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101 D St NE
Auburn, WA 98002

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Alpine Ridge Insurance Blog

Stay Anchored with the Right Boat/Watercraft Insurance Solutions

There are many important aspects of a boat. The anchor, however, is one aspect that is often overlooked and undervalued. Much like boat insurance, when your boat gets ripped away from the dock by a storm, it is the anchor that can keep it from getting lost at sea, and it is insurance that can cover your losses if it does. This is one of the many reasons why boat owners in and around the Tulsa, OK area rely on the professional and friendly team at Greater Tulsa Insurance Inc. for all their boat/watercraft insurance needs.

Stay Anchored with the Right Boat/Watercraft Insurance Solutions

Yes, it is true that Oklahoma does not require boat owners to carry insurance. However, a thief, vandal, approaching storm, or even a boating accident may require insurance to avoid spending thousands of dollars out-of-pocket to keep your ship afloat and your boat anchored to the dock. And if you are financing your boat or watercraft, like so many do, then boat/watercraft insurance will also be a requirement. These are a few of the many reasons why working with a proven, experienced, and reputable agency like Greater Tulsa Insurance is important.

Boat Insurance Solutions for Tulsa, OK Area Boat Owners

Do you own a boat or watercraft and live in or around the greater Tulsa, OK area? Do you have questions about boat insurance or need coverage for your sparkling new boat? Then, our experienced and knowledgeable team at Greater Tulsa Insurance Inc. can help. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment for the protection and coverage you and your boat need and deserve, and stay anchored with the right boat/watercraft insurance solutions at Greater Tulsa Insurance Inc. today.

Things you need to consider when looking for boat/watercraft insurance

If you’re a boat or watercraft owner, preparing and protecting your vessel before taking it out on the water is crucial. There are over 17 million boats in the United States, including 13 million registered and 4 million unregistered. As a responsible boat/watercraft owner, you should be aware that boating accidents happen frequently. Therefore, it’s extremely important to have proper boat/watercraft insurance to protect yourself and your valuable possessions. Here are some things you need to consider when shopping for boat/watercraft insurance:

1. What boat/watercraft insurance covers

Typically, standard boat/watercraft insurance covers the following:

  • Collision damage
  • Bodily injury liability
  • Property damage liability
  • Comprehensive coverage

You can also purchase additional coverage to ensure you’re fully protected. It’s recommended to discuss this with an insurance agent who can help you choose the best coverage.

2. The value of your boat or watercraft

When shopping for this type of insurance, make sure to provide the insurance agent with information about the value of your boat or watercraft so that they can find the best coverage for you. Remember that the value of your boat isn’t always directly tied to the original purchase price.

3. The use of your boat/watercraft and its location

This is also one of the most important factors to consider when looking for insurance. For example, if you keep your boat in a marina, the owner’s association might have an insurance policy covering boats. However, if you keep your vessel at a private dock, you’ll need to get full coverage.

Alpine Ridge Insurance – A Reliable And Trustworthy Insurance Company

If you’re a boat or watercraft owner in Auburn, WA, or any other nearby area, and you’re looking for boat/watercraft insurance, Alpine Ridge Insurance is here to help. Our professional and experienced insurance agents will answer all your questions and help you find insurance based on your individual needs and budget.

How natural disasters are covered in a home insurance policy.

Many consumers understand that a standard home insurance policy covers perils such as fire, windstorm damage, lightning, and hail damage. However, damage related to natural disasters can be somewhat confusing. At Alpine Ridge Insurance in Auburn, WA, we’re here to help clarify what is covered in your home policy regarding natural disasters.

What qualifies as a natural disaster?

The state of Washington is no stranger to natural disasters. If you have lived in the state for any length of time, you have likely experienced or seen weather reports of earthquakes, flooding, landslides, wildfires, volcanoes, droughts, heat waves, winter storms, and other severe storms. With climate change happening worldwide, the chances of these disasters occurring in Washington are expected to increase.

What natural disasters can be covered by a homeowners policy?

Now that we have explained what constitutes a natural disaster, let’s discuss which incidents are covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy.

  • Earthquakes: They are not covered by a standard home insurance policy, but you can add them to your standard policy for an additional cost. Washington experiences over a thousand earthquakes a year, so it may be a coverage you’d like to discuss with our licensed agents.
  • Floods: Another coverage not covered on a standard home insurance policy but has caused more damage in the state than any other natural disaster. However, it can be added to your policy for an additional fee. It can also be written to include flooding due to a tsunami.
  • Wildfires: Covered and treated as a fire on a standard policy.
  • Winter Storms: A standard home policy typically covers damage related to the weight of ice and snow on rooftops.
  • Landslides: Can be added as a rider on your home insurance policy.
  • Volcanoes: Mostly covered on a standard home insurance policy with a few exceptions. Talk to our licensed agent for a complete list of exclusions.

For more information about Home Insurance in Washington

We understand that you want to make sure your home is covered in case of a natural disaster. We are here to help. For more information about protecting your home from the unthinkable, call Alpine Ridge Insurance in Auburn, WA, at (253) 833-9501.

Considerations for First-Time RV Buyers

Acquiring an RV can add a touch of adventure and leisure to your lifestyle. However, making the right purchase requires considering several factors, especially if you’ve never owned an RV. Irrespective of the RV model you opt for, you’ll need an experienced insurance agent to help secure the best RV insurance that matches your needs. The Alpine Ridge Insurance team is ready to serve clients in the Auburn, WA, area.

Key Considerations for Prospective RV Owners

To make the proper RV purchase, you need to visualize its use over time, considering factors such as the growth of your family or the approach of the empty nest stage. Here are some issues to consider:

  • Intended Usage: What activities will you engage in with the RV? Will you stick to RV-friendly areas or venture into remote territories?
  • Space: How many people should the RV accommodate in terms of seating and sleeping? Your planned activities will dictate the storage space you require.
  • Destination: Where do you plan to travel, and for how long? What size of tanks will you need? Would you require solar power when off-grid?
  • Type of RV: Depending on the above requirements, you can determine whether a Class A, B, or C RV or a towable RV suits your needs.
  • Financing and Maintenance: Factor in the costs of purchasing, fueling, maintaining, storing, and insuring your RV.

Consider shopping online, visiting RV dealers, and attending RV shows to aid your decision-making process. Once you’ve identified your desired RV, consider renting the same or similar model. Using the rental RV in your future plans will help confirm your choice or indicate a need to consider other options.

RV Insurance Solutions from Alpine Ridge Insurance

At Alpine Ridge Insurance, serving Auburn, WA, our goal is to address your RV or other insurance needs. Call us today or drop by our office to explore the ideal coverage for your needs.

Auto Insurance: For Every Drivers Blind Spot

Driving instructors and experienced drivers incessantly remind us to check the "blind spot" while driving, particularly when maneuvering lanes or reversing. When referring to that infamous blind spot, they are primarily talking about the area that the conventional side mirrors don’t reflect, usually around the rear door and panel area of the vehicle, that the conventional side mirrors don’t reflect.

Though many modern cars have small wide-angle mirrors incorporated within their side-view mirrors, insurance can still assist with all the spots, angles, and unforeseen issues. This is why drivers in and around Auburn, WA, routinely consult with the professional and friendly agents at Alpine Ridge Insurance for all their auto insurance requirements, including those hidden in their blind spots.

Safeguarding Every Driver’s Blind Spot

Defensive driving courses instill the importance of being conscious of remaining in other drivers’ blind spots. When you see people pivot halfway before changing lanes, you know they’ve been educated to inspect those hard-to-see areas. However, not all blind spots are on the roadways, and unfortunately, they are hidden threats that many drivers might encounter.

Working with an experienced and professional agent can help with the blind spots you know to look out for and those you don’t. One oversight could be costlier than ever imagined, just like it is on the roads. From your coverage to your driving requirements, the right auto insurance can protect you from all your blind spots, even those you don’t see.

We are here to assist if you reside in or around the Auburn, WA, area and have queries about auto insurance or need coverage. Contact Alpine Ridge Insurance and let our team help you secure the protection you need and deserve today.

Boat Insurance and Safety Tips

Understanding Boat Insurance and Safeguarding Your Vessel

Boat owners are required to have insurance to protect their vessels and passengers and cover incidental property damage as well as standard perils. Your boat’s type, size, and value will dictate the kind of insurance needed. Small vessels like canoes, mini sailboats, and some powerboats may be covered by homeowners insurance. Larger, faster, and high-value boats will need a dedicated policy with a separate deductible. Our agents at Alpine Ridge Insurance in Auburn, WA, explain the essentials of boat insurance and share helpful tips for staying safe on the water.

Types of Boat Insurance and Optional Coverage

There are two main types of boat insurance with differing costs and parameters. Actual cash value coverage takes into account the vessel’s depreciation when paying for replacement costs. Agreed amount value policies are established between the insurer and owner and are based on a valuation that both parties agree upon.

Some optional coverage aspects to consider include:

  • Physical damage or loss to the boat
  • Theft
  • Bodily injury
  • Damage to someone else’s property
  • Medical payments
  • Guest passenger liability
  • Trailer and boat accessories
  • Loss or theft of belongings
  • Towing

Washington Boating Safety Tips

Before navigating your watercraft, keep these safety pointers in mind:

  • Equip your boat with navigation lights, life jackets, flotation devices, emergency flares, and a horn, whistle, or loud bell.
  • Evenly distribute loads or passengers in the vessel, being careful not to overload it.
  • Understand maritime laws as well as boating regulations in your area. Learn key distress signals.
  • Check weather forecasts for water condition updates.
  • Keep a lookout for swimmers, other boats, and floating debris in shallow waters.
  • Never allow others or yourself to operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Stay Protected with Boat Insurance from Alpine Ridge Insurance

Safeguard your investment by protecting your vessel, yourself, and your passengers with suitable boat insurance. Contact Alpine Ridge Insurance in Auburn, WA, to learn more about our insurance policies and get a quote.

Does Home Insurance Cover Natural Disasters?

A natural disaster can damage a home’s structure and valuable personal belongings. Home insurance will cover the damage from some of these disasters but not all. Citizens of Auburn, WA should be aware of what a policy does and doesn’t include in order to procure sufficient coverage for their house and personal items.

Natural Disasters and Home Insurance Coverage

Generally speaking, home insurance covers damage caused by storms, tornadoes, explosions, fires, and extreme cold. Hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, on the other hand, aren’t covered under a typical home insurance policy. As Auburn, WA, is at high risk of earthquake damage and flooding is also a possibility, homeowners in the area will want to purchase coverage for these two natural disasters.

All forms of coverage will provide compensation for damage to the house and personal belongings. You may also be able to claim reimbursement for hotel bills if you can’t stay in your home while it’s being repaired. However, your insurance policies won’t cover exterior structures on your property, such as a detached garage, gazebo, pool, or fence, unless you’ve specifically purchased coverage for exterior structures. Insurance also won’t cover any vehicles on your property or personal belongings stored in the vehicles. You’ll need comprehensive auto insurance or an umbrella insurance policy for these.

Contact Alpine Ridge Insurance for Great Coverage Options

A home is a valuable asset that you’ll want to protect as much as possible. At Alpine Ridge Insurance, we offer the personalized advice and assistance you need to purchase the policies that offer maximum protection for your home and belongings. Get in touch with us to find out more about your options or to get a quote on the policy of your choice.

Do You Need RV Insurance?

If you’re thinking about purchasing an RV, you need to be aware of its insurance requirements. Alpine Ridge Insurance, serving Auburn, WA, and the surrounding areas, wants to help clients make smart insurance decisions. Let’s learn more about RV insurance.

Is RV Insurance Required By Law?

Yes, if you plan to drive the RV on the road, you’re required to carry minimum legal coverage. If you plan to park the RV and use it for living accommodations, you might also need to get insurance coverage. This is to protect the RV in the event that it’s damaged or broken into. It is the only way to protect your personal belongings and the investment that you’ve made into the RV.

What Are the Risks of No Coverage?

Driving an RV without insurance coverage is similar to the risks of driving a regular vehicle with no insurance coverage. More risk is involved because the RV is such a large vehicle. If you damage another driver’s vehicle or someone’s property, you can be held financially liable for those expenses. If you injure someone with your RV, you could be held financially liable for their medical expenses as well. Paying for these expenses out of pocket could leave you financially vulnerable. It’s smarter to have insurance in place so you aren’t put into this position. There are also legal risks because you could get a citation if caught driving with proper insurance.

If you’d like to learn more about RV insurance or purchase a policy, please contact us today at Alpine Ridge Insurance, serving Auburn, WA, and the surrounding areas.

Will an Auburn auto insurance plan cover me if I am at fault in an accident?

In the Auburn, WA, area, owning a car is necessary for many. As a car owner, you run the risk of causing an accident. If this does occur, having insurance is very advantageous as it provides various forms of support and coverage. 

Liability Coverage

One of the ways you will be supported if you are at fault in an accident is that you will receive liability coverage. In Washington, all drivers are required to have liability insurance when driving a car. If you maintain this coverage, it will provide support, up to the policy’s limits, to cover damages sustained by other parties involved in an accident. The insurer can also handle much of the claims process, which can help manage a stressful situation. 

Coverage for your Car

It is also a good idea to get an auto insurance plan to get coverage for your car. If you have a full collision and comprehensive plan, you will get support to replace or repair your vehicle, even if you are at fault in the accident. This can ensure you continue to have the financial resources you need to have access to a reliable vehicle. Sometimes, you may also receive rental car reimbursement if you are without your vehicle for a while.

Auto accidents can always happen when you are in the Auburn, WA, area. Because of this, you need to ensure you are prepared, and having auto coverage is a great way to do that. You should call us at Alpine Ridge Insurance when you are looking for this insurance. When you speak with our team at Alpine Ride Insurance, you will have the support needed to build the right policy. 

Sailing Safely in Auburn: Essential Boat Insurance Tips

Alpine Ridge Insurance’s team of experienced agents knows how crucial it is to protect your significant investments. That’s why we’re the preferred choice of Auburn, WA boat owners. To decide on the best boat insurance policy, consider our following advice.

Ensure Injury Coverage

Boat injuries aren’t always immediately evident. Without appropriate coverage, you could bear the financial burden if a guest sustains a severe injury. Your policy should sufficiently protect against potential medical bills and lost wages.

Safeguard Your Investment

The open seas can be unpredictable. Incidents such as storms or collisions with other boats can occur without your or the other boat owners’ fault. During these moments, the worth of an excellent boat insurance policy becomes apparent.

Coverage Against Uninsured Boaters

While you may be diligent about insurance, not all boaters may share the same responsibility. Always ensure your policy accounts for this reality. Don’t make the mistake of presuming other boaters also have adequate insurance coverage.

If you have any further inquiries or concerns about boat insurance policies, please contact us at Alpine Ridge Insurance. Our expert team will gladly discuss all aspects of these policies, empowering you to make an informed decision.

Partner Carriers

  • Aegis
  • Allstate
  • American Modern
  • American Reliable
  • Bristol West
  • BTIS
  • CNA (for surety/bonds)
  • Dairyland
  • Encompass
  • Foremost (Choice/Specialty)
  • Foremost Signature/ARS/Agent 360
  • GeoVera
  • Hagerty
  • Liberty Mutual (Commercial)
  • Mapfre
  • Markel
  • National General
  • Old Republic (for surety/bonds)
  • Pacific International Underwriters (PIU)
  • Progressive
  • Red Shield
  • Risk Placement Services (RPS)
  • RLI (for surety/bonds)
  • RT Specialty
  • Safeco
  • Selective Flood
  • The Hartford (Personal Lines)
  • The Hartford Flood
  • Travelers
  • USLI