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Twin Bridges Insurance Agency

1881 Western Avenue, Suite 210
Albany, NY 12203

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Protect Your Bottom Line from Financial Losses with Commercial Insurance in New York

Many business owners in New York understand that running a business comes with unique rewards and challenges. One of the significant challenges businesses face is dealing with commercial liability claims. 

Commercial insurance is undoubtedly one of the best ways to safeguard your business against unexpected and damaging financial losses. 

Licensed insurance agents at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY can explain the benefits of having commercial insurance in New York.

Why Your Business Needs Commercial Insurance in New York

We all know that accidents happen in our everyday lives. They can also occur in business. 

When your business is faced with a liability claim from a dissatisfied customer, financial losses from extended shutdowns, or paying workers’ compensation claims for employees who were injured at your workplace, commercial insurance can help. 

Business owners can shield themselves from financial liability claims that can cause devastating consequences that could potentially wipe out their bottom line. 

  • Financial Losses: when New York business owners are sued for liability claims without insurance, they could be on the hook for legal fees, including settlements and judgments. 
  • Exorbitant Legal Expenses: uninsured business owners may have to dig deep into their pockets to cover legal expenses for liability claims filed against them. 
  • Potential Risk to Your Assets: your assets may be at risk if your business becomes insolvent because of legal claims and paying legal fees as out-of-pocket expenses. 
  • Reputation Damage: nothing is worse than losing business due to irreparable reputation damage that can happen when someone files an inflammatory legal claim against your company. 

Get Commercial Insurance in New York 

Talk to commercial insurance agents at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY, to learn about the best options for your business! 

Tips to Help You Stay Safe When Driving on Unfamiliar Roadways

School is almost out for the summer, and once that happens, many families will be hitting the roads for summer vacation. If you are planning on driving this summer on unfamiliar roadways, NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving the greater Albany, NY area, would love to provide you with tips to help you stay safe when driving on unfamiliar roadways. 

Familiarize Yourself With Your Route Ahead of Time

One thing you should do before heading out on a road trip is to familiarize yourself with the route you will be taking. Try to get a feel for the freeways, highways, and roads you will be taking, and prepare yourself for any adverse conditions you may come across, including windy roads or road construction. 

Obey Posted Speed Limit Signs

Another tip you should follow when driving on unfamiliar roadways is to obey the posted speed limit signs. Speeding, in general, is unsafe, but it is even more unsafe if you are unfamiliar with the roadways. As such, you should always obey the posted speed limit signs. 

Always Ensure You Are Well Rested

Lastly, get as much sleep as possible before heading out on a road trip. Additionally, take breaks along the way to stretch your legs and rest. And always pull over and sleep if you start to doze off or feel tired. 

The above tips can help increase your safety when driving on unfamiliar roadways for a trip or vacation. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen, and if one does happen, you want to ensure you are prepared. Our team at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving the greater Albany, NY area, can help you find the best auto insurance policy for your needs. Call us today to obtain a quote. 

The Most Common Homeowners Insurance Claims

Home insurance is a simple and efficient way to ensure you can restore your family’s life and home after an unexpected event disrupts your family’s daily routine. The team of insurance professionals at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency is ready to help you select the insurance policy that meets your needs as a homeowner in Albany, NY.

The Most Common Homeowners Insurance Claims

According to an Insurance Information Institute (III) study, in 2020, 6% of insured homes submitted a claim for insurance reimbursement. Nearly 98% of those claims against a homeowner’s policy dealt with were for property damage. This is how the most common homeowners insurance claims break down.

Wind &Hail – 45.5% of Claims Submitted

The largest category includes damage caused by –

  • Hurricanes
  • Tornadoes, and
  • Wind associated with thunderstorms.

Fire & Lightning – 23.8% of Claims Submitted

These homeowners insurance claims tend to be the costliest type of claim compared to other insurance claims.

Water Damage & Freezing – 19.9% of Claims Submitted

This type of damage happens when pipes freeze and burst or one of the home’s appliances begins to leak. This does not include flood insurance coverage – which is a separate policy.

All Remaining Property Damage – 7.9% of Claims Submitted

The remaining category covers all other forms of property damage, which may include –

  • A tree that falls through your roof.
  • A baseball that shatters your window, etc.

Bodily Injury/Property Damage to Other Individuals – 2% of Claims Submitted

While occurring at less frequency, liability claims typically are more expensive when they happen.  

Do you have questions regarding a homeowners insurance policy for a home or condominium in the greater Albany, NY area? Contact our licensed insurance professionals at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency at 518-608-5797.

Comprehensive Life Insurance Policies for Business Owners with NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY

As a business owner, you are responsible for your company and employees. No matter what happens, it would be best if you considered your business’s financial future and its effect on your workers and legacy. With the right life insurance plan, you provide a safety net for all parties in the case of your unexpected passing.

Providing a Safety Net for Your Company and Employees

Whether your employees have worked for you for years or a day, you owe them a safety net if something happens to you, so choosing a life insurance policy that considers your personal and professional assets is crucial. Take time to think about what makes the most sense for your business needs. 

Choosing The Right Policy for Your Business

Fortunately, you have options. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY, we are here to assist you. We get it; you’d prefer to live forever and never have to think about these things, so we’ll ensure the process is simple and smooth.

As a business owner, you have to consider what assets should go to your loved ones and what should be put toward the company. After all, if something happens to you, then the financial burden isn’t just going to be felt professionally. Your policy should include coverage for necessary funds like funeral costs, outstanding debts, and estate taxes. Not only does this ease the burden on your loved ones, but it also ensures that money doesn’t come from the business. 

Plan Your Financial Future with NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency

Don’t wait to plan your financial future. Contact NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY, at (518) 608-5797. 

The importance of workers compensation insurance

Many workers don’t realize the importance of workers’ compensation insurance. It’s a type of insurance that helps protect your employees if they become injured or ill while on the job. Workers’ compensation provides financial protection to employees who suffer from lost wages due to an occupational illness, injury, or death. It also covers medical bills related to the illness or injury and can provide rehabilitation services if necessary. NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency offers this insurance and can help you with a quote.

Knowing your Workers’ Compensation Policy

For employers, having workers’ compensation insurance helps them cover costs associated with employee injuries and illnesses. This ensures that employers are not held financially responsible for such instances, which could otherwise jeopardize their business. By protecting both employees and employers alike, workers comp offers a layer of safety that can save companies a lot of money in the long run. 

In some states, it’s illegal for businesses to operate without workers’ compensation insurance. So all businesses need to understand the importance of this type of protection and ensure they have the proper coverage. It offers peace of mind for both employees and employers and helps ensure a safe workplace environment free from financial worry in case of an unexpected injury or illness.

For more information or to find a policy that is right for you, please call us at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency today. We proudly serve the Albany, NY area and would be happy to help you find peace of mind with a worker’s compensation policy that matches your needs and budget.

Top Three Security Risks In Your Home

Home insurance is designed to support you following a home-related issue such as damage or burglary. However, the first line of defense is always to do everything in your power to prevent these events from happening in the first place. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving Albany, NY, we want to help you keep your home safe in every way possible. Keep reading to learn about the top three security risks to your home. 

No Security System 

Having a security system is the number one way to deter burglars. A security system not only deters burglars, but if your home is invaded, a security system minimizes the time it takes for law enforcement to arrive. These critical moments could mean the difference between a tragedy and a would-be tragedy. 

No Door Camera 

Door cameras are becoming more and more easily accessible with modern technology. Even if you do not have a complete security system in your home, a door camera can significantly increase the safety and security of your family. These devices allow you to have better control over your property, and most door cameras allow you access to video right from your phone. This means that even while you are away from home, you can always know what is happening. 

Poor Outdoor Lighting

This is a simple step you can take to increase the safety and security of your property. Outdoor lighting can be used to deter burglars and make your property a safer place. Burglars look for properties that can be accessed with the least amount of attention. Things like outdoor lighting, dogs, and security systems all help to send a message to would-be burglars that this house is difficult to access without bringing attention. 

If you want to learn more about home insurance, please get in touch with us at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, serving Albany, NY, and the surrounding areas. 

How Might Vehicle Upgrades Affect Your Auto Insurance?

For many people, upgrades and modifications are part of the fun of owning just the right car and genuinely making it their own. But can upgrades affect your auto insurance policy?

If you’re in or near Albany, NY, and need help buying or updating your auto coverage, we at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency can help. In the meantime, here are a few things every car owner should know about the correlation between upgrades and insurance coverage.

Do upgrades affect your auto insurance?

Yes, they do – even if the upgrades or changes are minor. Auto insurance policies tend to be highly specific. Many factors, including the vehicle’s inherent value, determine rates and coverage.

Upgrades to a vehicle almost always mean it will be worth more and potentially sell for more. They can also add up to additional risks for drivers. It should make sense that auto insurance premiums usually go up to reflect these changes.

What happens if I upgrade my car but not my insurance policy?

Many Albany, NY drivers fail to inform their insurance companies of changes made to their vehicle, either because it doesn’t cross their mind in the first place or because they want to avoid paying higher premiums. Don’t do this.

If you have to file a claim, there’s a solid chance your insurance company will deny it, leaving you on the hook for many expenses and liabilities that would have been covered otherwise. If you’re not sure whether an upgrade you’re considering will affect your coverage – even if it’s something small, like a new paint job – you can always contact your insurance company for more information first.

We at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency will be happy to address any auto insurance concerns and help you make sense of the available options. Get in touch today!

A Business Needs Protection Too – Get Commercial Insurance

Are you a business owner in the Albany, NY area?

The NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency can provide the protection your business needs.

Commercial insurance is a vital investment when starting a new company. A good commercial insurance policy will protect your company from devastating financial loss and can be the difference between staying in business and closing your doors in case of a lawsuit and resulting damages.

Knowing the different types of commercial insurance available is necessary, and working with a reputable agent can help you devise the most appropriate commercial insurance policy for your business.

There are three main types of commercial insurance coverage – liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and property insurance.

  • Liability insurance coverage protects your business from damage inflicted on third parties. It covers the expenses related to property damage or personal injury lawsuits to clients or customers that may occur at your business.
  • Workers’ compensation insurance protects you from lawsuits for negligence filed by an employee injured or made ill while on the job.
  • Property insurance will cover damage to property within your business, such as flood or fire damage.

There are specialized forms of coverage under each of these broader categories that can protect you from a more business-specific liability. An experienced and knowledgeable insurance professional can help you determine the best coverage for your business.

When a claim is filed, contact your agent immediately so an investigation can begin. Commercial insurance claims are more complicated than other types of claims. That makes fast assessment critical, especially in the case of a high-cost liability claim. You should not handle these claims yourself, as it will violate your insurance contract’s terms.

Don’t let your business remain unprotected. Contact the NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency today for a quote.

What Types of Life Insurance Are There?

A variety of life insurance products exist for you to choose from, depending on your situation. It isn’t a requirement in Albany, NY to purchase indemnification of this type. Still, you may choose to do so for financial reasons, as it helps to shield your benefactors against fiscal difficulties that may arise when you pass on. Speak to your NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency about the right options. 

Term Life Insurance

This insurance product typically will last 5, 10, 15, 20, or 30 years. Once the agreed-upon period expires, the insurance is null and void. This type of coverage is usually the cheapest to procure, especially if obtained while you are young. Assess your needs to determine if you would benefit from an option that protects your loved ones against unforeseen but unlikely circumstances. 

Permanent Life Insurance

This policy will last for the duration of the insured’s life and is typically more expensive than term products. It will also have a savings component that allows your premiums to accumulate and from which you can borrow. These loans will have lower interest rates than a bank usually offers, though they do have to be paid back before your passing, or they will be subtracted from the death benefit. You can also defer payment of premiums with this provision as long as funds are available. It’s essential that your account is in current status when you die for the policy to be valid.

We Can Be of Service to You

NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency offers life insurance products and services to those who live in the Albany, NY region, and we look forward to working for you. Contact us by phone, online, or in person to discuss your needs in more detail. 

Auto Insurance Add-Ons to Improve Coverage in Albany, NY

Are you looking for ways to improve your auto insurance coverage in Albany, NY? If so, consider adding additional coverage options. The right auto insurance add-ons can help provide more comprehensive protection and peace of mind.

Gap Insurance 

Gap insurance is a valuable option for those with a car loan or lease. This coverage type helps cover the difference between what you owe on the loan and the current market value of your vehicle if someone steals it or is totaled in an accident. This could save you out-of-pocket costs and ensure you don’t owe more than the car is worth. 

Rental Car Reimbursement 

When your car needs repairs, rental car reimbursement can help you pay for the cost of renting a replacement vehicle. Depending on your plan and policy limits, rental car reimbursement may also cover some or all of the fuel costs for your rental car. NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency offers rental car reimbursement as an additional coverage option for customers in Albany, NY.

Roadside Assistance 

If you find yourself stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire or dead battery, roadside help can be a lifesaver. The add-on provides towing services, flat tire changes, fuel deliveries, jumpstarts, and other helpful services if your vehicle breaks down unexpectedly. Also, some plans offer a lockout service if you accidentally lock your keys in the car. 

Adding additional auto insurance add-ons like gap insurance, roadside assistance, and rental car reimbursement can help give Albany drivers more comprehensive protection when needed. For more information about these add-ons or any other types of auto insurance coverage available in Albany, NY, contact NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency today!