeling of security. 

ABCs of teens and auto insurance

Securing the appropriate coverage for your teen requires the consideration of a number of factors. For instance, because of their inexperience, teens can often have more scrapes and dents than more seasoned drivers. Parents may also wish to consider a robust level of roadside assistance coverage. Additionally, if the car is going to be in a higher need of repair, rental car coverage can help to minimize the impact on your family’s transportation. 

In some instances, it can make more sense for a teenaged driver to have their own policy. This is just one example of the many ways that insurance coverage needs can differ from family to family.

Let us help you find the appropriate auto policy for your family

EasTex Insurance is here to partner with Tyler, TX area parents and help your family obtain the auto policy that is appropriate. We are here to serve your needs and look forward to working with you! Call or stop by today and learn more about the auto insurance policy options that are available to you and your family.