The Best Ways to Avoid Paying Your Auto or Home Deductible….

Some Minnesotan's  seldom if ever have claims under their auto and home policies. Others seem to live under a “dark cloud” and have frequent auto accidents and/or property damage to their home and personal possessions. It is just bad luck? Being in the wrong place at the wrong time?  Certainly some loss events are going to happen no matter what; but, there are things you can do to avoid most claims.

Some are obvious such as not texting while driving; but, there are many “loss control” actions that most of us can take that will reduce the likelihood of a loss or limit the severity of a loss. For example:

Auto

-          Avoid high risk situations. Instead of driving on New Year’s Eve or taking your car to the Gopher game, take public transportation or catch a ride with someone else. You car is much less likely to suffer damage if it’s parked in your garage.

-          Be cool. It is NOT worth possible injury or thousands of dollars in damage to engage in one-upmanship on the road. And, if your kids are in the car, it’s a great teachable moment to show them that responsible drivers don’t take the bait and engage aggressive drivers.  

-          Maintain your car. Are your tires in good condition and properly inflated? Is the car mechanically sound?  Breakdowns put you and your car at greater risk.

-          Anticipate. That car with plywood strapped to its roof might lose its load; are you too close to avoid trouble?  Traffic is congested and you’re approaching an interchange with other roads; someone will make a sudden lane change and/or hit their brakes. Look for situations that can create hazards and be ready.

Homeowner:

-          Maintain your home. Shingles wear out or can be blown off, and caulking will deteriorate resulting in water damage.  Make it a point to inspect your home frequently to check for leakage or other deterioration or damage. Fixing such problems prevents or at least reduces damage.

-          Avoid exposures. Do you have jewelry or other valuable items that you seldom wear or use? Why not keep those in your safety deposit box?  

-          Don’t advertise absences from your home. You can stop and re-start mail delivery at the post office’s website. Keep the grass trimmed. Get a friend and/or neighbor to keep an eye on your home. Some police departments request that you let them know if you’re leaving town so they can contact you if there’s a problem.

Auto and home insurance are there to protect you from severe financial loss when accidents occur; but avoiding the loss in the first place is always the better option.