518-608-5797 Facebook Twitter Linkedin Google+ YouTube Blog

Twin Bridges Insurance Agency

 mobile-navigation

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

mobile-callClick to Call
Twin Bridges Insurance Agency

1881 Western Avenue, Suite 210
Albany, NY 12203

google-mapGet Directions
Family in automobile

Author Archives: AgentInsure

What To Expect When Filing an Auto Insurance Claim for a Fender Bender

Posted on by

Even a minor car accident can feel stressful, especially if you have never filed an auto insurance claim before. Understanding the claims process for a fender bender helps reduce confusion and ensures the situation is handled quickly and correctly.

Assessing the Situation After the Accident

After a minor collision, safety comes first. Check for injuries and move vehicles out of traffic if possible. Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other driver, and document the scene with photos. This information will be important when filing your claim.

Notifying Your Insurance Company

Most insurers require prompt notification after an accident, even if the damage appears minimal. You can usually file a claim online, through a mobile app, or by phone. Be prepared to provide details about the incident, including time, location, and a brief description of what happened.

Understanding Fault and Coverage

Insurance companies will review the facts to determine fault. If you are at fault, your collision coverage typically pays for your vehicle repairs, minus your deductible. If the other driver is at fault, their liability coverage may cover your damages, though this can take longer to resolve.

Vehicle Inspection and Repair Process

An adjuster will assess the damage, either in person or through photos. You may receive a repair estimate and choose a repair shop, depending on your insurer’s guidelines. For minor damage, repairs are often completed quickly once approval is given.

How Claims Can Affect Your Premium

A fender bender may impact your insurance premium, particularly if you are found at fault. Some policies offer accident forgiveness or minor-accident waivers, which can help reduce or eliminate premium increases.

NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency: Proud to Provide Albany, NY Residents with Auto Insurance Services

At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, our team is here to meet all of your auto insurance needs. If you live in or near Albany, NY, reach out to us today to speak with an agent and learn more.

What Should You Do To Review Your Home Insurance This Year?

Posted on by

If you have home insurance, it’s important to take time to review your policy every year. During this process, the professionals at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency servicing Albany, NY, can help. We can answer your questions about your policy, and if you decide that you need more coverage or a different type of coverage, we can help with this as well. Here’s what you need to know about the annual review of your home insurance. 

Why Should You Review Your Home Insurance?

During your time owning your home, your replacement costs may change. This can happen as you acquire more expensive items and as you update your property. You may also make changes to your home that would give you a discount on your insurance premium.

Reviewing your home insurance periodically can help ensure that your insurance policy is adequate for your needs while also giving you an opportunity to take advantage of discounts. 

How Should You Review Your Home Insurance?

To get started reviewing your home insurance, ask your insurance agent for a copy of your policy. If you have questions about your policy, or if you’ve made updates to your house that your insurance agent should know about, include your insurance agent in the review process. You can go over your policy together. 

When Should You Review Your Home Insurance?

Review your home insurance annually, hopefully at the same time each year. Setting aside an hour a year can help ensure that your home insurance policy is adequate for your needs. 

Need to Review Your Home Insurance? Call Today

If you need to review your home insurance policy, start by calling your insurance agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, servicing Albany, NY. We’re here to answer your questions and help you with the review process. 

How Beneficiaries Actually Work and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Posted on by

When you purchase life insurance, naming beneficiaries might seem like a simple task, but this decision carries significant legal and financial implications for your loved ones. Understanding how beneficiary designations actually function can prevent costly delays and family disputes after you’re gone. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving the Albany, NY area, we guide clients through proper beneficiary planning to ensure their life insurance proceeds reach the right people efficiently.

Primary vs Contingent Beneficiaries

Your primary beneficiary receives the death benefit first, but what happens if they predecease you or can’t be located? This is where contingent beneficiaries become crucial. They serve as backups who receive proceeds if primary beneficiaries are unavailable. Many people only name primary beneficiaries, which can create problems if circumstances change. Always designate both levels to avoid having your insurance proceeds go through probate court.

Common Naming Mistakes That Cause Problems

One frequent error is naming minor children directly as beneficiaries. Minors cannot legally receive large sums of money, so courts must appoint guardians to manage funds until they reach adulthood. Instead, establish a trust or name a trusted adult as beneficiary with instructions for the children’s care. Another mistake is using vague descriptions like "my children" without specific names, which can create confusion about who qualifies.

Keep Beneficiary Information Current

Life changes like marriage, divorce, births, and deaths should trigger beneficiary reviews. Divorced individuals often forget to remove ex-spouses, while new parents might not add children. Review your designations annually and after major life events to ensure they reflect your current wishes.

Proper beneficiary planning protects your family’s financial security and prevents unnecessary complications. Contact NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving the Albany, NY area, to review your current beneficiary designations and make any needed updates.

Commercial Insurance Limitations for Small Businesses in Albany, NY

Posted on by

Running a small business in Albany, NY, requires proper insurance and coverage for liability purposes and in the event of a financial loss. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, we specialize in aiding clients with commercial insurance decisions so you feel protected year-round. Knowing what your policy may not cover, and its limitations, is also crucial to finding better add-ons and additional policies that will provide you with the security you’re seeking.

Liability Limits and Coverage Gaps

The majority of commercial policies include set coverage limits. If you’re dealing with a property claim, a liability event, or a major lawsuit that exceeds those limits, you may find yourself personally responsible for the damages. This is where additional policies and umbrella insurance come in.

Exclusions for Natural Disasters

Many standard commercial policies do not cover earthquake and/or flood damage, even if the flood occurs in your building alone. A separate insurance policy is often recommended for those who feel they’re at risk of a flood or even in an earthquake zone.

Limited Cyber Coverage

Cyberattacks on small business are continuously growing and becoming more pervasive. Additional cyber liability insurance may be recommended if your business is operating online or if you store, save, and use customer information on the internet to conduct business. 

Knowing what traditional commercial policies do not cover (during times of need) is a way to feel much more confident in your decision-making when it comes time to purchase additional coverage. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving the Albany, NY area, we’ll work with you to find the policies that work for you, regardless of your industry and the type of business you’re running. To learn more about limitations and how to add more coverage to your existing policy, contact us today. 

When To File a Homeowners Insurance Claim

Posted on by

Homeowners insurance offers peace of mind when unexpected damage occurs, but that doesn’t always mean filing a claim is the best move. Knowing when to file a claim (and when not to) can help you protect your coverage, avoid rate increases, and handle repairs efficiently.

Assess the Extent of the Damage

Start by estimating the total cost of repairs. If the damage is minor and below your deductible, it may be more cost-effective to pay out of pocket. Filing small claims can lead to premium increases or even policy nonrenewal in the long run.

Consider the Cause of the Damage

Insurance typically covers sudden and accidental events such as fires, severe wind, or burst pipes, but not wear and tear or neglect. Before filing, confirm the cause is covered under your policy.

Weigh the Long-Term Impact

Each claim you file becomes part of your insurance record. Multiple claims within a few years can affect your rates and eligibility for discounts. Think carefully before filing if you’ve had other claims recently.

Document Everything

If you decide to move forward, take clear photos, keep receipts, and record conversations with contractors or adjusters. Strong documentation helps speed up the claims process and ensures fair reimbursement.

Talk to Your Agent First

Your insurance agent can help you determine whether filing a claim makes sense. A quick conversation can prevent unnecessary claims and help you make the smartest financial decision for your home.

NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency Is Here To Serve Albany, NY

Home insurance provides peace of mind, knowing that your investment in your space is protected. NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency is here to help. Contact our team to learn more about our Albany, NY home insurance services.

Will Your Auto Insurance Cover You If Someone Only Damages Three Tires?

Posted on by

People throughout Albany, NY, used to say that you should only slit three tires to ensure auto insurance won’t cover the damages. However, this is another common myth. There are several factors that determine whether insurance will provide coverage, and the number of damaged tires is not one of them. 

Insurance Type

The type of policy you have plays a crucial role in whether tire damage is covered. Liability insurance covers the other person’s property damage and bodily injuries if you’re at fault for the accident. It won’t cover damage to your tires. 

Collision coverage will help if an accident occurs. Some of these policies will cover you if you’re in an accident involving an object or animal. It’s important to speak with an agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency to learn more about your coverage. 

Comprehensive coverage typically pays for damage from things like vandalism. However, there are other things to consider when it comes to whether your policy will pay for new tires. 

Covered Perils and Exclusions

Every policy has a list of covered perils. Vandalism is typically a covered peril under a comprehensive policy. Some policies specifically exclude vandalism if you live in a high-crime area. It’s always a good idea to verify which events are covered when you obtain a policy. 

Policies May Cover Factory Tires

Most policies will cover the cost of new tires, but this may only apply to the cost of standard tires. If you have snow tires or customized wheels, you may have to pay out of pocket for part of the damage. 

There are several factors that determine how much your auto insurance can help you. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with an agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency to learn more about your policy coverage. We’re currently serving the Albany, NY, area. 

I am older and don’t have life insurance. Is it too late?

Posted on by

Life insurance can be a powerful tool for managing your financial needs, supporting loved ones, and planning for the future. However, understanding which type of life insurance policy best suits your situation is crucial. Life insurance offers a variety of benefits to address both your living needs and those of your loved ones after your passing. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, we are committed to helping our Albany, NY, clients, both current and prospective, find the answers they need regarding life insurance.

Term Life vs. Whole Life Insurance

Life insurance policies are typically offered as term policies, which last for a set period, or whole life policies, which provide coverage for your entire life. Term policies often span a decade or more and can cover expenses such as end-of-life costs, final expenses, and more. Both types of policies allow you to designate beneficiaries who will receive a lump sum of money after your passing. Beneficiaries are free to use this money as they see fit, whether for funeral costs, debt repayment, or other financial needs.

I’m Older and Don’t Have Life Insurance. Is It Too Late?

While many people invest in life insurance before reaching retirement age, it’s never too late to consider a policy. Older adults can still benefit from life insurance, which can cover final expenses, ease the financial burden on loved ones, and provide peace of mind. Although premiums may be higher for older individuals, the benefits remain valuable. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, we are committed to helping clients of all ages find the right policy. We understand that lifestyle needs evolve with age, and we are here to help you determine the best type of coverage for your situation. Contact us today to learn more. We are ready to assist you.

Will Commercial Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

Posted on by

Commercial insurance in Albany, NY, typically provides coverage for various events; however, it may not cover everything you need, such as inventory or specific types of storm damage. Understanding your policy before a natural disaster strikes is essential.

Common Coverage

Most commercial insurance policies offer standard coverage for storm-related damage. This includes property damage caused by wind, lightning, fires, and electrical fires, such as those resulting from power surges during storms. An agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency can help you learn more about these coverage options.

Common Exclusions

Many policies have exclusions that you should be aware of. For example, flood damage—caused by rising water—is often excluded. If a hurricane leads to heavy rainfall and flooding, the resulting water damage would typically be classified as flood damage and not covered under standard policies. Additionally, damage from named storms, such as hurricanes, may require separate coverage to ensure your commercial insurance adequately protects your business.

Some policies also exclude tornado damage. Depending on your location, you may need to meet specific requirements to qualify for coverage. For instance, areas prone to hurricanes may require storm windows and doors, while regions susceptible to winter storms may require proof of a backup generator to address power outages.

How to Tell

It’s essential to take the time to understand your policy thoroughly. Read the fine print to identify exclusions and research common natural disasters in your area to perform a risk assessment.

Once you’ve assessed the risks, contact an agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency to explore your options. We proudly serve the Albany, NY, area and are here to help you find the coverage you need.

Should You Add Everyone Who Drives Your Car to Your Auto Insurance Policy?

Posted on by

Sharing your car with family or friends might seem like no big deal, especially if it’s just for a short trip or an occasional errand. However, when it comes to auto insurance, who drives your car matters more than most people realize. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY, we often get questions from drivers wondering if they need to list every person who gets behind the wheel. The answer isn’t always simple, but it’s important to understand.

Why It Matters Who’s on Your Policy

When you add someone to your policy, your insurance company considers their driving history, which can affect your rates. More importantly, it ensures that the person is fully covered when driving your vehicle. If someone regularly uses your car and isn’t listed on your policy, it could create issues if there’s an accident. In some cases, a claim might even be denied depending on the terms of your coverage.

That doesn’t mean you need to list every single person who might borrow your car occasionally. Most policies provide coverage for occasional drivers, especially if they have permission. However, if someone lives in your household or drives your vehicle frequently, it’s usually best to add them officially.

Planning Ahead Can Prevent Problems

Auto insurance is designed to protect you from the unexpected. Being honest about who uses your car helps avoid complications later on. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY, we’re here to ensure your policy fits your real-life needs. If you’re unsure who should be listed or want to review your coverage, reach out to us today, and let’s make sure you’re driving with confidence.

Amenities You Need To Let Your Home Insurance Company Know About

Posted on by

Home insurance provides essential protection to cover your losses in the event of a crisis, such as a natural disaster. Liability coverage is often determined based on the likelihood of an accident occurring on your property. Certain amenities can lead to higher insurance rates because they require more property protection or are considered higher risk. Failing to inform your insurance company about these amenities can result in claim denials.

Swimming Pools

Swimming pools typically require additional property coverage. If a disaster occurs, you should have enough coverage to replace your swimming pool. Pools are also considered high risk, meaning you may need more liability coverage.

Some insurance companies require specific safety precautions, such as installing a fence around the pool to prevent accidental falls and drownings. They may also require other safety measures, like a pool cover. Speak with an agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency to learn more about home insurance requirements in the Albany, NY, area.

Treehouses

Treehouses are considered an "attractive nuisance." This term applies to amenities that are appealing to children but increase the likelihood of injuries. Some insurance companies may not mind if you have a treehouse, while others might require fencing around it. In some cases, a company may exclude treehouse-related injuries from your policy.

Other Amenities

Several other amenities should be disclosed to your insurer because they either increase the risk of injury or raise your property value. These include:

  • Outdoor firepits
  • Outdoor kitchens
  • Trampolines
  • Hot tubs
  • Remodels that increase property value, such as finishing a basement
  • Woodburning stoves
  • Outdoor living spaces that are expensive to replace

At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, we can help you understand how these amenities may impact your policy. Contact us today! We proudly serve the Albany, NY, area.