Category Archives: Auto Insurance

Does Auto Insurance Cost More If You Have a Red Car?

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For years, a saying has circulated throughout Wayzata, MN, that auto insurance costs more for red cars. It has led people to believe that they can save more money by purchasing or leasing a blue or black car instead. Is there any truth to this?

Does Color Impact Your Insurance Premiums?

Although many people believe that red cars are more expensive, this is not true. The color of your car doesn’t impact how much your insurance costs. It doesn’t matter if a Corvette is red or white, or whether you have a red minivan. Instead, insurance companies look at several other factors. You can contact an agent at Pizano Insurance if you want to double-check. 

Factors That Can Impact Your Insurance

Companies will consider several factors, some of which may impact your premium. However, it’s important to know that these factors can vary depending on the company. 

Education Level

Some companies will ask about your highest level of education. People who have completed a college education may qualify for a discount. Some companies also offer student discounts to individuals currently enrolled in school. 

Age

Companies often consider how old you are and how much driving experience you have. A person who has been a licensed driver with zero violations for 40 years may get a lower rate than someone who just got their license and is still a teenager. 

Car Specifics

Companies will ask about the make and model of a vehicle. They’ll consider safety features and other specifics that pertain to the make, model, and year of your vehicle. The color usually doesn’t impact the policy. 

It’s essential to note that every company is unique and offers different discounts. An agent at Pizano Insurance can help you learn more about factors that impact your premium. We’re currently serving the Wayzata, MN, area. 

Do You Have To Add Non-Licensed Drivers To Your Auto Insurance Account?

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Auto insurance policies come with a list of rules and regulations. It is essential to understand how your policy works to avoid being dropped from your insurance or having claims denied.

Adding Household Members

Most insurance companies require you to add all household members of driving age to your policy, even if they do not have a driver’s license. This includes teenagers who have recently reached driving age. However, you can add drivers as excluded drivers. Excluded drivers typically do not impact your insurance policy. Speak with an agent at Pizano Insurance to understand how adding specific drivers may affect your policy and premium.

Companies Vary

It is important to note that insurance companies vary in their approach to this policy. Some may automatically add household members once they reach a certain age, which could lead to an increase in premiums unless they are excluded drivers. Additionally, some companies may not allow you to exclude certain drivers. Always consult your insurance provider to ensure you understand how your policy applies to children and other household members.

Why Is This Necessary?

This rule may seem minor, but it serves several important purposes. Adding all household members ensures that a driver is not involved in an accident without insurance coverage. For example, if someone uses your car for a quick trip and they are not listed on your policy, they could get into an accident. This could result in penalties for you and a higher monthly premium. It is also illegal.

Insurance companies will work with you to ensure you meet the necessary requirements. Contact an agent at Pizano Insurance to learn more about our services. We proudly serve the Wayzata, MN area.

Are There Any Restrictions for 16-Year-Old Drivers in Minnesota?

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For 16-year-old drivers in Wayzata, MN, Pizano Insurance is your go-to auto insurance agency. Our team of agents is ready to help you secure the appropriate policy so you can drive safely, responsibly, and in compliance with Minnesota laws for teen drivers.

What Restrictions Does Minnesota Impose on 16-Year-Old Drivers?

If you’re 16 years old and planning to drive, there are a few important guidelines to follow when you obtain your provisional license:

  • During the first six months of holding a provisional license, you are not allowed to drive between midnight and 5:00 A.M. unless accompanied by a licensed adult driver aged 25 or older.
  • A teen driver may have only one passenger under 20 years of age in the vehicle, unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. This restriction applies during the first six months of the provisional license.
  • After the first six months, the number of passengers under 20 years of age allowed in the vehicle increases to three, and a parent or guardian is no longer required.
  • Drivers under 18 years old are prohibited from using cell phones while operating a vehicle. This includes both hand-held and hands-free devices.
  • Any driver under the legal drinking age of 21 who operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher will be subject to Minnesota’s DWI (driving while intoxicated) laws and penalties.

Contact Us

Pizano Insurance is here to help teens in Wayzata, MN, start their driving journeys safely. Call us today to review all the requirements and restrictions for 16-year-old drivers, so you’re prepared for your next adventure.

How Maintenance Plays a Role in Auto Insurance

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When you think about auto insurance, your mind probably jumps to premiums, coverage options, and deductibles. But did you know that how well you maintain your car can impact your insurance in the long run? At Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN, we often remind drivers that regular maintenance isn’t just about keeping your car running smoothly—it can also be a smart move for your insurance profile.

The Connection Between Maintenance and Risk

Insurance is all about managing risk. If your vehicle is poorly maintained, it could be considered a higher risk on the road. Issues like worn-out brakes, bald tires, or an ignored check-engine light don’t just compromise your safety—they increase the likelihood of accidents. While a missed oil change won’t directly raise your premium, a pattern of neglect that leads to claims might.

Preventing Claims Before They Happen

Keeping up with routine maintenance can help you avoid breakdowns and accidents that could result in insurance claims. For example, replacing your brake pads before they fail or repairing a cracked windshield before it spreads are proactive steps. Fewer claims over time can contribute to a better insurance record, which may help keep your premiums lower.

A Responsible Driver is a Rewarded Driver

Taking care of your car shows your insurer that you’re a responsible driver. Responsible drivers often receive better rates. So while maintenance might seem like a chore, it’s actually a smart investment in both your vehicle and your financial well-being.

Have questions about how your driving habits affect your coverage? Reach out to Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN—we’re here to help you stay protected and informed.

How to Get Auto Insurance Reinstated

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If your auto insurance policy has lapsed—whether from a missed payment, paperwork issue, or something else—it’s crucial to get it reinstated as soon as possible. Drivers in Minnesota can often restore coverage with a few simple steps, but acting quickly makes all the difference. Pizano Insurance, serving Wayzata, MN, explains what to do.

Start by Finding Out What Went Wrong

The first thing you’ll want to do is reach out to your insurance agent or company to understand precisely why the policy ended. Was it because of a late payment, or did the insurer need updated information about your vehicle or driving record? Knowing the real reason helps you figure out the best path forward.

Move Fast to Limit the Gap

A short lapse is much easier to rectify than one that lasts for weeks. Many insurance companies have a grace period where you can catch up on payments or submit missing documents without starting over. The quicker you handle it, the better chance you’ll have of avoiding steep rate increases tied to gaps in coverage.

You May Need to Sign a No-Loss Statement

Insurers often ask you to sign a no-loss statement before reinstating a policy. This document says you didn’t have any accidents or claims while your insurance was inactive. Be sure it’s accurate—if you had a crash and fail to disclose it, you could face serious problems down the road.

Rates and Rules Could Change

Depending on how long your policy has been inactive, your insurance company may apply a surcharge or adjust your terms. If the lapse continues for too long, you may even need to consider a new provider. A Minnesota insurance agent can compare policies for you and help find one that gets you legally back on the road without unnecessary costs.

Taking care of reinstatement promptly protects you from legal trouble and financial headaches, allowing you to drive again with peace of mind. Contact Pizano Insurance, serving Wayzata, MN, to learn more.

How Do Insurance Companies Assess My Auto Insurance Risk?

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Insurance providers utilize a variety of data sources when assessing the risk involved in insuring an individual or a family. Factors such as your geographical location, driving history, number of vehicles in the household, demographic details of the drivers, and other relevant aspects are taken into account. These elements collectively influence the premiums charged to each individual or others with similar characteristics. If you have queries related to insurance, the Pizano Insurance team in Wayzata, MN, is here to assist. We’ll guide you in securing the most suitable auto insurance coverage for you and your family.

Factors Influencing Auto Insurance Risk

Insurance providers have access to extensive data about auto accidents, the drivers involved, and the subsequent payments for repairs and medical care. This information is categorized based on location, age, gender, marital status, and other characteristics to estimate the risk associated with each applicant. For instance, while it’s impossible to predict the safety level of a specific 16-year-old driver, historical data suggests that new drivers are more prone to accidents, leading to higher premiums for this age group.

In addition to a driver’s profile, their accident history and traffic violation record also influence the risk assessment. The type of vehicle insured also plays a role due to variations in safety ratings, repair costs, and accident frequency.

Your choice of coverage limits and deductibles also impacts your premiums.

Insurance providers also offer usage-based insurance (UBI). UBI employs vehicle telematics to monitor your driving habits, enabling them to adjust your premiums based on factors like your driving speed, frequency of hard braking, and miles and locations driven.

Collaborating with Pizano Insurance

The Pizano Insurance team, serving the Wayzata, MN, area, is ready to answer all your insurance-related queries. Visit our office or call us today at (952) 473-1880 in Wayzata or (763) 447-4977 in Albertville to formulate the insurance plan that best suits your needs.

Auto Insurance Doesn’t Only Matter When You Have an Accident

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Problems can arise unexpectedly, especially when you’re on the road. It’s good to have a plan or at least some help for these unplanned troubles. Fortunately, auto insurance can often be the solution. That’s why people from the Wayzata, MN area rely on the experienced and friendly team at Pizano Insurance for all their auto insurance queries and needs. Insurance is a reliable plan for protecting the things and people you care about every time you drive, and auto insurance is how you can help ensure those plans.

Auto Insurance Offers More than Just Accident Protection

For many people, auto insurance is more of a necessity than a desire. However, the good news is that auto insurance can offer more than just accident protection on the road. From assistance with a breakdown on the side of the road to protection from events like theft or even fire, the right auto insurance can make a difference both on and off the road. That’s why many Wayzata, MN area drivers turn to the professional and helpful team at Pizano Insurance when they have questions or need insurance for their vehicles.

Auto Insurance Solutions for Wayzata, MN Area Drivers

Do you live in the Wayzata, MN area? Would you like to learn more about how auto insurance solutions at Pizano Insurance could benefit you? If you have questions or would like to find out more about auto insurance, we can help. Contact us for more information and schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable and helpful team at Pizano Insurance for the auto insurance solutions you need and deserve today.

Will Auto Insurance Always Total a Car After a Major Accident?

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After you’ve had a major accident with your car and you’ve filed a claim, your insurance company will make an estimation that may mean that your car will be totaled. However, car insurance companies don’t just automatically total a car after a major accident, as your insurance representative at Pizano Insurance serving Wayzata, MN will tell you. Much depends on the damage that would need to be repaired versus the car’s value. Here is some important information to help you understand the process.

What Does it Mean to Total a Car?

In essence, the phrase "total a car" refers to a process in which the car’s value is deemed to be less than the cost to repair it to a condition where it can be safely driven again. The auto insurance company would pay the lesser of the two amounts. If the car’s value exceeds the repair estimates, it is "totaled."

How Insurers Determine a Total Loss

An insurance company declares a car a total loss when the cost to repair it exceeds a certain percentage of its actual cash value (ACV). If repairs cost more than this threshold, the insurer will consider the vehicle totaled and offer a settlement based on its pre-accident market value. Factors that influence this insurance include:

  • Pre-accident value
  • Frame and structural damage
  • Salvage value

As you can see, a major accident doesn’t always mean the auto insurance company will total the car. For help with your claims process and to get all your questions answered, contact your insurance representative at Pizano Insurance serving Wayzata, MN after any accident that you may be involved in with your car.

Will My Auto Insurance Pay to Tow My Vehicle?

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Being stranded on the side of the road with a broken-down vehicle is an unfortunate situation. When you’re dealing with car trouble, it’s crucial to resolve your problem quickly and efficiently. If you have the right type of car insurance policy, you can get help for free from your insurance policy.

If you have questions about your car insurance policy and whether roadside assistance is covered, the professionals at Pizano Insurance, serving Wayzata, MN, can help. We can answer your questions or provide a copy of your policy so you can find out more information yourself.

What Is Roadside Assistance?

Roadside assistance is a feature of full-coverage car insurance policies. While each policy may work differently, roadside assistance typically provides towing services if your car breaks down or has a flat tire.

Which Auto Insurance Provides Roadside Assistance?

Full-coverage car insurance often includes roadside assistance. If you’re interested in this option, talk to your insurance agent. It is a popular option among drivers with new vehicles.

If you’re buying a new car, your lender may even require you to get full coverage car insurance. Even if you pay for the car with cash, getting full coverage car insurance can help you avoid significant expenses in the event of an accident. Full coverage car insurance will pay to repair or replace your vehicle in various covered events, including car theft and major damage from a collision.

Do you want more information about roadside assistance and full coverage car insurance? The professionals at Pizano Insurance, serving Wayzata, MN, can help. Call today to learn more.

Why Comprehensive and Collision Coverage is Essential in Wayzata, MN

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As a driver or resident in Wayzata, MN, a standard auto insurance policy may not always provide adequate protection for your vehicle or injuries you may sustain in an accident or collision. Opting for comprehensive and collision coverage is essential to safeguard yourself from potential risks, especially during the harsh Minnesota winters. At Pizano Insurance, we can help you determine which comprehensive and collision coverage policies are right for you, what your protection needs are, and what your lifestyle is like in Wayzata.

Understanding Comprehensive and Collision Insurance

While liability insurance is required by law in Wayzata and throughout Minnesota, comprehensive and collision coverage can provide additional protection for your vehicle, even if you’re at fault in an accident. Here’s how comprehensive and collision insurance policies work:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive policies protect against weather-related damage, vandalism, theft, and other non-accident or collision-related events.
  • Collision Coverage: Collision coverage covers your vehicle’s replacement or repair costs after a collision, even if you’re found to be at fault.

The Importance of Comprehensive and Collision Coverage in Wayzata, MN

  • Minnesota Weather: The weather in Minnesota can become extremely dangerous and life-threatening, especially during significant snow, hail, and ice storms.
  • Collision Risks: In Minnesota, high-traffic areas and narrow streets can lead to more accidents and fender benders, increasing the risk of a collision.

Minnesota receives approximately 37 inches of snow each year, making winter-related accidents, collisions, and vehicle damage more common. With the right comprehensive and collision coverage solution, you can navigate Minnesota’s weather-related risks knowing you’re always protected. To learn more about comprehensive and collision coverage in Wayzata, MN, contact Pizano Insurance for your quote and consultation today.