As the school year gets underway, it’s time to do more than just stock up on supplies. This season also signals the need for routine updates, particularly when it comes to your insurance. Ensuring your home and auto insurance policies are up to date is crucial for safeguarding your family and property as schedules shift and risks increase. It’s a great opportunity to review your coverage, and if you’re seeking the best homeowners insurance and auto coverage, E.J. O’Neil Insurance Agency is here to help.
Why Back-to-School Season Presents Unique Risks
The back-to-school season brings about significant changes in daily routines, from early morning rushes to busier roads. These changes increase the likelihood of accidents and incidents, making it an ideal time to reassess your insurance needs.
With more vehicles on the road during school hours, crashes are more common. Young, sleep-deprived drivers have higher crash rates than those with later school start times, according to one study. If you have teens driving to school, encouraging good sleep habits — ideally, between eight and 10 hours of sleep nightly — and ensuring your auto coverage is current can offer peace of mind during this busy time of year.
Additionally, the risks can increase at home when routines change. With early morning rushes, parents might leave the house quickly, potentially overlooking safety precautions like locking doors or securing valuables. Additionally, with increased extracurricular activities and homework demands, there’s a greater likelihood of distractions that could lead to accidents, such as leaving stoves on, curling irons plugged in, or doors unlocked.
For families with teenagers who might come home before parents return from work, this transition period can mean navigating new challenges, such as being responsible for younger siblings or managing more time alone. Ensuring your home is safe and that everyone knows emergency procedures is crucial during this time. Regularly updating your insurance policies to reflect these changes can also provide additional security and peace of mind during the school year.
How Often Should You Update Your Homeowners Insurance?
Regularly reviewing your homeowners insurance is essential to ensure it meets your current needs. Significant life changes — such as home renovations, the purchase of valuable items, or changes in property value — may necessitate updates to your policy.
It’s recommended to review your policy annually or after any significant life events. For more detailed guidance, you can refer to This Old House’s guide on updating your homeowners insurance.
It’s advisable to review your policy annually or after significant life events. As This Old House notes, key steps include updating your home inventory, assessing new risks, and ensuring coverage limits match current home values. This proactive approach to keeping your policy up to date helps ensure you’re fully protected as your circumstances change.
The Benefits of Combining Home and Auto Insurance
Combining your home and auto insurance in Massachusetts can offer financial advantages. Bundling policies may lead to discounts and can help simplify the management of your insurance needs.
In addition to potential cost savings, bundling can enhance your overall protection and convenience, especially if you’re looking for comprehensive coverage. In Massachusetts, where insurance costs can add up quickly, finding ways to save while maintaining quality coverage is essential.
Auto Insurance Tips for the New School Year
With the new school year comes changes in driving habits and possibly even new drivers in the family. It’s important to update your auto insurance to reflect these changes, ensuring you have adequate coverage.
Whether it’s adding a teen driver to your policy or adjusting coverage for a new vehicle, keeping your auto insurance current is crucial to protecting your family on the road. Be sure to review your policy to ensure it aligns with your back-to-school schedule.
Preparing Your Home and Auto for the School Year
As you prepare for the school year, it’s important to consider both your home and auto insurance. Installing or upgrading home security systems, ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained, and reviewing emergency plans are all practical steps that can enhance your safety. These preparations, combined with the right insurance coverage, will help keep your family secure as the school year begins.
Being proactive about your insurance as the school year begins can save you money and provide peace of mind. Whether you’re updating your current policies or bundling for added savings, E.J. O’Neil Insurance Agency is here to help. Get in touch with us today for personalized advice and comprehensive coverage options.
About E.J. O’Neil Insurance Agency
Since 1898, E.J. O’Neil Insurance Agency has provided homeowners with reliable coverage and high-quality customer service. Today, we offer a variety of policies, including commercial, boat, automobile, homeowners, motorcycle, and renters insurance. Quotes are free by phone or online request, and we can provide notary and other services at our location. We pride ourselves on caring for customers when they need it most. To find the right coverage for your needs, call 413-594-4757 or visit us online.